Fall 2024 EXCO 301 Course Descriptions
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EXCO 301.01 - Gender, Politics and Giant Robots: Analyzing Mobile Suit Gundam
Teacher: Josh Crosby, Joshcrosby74@gmail.com
location and schedule: TBD
From its origins in 1978 the Mobile Suit Gundam anime series has been an intensely political work of science fiction created by Yoshiyuki Tomino. From the 1978 series discussions of the effects of war on youth to Zeta Gundam’s discussions of gender and Turn A Gundam’s discussions of self and identity the series has never been just about the titular giant robot war machines known as Gundams.
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EXCO 301.02 - Introduction to Veterinary Medicine / medicina veterinaria
Teacher: Catherine Gonzalez, Cgonzalezreyes@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Helping students learn about veterinary medicine , applying to vet school , different careers , and opportunities.
Medicina veterinaria hopefully is to help students use their Spanish skills to communicate in medical terms.
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EXCO 301.03 - Drones in Action: Learning to pilot drones and how to get licensed
Teacher: Oskar Kenyatta Garcia, ogarcia2@mail.sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
In this course students will take to the skies and learn about flying quadcopters, hexacopters, and octocopters. They will learn how these tools can be used in crucial real life applications such as construction, geography, marketing and entertainment. They will learn the Federal and State regulations on drone usage. Using simulated and real environments students will learn the ethical, legal, and practical handling of drones.
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EXCO 301.04 - Genealogy: Journey of Family Exploration and Self-Discovery
Teacher: Cia Davis, mdavis30@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This course will be giving students the opportunity to exercise their free will and their freedom to choose. This Genealogy course will help guide students with the process of acquiring insight into one's own character and the understanding of oneself or one's own motives or character.
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EXCO 301.05 - Taylor Swift and the Art of Songwriting
Teacher: Phoenix Vaughn, cvela2@mail.sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Taylor Swift is one of the most famous musical artists in the world. From rock to country to pop to folk, she is given songwriting credits on every single one of her songs across 11 albums. She wrote her first song at the young age of 12, and has proven herself to be a master of her craft. In this course, we will be analyzing her discography through the lens of creative writing as we look at her use of imagery, extended metaphors, and how her musical choices sonically support her messaging. The goal is to learn from Swift's work in order to improve our own songwriting.
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EXCO 301.06 - Fashion and Feminism
Teacher: Eva Palma, epalma@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
In comments of photos of well-groomed people in the past, there are usually detractors who long for the days when “women were women”, before “dyed hair and pronouns”. This course explores these cues that are supposedly seen as modern, from tattoos to cross-dressing and learn about their connections to resistance against colonialism and the patriarchy throughout history. We’ll also examine absurd beauty standards from varying eras.
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EXCO 301.07 - Terrors Unleashed: Non/Fictional Serial Killer Horror Icons
Teacher: Yovana Marina Valdivia-Anaya, yvaldiviaanaya@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This asynchronous course delves into the realm of non/fictional serial killers and horror icons, exploring the enduring fascination with these characters in literature, film, and popular culture. Through critical analysis and interdisciplinary study, students will examine the origins, motivations, and cultural significance of some of the most iconic and terrifying figures in horror fiction.
This asynchronous course offers students the flexibility to engage with course materials and complete assignments according to their own schedules, within specified time frames. This structure allows for individualized learning experiences while ensuring that students meet the necessary deadlines and requirements of the course.
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EXCO 301.08 - Asian Student Union Internship Program
Teacher: Jazmine Finuliar, jfinuliar@sfsu.edu and Eric Hong, ehong5@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
The Asian Student Union (ASU) Internship Program is a semester-long course that allows students to learn about social, historical, political, and cultural aspects in Asian American communities. This program gives students a chance to delve deeper into the meaning of the AAPI experience, a space to learn about and discuss issues within the AAPI community, and a way to connect their personal experiences to history and other cultures, allowing them to have the opportunity to advocate for and give back to their communities.
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EXCO 301.09 - Urbanist Feminism
Teachers: Indigo Rosenberg, irosenberg@sfsu.edu, and
Seleste Richardson, srichardson2@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This course focuses on women and their contributions to urbanism. Students will trace the intersections of gender, race and sexuality through an urbanist lens through a range of case studies and historical texts.
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EXCO 301.10 - Exploring Queer Undertones in Traditional Literature
Teacher: Sara Sadralodabai Collins, scollins9@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Students will work to understand the Queer representation in Traditional Literature, whether or not it is considered to be canonically true. We will read between the lines; navigating classic representations of Queer Ideology, while working to implement that into the stories we read. Students will explain how they identify with the identities represented (if they do), and will work to better understand how heterosexual norms blinded us to different characters with Queer traits and identities since the times of Greek Mythology and so forth.
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EXCO 301.11 - The Power of Narrative
Teacher: Nia Ratliff, mratliff1@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
The purpose of this course is to challenge students to critically engage the narratives they encounter everyday, that they may receive through media, or take part in crafting on interpersonal and intrapersonal levels. We will engage in critical perspectives of sociology and philosophy that illustrate how our ways of seeing and communicating with the world are narrative-driven. This course will pull from philosophy, narrative psychology, critical theory, and more. We will also utilize these perspectives to reflect on and discuss the narratives we craft about ourselves and others.
Through light readings, discussion, and writing exercises, students will define, interpret meaning from, and challenge narratives they’ve crafted throughout their lives. Students will explore critical social thought, the body of narratives (how narratives are constructed), prevailing narratives in popular culture and their effects. Students are encouraged to share art and/or media (found and/or self-made) with narratives they found resonant, cathartic, or compelling. *We will distinguish between deriving meaning from the sequential events of life and simply interpreting one’s life as a story.
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EXCO 301.12 - Let’s Go! The Worlds of Superhero Tokusatsu - A Special Effects Fantasy
Teacher: Rehnzo Nocon, rnocon@mail.sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Rejoice! Tokusatsu is a prominent form of Japanese entertainment where film and television heavily rely on practical special effects, often basking in the genres of science fiction, war, fantasy, or horror. One of the earliest and most well- known examples are the Godzilla and Gamera films, effectively kickstarting the kaiju boom. Due to the undeniable grasp superheroes have had on pop culture for many years now, this course in particular will prominently cover the impact and significance of the big 3 Toku franchises in the superhero/mecha subgenre: Ultraman, Super Sentai, and most importantly Kamen Rider. We will analyze common writing tropes prominent in the big 3, the storytelling process, their production histories, and also take a deep dive into their fandoms. We will come to understand why they’ve come to be endured in the hearts of many and how they’ve become immortalized in the corners of pop culture worldwide. So let’s ride! And together we will pass through the worlds of heroes you may or may not know!
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EXCO 301.13 - West African Dance
Teacher: Kamesha Agyei, kagyei@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Connect your mind and body and discover the rhythms and energetic moves of Guinea, West African Dance. In this class, led by a passionate instructor, you'll explore traditional dance styles of Malinke, Susu, Baga, Soussou, and Fulani. Learn basic steps, fancy footwork, and expressive movements while diving into the history and culture behind these dances. Through joyful exploration and collaborative learning, students will gain physical coordination, strength, and flexibility, while also gaining a deep appreciation for Guinea's music, dance, and cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or new to the world of West African dance, this class offers an inspiring environment to connect with the rhythms of Guinea and unleash your creativity on the dance floor.
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EXCO 301.14 - First-Generation College Integration
Teacher: Joseph Escobedo, jescobedo@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This class is an introduction to navigating San Francisco State's resources, student organizations, and methods for students to ease into college life.
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EXCO 301.15 - Restorative Practices/Restorative Justice
Teacher: Gabe Singer, gsinger@larkinstreetyouth.org
location and schedule: TBD
Learning how to implement rp/rj into the work you do. It is based on theory and actual circle practices.
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EXCO 301.16 - The Unseen Cinema of the 1980’s
Teacher: Eva Palma, epalma@sfsu.edu and Rehnzo Nocon, rnocon@mail.sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Big hair, bright lights, MTV, and many more... This is the 1980s, a decade defined by its music, its people, and especially its movies. When you remember the cinema of the 1980s, you think of franchise classics such as Raiders, E.T. or Back To The Future... but, did you know there were other, lesser-known films that defined the time? Come learn about and possibly come to love about the unseen collection of 80s films from a variety of voices, showcasing the works of those varied race, sex, and gender... Behold! The Unseen Cinema of the 1980s!
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EXCO 301.17 - Code, Control, Conquer: Miniature Mayhem and Mitigation
Teacher: Ethan Francis Hanlon, ehanlon1@mail.sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
Have you ever wondered how vulnerable the power grid is? Or what would happen if someone hacked into the water system? In this no-experience-required hands-on course, students will hack into a miniature model town with real critical infrastructure, from sewers to satellites. Instruction will start with an introduction to how critical infrastructure (like power generation) systems work. In addition, students will be taught the basic computer science and cybersecurity skills to understand how these systems can be compromised. Then, students will be grouped into teams for a capture the flag mission, where points are awarded for successfully attacking and defending systems built on the same hardware and technology used to control real infrastructure. Students will finish the course with a practical understanding of how real-world infrastructure can be compromised - and most importantly, secured - in an increasingly volatile cybersecurity environment while having a fun time playing a realistic cyber war-game.
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EXCO 301.18 - The History of Native Americans and Rural Georgia
Teacher: Emily Stoklosa, emilyestoklosa@gmail.com
location and schedule: TBD
This course will discuss the history of Native American tribes and their settlements in Georgia, and how their land was taken during the 1800-1900s time period. Focusing on small towns in Georgia like Carrollton, Villa Rica and some Alabama towns.
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EXCO 301.19 - The Life of Marx
Teacher: Noah Giddens, ngiddens@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
We will be covering Karl Marx's writings from early in life to his death along with a delve into his life long friendship with Friedrich Engels. We will explore socialist thought from before Marx to shortly after his death, the unsung heroes of Marx's life such as Jenny Marx and their children, and what methods they used to gather their data to form their grand theories. Come and take a look at the wild life of Karl Marx in The Life of Marx.
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EXCO 301.20 - Entrepreneurial Ventures: From Concept to Market
Teacher: David Flin, dflin@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This course offers students a hands-on opportunity to navigate the journey of entrepreneurship. Teams will ideate, develop, and launch a business, understanding the mechanics of creating a business plan, marketing strategies, and the operational challenges of running a startup. The course culminates in the actual launch of the business, with assessments based on the business plan, operational launch, and preliminary results.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop and articulate a comprehensive business plan.
- Understand market analysis and marketing strategies.
- Experience the process of starting a business, from concept through operation.
- Learn financial planning and fundraising for startups.
- Foster teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
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EXCO 301.21 - Intro to Black Love
Teacher: Starr Washington, swashington@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This EXCO course will dive into the concept of love within the context of Black culture, exploring its historical, social, and personal dimensions. Students will engage in discussions, light readings, and activities that examine various forms of love, including self-love, romantic love, familial love, and love for the community. Through this exploration, students will gain a deeper understanding of how love has shaped and continues to shape the experiences of Black individuals and communities.
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EXCO 301.22 - Building Bridges: Cultivating Leadership, Academic Achievement, and Community Engagement
Teacher: Alfred Ceballos, aceballos4@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
"Building Bridges: Cultivating Leadership, Academic Achievement, and Community Engagement" is specifically designed for undergraduate students seeking a dynamic learning experience aimed at empowering them to excel academically, develop leadership skills, and engage meaningfully with their communities. //This course stands out for its unique blend of interactive activities, real-world engagement, and introspective projects, ensuring a transformative journey of self-discovery and skill development for participants. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including interpersonal communication, metacognition, growth mindset, stress management, emotional intelligence, networking, resilience, job seeking, and mentorship. Drawing from over two years of extensive experience as an EOP peer mentor, academic tutor, summer bridge coordinator, and transition coordinator’s assistant, I will provide mentorship training, sharing insights and strategies for effective mentoring and leadership. //A key highlight of the course is the opportunity for students to organize and facilitate an on-campus event in collaboration with the EOP's Transition Coordinator, providing hands-on experience in event planning and community engagement. Reflective writing assignments will connect classroom concepts with daily life applications, fostering deeper understanding and personal growth. //Moreover, students will engage in a Narrative Identity project, guided by McAdams' (1993) framework. This project encourages reflection on significant life experiences, relationships, challenges, values, beliefs, and future aspirations, offering students an opportunity for profound self-discovery and personal growth. //Guest speaker sessions with campus leaders offer valuable insights and real-life examples of resilience and leadership, while group activities promote collaboration and peer learning. By the end of the course, students will emerge as confident leaders equipped with practical skills to create positive change within their campus community and beyond. Join us in this transformative journey to unleash your potential and make a meaningful impact. Enroll now to embark on a journey towards personal and academic excellence.
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EXCO 301.23 - Undergrad to PhD: Mastering Research, Publication, and Graduate Preparation
Teacher: Christopher Roberts, croberts@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This 12-week course is meticulously designed for undergraduates from any major who aspire to pursue Masters and PhD degrees. It focuses on equipping students with advanced research methodologies, guiding them through the process of dissertation planning, facilitating connections with mentors, and navigating the journey to getting their work published. Additionally, the course provides comprehensive preparation for graduate school entrance exams and maximizes the utilization of undergraduate years towards achieving academic excellence. Through guest lectures from accomplished academics and practical sessions, students will gain invaluable insights into the expectations and challenges of postgraduate studies. The course will feature guest lectures from accomplished academics, editors of academic journals, and current PhD candidates. These sessions aim to provide students with real-world insights and practical advice on succeeding in postgraduate studies and beyond.
By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the expectations and challenges of graduate-level research and study. They will be well-prepared to embark on their journey to Masters and PhD programs, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their academic and professional careers.
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EXCO 301.24 - Introduction to Cannabis, Cybersecurity, and Culinary Arts: A Diverse Learning Experience
Teacher: Christopher Roberts, croberts@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This innovative 12-week course offers an introductory exploration into three distinct but increasingly popular fields: Cannabis Cultivation & Business, Ethical Hacking, and Culinary Arts. Designed for beginners, the course alternates weekly between subjects, providing a foundational understanding, practical insights, and a taste of what each discipline entails. Whether you're interested in the burgeoning cannabis industry, the critical field of cybersecurity, or the creative world of cooking, this course lays the groundwork for further exploration or the start of a new hobby or career path.
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EXCO 301.25: Black Science Fiction and Fantasy
Teacher: Marcus Tappan, mtappan@sfsu.edu
location and schedule: TBD
This course is about exploring the world of Black speculative fiction, a domain where creativity merges with the cultures of the African diaspora to imagine different realities, futures, and pasts. By critically analyzing movies, music, comics, and short stories, students will interact with works that disrupt traditional narratives, presenting fresh viewpoints and deeper understanding of the intricacies of race, identity, technology, and societal frameworks. The goal of this course is to offer an in-depth exploration of the genre's origins, its significant contribution to cultural expression, and its impact on social justice and transformation.
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