Students will learn:
-history of monsters in the media
-biology: basic defense mechanisms in animals
-media literacy
-executive functioning skills
-beginning philosophy: skepticism 
-creating arguments based on analysis & critical thinking skills

Monsters are always fascinating to contemplate, but it's equally interesting to peel away the title of monster and see what's underneath.  As a college rhetoric professor I've taught a course on Monsters & Society, so I've been researching monsters in history this past year.  This class will challenge students to think about why monsters hook our attention.  More importantly, students will become active learners in an attempt to figure out what these creatures might have been in our known world and how pranksters and the media can work side by side to exploit a gullible public. 

Some of the issues surrounding monsters can be fairly gory -- very sensitive students may not want to take this class. 

Homework Offered
Student led learning involves deciding if the class would like to challenge themselves to a fun quiz each week. If so, students are given a handout to fill out after each class is over. They can use this handout while taking the quiz. Extra handouts with fun challenges related to class are also available.
0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered