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This special topics course offers an interdisciplinary approach to investigating our built environment using a case study focused on a specific place each semester. This course combines physical examination with information research and data collection using methodologies developed in multiple disciplines. Students from a variety of departments engage in on-site exploration and in-depth research of a location in New York City.

This special topics course offers an interdisciplinary approach to investigating our built environment using a case study focused on a specific place each semester. This course combines physical examination with information research and data collection using methodologies developed in multiple disciplines. Students from a variety of departments engage in on-site exploration and in-depth research of a location in New York City.

Welcome new students! Our OpenLab site is now open. You can send your membership requests and join the group if you haven’t done so already. I will begin posting information for the coming semester. Please click on “Visit Course Site” to get there. Prof. Matthews

Welcome new students! Our OpenLab site is now open. You can send your membership requests and join the group if you haven’t done so already. I will begin posting information for the coming semester. Please click on “Visit Course Site” to get there. Prof. Matthews

This course will introduce you to American writing from the late 19th through the 20th century, with emphasis on the literature as an expression of the cultural and intellectual life of the times. In particular, we will examine texts that explore intersections between race, gender, sexuality and class as they shape individual identity, social relations and national identity. In doing so, we will examine how literature responds to, expresses and challenges the idea of “the American Dream.“ In examining this history, we will also think about how the ideas, words and stories from the past might resonate with our experiences and struggles in the world today.

This course will introduce you to American writing from the late 19th through the 20th century, with emphasis on the literature as an expression of the cultural and intellectual life of the times. In particular, we will examine texts that explore intersections between race, gender, sexuality and class as they shape individual identity, social relations and national identity. In doing so, we will examine how literature responds to, expresses and challenges the idea of “the American Dream.“ In examining this history, we will also think about how the ideas, words and stories from the past might resonate with our experiences and struggles in the world today.

Engl English Composition I is a course designed to introduce you to college writing through an exploration of a wide variety of texts and writing assignments revolving around themes of identity and social justice in the United States with a focus on New York City and the rich and varied stories and perspectives of the people who have made it their home. Drawing on readings from a wide variety of genres—as well as your own experience and knowledge—we will explore current issues and debates that impact people’s lives in the city. In doing so, we will explore the concept of the “right to the city” as it relates to New York City and our own lives (and the lives of others) within it. We will also examine the role of writing, critical literacy and “the stories we tell” in shaping and understanding our identities, our world and are places within it. Through the various writing assignments you complete for this class, you will develop effective essay writing and basic research techniques, including the use of the library. College-level readings are assigned as the basis for in-class and online discussion and for essay writing. CUNY certification in reading and writing is the prerequisite for this course.

Engl English Composition I is a course designed to introduce you to college writing through an exploration of a wide variety of texts and writing assignments revolving around themes of identity and social justice in the United States with a focus on New York City and the rich and varied stories and perspectives of the people who have made it their home. Drawing on readings from a wide variety of genres—as well as your own experience and knowledge—we will explore current issues and debates that impact people’s lives in the city. In doing so, we will explore the concept of the “right to the city” as it relates to New York City and our own lives (and the lives of others) within it. We will also examine the role of writing, critical literacy and “the stories we tell” in shaping and understanding our identities, our world and are places within it. Through the various writing assignments you complete for this class, you will develop effective essay writing and basic research techniques, including the use of the library. College-level readings are assigned as the basis for in-class and online discussion and for essay writing. CUNY certification in reading and writing is the prerequisite for this course.