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American Imperialism and Exceptionalism in the 20th Century
with Steve Pollack
No class 3/16 & 3/23
In the 20th century, European and Ottoman empires declined as the United States rose to global influence. While often voicing opposition to colonialism, the U.S. exerted its own power abroad. In competition with Russian and Chinese expansion, ideas of “American Exceptionalism” promoted democratic ideals overseas, even as racism, fascism, and prejudice persisted at home. This course examines forces such as Manifest Destiny, slavery, immigration exclusion, McCarthyism, the Cold War, and the policies of leaders including Kissinger, Cheney, and Trump.
Presenter: Steve Pollack lectures on culture, history, music and art in area schools, libraries, and community & continuing education groups.
Medical Ethics: Level 2
with Robert Michaelson
NO CLASS 4/13, ENDS 4/20
Taught by a former OB-GYN with extensive firsthand experience, this interactive, case-based course explores the complexities of medical ethics. Real-world scenarios highlight the nuanced ethical challenges that arise in healthcare. Anyone can register; no previous atttendance necessary.
LEVEL 2 Topics: AI in healthcare, medical aid in dying, reproductive issues and the pharmaceutical industry.
Presenter: Robert Michaelson, MD FACOG, is a retired ObGyn with 37 years of experience, a former trustee and past president of the medical staff of Abington Hospital, and a current member of the Upper Dublin Township Human Relations Commission.
AI for Modern Living
with David Peltzman
ENDS MON 4/13
This beginner-friendly, six-week course is designed for retirees who are curious about artificial intelligence (AI) and want to learn how to use it safely and effectively to simplify, enhance, and enrich their daily lives. Forget the complicated jargon—we’ll focus on practical, real-world applications of AI that you can use right now. The course will also explore how AI is transforming key fields such as medicine, law, and business.
Presenter: David Peltzman holds a graduate degree in Computer & Information Sciences from Temple University. He has worked over 35 years in the IT industry. He has taught at various universities specifically on Artificial Intelligence.
Medical Ethics: Level 4
with Robert Michaelson
NO CLASS MON 4/13, ENDS MON 4/20
Taught by a former OB-GYN with extensive firsthand experience, this interactive, case-based course explores the complexities of medical ethics. Real-world scenarios highlight the nuanced ethical challenges that arise in healthcare. Anyone can register; no previous atttendance necessary.
LEVEL 4 Topics: the use of AI in healthcare and end of life issues
Presenter: Robert Michaelson, MD FACOG, is a retired ObGyn with 37 years of experience, a former trustee and past president of the medical staff of Abington Hospital, and a current member of the Upper Dublin Township Human Relations Commission.
Drawing & Beyond
with Jackie Drewes
SESSIONS: Mondays 11:30am-12:45pm OR 1:45-3:00pm
ENDS MON 4/13
Study the importance of shape, value, and composition, and learn to draw from studio setups and photographs. Open to all skill levels. Required supplies: drawing pencils and 9" × 12" drawing paper.
Presenter: Jackie Drewes is a former art school recruiter who has studied with various oils, pastels and watercolor artists.
Weekend News Review
with Dan Shoulberg
In this interactive class, participants will discuss and analyze viewpoints and positions expressed about current news reported on C-SPAN, weekend television news programs, and in print media. All perspectives are welcome and encouraged.
Presenter: Dan Shoulberg has been a moderator of currents events forums for over 20 years. He is the Program Coordination Volunteer for the Adult Discovery & Learning series at UDPL.
Aging in Place
with Patrice Erik
SESSIONS: Thurs 11:30a-12:45p -OR- Thurs 1:45-3:00p
NO CLASSES THURS 4/2, ENDS THURS 4/16
Most of us want to stay in our homes forever, maybe you can. But let's look at it realistically. This class will address the considerations that will help you remain safe and healthy in your home. We will learn about fall prevention, balance exercises, home modifications and adaptions, and basic healthy practices. Most attendees find this class very practical and applicable.
Presenter: Patrice Erik is a retired physical therapist who has practiced in various settings over her 43 years in the field. Besides her PT degree, she has a masters in education and enjoys sharing practical, medically-based information for a fuller life.
Morals, Ethics & Justice
with Steve Pollack
SCHEDULE UPDATE: STARTS FRI 3/6, NO CLASS FRI 3/20 & 4/3, ENDS FRI 4/24
A provocative examination of the history of morals with discussions, forums and debates about the origins and development of morals and ethics and their relation to law and justice. We'll explore frustrating questions about whether morals are real, illusory or a language puzzle, including:
- Are morals innate, or only meaningful in a society?
- Do we understand morals through religion, or can we know them by common-sense?
- Are morals universal, or relative from society to society?
- How do morals differ from ethics?
- Do we measure morality on the basis of intent, or outcome of situations?
The purpose of the class is to gain a better understanding of how we measure morality/legality in our world, and how it affects our attitudes toward politics, business and social media.
Presenter: Steve Pollack lectures on culture, history, music and art in area schools, libraries, and community & continuing education groups.