Philosophy Chat: Science Fiction Zone Film Study
In this one-time class, we will look at how The Twilight Zone, as well as the overall genre of science fiction, has served to communicate philosophical, political, and moral ideas to viewers.
Ms. Melissa; MA, Former University Master Lecturer
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(21)
What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Intermediate - Advanced Level
***(IMPORTANT: Learners are asked to keep cameras on in this social, discussion-based class.)*** How do science fiction stories foster our creativity, open our minds to possibilities, and encourage self-reflection? In this one-time class, we will look at how The Twilight Zone, as well as the overall genre of science fiction, has served to communicate philosophical, political, and moral ideas to viewers. This vintage television show provides insight into an array of disciplines from philosophy, science fiction, ethics, pop culture, and television/film studies. Learners are asked to watch the following episodes prior to our class meeting: - Season #1; Episode 1: Where is Everybody (Important since it is the first episode in the entire series) - Season #1: Episode 22: The Monsters are Due on Maple Street - Season #1: Episode 25: People are Alike All Over (This one-time class will discuss key episodes from Season #1; if there is interest in a deeper-dive or exploration of more core episodes, I also offer a Twilight Zone Club!) Optional: - Jot down any thoughts or questions while watching the show. - Shows are only 25 minutes. Ideally, it would be best to watch the show(s) close to class time, or the same day, while they are still fresh in your mind. *Episodes can be accessed via the following (some are free, others may require purchase):Amazon Prime (with ads), Pluto TV, Freevee. It is also available on Paramount for those with subscriptions as well as YouTube or Fandango.
Learning Goals
This vintage television show, which provides insight into an array of disciplines from philosophy, science fiction, ethics, pop culture, and television/film studies.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class will be exploring vintage Twilight Zone episodes as well as social, moral, and sci-fi based implications deduced from the stories, so the show and/or its themes may not be suited for sensitive learners. All episodes that are assigned and discussed are listed so that parents can decide on whether each episode will be fit for their individual learner. In addition, the class discussions will allow for the free exchange of ideas from the students. Therefore, parents can decide if the open-discussion nature of the class is a good fit for their learner(s). Of course, all discussions will always be moderated in a way to keep examples and views relevant, appropriate, and in line with Outschool's policies.
Supply List
Some students find it fun to create art while chatting, so a notebook or paper might be good to have close by to draw, doodle or even make something with clay. This is just an optional idea and certainly not required but can increase focus and creativity in some learners. Some students may want to take optional notes as well, depending on their academic goals.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Twilight Zone Series 1959 - 1964
Joined January, 2023
5.0
21reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree from Old Dominion University
I am a current homeschooler and former university instructor who specializes in making philosophy courses fun, engaging, and relevant to everyday life. I have over 20 years of experience teaching courses in philosophy and ethics. I taught for over 16 years at the university level, where I held the position of Master Lecturer before I left to focus on homeschooling my children full-time. In addition, I have over 7 years teaching philosophy courses to kids, ages 6-16. Prior to offering classes on Outschool, I volunteered at both a local public high school as well as a private school alongside performing my teaching duties at the university.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$7
per classMeets once
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
2-6 learners per class
