The Observer, February 3, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 15
Worst Case Scenario: Non-boring classes
After a few weeks of class, most of us have lost the initial curiosity that drew us to these subjects. Of course (pardon the pun), this waning of interest arrives after the death of the dearly beloved Drop/Add period. So suck it up or take a W.
But surely there is a way to avoid this quick drooping of enthusiasm. Some people call classes that can sustain interest until at least midterms "not engineering" classes; others call them "liberal arts." I call it "independent study." The hardest part is creating a course that not only intrigues you, but also gains institutional approval.
So while you could ace "Sleep Until Noon" and "Eat Cereal for Three Days Straight", I don't think any legitimate department will sign off on such rigorous trials. Not even Nutrition.
Allow me to suggest a few that, if not necessarily guaranteed to pass muster, should at least be strongly considered.
Read Whatever I Want, then Write Something Semi-Related
Honestly, this describes 90 percent of English courses, even if the teachers more or less dictate the reading. But since you can choose which class you take, you truly Read Whatever You Want. As for writing assignments, creativity is generally encouraged, so long as it is semi-related.
If nothing else, this course provides an opportunity for you to relax with a good book during busy periods, and then reflect during light weeks. Not only will you get to read those things you've heard about called novels, you'll get to think about them and practice the age-old art of critical reasoning. With complete autonomy!
Write a Novel
Another literarily-minded course, this one is a bit more free-form. Just write. Ramble if you wish, rant if you must, or tell a wistful tale of romance if you're not yet cynical.
Writing is fun. I don't do this because I get paid. This course will teach a lesson in storytelling: it's hard. And that's when you're alone with all the time in the world to practice, organize, and craft your tale. Imagine doing this on a stage.
Sit and Think for 10 Hours per Week
In days of old, they seriously upheld this ideal of the Sabbath: a full day of recovery and rest. Since we're more efficient now, I bet we could reduce the 24-hour period to 10, and spread it out over the week, with no lessened effect. (Well, I guess that breaks another commandment. 4 to go...)
This course would be difficult to evaluate, but I guarantee that 10 hours of silent solitude will bear fruit eventually and prolifically. I mean, how do you think I conceive these ridiculous columns?
It's too late to sign up for independent studies this semester, but keep these in mind over the summer if you're in need of a few extra credits to pad your DPR. Unlike that deceptively interesting seminar on Wisdom or the Life of the Mind, these courses will never get old.
