Appalachian Studies Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
APS 113
Appalachian Weaving
Offered: Typically offered every Fall Term
An introductory experience explores the craft of weaving and its importance in Southern Appalachia. This course focuses on weaving in Southern Appalachia with particular attention to the 1890-1940's including the Settlement schools, the Fireside Industries, and the individuals who were critical to making these institutions work. This course has a strong hands-on learning component of weaving on the 4-8 harness dobby floor loom which will support assigned readings and class discussions. No previous weaving experience is necessary. Six in class hours per week. Course fee: $15, plus the cost of materials. African American, Appalachian, and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 121
Appalachian Cultures
A study designed to give Appalachian students an opportunity to establish their own identity and give others a base for understanding Appalachian people, by exploring the values, attitudes, strengths, and problems of Appalachian people. This course also is aimed at providing a foundation for further study and involvement in Appalachia. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 140
Appalachian Literature (ENG)
Study of poetry, fiction, and oral literature of the region. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 186
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
APS 204
The Earth Beneath Our Feet
Summer Course Only
Course Description: It is easy to walk through life without looking down ' without stopping to wonder about the nature and history of the ground that supports us. Why are the mountains flat on top around Berea? Why are there caves nearby? What about coal? How has the form and substance of the land beneath our feet shaped local culture and history? This course will integrate direct experience and observation, scientific inquiry, and historical research to create a rich and diverse understanding of the Earth beneath our feet.
APS 209
Appalachian Foodways
Offered: Typically every Fall
Course Fee: $25
This course will explore the traditional foodways of the Appalachian Region prior to the 1960s. The major topics of the course will include the historical, cultural, geographic, economic, and social roots of Appalachian foodways. Other topics will include: food availability; food production/consumption and social class; sustainable family farms; factors influencing foods and food production; role of foods and food rituals in daily lives and holiday traditions; traditional food cooking and preservation technique. A practical component of the course will include gathering, planning, and preparing foods and meals based on Appalachian traditions. There will be several field trips. Knowledge of food preparation is not required. Attendance and active participation are required. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective (Pending COGE approval) 1 Course Credit
Noncredit for students who have completed CFS/APS 109 or CFS/APS 209 or CFS/APS 286 Special Topics: Appalachian Foodways
APS 210
Health in Appalachia (HLT)
Offered: Typically annually
Health in Appalachia explores various dimensions of the environment that impact the health of individuals and the communities in which they live within the Appalachian region. The overarching frameworks used in this exploration consist of Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Model and the Six Dimensions of Health Wellness Model. Specific topics addressed include: education, religion, industrialization, economic development, access to health care, sexuality, domestic violence, race and ethnicity, and substance abuse. This course is designed for the non-professional interested in the health needs of all people living in the Appalachian region and will include directed readings, lectures, discussions, films, guest speakers, and field trips. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 213
Appalachian Crafts (TEC)
Offered: Typically annually
A laboratory course involving work in various craft media including metal, wood, textiles, ceramics, and various native Appalachian materials. Through these various craft media, the culture of the Appalachian people will be examined focusing on factors affecting the life and work of the Appalachian craftsperson, including aesthetics versus function, advancing technology, and outside influences. Through skill development, students will gain insight into the problem-solving ability, lifestyle, and ingenuity of the Appalachian people. Opportunities will be given for in-depth study and skill development. Arts Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. Course Fee: $10. 1 Course Credit
APS 215
Sustainable Appal Comm (SENS)
Offered: Typically annually
An introduction to the concept of sustainability as applied to communities in the Appalachian region. Ecological, social, and economic characteristics of Appalachia are reviewed as a context for case studies of communities within the region. A variety of approaches to sustainable development are explored. Students learn techniques for evaluating community sustainability, and participate in a service-learning or community-based research project that assists a local community to become more sustainable. African Americans', Appalachians', Women's Studies Perspective. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed GST/SENS 210. 1 Course Credit
APS 220
Gender in Appalachia (WST)
An interdisciplinary exploration of gender and its impact on the Appalachian region. Proceeding from the assumption that cultural constructions of sex, sexuality, and gender are basic to our understandings of the world, we will investigate such topics as family and community; intimacy, violence, and power; health and reproduction; home and work; religion and spirituality; masculinity and femininity; activism and resistance in Appalachia. The diversity of Appalachian experiences will be explored through fiction and non-fiction readings, films, and discussion. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 224
Appalachian Music (MUS)
An introduction to the music that has been, and is, an important part of the culture of the Southern Appalachian region. Specific musical elements will be discussed in relation to ballads and songs, instrumental music, bluegrass, country, and various types of religious music. The importance of the region's music and musicians in the development of country and popular music in America is treated. Three periods per week. Arts Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 225
Envr Justice(AFR/PSJ/SENS/WST)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014?)
This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental-justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental-justice movement, and the analysis of environmental-justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 227
Invest. Env. Move. Appalaichia
One of the most difficult challenges facing us today is the juggernaut of human-driven environmental degradation. It is a multifaceted crisis, comprised of a genuinely staggering catalog of damages, from rapid climate change and mass extinction to ocean acidification and the ravages of mountaintop removal mining. In response, people all around the world are working together to try to create more sustainable ways of living. A unique form of environmental activism is the back-to-the-land movement, where families distance themselves from the mainstream economy by building their own homes, growing much of their own food, and using alternative technologies like passive solar design, photovoltaics, and composting toilets. In this class, we will use ethnographic research methods ' such as interviews and participant observation ' to investigate the back-to-the-land movement in the countryside around Berea. What are back-to-the-landers doing? Why are they doing it? If they are trying to live more sustainably, is it working? Because the back-to-the-land movement has been mostly overlooked by scholars and ignored by the mass media, we will use our research findings from this course as the basis for an article to be sent out for publication. Note: twice during the semester we will do overnight field trips from Friday until midday on Saturday; on these field trips we will be camping.
APS 229
Contemporary Issues-Appalachia
Offered: Typically annually
Exploration of an issue (or issues) central to contemporary Appala¬chia and diverse responses that address the issue(s). African Ameri¬cans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 230
African Americans-Appal (AFR)
Offered: Typically annually
This course explores the social, political, economic, and cultural experiences of African Americans in Southern Appalachia from the beginning of European settlement to the contemporary era. The course engages students in developing an understanding of the historical experiences of African Americans in Appalachia, the discussion of issues such as the images and stereotypes of Appalachians and African Americans, and the examination of migratory patterns, education, labor organization, and religion. The course places special emphasis upon the interaction and convergence of a distinctly Appalachian experience among African Americans from the region. The course studies traditional themes in Appalachian Studies within the context of African American racial experiences. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 236
Folk Arts-Cultural Expression
A study of traditional folk arts in a cultural setting, with particular attention to Appalachian traditions and their importance in the lives of people. The Appalachian arts of storytelling, folk singing, folk dancing, and handcrafting will be explored. An experience in each art will be arranged, the major contributors to the recent evolution in folk arts will be studied, and the potential of folk arts in modern society will be examined. 1 Course Credit
APS 253
Appalachian America (HIS)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2014)
A broad survey of the history of the Appalachian region. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 282
Workshop in Creative Writing
Course Description: An imaginative writing course that introduces students to one or two genres of creative writing through analysis of literary models, practice, and both student and instructor critique of work in a workshop format. The focus of the course will vary and may include such topics as travel writing, short fiction and drama, nature writing, memoir, and personal essay. May be repeated for credit, provided the topic differs from those previously studied.
Writers in this class will explore different Appalachian landscapes near Berea, such as a farm, a forest, a river, a town, and a mountain top removal site. Each day we will take a van and visit a landscape (or the same one for several days), where we will analyze readings, do writing exercises, hold workshops, and experience the land (via working it, via being quiet and observing, via learning to ask it questions & how to listen for answers, etc.). We will talk with people who are intimate with the land (who work it, study it, play on it, etc.), all the while asking ourselves about our and people's cultures relationship to the land. In the process, you will keep a journal; marginalize readings; produce one critical essay about a book of your choice; compose letters and bullets of advice; draft at least three poems, one non-fiction essay, and one story; and bring one of those to a final stage of completion. So get ready to be curious, get sweaty, and write!
APS 282N
Workshop in Creative Writing
An imaginative writing course that introduces students to one or two genres of creative writing through analysis of literary models, practice, and both student and instructor critique of work in a workshop format. The focus of the course will vary and may include such topics as travel writing, short fiction and drama, nature writing, memoir, and personal essay. May be repeated for credit, provided the topic differs from those previously studied. Writers in this class will explore different Appalachian landscapes near Berea, such as a farm, a forest, a river, a town, and a mountain top removal site. Each day we will take a van and visit a landscape (or the same one for several days), where we will analyze readings, do writing exercises, hold workshops, and experience the land (via working it, via being quiet and observing, via learning to ask it questions & how to listen for answers, etc.). We will talk with people who are intimate with the land (who work it, study it, play on it, etc.), all the while asking ourselves about our and people's cultural relationship to the land. In the process, you will keep a journal; marginalize readings; produce one critical essay about a book of your choice; compose letters and bullets of advice; draft at least three poems, one non-fiction essay, and one story; and bring one of those to a final stage of completion. So get ready to be curious, get sweaty, and write!
APS 286
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
APS 330
Comm Analysis:Appal Case(SOC)
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
This course is a study of the history, demography, social structure, and forces promoting social change in the Appalachian rural community. The student will learn a sociological approach to understanding the concept of community, its various systems, institutions, and groups. A community problem-analysis orientation will be followed. While studying the community in Appalachia, other community studies'American, European, and Third World'will be examined for comparative purposes, looking at content and method. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
APS 386
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
APS 390A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
APS 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
APS 395
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
APS 397A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
APS 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
APS 398
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
APS 486
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
APS 490A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
APS 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
APS 495
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
APS 497A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
APS 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
APS 498
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
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This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.


