This class is an introduction to African art and material culture. We will examine the pivotal role of African objects in Africa, as well as Europe and the United States, alongside the projects of imperialism, colonialism, apartheid and nationalism in light of collecting practices, museums, heritage tourism, development and human rights. We will also examine the politics and practical aspects of African art and artifacts by engaging with some of the associated controversies and ethical responsibilities.

This course will offer an overview of the theoretical tenets of experiential education and how they can be applied in a variety of settings, including the outdoors,and alternative and traditional classrooms. Topics to be addressed include current issues in experiential education, oppression and empowerment in education, teaching experientially, creative expression, and the historical and philosophical basis of experiential education. The course format will include readings, discussion, guest speakers, field experiences, and individual research and presentations on experiential education.

The Connecticut River Valley is a bioregion rich in natural variety and beauty. This course will be an opportunity to explore the natural places in our own backyard while examining the concept of wilderness in contemporary society. The social, spiritual, ecological, artistic, accessible and personal perspectives of wilderness will be the foundation of this place-based education class. By hiking and paddling we will attempt to develop a sense of place with some truly magical local outdoor sites. Readings and projects will further develop this concept of a backyard wilderness.

Fundamentals of Tennis: This class covers basic tennis techniques. Our focus will be on developing smooth, confident strokes. Students will also spend time learning the rules of the game and playing 5-College students will be graded pass/fail.

If you like basketball but have little or no experience, then this is the class for you. Students will work on the basic skills of basketball, such as dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding and defense. Students will also spend time focusing on the rules of the game and playing. 5-College students will be graded pass/fail.

The class will focus on improving foot, speed, agility, and explosiveness through drills and plyometrics. The class will meet Tuesday and Thursday from 2pm-3pm for 6 weeks, September 10 - October 8. 5-College students will be graded pass/fail.

This course will give students background knowledge and first-hand experience in stretching, weight lifting, and aerobic conditioning. Students will learn the basics of flexibility training, using heart rate to guide aerobic conditioning, and assist in designing an individualized weight training program. Each class session will include stretching, running/walking, and weight lifting. People who have never been involved in a fitness program are especially welcome. 5-College students will be graded pass/fail.

This class will utilize various techniques to improve one's strength and conditioning without the use of weights. All experience levels are welcome. The class is especially good for those interested in improving strength for sports. Five college students will be graded pass/fail.

Beginning Spinning: Spinning is a group cycling class that guides participants through workout phases using music, warm-up, steady up-tempo cadences, sprints, climbs, and cool downs. You control resistance on your bike to make the pedaling as easy or difficult as you choose. Constant Adjustment is normal. This group cycling class is designed for all fitness levels and involves various cycling drills that offer an exhilarating cardiovascular workout. The class also teaches you proper form and interval training. Staff and faculty are welcome! Bring workout clothes, towel, and water bottle.

This class is designed for beginners. The curriculum will cover proper techniques of shifting, braking, hill climbing and descent, body and pedal position, and navigating obstacles on the trail. Students will also learn basic bicycle maintenance and tuning. We will spend part of the class time riding for fun and fitness, and the rest on improving riding skills. Completion of this course, will equip participants with the skills necessary to successfully ride many of the natural trails in the Holyoke Range (Hampshire's back yard). Class begins on September 4 and ends on October 16.