This course is a chance to read and think about works of science fiction and fantasy, considering the kinds of problems they address and the conventions they play with. We read novels and stories by (among others) H.G. Wells, Ursula Le Guin, Octavia Butler, Russell Hoban, Stanislaw Lem and Jo Walton. Prerequisite: one college-level literature course or permission of the instructor. Recommended for nonmajors.

An introductory exploration of the English language, its history, current areas of change and future. Related topics such as how dictionaries are made and the structure of the modern publishing industry. Students learn about editing, proofreading and page layout; the course also entails a comprehensive review of grammar and punctuation.

Students learn to use literary techniques to write factual, engaging narratives that read like fiction. Based on research, interviews and personal experience, creative nonfiction encompasses a wide range of genres, including memoir, travel writing, nature writing, science writing, food writing, and biography. Prerequisites: one WI course. Enrollment in each section limited to 16. Course may be repeated once on a different topic.

Students hone their writing skills (defined broadly to include critical thinking, research and documentation, argument development and mastery of written English) as they enhance their understanding of an issue of current import and consequence. They read and write in a variety of genres (ranging from experience narratives to academic essays) and supplement their required reading with excursions to scholarly and cultural venues at Smith. Prerequisite: One WI course or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 15.

History of the education of the deaf. Educational, vocational and social issues affecting deaf children and adults in our society.

The globalization of the world economy has contributed to both boom and crisis. This seminar explores selected topics relating to the increased openness of national borders to the flow of goods and services, labor and real capital.

This seminar explores the similarities and differences between professional and college sports. The economic factors that condition the evolution and operation of college sports is examined in detail, as is the relationship between gender equity (as prescribed by Title IX) and overall intercollegiate athletic programs.

Topics course. Since post-colonial times, Africa has seen both hope and despair for its development. This seminar explores the roles of many factors in the development of African states and the uplifting from poverty of individual Africans. In particular, we look at infrastructure and investment; health and education; trade; finance and markets; the choice of policy; and the effects of institutions, governance and politics. We also try to make sense of the differences and the similarities among the various paths to development in Africa.

An examination of the philosophy and ethics of economic theory and policy. Questions to be considered include the nature and meaning of economic justice, the free market, the role of the state in determining economic outcomes, and the distinction between positive and normative economics. Prerequisite: ECO 250 or 253, or permission of the instructor.

An overview of economic development theory and practice since the 1950s. Why have global economic inequalities widened? What economic policies have been implemented in the developing countries of Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East in search of economic development, what theories underlie these policies, and what have been the consequences for economic welfare in these regions?