Anatomy and Physiology of the Human Body

Have you ever wondered how the human body really works? If so, then you are already thinking like a physiologist. Physiology is the branch of biological sciences dealing with the functioning of organisms. At the basic level, physiology helps us understand how living creatures do all of the things they do: run, jump, breathe, think, feel, and keep their hearts beating. The class will be a “hands-on” and “minds-on” experience, where you will learn whole-body integrative physiology. You will use the same lab as the college physiology students and use computers to collect and analyze data. You will also have the chance to closely examine real organs, monitor vital signs, perform an ECG, and test your lung function.

We will start the week by looking at the body as a whole unit, creating a “Body Map” and orienting to the different systems we will look at the rest of the week. From there we will use computers with adult assistance to collect physiological data, graph or draw it, and add it to our maps. By the end of the course, we will have a completed map of the human body to use for future physiology adventures!

Lasers and Lights

Light is an amazing phenomenon, and one whose behaviors are remarkably similar. Students will apply both reflection and refraction to guide a laser from one spot to another, avoiding obstacles in the way.

Nuclear Astrophysics

Where were the elements made? Over the last 14 billion years, nuclear reactions such as fusion, fragmentation, and radioactive decay have created dramatic change. The fundamental nature of the atomic nucleus has driven the chemical evolution of the universe and the energy cycle in stars. This course, sponsored by MSU’s world-class Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), will pull back the curtain on nuclear research and careers!

Podcasting: From Concept to Creation

Welcome to Podcasting: From Concept to Creation, an exciting, hands-on course where students will dive into the world of podcasting. This class is designed for students who are interested in storytelling, technology, and media production. Throughout the semester, students will learn how to conceptualize, create, record, and edit their very own podcasts, with guidance from experts at IMPACT 89FM, Michigan State University’s student-run radio station.

Students will explore the process of podcast production, from brainstorming ideas and scripting episodes to using professional equipment and editing software. They will also gain valuable experience by working in a real radio station environment, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how podcasts are made. By the end of the course, students will have the skills to produce their own podcast episodes and understand the power of digital media to share stories and ideas with the world.

Key Learning Objectives:

  1. Understanding Podcasting: Students will learn about the history of podcasts, how they have evolved, and the different types of podcasts that exist, such as storytelling, interviews, educational content, and entertainment.

  2. Podcast Planning and Scripting: Students will explore the essential steps in planning a podcast episode, including brainstorming topics, defining target audiences, and writing compelling scripts. They will learn how to structure episodes for maximum impact.

  3. Using Professional Podcasting Equipment: Through hands-on training at IMPACT 89FM, students will become familiar with the equipment used in professional podcasting, including microphones, mixers, headphones, and soundboards. They will learn how to set up and operate recording gear for high-quality audio production.

  4. Recording and Editing: Students will learn how to record their podcast episodes, focusing on clear audio quality and engaging delivery. They will also explore editing techniques using podcast editing software, such as Audacity or GarageBand, to refine their episodes and add sound effects, music, and transitions.

  5. Collaboration and Teamwork: Students will work in teams to produce their podcast episodes, collaborating on research, writing, and editing. They will learn about the roles within a production team, such as scriptwriters, hosts, sound engineers, and editors.

  6. Podcast Publishing and Promotion: Students will explore how podcasts are distributed through platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. They will learn about the importance of promoting podcasts and how to build an audience through social media and other digital tools.