Previous Courses

Last taught by Nina O'Connor in Fall 2023

In this course, we will survey and examine some of the realities and challenges facing gender equality in Latin America. We will look at the topic as a whole and then focus our attention on important influences and subtopics such as machismo, reproductive rights and gender violence. We will also look at the steps being taken to address these challenges.  

Last taught by Arrate Telleria-Suinaga in Winter 2023

In this course students will explore the land where the Basque language is spoken. To better understand the essence of this territory on both sides of the border between Spain and France, the course will cover topics such as geography, history, politics, language, mythology, folklore, gastronomy… This journey will take students through a land small in geographical size but offering a rich and diverse cultural landscape to study Spanish. 

    Last taught by Bill McAlister in Winter 2022

19th century gastronome Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin said “Tell me what you eat, and I’ll tell you who you are.” In this course we will explore the Hispanic world not just through what foods it eats, but also how these foods are eaten, as well as the different ways in which they are perceived, produced and treated. From traditional agricultural practices that predate Columbus’ arrival to the “New World” to innovative techniques in the 21st century’s most renowned kitchens, the Hispanic world from Mexico to Spain to Perú to Miami to even Michigan has been shaped by its relationship to food and in turn has had a profound gastronomic influence on the rest of the world. It will be in these historical, social, economic, political and gastronomical contexts in which we will study Spanish this semester. 

Last taught by Tati Calixto in Winter 2022

Cultural artifacts are a part of the study of human history. They provide a substantial source to understand and validate the diverse ways of being, believing, and connecting with the world, and with others. Along with the knowledge associated to their production and use, artifacts are an important basis of our cultural heritage. 

We will study cultural artifacts from Central and South America that inform the wealth of intangible and tangible cultural heritage of native, afro-descendants, and mestizo communities, and their position in mainstream societies.

Last taught by Yeray Ramos-Silgado in Fall 2021

With this topic course, we will be provided with a general overview and a better understanding of the LGBTQA community/minority in the Hispanic World through a series of different artistic and cultural manifestations: politics, political linguistics, cinema, music, literature, painting, history, law and society.

Last taught by Raquel González in Winter 2020

In this course, the students explored  the ethos of different regions of Argentina through short stories, legends, and movies. The material offered the possibility to reflect on human nature and personal experiences.

The course was designed to maximize the immersion experience in the language. In the context of the topics discussed, students had the opportunity to use extensively and intensively Spanish through reading, listening, writing and speaking opportunities