FAQs
WHY SHOULD I STUDY THE HUMANITIES?
The course is based on the idea that the insights and skills offered by studying the humanities can provide us with crucial tools for gaining control over our lives and becoming engaged in our communities.
By reading, viewing, and discussing works in philosopy, art, literature, and history, students will have an opportunity to create conversational bridges to help mend the divides that often separate us.
WHAT WILL CLASS BE LIKE?
Students participate in a supportive, discussion-based class. What follows will vary from class to class, but expect lots of discussion about texts such as:
Ursula LeGuin, “Those Who Walk Away from Omelas”
Amy Tan, “Mother Tongue”
Martin Luther King Jr., “Letter From a Birmingham Jail”
Rest assured, there will never be a quiz, test, or exam in class. We will also have occasional class trips to museums, plays, etc. Your performance will be assessed through your class participation and written assignments.
WHERE AND WHEN WILL CLASSES BE HELD?
The course will start on January 16, 2024 and meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm at the Main Oakland Public Library basement auditorium.
IS IT REALLY FREE?
Yes! This class is made possible by a colloboration between the Clemente Course in the Humanities , Oakland Adult and Career Education, and Bard College.
WHO CAN APPLY?
You do not need a high school diploma, GED, or college experience to apply. Applicants should want to connect to a larger community through reading and discussion and possess basic literacy skills.
WHO CAN I CONTACT WITH QUESTIONS?
Call the program director, Jane Won at 510) 519-1460 or email jane.won@ousd.org.