Science, Technology, Engineering & Math   

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we think, write and learn. This hands-on course explores how tools like ChatGPT can serve as a tutor, guide and personal learning companion. Participants will experiment with prompts, compare AI and Google searches, co-write short pieces, explore multiple perspectives and design a personal learning plan. Each session combines short presentations, live demonstrations, small-group activities and reflection. Topics include how AI “learns,” effective prompt writing, creativity, research and ethics. No experience with AI or technology is required — just curiosity and a willingness to explore how intelligent tools can extend lifelong learning.

NOTE: Students must bring a laptop or tablet computer to use during class.

Do you feel frustrated and ready to give up learning how to use your computer? Then this course is for you. The course will start with the basics, exploring the parts of a computer, including ports, the keyboard, the screen and the mouse. Students will learn to use and personalize the Windows desktop, icons and taskbar; to move and resize windows; and how various keys on the keyboard (such as home, end, backspace, delete, shift and tab) function. They will learn to download and save files, organize files into folders and subfolders, find lost files using Search and File Explorer, use Task Manager and safely access the internet. Students will be introduced to word processing and spreadsheet programs. There will be time for practice during class and optional assignments for review at home. 

NOTE: Students must have a PC-based laptop with MS Windows and bring it to class. Students will use a mouse while in class. If they do not have a mouse, one will be provided by the instructor. 

This is a beginning course in 3D printing. Students will learn about the history of 3D printing, its uses and how it works. The many types of 3D printers and the wide range of materials that can be used for printing will be discussed. As part of the actual printing process, students will use 3D modeling software to access existing files of 3D models for printing 3D objects. Students will print objects and learn to decorate and modify them. Additional topics will include an introduction to high-tech 3D printing in space travel and other applications. No prior experience with 3D printing is required; however, participants should be comfortable following directions to navigate computer software.

NOTE: Total cost to participate is $100 ($25 per session). Liability waiver required to participate.

This course will be an introduction to astronomy, specifically observational astronomy. Students will learn how to look in the night sky without a telescope to see constellations, identify planets and discern lunar phases. This class will specifically focus on our Southern Oregon skies in spring. Students will get a chance to practice their knowledge by observing in the North Medford High School Planetarium. The planetarium features a Digistar 7 system, a fully digital system capable of manipulating space and time with real-time data and stellar computer graphics. The course will be half online lecture, half lab-based in the planetarium. There is no background knowledge necessary; all levels of learners are welcome.  

NOTE: The course will alternate between online instruction using Zoom one week followed by lab-based practice of concepts at the North Medford High School Planetarium the next week. Weeks 1, 3 and 5 will be online and weeks 2, 4 and 6 will be at the planetarium. Liability waiver required to participate.

The course will cover Newton’s laws of motion and Newton’s law of gravity including gravity, planetary motion and rotational motion. Learn the answers to important questions such as: Do you get anywhere at 60 mph if you drive for less than an hour? Why does your stomach get upset in an elevator? Do angels flap their wings to keep the planets in their orbits? (You know more about physics than you realize.) Take this course and connect your intuitive knowledge and learned behavior with the words of physics. Don’t be intimidated by the words; they are there only to keep the uninitiated … uninitiated. Become an initiate in Newton’s laws. Time will be devoted to your questions.   

NOTE: The course will be taught using PowerPoint presentations and other visual and audio material. Warning: We need to use some basic algebra. 

Why is the Rogue Valley a low area and why are the adjacent mountains so high? This course aims to help students interpret the landscape where they live. Using the local area as our laboratory, we’ll explore the factors that create diverse landscapes. Via interactive lectures, the course will review the regional geology with a focus on local details and explain the basic principles needed to understand how Earth works and changes through time.

NOTE: The in-person section will include a field trip to local sites; students may choose either Saturday, May 9 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) or Tuesday, May 12 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The trip will require students to carpool and sign the SOU liability waiver. Walking distances will be short. No prior geologic experience is needed. This course was offered before, most recently in Spring 2023.

Why is the Rogue Valley a low area and why are the adjacent mountains so high? This course aims to help students interpret the landscape where they live. Using the local area as our laboratory, we’ll explore the factors that create diverse landscapes. Via interactive lectures, the course will review the regional geology with a focus on local details and explain the basic principles needed to understand how Earth works and changes through time.

NOTE: The in-person section will include a field trip to local sites; students may choose either Saturday, May 9 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) or Tuesday, May 12 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The trip will require students to carpool and sign the SOU liability waiver. Walking distances will be short. No prior geologic experience is needed. This course was offered before, most recently in Spring 2023.