New Courses for 2024-25
Classical & Modern Languages
No changes
Interdisciplinary offerings can be found under the Language Department section of Veracross
IC450S Intercultural Communication
You might be fluent in Spanish, French, German, Chinese, but can you communicate effectively across cultures by showing an understanding of and sensitivity to cultural differences? We live in an era of unprecedented interconnectedness between people from widely different cultural backgrounds. We now engage in intercultural contact more frequently than ever before and intercultural competence has become a crucial skill to possess in the 21st century. In this course, we will learn basic conceptual tools and theories of intercultural communication. Students will analyze their personal intercultural experiences and deconstruct intercultural communication processes presented in course materials, including literature, film and a repertoire of critical incidents. By the end of this course, students will be able to: identify key theories and concepts of intercultural communication that have pragmatic utility for purposes of communicating across cultures; engage in and critically reflect on activities intended to develop their sensitivity to cultural differences; observe the complexities of intercultural communication processes by reflecting on the nature of culture shock, cultural adaptation, integration, and intercultural conflicts. Prerequisites: none.
English
Senior English electives (for fall and spring semesters) change each year; please check the online course catalog for the most up to date options (enter "EN4" in the "Course Name" box).
Humanities & Social Sciences
SS452F International Relations: Cooperation, Competition, and Conflict in the 21st Century
This course will examine a variety of contemporary challenges that drive international relations in the modern world as states and non-state actors strive to achieve their interests and preserve their values in the face of these emergent crises. The course will utilize a case study model drawn from current world developments, ranging from great power rivalries, regional conflict, and the problems of post-colonialism to cyber technology, climate change, nuclear proliferation, and refugee crises. In the process, we will also analyze the response efforts by states and international institutions to enhance global stability, prosperity, cooperation, and peace.
HI454S Asian American History
With a rich and wide-ranging heritage from China to Vietnam, Japan to India, Asian Americans have contributed to the political, economic, social, and cultural development of the United States for the past 175 years. Following a chronological approach that recognizes the diversity and complexity of Asian American experiences, we will examine the impacts of Asian Americans on the nation and of the nation on Asian American communities. The course will include analyzing and deconstructing the racial mythologies, pressures to assimilate, and the challenges of achieving full inclusion, which have persisted from the earliest West Coast communities to the present day.
Mathematics & Computer Science
CO470F/S Accelerated Computer Science
This intensive course covers all the fundamental concepts of a year-long introductory computer science course in a single semester. It is designed for students with meaningful recent programming experience who are seeking a faster, more comprehensive overview of these topics. Successful completion of this course qualifies a student to take 500-level courses, and students who complete CO470F can choose to take those courses in the spring term of the same year. The spring course also includes a project-based unit that covers all the important steps of the software engineering process. Prerequisites: permission of the department.
CO553S Cybersecurity
This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand, defend, and navigate the ever-evolving cyber landscape. In today's digital age, the importance of protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of computer systems cannot be overstated. This course aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to embark on a career in cybersecurity, ensure the security of their personal digital lives, and make informed decisions in an increasingly interconnected world.
MA653S - Further Math: Theories from Euclid to Einstein
This course will examine the development of select concepts in mathematics and physics - an analysis of the 2500-year history of both disciplines and their interdependence. It will include learning about the lives of key thinkers and social circumstances under which they did their work. Among other things, we will discuss abstraction and rigor of mathematics, development of the Scientific Method (physics), and the meaning of modeling. We will learn about key insights that lead mathematicians and scientists to their spectacular discoveries over the centuries, from the work in ancient times to the early 1900s breakthroughs in Relativity and Quantum mechanics. Prerequisites are MA580Y or MA651F/MA655F with the approval of the department head. Elementary knowledge of physics (Mechanics mostly) is helpful, but not required.
Science
EG420Y Prototyping and Fabrication
The purpose of this course is to provide students with opportunities to gain skills and knowledge needed for fabrication and prototyping. After completing the course, a student will be able to demonstrate ability and understanding of the components of product development. Coursework will cover basic woodworking, electrical circuits, soldering, computer programming, robotics, 3D modeling, design principles, and project management. This course uses hands-on projects to give students experience with a variety of practical tools and techniques through which each student will take a series of projects from design to completion. Some of the more sophisticated projects may use tools such as Arduino microcontrollers, 3D printers, CNC routers, and laser cutters. For the final assessment, students will be required to take their own individual project from start to finish. EG420 is intended as a standalone course for students interested in the tools and techniques described above. It is an excellent complement for students interested in acquiring or improving the skill set associated with co-curricular programs like the Robotics team. It is an excellent second science course, complementing enrollment in 400-level Physics courses for students intending to pursue engineering as an undergraduate field of study. Prerequisites: None. Enrollment is privileged for UMs and SRs.
Visual & Performing Arts
No changes.
Human Development
No changes.
Non-Academic
American Red Cross Lifeguarding Class
This course, taught during one marking period, will teach the participants the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. The course content and activities prepare our candidates to recognize and respond with speed and confidence in emergency situations both in and out of the water. Upon completion of this course the successful participant may have the opportunity to work as a certified Red Cross Lifeguard at The Hotchkiss School and other facilities where this certification is recognized. This course is not taught for academic credit. The Red Cross charges a nominal fee for participation in this course to train lifeguards to act. Topics include water rescue skills, surveillance and recognition, first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies, CPR, AED, and more. The new program reflects the latest Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) science. To be eligible for the lifeguard-training course, the candidate must be 15 years of age on or before the final scheduled session of this course and must complete some swimming prerequisites. Class size is limited to approximately 10 participants. This class may be scheduled to meet outside of the academic day based on the needs of students and instructors.