OLLI volunteer instructors have stepped up to offer several more distance learning classes. You can sign up via the RSVP link for each course below.
Title:
Enjoy German! - 7 Streiche von Max und Moritz
Instructor:
Udo Gorsch-Nies
Description:
Students will read
Max and Moritz: A Story of Seven Boyish Pranks (Eine Bubengeschichte in sieben Streichen)
a German language illustrated story in verse. This highly inventive, black humorous tale, told entirely in rhymed couplets was written and illustrated by Wilhelm Busch and published in 1865. This course aims at broadening a student's vocabulary and understanding of the day-to-day German spoken today, even if the text was written in 1865. The course will lead to a deeper understanding of German black humor and the meaning of the word “Schadenfreude”. The etymology of certain words will be discussed, and the rules of grammar will be explained on request.
NOTE: Students should have a basic knowledge of German. Because there is no clear definition of “basic knowledge,” the instructor invites students to email him to find out if their knowledge is sufficient to profit from the course.
Start Date:
Wednesday, April 15, 11:00-12:30. Weekly on Wednesdays for 7sessions, with a potential for an 8th session.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom or Skype
Maximum number of students:
20
Title:
Five Records That Changed Us (well, me anyhow)
Instructor:
Denny Caraher
Description:
Each week I will talk about an LP that had a major cultural and musical impact and is still relevant today. I will play excerpts from the albums via Zoom but everyone should have listened to the recording before class. The first record will be “Sweethearts of the Rodeo” by The Byrds and the other four will probably be of that era.
Start Date:
Wednesday, April 22 at 10:00 a.m. 90 minute sessions. (5 sessions)
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
Title:
Landscapes Revealed: The Geology of our Local Region
Instructor:
Karen Grove
Description:
This course will be an abbreviated version of “See like a geologist: the landscape around you”. Learn the basics of our region: how it displays 300 years of geologic history; why the Rogue Valley is a valley; the stories sedimentary rocks tell about our region’s history; how our region fits into the larger tectonic picture. A new blog will be posted online each Monday morning; Q&A sessions will be available to participants during the week via zoom.
Start Date: April 20.
Blog will be posted by 9 AM every Monday from April 20 – May 11. (4 sessions).
Q&A sessions via Zoom will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-4:40. (8 sessions)
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Blogs online (only need regular internet service to access), Zoom for optional Q&A sessions
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
In addition to the new classes above, the following classes are still accepting students:
Title:
Anthro is Fun: Dogs and Denisovans
Instructors:
Victoria Leo and Rick Baird
Description:
The Ice Age was a pivotal period of human prehistory: in the period from 100,000 to 10,000 years ago, dogs were domesticated, forever changing human society, and the human genome was irrevocably changed by the admixture of DNA from both Neandertals and Denisovans. Dogs (and cats and chickens), as well as non-human DNA, have immeasurably enriched our biology and our civilizations. One click into the class website allows you to enjoy all the videos, text and photos, presented step-by-step. You are encouraged to email the instructor with questions. There will be live phone call-ins via Zoom every week. If you have Internet access, and can click on a link, you are tech-savvy enough for this class!
Start Date:
Although the class officially began on April 6, most of the work is self-paced and students are welcome to join now. Approximately seven sessions. The schedule of Zoom sessions will be announced in the virtual classroom, and there will be a post-Zoom video for anyone who can't make it.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email, text, video, and Zoom. (Please note, course materials are incompatible with FireFox, but work with other browsers.)
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
Title:
Caregiving for Alzheimer's: A Personal Journey
Instructor:
William Harris
Description:
The stress of caregiving is a major concern for someone whose loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s; especially in this time of “stay at home” requirements. This
course
will provide an overview of the issues, the impact of the diagnosis, and the resources available to the caregiver.
We will discuss coping strategies for the patient and caregiver. We introduce specific issues
typically discussed between the caregiver, loved one, lawyer, and financial planner. These may include advanced directives, end-of-life choices and ethical issues, changes to a will or trust, and strategies for dealing with medical expenses. Classes will consist of “lectures” using PowerPoint slides, and Zoom, which will allow for electronic interaction. NOTE: Student must have access to a computer and the app Zoom.
Start Date:
The class will meet via Zoom for six sessions -- two times per week (Mondays and Wednesdays) for three weeks, May 4 through May 20, 9:00-10:30.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
PowerPoint slides, and Zoom
Maximum number of students:
30
Title:
Classical Music for the Pandemic
Instructor:
Peggy Evans
Description:
Classical Music for the Pandemic: a look at relatively short classical music works (e.g., a movement of a symphony, not the whole work), which may speak to students at this challenging time.
Students will be contacted by email twice a week to the end of the term. Each email will include several works. Each work would be described (history, musical style, form) plus there would be links to recordings and a score (if available). The works would come from western European classical music and its several historical periods, including music for the church. Students will be encouraged to suggest works to be included and to email questions which will be answered privately or in the next class email. Students will work through this material at their own pace.
Start Date:
April 10, at 9:00 am. The class is self-paced.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
Title:
Constructing Crosswords
Instructor:
Steve Weyer
Description:
Have you wondered about what goes on behind the scenes for designing and publishing a crossword puzzle?
- Understand formats, conventions, tools
- Brainstorm and place theme entries
- Arrange grid blocks (black squares)
- Fill-in other words
- Craft imaginative, challenging clues
- Revise, submit for publication.
Focus: US newspaper-style, symmetric, themed 15 x 15 puzzles, e.g., New York Times (NYT)
Examples include an OLLI-themed puzzle!
Start Date:
Monday, May 4/Wednesday, May 6/Friday, May 8/10:00–Noon (3 sessions)
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom (video & screen sharing)
Maximum number of students:
12
Note: Only one person per household may sign up for this class even if more are interested as the spouse/partner could share the same video/audio connection
Title:
Cooking with Kumud
Instructor:
Kumud Gokani
Description:
Vegetarian c
ooking classes based on Ayurveda principles. Kumud has been teaching cooking classes and producing TV shows for 20 years, and has produced 200+ TV shows.
Start Date:
Tuesday, April 21, at Noon–1:00 pm. Four sessions: April 21, April 28, May 5, May 12.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email with links to videos, and email for answering questions as well
Maximum number of students:
50
Title:
Crosswords: Sites & Solving
Instructor:
Steve Weyer
Description:
Would you like to find crossword puzzles that might distract, entertain or challenge you, and improve your solving skills?
- Discover web sites with crossword puzzles to print or solve, and applications for solving offline.
- Learn about
vocabulary, clues, themes, tools.
- Practice solving crosswords together.
Start Date:
Monday, April 27 and Wednesday, April 29 at 10:00–Noon (2 sessions)
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom (video & screen sharing)
Maximum number of students:
12
Note: Only one person per household may sign up for this class even if more are interested as the spouse/partner could share the same video/audio connection
Title:
Estate Planning 101 in the age of COVID-19
Instructor:
Cheri Elson
Description:
This three-session course introduces you to estate planning, looking closely at the components that make up a comprehensive plan. We will examine how Wills and Trusts work together, along with powers of attorney and advance directives for healthcare. We will explore how an estate plan may also come into play during our lives and not simply at death. This class will provide you with a thorough understanding of what an estate plan is and why it is important. We will also discuss how COVID-19 and Social Distancing affects our ability to execute an estate plan. No previous knowledge is required.
Start Date:
April 22 at 11:00 am. Three sessions.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email, supplemented with PowerPoint slides shared via video conferencing (or emailed handouts).
Maximum number of students:
100
Title:
Mindful Movement: Energizing T'ai Chi and Qigong
Instructor:
Nando Raynolds
This class is an introduction to T'ai Chi and Qigong. Movements will be taught both as physical and energetic exercises and as methods for improving present moment awareness. No special clothing or experience required, come as you are, ready to have fun with others! Although T'ai Chi and Qigong can be studied for a lifetime, in this brief series you will learn a set of simple movements you can integrate into your daily routine.
Classes consist mostly of standing, active movement. Students need to be able to move comfortably and be ready for exercises that challenge and enhance flexibility, balance and coordination. Students will sign a liability waiver prior to the first class.
Start Date:
Tuesdays, April 14 – May 5, 10:30-Noon. Four sessions.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom, including use of breakout rooms.
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
Title:
Mindfulness, Meditation and Creativity
Instructors:
Victoria Leo and Rick Baird
Description:
Mindfulness, meditation and creativity are all well-studied techniques that can enhance your problem-solving ability and allow you to maintain a joyful, playful heart in difficult times. The videos and text in this three-week class introduce you to fun, easy creative explorations, as well as mindfulness and nine different forms of meditation. Try everything and find what activities work best for your specific needs. Weekly interactive videoconferencing via Zoom allow you to ask questions, while you work at your own pace and in your own time. Email is always available, for immediate questions and for learners who prefer anonymity.
Start Date:
April 15. Three Zoom sessions. The schedule of Zoom sessions will be announced in the virtual classroom, and there will be a post-Zoom video for anyone who can't make it.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email, text, video, and Zoom. (Please note, course materials are incompatible with FireFox, but work with other browsers.)
Maximum number of students:
Unlimited
Title:
Native American Women Change Makers: Leading From the Earth
Instructor:
Louise M. Paré
Description:
Native American women are often framed in terms of colonial patriarchal values, needs, and guilt that distort the reality of who they are. When the voices of native women break through the layers of stereotypes by telling their lives through their poetry and prose, they define themselves and their communities on their terms. Explore the stories within the lives of Native American women poets, scientists, and social activists. Discover the meaning of Native American female sacred spirits. Explore the impact of colonization on the lives of Native American women as we get “woke” as sister nations.
Start Date:
Tuesday, April 14. 8 sessions. Meets weekly for two hours, 2:00-4:00 pm
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Email, text, videos, FaceBook and Zoom.
Maximum number of students:
15
Title:
Spiritual Cinema Afternoons: Series 9
Instructor:
Carl Marsak
Description:
All new movies! We will watch 7 movies, both feature films and documentaries, in the privacy and safety of our own homes. Then we will come together on Zoom for 60 - 90 minutes to discuss the psychological and spiritual themes, motifs, symbols, purposes and life lessons. Each class will begin with a short attention training practice and teaching piece. The first class will be an introduction to Spiritual Cinema. Please note, some comfort with Zoom, or the willingness to learn about this tool, is required. Also, each student will need to have a Netflix account and Amazon Video loaded on their TV or computer (Amazon Prime is suggested but not required) and each movie will have to be paid for by the student.
Start Date:
Thursday, April 16. 8 sessions. Meets weekly 3:30–5:00 pm
The assignment each week is to watch a movie, which varies in length from 90 to 130 minutes. No homework in between.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
We will use Zoom video conferencing, which is free for the students. However, they will be expected to learn how to use the basics before the class begins. Also, each student will need to have a Netflix account and Amazon Video loaded on their TV or computer (Amazon Prime is suggested but not required) and each movie will have to be paid for by the student.
Maximum number of students:
70
Title:
The List, also known as Reality Dynamics
Instructor:
Marnie Hancock
Description: "
The List"
is a time-honored personal development psychology for understanding and directing the subconscious mind, and for creating the reality you want.
Marnie Hancock will share the theories and techniques in this course to help you remove the blocks in your world and create the reality you want. Requirements are blank paper, pens, blank index cards and a free Zoom Meeting Account. Purchase of the instructor's book, "The List AKA Reality Dynamics," for $40.00 is not required but recommended. The most important instructions for the List process will be included via PDF’s during the class.
Start Date:
May 1, 9:00-11:00 am. Six sessions, May 1 – June 5.
Distance learning methods/tools to be used:
Zoom and PDF Instructions
Maximum number of students:
30
