Osher Lifelong Learning Institute



Life Sciences

P01
DENTAL, MEDICAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH LECTURE SERIES
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Tuesday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructors: Tim Gibbs, Kate W. Smith
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Lecture

Join us virtually and learn about the latest in dental, medical and public health disciplines. A combination of local experts and prerecorded national speakers are coupled with audience participation through the chat and Q&A features, and through direct interaction with the presenters and your classmates.

P02
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Friday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Pam Meitner
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

Each class has a different lecturer addressing topics across a broad spectrum from UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), to climate change, to Darwin’s take on plants. Our lectures are all new this semester and draw from UD research to corporate goals and agency initiatives. Learn about cutting-edge research and agency actions. Limited to 40 students.

P03–02
EPIDEMIOLOGY: THE BASIC SCIENCE OF PUBLIC HEALTH
SECOND 5 WEEKS (OCTOBER 20–NOVEMBER 24)

Monday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Jim Hainer
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Lecture
This class includes a course prepared by epidemiologists from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. In addition, relevant contemporary examples are provided by a representative from the University of Delaware epidemiology department. Limited to 25 students.

P04
HOW NOT TO DIE
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Tuesday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructors: Reid Kellogg, Linda Kellogg
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Discussion; Lecture; Video Based

Why should we consider a plant-based lifestyle? Major scientific research studies from the last 70 years, which show the benefits to our health and longevity, are presented. Current information from leading nutritional experts, which addresses several dietary facts and myths, is covered. Our resistance to change is discussed. We will demonstrate plant-based kitchen basics and food preparation skills. Limited to 45 students.

P05
NATURE IN AUTUMN
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Friday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructors: Joe Sebastiani, Eric Roberson
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

In this online course, we will explore the various aspects of nature in the fall through lectures with various Delaware Nature Society experts and naturalists. Bird migration, fall wildflowers, fall reptiles and amphibians, interesting natural areas, butterflies, aquatic ecosystems, and opportunities to make your own sightings and submit them to citizen science projects are all featured. Each week, a Delaware Nature Society staff expert helps you become more in tune with nature, understand how natural systems work, introduces you to the flora and fauna of the region, and gives you the ability to enjoy nature more. Through PowerPoint, we will share wonderful photography of our staff as we virtually explore Delaware’s natural side. Class is offered in partnership with The Delaware Nature Society.

P06–01
SCIENCE OF THE DELAWARE COAST 101
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Wednesday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Christopher Petrone
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

This course provides an in-depth view of Delaware coastal science from marshes and plankton to aquaculture and storms and how these impact you (and how you impact them). An interactive approach through discussions, demonstrations and interactive lectures. Limited to 100 students.

P07
THE VISUAL SYSTEM: 20/20 IN 2020
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Tuesday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Stephen Silagy
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

The human visual system has been described as a wonder, a marvel, a miracle—yet no one word seems adequate to describe this gift that most of us take for granted. Through a better understanding of the structures and related processes, we can truly appreciate its wonders and fully preserve its functions. The aim of this course is to acquaint the class with these complex principles, illustrated with slides. We will learn about common disorders (dry eyes, cataracts and maculopathies), diseases affecting sight(high blood pressure and diabetes) and perceptions (psychometrics and illusions). The intended structure is in a lecture format with Q&A on general interests benefiting the class.

P08–02
WHAT LIES BENEATH THE INLAND BAYS
SECOND 5 WEEKS (OCTOBER 20–NOVEMBER 24)

Monday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Susan Ball
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

Delaware inland bays are coastal lagoon nurseries for fish and shellfish. The ecology of the bays are affected by many factors. We will discuss in depth. Limited to 30 students.

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Information provided to Health and Wellness class participants is intended to be informational only and should not be construed as advice.

Q01–01
A GUIDE TO END OF LIFE CHOICES
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Monday: 2–3:15 p.m.
Instructors: Nicole Fullmer, Myriam Khalifa
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Discussion

Discover how end-of-life planning can give your life new meaning. Learn how to define, document and communicate your end-of-life wishes in an advance directive so loved ones can honor your choices with dignity and respect. Get ready to live your best life with greater insight and intention. Limited to 12 students.

Q03
(RE)LEARN HOW TO MOVE WITH FELDENKRAIS—INTRO
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Tuesday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Claire Brown
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Active (Hands-on/Physical Movement)

Lie on the floor and make unfamiliar movements. Get up and notice a difference in the way you move. No experience needed! These lessons reactivate infant learning skills to increase your ease in moving. Gradual, incremental changes bring long-term improvement. (Re)learn with your body, not your head! Wear loose, comfortable clothing and have a blanket or quilt for the floor. Limited to 9 students.

Q04
(RE)LEARN HOW TO MOVE—CONTINUATION
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Wednesday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Claire Brown
Prerequisite: (Re)learn How to Move with Feldenkrais Intro.
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Active (Hands-on/Physical Movement)

This is a continuation of the previous class and builds on that work. It is for people who would like to learn more about themselves and to continue enhancing movement. You must have completed the previous OLLI class or another Feldenkrais class to take this course. Limited to 23 students.

Q05–01
GUIDE TO ESSENTIAL OILS
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Tuesday: 2–3:15 p.m.
Instructor: Nina Backes
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Discussion; Lecture

We will be learning what essential oils are, what specific oils are good for specific needs, the chemistry of oils (explaining why they work in our bodies), how to clean your home toxin-free and how to become a DIY master using essential oils and other natural ingredients. Limited to 25 students.

Q06
HOW YOUR BRAIN WORKS
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Thursday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Michael Salvatore
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Discussion; Lecture

This course discusses 10 brain functions including fear, memory, language, sadness, movement, vision, pleasure, pain and attention. Using these 10 functions, the structure and working of the human brain are described. Common neurologic disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, clinical depression and others, will also be discussed. Limited to 30 students.

Q07
INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCING—LEVEL 2
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Friday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Lorraine Cohn
Prerequisite: International Folk Dance Basic Course 1.
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Video Based; Active (Hands-on/Physical Movement)

International folk dance for those students who have folk dancing experience and are ready to add more challenging dances to their repertoire. Most of the dances taught will be circle or line dances from Eastern Europe with interesting rhythms. We will begin each class with warm-up exercises to get our bodies ready to dance. Limited to 25 students.

Q08–01
THE PRACTICE OF MEDITATION
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Monday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Weber
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Discussion; Lecture

Whether you are new to meditation or already practicing it, this course is intended to inspire by providing a place to discuss what masters say about the benefits of meditation and share our own experiences. Each session ends with 20 minutes of silent meditation.

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PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATH

R01
BUSH FLYING AROUND THE WORLD
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Monday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Raymond Hain
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Video Based

This is a video-based course on the bush flying done in various parts of the world. It introduces the out-of-the way places that pilots go for humanitarian and recreational reasons.

R02
CO-EVOLUTION OF EARTH AND LIFE
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Wednesday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructors: Michael Apgar, Larry Watkins
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Lecture

The evidence and interpretation of the history of the planet on which we live and the evolution of life on Earth has increased exponentially over the past two centuries. New findings and new understandings have grown substantially since the time most of us were in school. This course attempts to cover the highlights of that knowledge… the realization that Earth has posed limits on life and life has altered the atmosphere, climate, oceans and surface mineralogy of the earth. Earth and life have indeed co-evolved… and continue to do so.

R03–01
ENVIRONMENTAL RISK AND REGULATION
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Wednesday: 12:30–1:45 p.m.
Instructor: Richard Craig
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Lecture

This year is the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. After 50 years of progress, are there still public health and environmental reasons to have environmental regulations? This course looks back at why we have such regulations in the first place, what environmental regulations there are and how they came about. Has the current pandemic diminished or enhanced the need for regulation? The course covers these and related topics emphasizing what the regulations do and their limits. Discussion is focused on air, water and waste management programs in particular. No regulatory program knowledge is required. Limited to 20 students.

R05–02
SAT REVIEW—MATH ONLY
SECOND 5 WEEKS (OCTOBER 20–NOVEMBER 24)

Monday: 2–3:15 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Bennett
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Active

Remember SATs? I will provide actual SAT exams for you to try! I will lead you through the high school level algebra and geometry problems. A challenge for your mind, FUN for your body. Limited to 20 students.

R06
STRANGE WORLD OF THE QUANTUM PART I
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Tuesday: 12:30–1:45 p.m.
Instructors: Bruce Neff, Howard Barth
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and Video—Computer/Laptop Screen
Course Format: Discussion; Lecture; Video Based

Quantum mechanics is the most successful physical theory known in science. This essentially nonmathematical course is geared for the science enthusiast who is interested in understanding the quantum nature of matter, and how it is used in physical science and technology. We also examine bizarre behavior in the quantum realm. Limited to 45 students.

R07
THE PLANETS, REVISED FOR 2020
11 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–NOVEMBER 24)

Thursday: 9–10:15 a.m.
Instructor: Craig Lewis
Optimal Viewing Device: Any Screen
Course Format: Lecture

Presenting the latest info on our sun’s planets, moons, comets and asteroids, including planets around other stars. Pictures and videos from space missions showing shocking results of active volcanoes, flowing rivers of ethane, moons of asteroids, and active searches for extraterrestrial planets and life, all with the boring bits omitted! (But all science based!)

R08-01
EXPLORING SQUARES AND CUBES
FIRST 5 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 8–OCTOBER 12)

Tuesday: 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Instructor: Dean Hoover
Course Format: Lecture
Optimal Viewing Device: Audio and video—Computer/laptop screen

This course will explore squares and cubes: their connections, symmetries, colorings, and extensions to higher dimensions. After exploring the beauty of squares and cubes, we will look at Rubik’s cubes (the beast) and its many variations. We will draw color construct and break apart. The math will touch upon simple combinations, algebra, and geometry. Come enjoy the excursion! Class is limited to 20 students.

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