The descriptions below indicate whether a seminar counts toward the International Perspective or US Diversity requirements.
There are no reference numbers this year due to the change to Workday. Should you try to enroll in a course that is full, you will be placed on a waitlist. If openings become available, you will be sent a message via Workday allowing you 24 hours to enroll.
Make sure you plan ahead and take at least two Honors courses and two Honors seminars, or the number required by your college Honors committee. Don't wait until your last year to meet the requirements because you may find that you will have some scheduling conflicts. You cannot enroll in more than 2 seminars in a single semester.
Important: Attendance at Honors seminars is expected. Be sure to read the entire seminar description and requirements. Be courteous and notify your instructor in advance if you are unable to attend class.
Check back regularly for updates!
- HON 3210-1: Screen Dance
- HON 3210-2: The Celluloid City
- HON 3210-3: Gods, Goddesses and the Human Struggle in Popular Music
- HON 3210-4: Multi-agent systems
- HON 3210-5: Humans and AI: Teamwork, Friendship, and Support
- HON 3210-6: Competitive Scholarships & Grad School Applications
- HON 3210-7: Explorations of Neo-Victorianism and the Sensation Novel
- HON 3210-8: Forbidden Broadway: Classics and Parodies
- HON 3210-9: On the Outside Within Classical Music: Experimental Composers and their Music
- HON 3210-10: Pirates: Open-Minded Trailblazers or Deadly Opportunists?
- HON 3210-11: Cults in Fiction
- HON 3210-12: Contemporary Poetic Forms and Practices
- HON 3210-13: Comedy College
- HON 3210-14: Ecology of Pokémon - What Video Game Monsters Can Teach Us About Real World Plants and Animals
- HON 3210-15: Christianity and Science
- HON 3210-16: Taking Care of Your Mind, Body, and Soul
- HON 3210-17: Demystifying the Structure of the Research Article
- HON 3210-18: Chinese script: From oracle bone inscriptions to the modern characters
- HON 3210-19: Visual Storytelling in the Digital Age: From Pixels to Persuasion
- HON 3220-1: Service-Learning and Cultural Exploration in Costa Rica (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-2: The Florida Project (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-3: Money Management (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-4: Creative Problem Solving (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-5: Savvy Plant Parenting: A primer on cultivating healthy plants (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-6: The People Around Us(Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-7: Beyond Survival: Agriculture in Developing World (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-8: Artifacts in Archaeology: Understanding Material Culture through Material Science (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-9: Sustainability in Livestock Production (Innovation Pathway)
- HON 3220-10: Unlock Your Path to Success (Innovation Pathway)
HON 3210-1, Screen Dance, W 9:55-10:45 a.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17, International Perspectives
About the Course: What is Screen Dance? How is it different from dance in films? How is it different from dance on the stage? We will look at historical examples of the development of Screen Dance as an art form. We explore elements of dance making and film making and how the unique form emerged. We will view screen dances and analyze styles and techniques used to draw the viewer in. There will be one guest speaker joining. We will experiment with making our own screen dances.
About the Instructor: Cynthia Adams is a Dance Teaching Professor in the Kinesiology Department, where she has been teaching dance of many styles and choreography and sound and movement since 2010. Prior to teaching at ISU, Professor Adams choreographed and danced in the San Francisco Bay area and created many pieces that utilized multi-media projections in stage performances. Her research as a graduate student at the University of California in Los Angeles examined media for stage and for the screen. She has since produced multiple screen dances and collaborated with artists in the field. Professor Adams is currently a board member for the National American College Dance Association (ACDA) and is on the ACDA Screen Dance Committee.
HON 3210-2, The Celluloid City, F 1:10 p.m.-2:50 p.m., TBA, 2 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Film plays a remarkable role in shaping how we see the world around us. This especially has been the case for cities, which have long been the primary settings for film making. In many instances, Los Angeles for example, our perceptions of the actual urban space of the city are influenced by how it has been filmed. In this honors seminar, we will ask the question, in what ways has film been used to represent cities and urban life over the last century? To answer this question, we will watch a series of films, from different cultures and different eras, to develop a better understanding of how motion pictures have portrayed urban life. After each screening, we will discuss the film's meaning and message and connect it to broader ideas across time and space. Our goals are several. One is to take time to appreciate the pleasure of watching great cinema. Another is to practice our thinking about film, considering its ability to influence how we see. Still another is to consider how motion pictures have changed over time, from a form of mechanical labor to one of digital etherealization. At the end of the course, we will produce our own films in miniature to share with each other.
About the Instructor: Carlton Basmajian, PhD, is on the faculty of the College of Design. He regularly teaches courses on the history of cities and city planning and the practice of urban design. He writes about the history of cities, city planning, and urban design and the role of cemeteries and burial in urban space.
Ted Grevstad-Nordbrock, PhD, is a faculty in Community and Regional Planning in the College of Design. He teaches courses on heritage, historic preservation, and urban revitalization.
HON 3210-3, Gods, Goddesses and the Human Struggle in Popular Music, M 3:20-4:10 p.m., 1151 Jischke, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17, International Perspectives
About the Course: Despite repeated claims that religion is fading in the modern world, talk of Gods and Goddesses is all over popular music, both in the U.S. and globally. This seminar will explore the ways that Divine power, religious symbols, and human struggles, both ancient and modern, speak in modern popular music. We'll look at well-known and not so well-known examples of spirituality in rock, country, heavy metal, hip-hop, reggae and other kinds of contemporary global music. Along the way you'll learn just a little bit about who the Gods are in various Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Rastafarian, Pagan and Vodou traditions, and how people connect their own struggles to them, including struggles challenging religion. You will also get to *vote* on songs to listen to and discuss in class, as well as volunteer *new songs* and a *custom topic* (if desired) you want to cover toward the end of the seminar. You'll be expected to listen and study songs and music both in class and out of class, read short weekly Canvas reading assignments, and write a few short reaction papers (1-2 pages) based on songs and class discussion, with a few basic concepts in the academic study of religion along the way.
About the Instructor: Christopher W. Chase is Associate Teaching Professor in Philosophy and Religious Studies. He has published research on the role of Islam in jazz, folk music in Pagan traditions, and the role of counterculture spirituality in American religion. In addition, students regularly listen and examine music in his classes on Religion in America, Africana Religions and Goddess Religions courses. He earned his Ph.D from Michigan State University and has been teaching courses in Religion in both Global and American cultures at Iowa State since 2008.
HON 3210-4, Robotics: Multi-agent systems, T 9:30-10:20 a.m., TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: This course brings you into the lucrative world of robotics, where you will learn how to work as a scientist, lead a group of intelligent robots to do big things together, and potentially become an entrepreneur. In the movie Transformers, a group of tiny robots connect themselves to form a giant robot and disperse once the task is complete. In the real world, autonomous driving, unmanned cooperative robotics systems, and more operate harmoniously and efficiently.
Although this course covers cutting-edge technology, it is accessible to all students, with or without a background in engineering. Non-engineering students are highly welcomed. Borrowing applications from the field of robotics, the core of this course is to explore interactions between interest groups for successful teamwork, coordination, and decision-making. The course provides a multi-agent framework for formulating and solving challenges that students can explore (as course projects) in various fields, including business, economics, social sciences, biological evolution, and even the military. In daily life, understanding how robots collaborate can offer valuable insights into group and personal relationships, dynamics, strategic planning, and problem-solving across various domains.
About the Instructor: Zhaoyang(Julia) Chen is a Ph.D. student in ISU Mechanical Engineering. Julia’s current research includes multi-agent navigation systems with reinforcement learning and model predictive control. As a child, Julia was amazed by how many small and simple robots could collaborate together or even be connected, like the Transformers, coherently to finish sophisticated tasks. These universal theories also apply to human society and explain phenomena or coordinate groups of people.
HON 3210-5, Humans and AI: Teamwork, Friendship, and Support, W 1:10-2:00 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Think about one of your favorite teammates, a close friend, or a supportive mentor. What makes these people exceptional? Now, can you imagine an Artificially Intelligent (AI) agent gaining these same qualities?
As humans, we collaborate in our schools, workplaces, and friendships, refining these skills through both our cognitive and emotional abilities. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, it is progressively integrated into our collaborative activities and social interactions. However, a significant challenge arises: AI lacks genuine emotional and social intelligence, which complicates human-AI collaboration.
In this course, we will explore the relationships between humans and AI from multiple perspectives. We will delve into the dynamics of human-AI collaboration and examine AI design principles that enhance human teamwork. Our focus will be on human-centered AI design. We will study AI in various contexts, drawing insights from case studies including media and movies, video games and real-life applications. This course is designed to be student-centered, so you can expect to engage in team-based activities, participate in guided discussions, and do presentations.
About the Instructor: Yvonne is a PhD student in industrial engineering. She earned her MSc at Iowa State University in 2022. Her thesis explored teamwork in cooperative video games, where she worked on understanding the associations between cooperative game features and teamwork activities, and providing guidelines for team researchers interested in using games as task environments. She is currently in her second year of PhD studies. Her research focuses on Human-Autonomy Teams in cooperative environments. She is exploring the question of “What makes an AI agent a good teammate?” and is currently conducting experiments to explore different design dimensions of AI agents in Human-Autonomy Teams. She has experience designing and conducting user-experience experiments, with a focus on mixed-methods approaches. She has mentored undergraduate students throughout her graduate studies at Iowa State, and enjoys instructional-design and public speaking in academic environments.
HON 3210-6, Competitive Scholarships & Grad School Applications, T 9:30-10:20 A.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Applying for a nationally competitive scholarship or to graduate school takes meticulous planning and clear objectives. Applicants interested in these programs should begin early and familiarize themselves with the application process for each award. This course will help you prepare materials to a prestigious scholarship (such as Fulbright, Goldwater, etc.) or to a graduate program. We will work together over the course of the semester to help you identify specific opportunities and devise a plan to develop your application. You will work collaboratively with peers to research potential awards/programs, develop your plan of action, and create an application package. By the end of the semester, you will have all the necessary components of an application to the opportunity of your choice. Note: This class is NOT for job applications or cover letters: it is for scholarship applications and grad school applications.
About the Instructors:
Kelli Fitzpatrick is Iowa State’s Coordinator of Nationally Competitive Awards, helping students apply for prestigious national scholarships such as Fulbright, Goldwater, Truman, Udall, Marshall, Soros, Gilman, and many others. She taught English for ten years and has a background in professional writing and editing. She holds degrees in Secondary English Education and Creative Writing.
Erin Todey (she/her) earned her MA in Applied Linguistics and BA in French & International Studies and now works in the McNair Scholars Program where she teaches and introduction to research course and supports students with their graduate school applications. Erin has taught a range of composition, linguistics, and academic writing courses in different domestic and international higher educational contexts. Her research centers on using discourse analysis techniques to investigate the structure of texts with the goal of helping emerging scholars understand this underlying structure to more effectively communicate their research. Erin is also especially interested in teaching and researching self-promotional genres, particularly the statement of purpose and diversity statements for graduate school applications.
HON 3210-7, Explorations of Neo-Victorianism and the Sensation Novel, W 3:20-4:10 p.m., TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: In this course, we will explore and analyze the scandalous 19th Century English Sensation Novel genre in an effort to contextualize contemporary representations of Neo-Victorianism, or, “New Victorians,” in modern media.
By looking into these new representations of Victorian influences on popular media, we can understand how the Sensation Novel and British Victorianism is still present and alive within our culture which speaks to the enduring popularity and relatability of these literary ancestors. Additionally, we'll explore the main themes of gender, the Detective, criminality, and the law in both historical and modern times.
About the Instructor: My name is Erin Frink-Durben and I am an Assistant Teaching Professor in the English Department here at ISU. I teach a variety of courses ranging from Technical Documentation, Speech, Business Writing, and Critical Thinking and Communication. My area of interest besides writing, teaching pedagogy, and communication includes eighteenth and nineteenth century British literature. I focused my MA on the study of the intersections between Spanish and British Romantic literature and Melancholy. I am an ABD Ph.D. and my area of interest focuses on British Victorianism, the Sensation novel genre, and the Gothic. My preferred theoretical lenses include Feminism, Disability Studies, and Historicism.
HON 3210-8,: Forbidden Broadway: Classics and Parodies, T 4:10-5:00 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17,
About the Course: Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Les Miserables, Chicago... the list of classic Broadway musicals is seemingly endless. From modern hits like Hamilton to pioneering shows from history like West Side Story, there's something for everyone to love in the world of Broadway. What better way to learn about these works of art than creating our very own parodies? This semester we're going back to the classics, studying the most popular, beloved musicals of all time and then writing new lyrics to their hit numbers to create our very own collection of subversive, incisive, derisive, occasionally divisive, and fun songs in the style of the long-running parody show, Forbidden Broadway.
There is absolutely no experience necessary. A love of musicals-- any musicals-- is encouraged but not required. Come ready to appreciate the classics for what they are and transform them into what could be.
About the Instructor: Currently a lecturer in the English department, Emily Golden has worked in theatre since childhood and has a BA in theatre from Willamette University. A lover of musicals, she enjoys nothing more than getting into passionate discussions about Broadway pedantry. This will be her fourth honors seminar in the world of musical theatre, and she is very much looking forward to the chance to revisit some of her favorite classics.
HON 3210-9, On the Outside Within Classical Music: Experimental Composers and their Music, W 4:45-5:15 p.m., Estes Music Hall Room 125, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: We will explore the music of Classical Music composers who strongly challenged the mainstream. The focus will be on music that defied canonical traditions and contemporary definitions of what was considered beautiful, sophisticated, and even at all legitimate. The seminar will introduce you to experimental classical music you very likely never have heard and may even change your ideas about what music possibly can be.
About the Instructor: Dr. Christopher Hopkins is Professor of music composition and technology. As a composer, his current work involves creative-arts computation and reimagines historical musical styles in alternate evolutions. His interdisciplinary research explores musical themes shared with symmetry theory, color theory, and logic. His music has been performed in major music festivals across Asia, Europe, and North America, most recently at the Library of Congress.
HON 3210-10, Pirates: Open-Minded Trailblazers or Deadly Opportunists?, W 3:20-5:10 p.m., Location TBA, 2 Credits, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Pirates have always been a law unto themselves. But along with fearsome (and earned!) reputations, pirates contributed to local economies, formed nascent democracies on their ships, and spurred advancements in exploration, warfare, and law. Let's explore the amazing history of pirates--from the Mediterranean Sea Peoples of the late Bronze age to the Golden Age of Pirates in the early 1700s to modern piracy in all its forms. As we do, complete challenges worthy of Blackbeard himself to earn your own pirate certificate!
About the Instructor: Amanda Knief is the director of Iowa State University's Lectures Program and the university's parliamentarian. She received her B.S. in Journalism and Communication from Iowa State and her J.D. from Drake University Law School. She worked as legislative counsel for the Iowa Legislature before working in Washington, D.C. as a nonprofit lobbyist, nonprofit legal director, and analyst for the Library of Congress' Congressional Research Service. Amanda is mildly obsessed with pirates and spends every Sept. 19 talking like a pirate.
HON 3210-11, Cults in Fiction, M 1:10-2:00 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: From "Midsommar" to "Rosemary's Baby" to the giant floating head episode of "Rick and Morty" cults and cult-like communities have long held the fascination of our favorite writers, directors, and artists. But what purposes do cults serve in work of art? What assumptions and myths do they perpetuate? And how do they mirror—or warp—their real-life equivalents? In this seminar we'll be taking a cultural and sociological deep dive at the world of fictional cults. After learning more about what makes a cult and its members, we'll bring in our favorite movies, shows, and books to help us investigate the peculiar prism of society that is cult media.
About the Instructor: Emma Krab is a writer, journalist, and MFA student of Creative Writing and Environment at Iowa State, where she also teaches as a graduate assistant. She earned her degrees in English and journalism from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and has written for Platte Basin Timelapse and Nebraska Public Media as a rural and environmental journalist. Her fiction has often been described as Midwest Gothic. She is currently writing a novel about a remote ranching community during the rise of the Satanic Panic.
HON 3210-12, Contemporary Poetic Forms and Practices, T 7:00-7:50 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: How do poetic practices shape our lives beyond the written word? How can cultivating a poetry practice deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us?
American poets today are at the forefront of experimental writing, investigating language, form, and creativity with playfulness. Poets such as Jericho Brown, Diane Suess, and Terrance Hayes are reimagining centuries-old forms, blending tradition with modern innovations to address pressing contemporary issues.
This course combines the reading of contemporary poets with lively discussions and hands-on experimentation in both poetic forms and creative processes. Students will explore the forms in these poets' published works and examine the daily creative and writing practices that have contributed to their success. Throughout the course, we will consider the question of poetic constraint—writing with limitations or patterns—as a tool for making meaning both in life and on the page.
By the end of the course, students will have created a small portfolio of poems, developed a familiarity with a diverse range of contemporary poetry, and gained a deeper understanding of their own creative process.
About the Instructor: Tara Labovich (they/them) is a multi-genre writer and lecturer of English at Iowa State University. At Colorado College and Iowa State, they have taught composition courses, Creative Nonfiction, Contemporary Poetry, and a course on the creative process. Their multi-genre creative work explores questions of identity, survivorship, and multicultural upbringing. Their writing is nominated for Best of the Net, and can be found in journals such as Salt Hill and the Citron Review.
HON 3210-13, Comedy College, M 6:10-8 p.m., Location TBA, 2 Credits, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: In this seminar, you will learn to be funnier. Humor is not a mystical process of divine intervention granted by the Comedy Gods to just a chosen few. There are tricks, techniques and theories that, when studied, can make a person funnier. When put into practice, these skills can help with self-confidence, public speaking and communication skills. While some reading and watching of stand-up routines is required, the majority of the class focus will be on creating and sharing original humor with your classmates. The seminar culminates in a live comedy showcase where you will share your newfound humor skills with the world.
About the Instructor: Gavin Jerome has been a professional entertainer for well over 20 years. He has worked with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Paul Reiser and Steve Harvey. For the past decade, Gavin has been providing humor workshops for companies and associations nationwide. His extensive standup comedy experience plus many years of leading workshops on humor in the workplace makes him most qualified on creating and sharing comedy.
About the TA: Peter Orazem, University Professor Emeritus of Economics, has been a student of Gavin’s, and has served as the Teaching Assistant for all ISU Comedy College classes. He performed at the first American Economics Association standup comedy session in San Francisco.
HON 3210-14, Ecology of Pokémon - What Video Game Monsters Can Teach Us About Real World Plants and Animals, R 3:40-4:30 p.m., Location TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: As of Fall 2024, there are over 1000 different Pokémon across 28 years of video games, trading cards, and more. Many seem to draw inspiration from real-world plants and animals. Together, we will investigate the real-world ecological concepts that these fictional creatures are based on through videos, articles, and in-class discussions. During this course we will also discuss the role that art and media can play in education. By the end of the semester, we will then create our own Pokémon based off of existing animals, plants, and ecological concepts and present them in class. Knowledge of Pokémon is not required but may be helpful.
About the Instructor: Chase Olsen is a Student Services Specialist in the Natural Resource Ecology and Management department. He advises students majoring in Animal Ecology and Forestry. In addition to being passionate about environmental education and the role it plays in conservation, he has been an avid Pokémon fan for about twenty years.
HON 3210-15, Christianity and Science, T 11:00-12:50 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, 1/2 Half Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Religion and science are two of the cultural and intellectual forces that influence mankind. They are generally interested in different aspects of reality. Science addresses “how” questions while religion answers “why” questions. However, an area of common interest is the origin and history of life.
About the Instructor: About the Instructor: Ann L. Smiley is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and is also on faculty in Neuroscience. She directs the Neuromotor Control and Learning Research Laboratory studying how the brain controls movement, specifically in Parkinson’s disease and, currently, in Developmental Dyslexia. As a teacher, she has a passion to engage her students to think, integrate, and question. One question worth examining is one’s personal worldview. This course provides input for this process. In her personal examination and questioning, she has found science and the Christian faith to be compatible.
HON 3210-16, Taking Care of Your Mind, Body, and Soul, W 11:00-11:50 a.m., TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Experiences with mental health and lack of self-care options have become an increasing problem for college students. It is important for one's overall well-being to create a self-care practice that is sustained and consistent. Students will learn about different forms of self-care such as meditation, self-affirmations, and journal writing. Each week, students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that will emphasize the importance of self-care in their daily lives. Students will also get the chance to hear from campus partners, including Student Health and Wellness, Margaret Sloss Center for Women and Gender Equity, Department of Public Safety, and Recreation Services about available resources that they could incorporate into their personal self-care plan
About the Instructors: Dr. Alissa Stoehr is an Associate Teaching Professor in the Women’s and Gender Studies Program and Sociology and Criminal Justice Department. She teaches a variety of courses, including Introduction to Women's and Gender Studies, Gender and Sexuality in American Popular Culture, Gender and Sexualities in Society, and Human Trafficking.
HON 3210-17, Demystifying the Structure of the Research Article, W 4:25-5:15 p.m., TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Did you know that the empirical research article (RA) has a predictable structure across disciplines? In this course, we will explore the RA structure by analyzing the Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion/Conclusion (IMRD/C) sections across disciplines in written and oral academic communication. Together we will (1) explore the goals of each RA section; (2) learn how to effectively and efficiently read a research article; and (3) practice communicating in this IMRD/C structure through a final project of your choice (proposal, oral presentation, or research poster).
About the Instructor: Erin Todey (she/her) earned her MA in Applied Linguistics and BA in French & International Studies and now works in the McNair Scholars Program where she teaches and introduction to research course and supports students with their graduate school applications. Erin has taught a range of composition, linguistics, and academic writing courses in different domestic and international higher educational contexts. Her research centers on using discourse analysis techniques to investigate the structure of texts with the goal of helping emerging scholars understand this underlying structure to more effectively communicate their research. Erin is also especially interested in teaching and researching self-promotional genres, particularly the statement of purpose and diversity statements for graduate school applications.
HON 3210-18, Chinese script: From oracle bone inscriptions to the modern characters, F 12:05-1:45 p.m., Pearson 3158, 1 Credit, Second Half Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Do you know how oracle bones were discovered? Do you know why 春 (spring) consisted of three 木 (trees), a 屯 (sprout), and a 日 (sun) in its oracle bone form?
The Chinese script, as a non-alphabetic, ideographic, or morpho-syllabic written form, has survived for about 4,000 years. By tracing back to the oracle bone script, we can gain insight into ancient Chinese society and culture, learn the formation of modern characters, and understand their meanings.
About the Instructor: Shenglan Zhang, Associate Professor of Chinese Studies. She has taught Chinese for over 13 years at ISU. She is a Fulbright Scholarship (Taiwan) recipient from September 2022 to June 2023. She was awarded the ISU J. H. Ellis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Introductory Teaching in 2021. Her current research focuses on Chinese script.
HON 3210-19, Visual Storytelling in the Digital Age: From Pixels to Persuasion, R 2:10-3 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: Enter the fascinating world of “Visual Storytelling in the Digital Age” and learn how to craft compelling narratives through design. In this seminar, we will explore the principles of visual communication across a variety of digital platforms, from interactive websites to social media and data visualization. You'll analyze real-world case studies, learn design thinking, and create your own digital visual stories. Whether you're interested in design, marketing, journalism, or simply curious about visual communication, you'll gain valuable skills to inform, persuade, and inspire in an increasingly visual digital environment.
About the Instructor: Tian Yao is pursuing a Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) at Iowa State University, specializing in Human Factors. Her extensive design background includes a master's in Industrial Design and ongoing studies in Graphic Design MA. Tian's expertise in UX/UI design focuses on creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces.
HON 3220-1, Service-Learning and Cultural Exploration in Costa Rica, R 4:10-5:50 p.m., Jischke, 2 Credits, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17, International Perspectives (Innovation)
About the Course: You may have come to the university with some language skills and/or trips to international destinations in high school. In this seminar, you’ll be able to gain or build on such experiences by learning about and traveling to Costa Rica, for a service-learning experience. Through this semester-long course, you’ll explore the culture and economy of Costa Rica. You’ll apply new understanding and reflect on how these experiences affect the five dimensions of culture (products, practices, persons, perspectives, and communities).
About the Instructors:
Mason Babcock is an Assistant Director of Student Academic Services in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University. His key areas of work are in service learning, servant leadership, student development mentoring and academic success. Mason has lead multiple service learning and mission trips to Belize and Nicaragua while also presenting on the importance of study abroad at multiple conferences. As an instructor, Mason has taught courses in the disciplines of service learning, education, academic success and the first year orientation experience. Mason has spent the last 17 years in higher education and prior to that was a consultant and a teacher in the K-12 setting for more than 15 years.
Laurie Law, Administrative Director of the University Honors Program, has worked with high-ability students for several years and has taught Honors seminars on Jack the Ripper, language, and social discussion. With a background in student affairs, she has worked with several learning community programs. She is familiar with service-learning programs and has previously supervised students on alternative spring break programs.
HON 3220-2, The Florida Project, T and R 2:10-3:00 p.m., TBA, 2 Credits, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17
About the Course: The Florida Project will explore the development, construction, and operation of Walt Disney World as both an ideal and a reality. Disney World, both literally and figuratively, has been a social, cultural, political, and economic process fraught in both past and present with complications, and contradictions. Together, we will ask and begin to answer the question of what Disney World means to us as a society, and what its role is and should be in our world at large.
About the Instructor: James McNab is an award-winning producer and media professional with more than 800 production credits to his name. He currently serves as an Assistant Teaching Professor for the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication, teaching classes covering broadcast media and video production. In addition to his faculty appointment, James works as an independent freelance contractor, serving as Producer, Director, and Replay Operator for numerous events with national exposure. His projects include working directly with top national media groups, including ABC, CBS, and ESPN.
HON 3220-3, Money Management , R 4:10-6:00 p.m., TBA, 1 Credit, First Half Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: This course is designed to help students acquire sound money management skills. It will include a series of seminars featuring experts in the field of finance. Students will have an opportunity to directly interact with the finance professionals and also learn from their lectures. The objective of this course is help students learn to effectively manage student loans, credit card debt, create balanced budgets, develop good saving habit, identify profitable investment options, and follow proper risk management strategies.
About the Instructor: Shoba Premkumar is a Teaching Professor of Finance and the coordinator for this class.
HON 3220-4, Creative Problem Solving, M 3:40-4:25 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17, Innovation
About the Course: Do you like puzzles, riddles, and games of strategy? Are you fascinated by optical illusions, mysteries, and brainteasers? Do you get a thrill from figuring out the answer to ordinary and extraordinary problems in unique, offbeat, and often elegant ways? Would you like to?
About the Instructor: Brian A. Rudolph holds a Master of Science Degree in Computer Science from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Science in Information Systems from Iowa State University.
HON 3220-5: Savvy Plant Parenting: A primer on cultivating healthy plants, M 9:55-10:45 a.m., Location TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17, (Innovation)
About the Course: In this honors seminar, Savvy Plant Parenting, you'll explore the world of plant pathology with a special focus on diagnosing, preventing, and managing diseases in common houseplants. Designed for curious minds, this course blends the art of plant care with rigorous scientific inquiry. Through discussions, hands-on diagnostics, and in-depth case studies, you’ll investigate how pathogens affect indoor plants and develop innovative strategies to safeguard their health. We will discuss current trends in horticulture and professional insights into sustainable houseplant management. This seminar goes beyond the basics—whether you’re growing tropicals, succulents, or rare plants, you’ll gain a deep understanding of plant disease mechanisms and learn how to research and create effective, eco-friendly solutions to common disease problems. This seminar is for students looking to master the science behind successful plant parenting and contribute to the next wave of sustainable indoor plant care.
About the Instructor: Dr. Suzanne Slack is an Assistant Professor of Horticulture at Iowa State University with a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology. She loves the intersection of Horticulture and Plant Pathology and wants all plant parents to be able to curate their own happy, healthy houseplants and gardens.
Dr. Xiaochen Yuan is a leading researcher specializing in molecular plant pathology, focusing on microbial pathogenesis and plant-microbe interactions. He is committed to integrated pest management and wants to help empower plant parents to grow happy, healthy plants through knowledge of common abiotic and biotic problems.
HON 3220-6: The People Around Us, M 1:10-2:00 p.m., 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: Have you ever been aware of the social needs in our Ames community?
What do you know about the social services offered in Ames?
Are you someone who cares and wants to help those who live in precarious conditions?
In this seminar, we will discuss the daily challenges faced by people who experience homelessness, struggle with food insecurity, lack support, or feel excluded.
- What is their story?
- How did they end up in this situation?
There are many in need here in Ames, but we often don’t see them. We get so busy in our daily lives! That is why, in addition to class discussions, we will spend time volunteering twice during the semester at one of the social services in Ames (For example, Romero House, or Food at First, or Martha’s House of Hope, or Youth and Shelter Services, etc.) to experience first-hand these needs and to build connections with the needy
About the Instructor: Jean-Pierre Taoutel, Teaching Professor of French and Arabic, has been teaching at ISU since 1999. He holds an M.A and a D.E.A in French literature from the Sorbonne Nouvelle in Paris, France. He has taught several Honors seminars. Jean-Pierre enjoys traveling and he has been in 53 countries.
HON 3220-7: Beyond Survival: Agriculture in Developing World, M and W 9:55-10:45 a.m., 1 Credit, First Half Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: Join us in exploring agriculture in developing countries!
Are you curious about what agriculture looks like in developing nations? In this interactive course, we'll explore real-world agricultural challenges by watching documentaries and videos from diverse regions. Then, we'll discuss these issues and brainstorm practical solutions for growth and sustainability. By the end, you’ll open your mind to think critically about global agricultural sustainability.
Bring your open mind and enthusiasm as we explore how agriculture differs around the world and discover the steps that can drive progress. Let's learn, discuss, and enjoy the journey toward a brighter agricultural future!
About the Instructor: Hello, everyone! I'm Ashani Thilakarathne, a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Agronomy Department. I earned my B.S. and M.S. from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, and completed my Ph.D. at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 2022. My current research addresses climate change by studying how diversified cropping systems can enhance crop production and build climate resilience and sustainability in agriculture.
HON 3220-8: Artifacts in Archaeology: Understanding Material Culture through Material Science, F 8:50- 10:30 a.m., 2 Credits, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: The production of artifacts is unique to humans. We can reconstruct past lifeways and histories by understanding the objects that were produced, used, and traded in ancient societies. In this course, we will learn about different types of artifacts found throughout the ancient world and the methods used in understanding them. Materials science meets material culture through the methods of analysis that can be used to make meaning of artifacts in archaeology. This course will focus on methods in archaeometry, which is the application of scientific techniques and procedures to analysis archaeological materials. This highlights the multidisciplinary approach in archaeology, as it combines archaeological principles and theories with hard sciences, including but not limited to chemistry, geology, and physics. We will discuss types of artifacts from ancient sites around the world and the methods used to analyze them. This class is structured to provide you with information on archaeological artifacts and interpretation methods via informative lectures and discussions, as well as opportunities for hands-on learning through activities that simulate artifact analysis.
About the Instructor(s):
Serena Wheaton is an Anthropology Lecturer in the World Languages and Culture Department. Serena received her master’s degree in anthropology with an archaeology concentration. Serena is an archaeologist with focus in material culture, specifically lithics.
Jacob Wheaton has been a Ph.D. candidate in Materials Science and Engineering at Iowa State University since 2020. He received his B.S. in Materials Engineering and French in 2020 from ISU. He is currently studying glassy materials for use in solid-state battery applications.
HON 3220-9: Sustainability in Livestock Production, M 2:10-3:00 p.m., TBA, 1 Credit, Full Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: This course explores the principles and practices of sustainability in livestock production, addressing the three branches of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social challenges faced by modern animal agriculture. This course will begin with an overview of key topics relating to sustainable livestock production. We will then discuss the application of sustainable practices using case studies and guest speakers. Topics include resource management, carbon credits and lifecycle assessments, animal welfare, sustainable nutrition, and policy. The course emphasizes the application and implementation of sustainable practices across different livestock systems, fostering an understanding of how livestock can be raised to support long-term agricultural and environmental goals.
About the Instructor: Caitlyn Wileman is in the third year of her Ph.D. in Animal Science at Iowa State University. She specializes in swine nutrition, sustainability, and enzyme implementation to improve nutrient digestibility in grow-finish pigs. Throughout her academic and professional experiences, Caitlyn has designed and conducted research protocols focusing on swine nutrition and sustainability, including investigating the effects of soybean meal and enzyme supplementation for optimal nutrient utilization.
In addition to her research, Caitlyn has gained extensive teaching experience, serving as a teaching assistant in various courses related to animal nutrition and livestock production. Her commitment to advancing the sustainability of livestock production is also evident in internships with organizations like the National Pork Board and Merck Animal Health, where she contributed to research and industry initiatives to improve animal welfare and sustainability.
HON 3220-10: Unlock Your Path to Success, W 4:10-5:55 p.m., Jischke 1151, 1 Credits, Second Half Semester, Enrollment Limit: 17 (Innovation)
About the Course: Everyone wants to be successful, but what is success? This amazing course (Feedback: ‘My best honors seminar.’) will help you explore what success is for you. A college degree can be important to obtaining success, but there are many other factors that you typically don't study in college and, thus, aren't aware of when you graduate and engage in a career. Knowing about these success factors and how they fit for you can help you jump start your career and life. After taking this class, you should have a better understanding of the keys to success, so you won't have to just rely on luck or circumstance to be successful. The course instructors and a number of class guests from different walks of life (e.g. academia, business, sports) will share with you some their experiences and principles that have helped them achieve success in their careers and lives. Through class discussion and introspection you will be able to ‘Unlock Your Path to Success.’
About the Instructor: Darin Wohlgemuth: Dr. Wohlgemuth is an Associate Teaching Professor in the Economics
Department at Iowa State University. He earned his Master’s and Ph.D. in Economics at Iowa
State University. His research focused on the Demand for Higher Education. He teaches Principles of Microeconomics, Applied Economic Optimization, and Managerial.
