Spain

This course examines neurochemical and physiological bases of the body, as well as the anatomical-functional organization of the endocrine system and its relation to the nervous system. It identifies the anatomical structure and studies the principles of analysis, coding, and representation of sensory information in the sensory systems: taste, smell, balance, hearing, vision, somesthesia, and pain. Other topics include: general principles of anatomical-functional organization of motor control; brain mechanisms of attention; characteristics of the states of dream and vigilance; main characteristics of motor disorders, perception, sleep and attention.

This course examines Spanish culture and society today through a study of its history and art. Topics include: Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Metal Age; Iberians and Celts; Roman Empire; Visigoths; Islam and Al Andalus; Christian kingdoms; late Middle Ages and Catholic Monarchs; empire of Charles I; Bourbons in Spain; Enlightenment; colonization and independence of American colonies; first and second republics; Franco dictatorship and transition to democracy; Spain and the European Union.

This course offers a study of human biodiversity. Topics include: morphological variability; life cycle-- fertility, fecundity, and birth; growth and puberty; aging and mortality; mating in human populations; population dynamics; genetic diversity in human populations.

This course explores the linguistic differences of the different Spanish dialects throughout Latin America. Topics covered include: the birth of Spanish in America and the postcolonial era; phonetic characteristics; syntactic and morphologic characteristics; variations in lexicon and pronunciation; contact with indigenous and other American languages.

This course explores the complexity of current international society and social inequalities through social indicators, demographic and environmental data, political and economic indicators, and life stories. It analyzes the social policies of Western countries, developing countries, and underdeveloped countries. This course discusses the main international and European programs and organizations fighting and preventing social inequality as well as Catalonia and Spain within the context of European and international social policy.

This course provides knowledge and tools to effectively communicate and overcome challenges in an increasingly multicultural environment. Topics include: verbal, para-verbal, and non-verbal communication; cultural identity, values, stereotypes, and self-awareness; intercultural sensitivity; intercultural communication in various professional fields including health and education. 

The course analyzes the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis in the Middle East as presented in films, the point of view of the press, NGOs, international relations experts, and international law academics . Topics covered include the origin of the conflict, occupation of Palestinian territory, and Israeli national security.

This course provides a study of the main environmental risks and challenges posed by human activity. It also examines current debates on the sustainability of economic growth and the problems of global governance posed by environmental challenges. Other topics covered include: industrial exploitation and the global ecological crisis; stocks, market and environment; environmental degradation and global governance; urban planning and sustainability; development and corporate environmental responsibility; ethics, regulations and environmental justice.

This course offers an introduction to creativity and innovation. Topics include: what is and what is not creativity; the creative personality; lateral thinking; creative skills; key principles of creativity; methods and tools for the application of creative thinking; the process of problem-solving-- models, phases, tools, and application; monitoring and control of decisions; group decision making-- consensus.

This course probes the origins of the psychology of groups, discusses their importance to social psychology, and analyzes the different types of groups, group dynamics, and the development and structures of groups. Themes include the intragroup level in psychosociology, observation techniques, communication strategies, and normal and pathological expressions of group interactions. The class includes theoretical discussions as well as practice. Assessment is based on readings, participation, and a final exam.