~ Distinctive Lectures: Week 1 ~
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Schedules-at-a-Glance | Evening Events | Faculty | General Info | FAQ | Registration
QUICK LINKS TO OVERVIEW PAGES
Special Gatherings | Distinctive Lectures | Literary/Performance Arts, Film | Music
Dance | Human Arts | Youth Program | Visual Arts
View the Common Ground on the Hill Catalog as a PDF HERE.
QUICK LINKS TO OVERVIEW PAGES
Special Gatherings | Distinctive Lectures | Literary/Performance Arts, Film | Music
Dance | Human Arts | Youth Program | Visual Arts
View the Common Ground on the Hill Catalog as a PDF HERE.
Arab/Islamic Culture
An overview, through interactive discussion, of the many aspects of the Arab culture and how it relates to Islamic culture. Social behaviors, religions, customs, and politics will be discussed, with special emphasis on how they relate to the U.S.A. In addition, the worship will allow participants to examine and better understand the diversity of Arab/Islamic culture and focus on some misconceptions and stereotypes relating to Arabs and Muslims. Period 1 ~ Carol Zaru
An overview, through interactive discussion, of the many aspects of the Arab culture and how it relates to Islamic culture. Social behaviors, religions, customs, and politics will be discussed, with special emphasis on how they relate to the U.S.A. In addition, the worship will allow participants to examine and better understand the diversity of Arab/Islamic culture and focus on some misconceptions and stereotypes relating to Arabs and Muslims. Period 1 ~ Carol Zaru
ArtSmart Teaching: Arts Integration in the Classroom
This class will help teachers discover methods to reach all students using the arts no matter their learning style. We will explore ways to use kinesthetic, visual and musical art forms to deliver language arts curriculum and STEM subjects. Help your students reach deeper into their learning while you also have more fun teaching! Sally Rogers is an adjunct professor at Lesley University, where she also received her Master’s Degree in their Creative Arts in Learning program. She is a Master Teaching Artist with the Connecticut Office of the Arts HOT Schools Initiative and Arts for Learning Connecticut (formerly Young Audiences, CT). NOTE: this is a 2-period class. Materials fee: $20. Periods 3 & 4 ~ Sally Rogers
This class will help teachers discover methods to reach all students using the arts no matter their learning style. We will explore ways to use kinesthetic, visual and musical art forms to deliver language arts curriculum and STEM subjects. Help your students reach deeper into their learning while you also have more fun teaching! Sally Rogers is an adjunct professor at Lesley University, where she also received her Master’s Degree in their Creative Arts in Learning program. She is a Master Teaching Artist with the Connecticut Office of the Arts HOT Schools Initiative and Arts for Learning Connecticut (formerly Young Audiences, CT). NOTE: this is a 2-period class. Materials fee: $20. Periods 3 & 4 ~ Sally Rogers
Building Thoreau's Cabin "By the labor of my hands"
“I lived alone, in the woods, a mile from any neighbor, in a house which I had built myself, on the shore of Walden Pond, in Concord Massachusetts, and earned my living by the labor of my hands only,” wrote Henry David Thoreau in 1854. Together in this class, we will use hand tools to build a facsimile of the single-story, timber frame building in which Thoreau lived for over two years, and about which he wrote in Walden. In the shade of the coffee trees at the Grove Studio, we will use hand saws, mallets, chisels, slicks and brace & bits to make timber framed pegged joints that will stand the test of time. At the same time, we will discuss Thoreau’s ideas about simplifying our lives, integrating some of his philosophy into the process. Proper use of hand tools, safety, and how to maintain sharp tools will be shared. We will be using treated, pre-sized lumber to make the building, but will also have a beam hewing demonstration as part of the class. Timber frame buildings built hundreds of years ago still stand today. Take part in the Grove community, working together to create this long-lasting, functional art, and give thought to simple living. “I borrowed an axe and went down to the woods by Walden Pond.” All levels; limited to students ages 16 and older. Period 5 ~ Ken Koons
“I lived alone, in the woods, a mile from any neighbor, in a house which I had built myself, on the shore of Walden Pond, in Concord Massachusetts, and earned my living by the labor of my hands only,” wrote Henry David Thoreau in 1854. Together in this class, we will use hand tools to build a facsimile of the single-story, timber frame building in which Thoreau lived for over two years, and about which he wrote in Walden. In the shade of the coffee trees at the Grove Studio, we will use hand saws, mallets, chisels, slicks and brace & bits to make timber framed pegged joints that will stand the test of time. At the same time, we will discuss Thoreau’s ideas about simplifying our lives, integrating some of his philosophy into the process. Proper use of hand tools, safety, and how to maintain sharp tools will be shared. We will be using treated, pre-sized lumber to make the building, but will also have a beam hewing demonstration as part of the class. Timber frame buildings built hundreds of years ago still stand today. Take part in the Grove community, working together to create this long-lasting, functional art, and give thought to simple living. “I borrowed an axe and went down to the woods by Walden Pond.” All levels; limited to students ages 16 and older. Period 5 ~ Ken Koons
Exploring Diversity, Developing Cultural Competence
This workshop introduces the concept of diversity in its broadest context, and offers specific skills to help you interact more successfully with people of different nationality, ethnic, socio-economic, gender, religious, and political identities. It builds on last year’s workshop of the same name but includes new material and interactive group exercises, so last year’s students are welcome. It is also intended as an introduction to the Diversity and Development workshop in Week 2. Emphasis will be on developing self-awareness and verbal and nonverbal communication skills. We will discuss how to recognize and manage bias in the media, religion, and politics. We will consider the impact of emotion and social influences on stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination at the individual, institutional, and national levels. Skills will also be offered to help recognize and defuse conflict situations. Period 2 ~ Royce Anderson
This workshop introduces the concept of diversity in its broadest context, and offers specific skills to help you interact more successfully with people of different nationality, ethnic, socio-economic, gender, religious, and political identities. It builds on last year’s workshop of the same name but includes new material and interactive group exercises, so last year’s students are welcome. It is also intended as an introduction to the Diversity and Development workshop in Week 2. Emphasis will be on developing self-awareness and verbal and nonverbal communication skills. We will discuss how to recognize and manage bias in the media, religion, and politics. We will consider the impact of emotion and social influences on stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination at the individual, institutional, and national levels. Skills will also be offered to help recognize and defuse conflict situations. Period 2 ~ Royce Anderson
Learning Arabic
Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world, yet few Americans know it. This daily course will introduce the participants to the language and culture of the Arab world. Develop beginner-level skills in conversational Arabic. Learn basic vocabulary and structures such as greetings, how to introduce yourself, how to ask and answer questions, how to count, and how to conduct a basic dialogue in Arabic. Period 2 ~ Carol Zaru
Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world, yet few Americans know it. This daily course will introduce the participants to the language and culture of the Arab world. Develop beginner-level skills in conversational Arabic. Learn basic vocabulary and structures such as greetings, how to introduce yourself, how to ask and answer questions, how to count, and how to conduct a basic dialogue in Arabic. Period 2 ~ Carol Zaru
Music & Healing: Body, Mind and Soul
"The power of music to integrate and cure is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest non-chemical medication." Oliver Sacks M.D. Awakenings Most of us have experienced the healing power of music either as listeners, dancers or players, yet there are ways in which music is much more powerful than we can even imagine. Recent neuroscientific studies demonstrate how music touches our memories, emotions, senses, motor system and language in ways that the concept of “right brain/left brain” does not even begin to capture. Music is one of the most complex activities that human beings partake of--both as makers of music and as listeners. This is why people with dementia who do not know their own name or are not otherwise able to communicate are able to sing songs. We will share stories and songs, hear some of the latest remarkable findings in the emerging field of music and healing, draw upon the work of Oliver Sacks, Daniel Levitin and others and engage in experiential exercises that will empower us to think outside of the box and encourage us to share our live music for healing in the world. Period 3 ~ Jesse Palidofsky
"The power of music to integrate and cure is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest non-chemical medication." Oliver Sacks M.D. Awakenings Most of us have experienced the healing power of music either as listeners, dancers or players, yet there are ways in which music is much more powerful than we can even imagine. Recent neuroscientific studies demonstrate how music touches our memories, emotions, senses, motor system and language in ways that the concept of “right brain/left brain” does not even begin to capture. Music is one of the most complex activities that human beings partake of--both as makers of music and as listeners. This is why people with dementia who do not know their own name or are not otherwise able to communicate are able to sing songs. We will share stories and songs, hear some of the latest remarkable findings in the emerging field of music and healing, draw upon the work of Oliver Sacks, Daniel Levitin and others and engage in experiential exercises that will empower us to think outside of the box and encourage us to share our live music for healing in the world. Period 3 ~ Jesse Palidofsky
Native American Philosophy, Art and Culture
In this class we will explore the Myths and Mythology, Art and Culture of Native Peoples. Through open dialogue we will look at examples, make comparisons and discover new insights to appreciate both similarities and uniqueness of a diverse group of People know as Native Americans. By looking at Creation stories, philosophies of life, religion, history and artwork unique to Native People, we will be enlightened and encouraged to find pride, strength, personal growth and happiness in our own lives, based on the teachings and example of Native Elders. All levels. littlebearfink@wildblue.net. Period 5 ~ Bobby Little Bear
In this class we will explore the Myths and Mythology, Art and Culture of Native Peoples. Through open dialogue we will look at examples, make comparisons and discover new insights to appreciate both similarities and uniqueness of a diverse group of People know as Native Americans. By looking at Creation stories, philosophies of life, religion, history and artwork unique to Native People, we will be enlightened and encouraged to find pride, strength, personal growth and happiness in our own lives, based on the teachings and example of Native Elders. All levels. littlebearfink@wildblue.net. Period 5 ~ Bobby Little Bear
Nonviolent Problem-Solving: Strategy, Script-Breaking, and Disobedience
They don't teach the details of nonviolence in schools, perhaps because students might learn to “disobey” a bit too successfully. However, we do teach the details of nonviolent problem-solving at Common Ground on the Hill. In this course we will explore the principles and the strategies of nonviolent social change and lessons we can learn for everyday living. We will look in particular at examples of surprise in nonviolence – examples of unexpectedly breaking a script that seemed to promise only violence. How is that done? Can it be learned? Let's see. Period 2 ~ Charles Collyer and Pamela Zappardino
They don't teach the details of nonviolence in schools, perhaps because students might learn to “disobey” a bit too successfully. However, we do teach the details of nonviolent problem-solving at Common Ground on the Hill. In this course we will explore the principles and the strategies of nonviolent social change and lessons we can learn for everyday living. We will look in particular at examples of surprise in nonviolence – examples of unexpectedly breaking a script that seemed to promise only violence. How is that done? Can it be learned? Let's see. Period 2 ~ Charles Collyer and Pamela Zappardino
Samaritans at the Border, Immigrants Among Us
Examine the effects of globalization on communities which in turn stimulate immigration into our First World country. Discover the plight of the migrant and the deep instinct of survival and love of family. Hear the rich culture and climate of the borderlands, and the story of a humanitarian group called the Samaritans, who give food, water, and medical care to those whose lives are on the line. Period 4 ~ Randy Mayer
Examine the effects of globalization on communities which in turn stimulate immigration into our First World country. Discover the plight of the migrant and the deep instinct of survival and love of family. Hear the rich culture and climate of the borderlands, and the story of a humanitarian group called the Samaritans, who give food, water, and medical care to those whose lives are on the line. Period 4 ~ Randy Mayer
Social Responsibility in Science
Lead poisoning in Flint, Michigan, fraudulent claims connecting vaccines with Autism, and the immortal cells taken from Henrietta Lacks are just a few of the many examples in which science and society intersect. What role do scientists have in ensuring the socially responsible use of technology and scientific knowledge? What choices are open to individuals and the general public? Examine case studies, current events, and discussion to create a roadmap of the issues. Our goal is to find small steps enabling scientific advancements to benefit the broader needs of society. Teachers are strongly encouraged to join this discussion, but teenagers and adults of all backgrounds are welcome. Period 3 ~ Melanie Nilsson
Lead poisoning in Flint, Michigan, fraudulent claims connecting vaccines with Autism, and the immortal cells taken from Henrietta Lacks are just a few of the many examples in which science and society intersect. What role do scientists have in ensuring the socially responsible use of technology and scientific knowledge? What choices are open to individuals and the general public? Examine case studies, current events, and discussion to create a roadmap of the issues. Our goal is to find small steps enabling scientific advancements to benefit the broader needs of society. Teachers are strongly encouraged to join this discussion, but teenagers and adults of all backgrounds are welcome. Period 3 ~ Melanie Nilsson
STARTALK Integrating Chinese Language, Culture & Community
Offering an innovative, supportive, differentiated, and academically rigorous learning environment, individuals interested in teaching Chinese will improve their understanding of second language acquisition theories and implement high-yield teaching and learning strategies. By the end of the course, participants will improve their ability to communicate current and best theories of Second Language Acquisition; implement sound language teaching approaches and methodologies; and design curricula that moves students toward the attainment of carefully planned course, unit and lesson performance objectives. NOTE: Fluency in Chinese and an interest in teaching Chinese in K-12 settings is required. This course begins during Weeks 1 and continues in Week 2. Periods 1-5 ~ Co-Taught by Various Instructors
Offering an innovative, supportive, differentiated, and academically rigorous learning environment, individuals interested in teaching Chinese will improve their understanding of second language acquisition theories and implement high-yield teaching and learning strategies. By the end of the course, participants will improve their ability to communicate current and best theories of Second Language Acquisition; implement sound language teaching approaches and methodologies; and design curricula that moves students toward the attainment of carefully planned course, unit and lesson performance objectives. NOTE: Fluency in Chinese and an interest in teaching Chinese in K-12 settings is required. This course begins during Weeks 1 and continues in Week 2. Periods 1-5 ~ Co-Taught by Various Instructors
Stories of the Civil Rights Movement
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat; Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream. Many know these basic facts about the American Civil Rights Movement. Some know a bit about the movement and its campaigns. Few people, however, know the personal stories of the people who were the movement, the people who made it happen, and the places where they stood strong. Pam and Charlie from our Zepp Center (with some help from their friends) will share the stories collected over 20 years of travel across the south, studying the movement and meeting the people who lived it. Stories of Amelia Boynton Robinson, John Lewis, Viola Liuzzo, Bernard LaFayette, Dorothy Cotton, J.L. Chestnut, and more will bring the movement alive for you, and give you new insight into the footsoldiers - and leaders - of the movement, and why these stories are relevant today. Period 3 ~ Charles Collyer & Pamela Zappardino
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat; Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream. Many know these basic facts about the American Civil Rights Movement. Some know a bit about the movement and its campaigns. Few people, however, know the personal stories of the people who were the movement, the people who made it happen, and the places where they stood strong. Pam and Charlie from our Zepp Center (with some help from their friends) will share the stories collected over 20 years of travel across the south, studying the movement and meeting the people who lived it. Stories of Amelia Boynton Robinson, John Lewis, Viola Liuzzo, Bernard LaFayette, Dorothy Cotton, J.L. Chestnut, and more will bring the movement alive for you, and give you new insight into the footsoldiers - and leaders - of the movement, and why these stories are relevant today. Period 3 ~ Charles Collyer & Pamela Zappardino
Understanding African American Culture
This class will help participants to not only understand African-American culture but also gain a great appreciation for African-American people. Additionally, class participants will gain an awareness of African-American resilience. The goal of the course is for people, regardless of background, to understand African-American history and persistence better and to leave with a better understanding of issues surrounding the African-American community. Period 3 ~ Richard Smith
This class will help participants to not only understand African-American culture but also gain a great appreciation for African-American people. Additionally, class participants will gain an awareness of African-American resilience. The goal of the course is for people, regardless of background, to understand African-American history and persistence better and to leave with a better understanding of issues surrounding the African-American community. Period 3 ~ Richard Smith