Splash Fall 2018
Course Catalog

Polymers are fascinating materials that can be found everywhere in our daily lives. From the plastics we buy at the store to the skin on our bones, polymers come in all shapes and sizes. Due to their interesting and special properties, polymers have many applications, from flexible materials to electronic devices to complex fluids. In this short course, taught by the Stanford Polymer Collective, we'll learn about polymers through fun hands-on activities that highlight some of their most interesting and exciting properties.


Class Style
Activity

Have you ever wondered what a molecule looks like? In this course, we’ll learn how we can use an optical microscope to see individual molecules. To understand how this works, we’ll learn about lenses and look at what all the parts of a microscope do. Then, we’ll explore the concept of diffraction and how it affects what we see in the microscope. We’ll see how some molecules radiate light by a process called fluorescence, and how we can use that light to see a single molecule even though it’s surrounded by millions of other molecules. Finally, we’ll learn about a Nobel Prize-winning technique called super-resolution imaging, which combines all these big ideas to look at biological structures like DNA, mitochondria, and the cell membrane one molecule at a time.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Introductory course in chemistry or physics

Come learn the fundamentals of chemistry using your favorite candies! Learn how Skittles, chocolate, and other treats can teach us about polarity, density, and solubility.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Please note that the candies used in these experiments may contain common allergens, such as nuts, milk, and wheat.

How do fish hang out at one spot in the water? How does scuba diving work? We'll talk about the physics behind all this and other ocean-related things.


Class Style
Lecture

The Earth is constantly being hit by high-energy particles from space. Although invisible to the eye, these "cosmic rays" hit the atmosphere and erupt into a shower of lighter partices, which can be seen by specialized, ground-based detectors. These muons in these cosmic rays have been some of the most energetic particles we have ever seen. In this class, we will discuss cosmic rays, and from them learn about both particle physics and astrophysics.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
While there are no formal prerequisites (other than a desire to learn!), past students have suggested that some familiarity with physics is helpful. In particular, concepts like conservation laws will appear in the lecture, and while I will certainly introduce them, seeing these for the first time can be intimidating.

Chemistry is exciting and it happens all around us every day. In this class we will talk about the states of matter, a little about polymers (like plastics), and really anything else that gives us a chance to do cool demos for you all! You may get a chance to make a souvenir to take home, too. You'll just have to come and find out!


Class Style
Activity

O H , S Na P! Something’s gone wrong in the Stanford chemistry labs! We can’t find our beloved Professor Gen Hydro and there’s evidence everywhere of trickery afoot. We need your help! You have 50 minutes to find out what’s happened before the culprit strikes again. You will solve a series of chemistry-related problems to identify the perpetrator. Once you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.


Class Style
Activity

Have you ever wondered what makes a paper airplane fly? In this hands-on class we will learn how the physics of lift, drag and stability determine what makes some paper airplanes fly well while others tumble to the ground. We will see these concepts in action as we build our own paper airplanes and discover how to make them fly long and far.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Some knowledge of Force and Pressure helpful, but not required.

When you think of chemistry, you probably think of brightly colored chemicals, cool reactions, and potentially some explosions. But what about doing chemistry...without actually stepping foot in the lab? How can we simulate chemical reactions and chemical systems on computers to learn about a system before conducting experiments? What can simulations allow us to do that experiments can't? This class will explore the intersection between chemistry, physics, and computer science to explain fundamental research questions in chemistry.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
No existing knowledge necessary! Some basic chemistry/physics (not even AP level) would be helpful, but not required!

Where does color come from? In our everyday lives, we get color just by adding dyes, pigments, and inks to things, but have you ever wondered how we get those colors in the first place? We'll first examine color at the molecular level in the dyes and pigments we use everyday. Next, we'll explore how pearls and peacock feathers get their beautiful iridescent colors and play around with how the effect works. Come learn how color works all around us!


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
High school chemistry

Ever wondered how black holes work? Why do they do the things they do, and what do they actually do? What's a singularity, and why are they important?

Or perhaps you've wondered about what our world is made out of. How many dimensions are there, and how do they work? What is the heart of our space made out of?

And imaginary time?! What is that?

Well, if any or all of these topics interest you, then you're in for a treat. This class will give you a solid introduction and understanding of how our world works and the tools we can use to study theoretical physics and the cosmos.

This class will be challenging, but if you are at least the tiny bit interested please attend! I can most definitely work with you and ensure you leave Stanford with a comprehensive understanding of the material. I look forward to meeting you!

NOTE: this class will not take up the entire 105min block. You'll be dismissed early, but feel free to stay to ask questions.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Integral and differential calculus. Physics I and preferably preliminary understanding of AP Physics C. Multivariate differentials preferred, but not required.

All of matter is made from elementary particles that are smaller than atoms. But wait, if these particles are so small, how can we possibly study them?

This class is an introduction to how physicists detect and study subatomic and elementary particles. We'll first discuss some properties of different subatomic particles and how they interact with each other. Following that, we'll use the LArIAT detector at Fermilab as a case study of detector techniques and technology.

All high-school ages and above welcome.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Some basic knowledge about electromagnetism and chemistry is good, but it's not absolutely required.

A crash course in (classical) electromagnetism that starts at how small charges interact with one another and ends with why electromagnetic waves happen. The class will be primarily concept-based. No background knowledge required!


Class Style
Lecture

Make polymer-based, self-assembled capsules! Learn that self-assembly is a process by which molecules and cells form themselves into functional structures, and that self-assembly is used to make nanosized capsules that can deliver medication, and many more uses.


Class Style
Activity

Einstein's theory of special relativity is based off two basic principles: the speed of light is always the same, and physics is the same in every inertial frame. In this class, we will discuss and show how these assumptions lead to time dilation, length contraction, and the loss of simultaneity. By the end of class, you will be able to solve the famous "pole-barn" paradox, and gain some intuition into the most famous formula in physics: E=mc^2.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Strong algebra skills and familiarity with mechanics will be useful when we derive relativistic quantities, but definitely not necessary to learn about the effects of relativity!

Do you watch crime shows on TV? Do you ever wish you could get your hands on some evidence and try to catch the crook yourself? Here’s your chance! Students will be given a crash course in the basics of forensic science, then asked to identify evidence samples from the crime scene. Compare them with evidence from three suspects, and give your verdict to the police.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Basic lab skills are preferable, common sense a must. Curiosity and an open mind are key!

Lean some of the ways that chemistry can provide us with renewable energy today & in the future! We will focus on two electrochemical devices: batteries and fuel cells. You will learn the very basics of how they work, and we will discuss their similarities and differences. Class will include a working mini-Fuel Cell Car as a demo!

Class will focus mostly on understanding the basics of how both devices operate, and should be accessible to anyone with an interest in learning more! Will be an interactive lecture.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
An interest in learning more about the subject.

When it comes to the physical scales in which they can the phenomena of, biology and quantum mechanics are the two opposite extremes. Yet it turns out that in order to explain some macro-level biological phenomena like photosynthesis, bacteria colonisation, human cognition and even love, the understanding of biology, chemistry and even Newtonian (classical physics) is simply not enough. Sometimes in biology,it turns out that, the greater picture is simply the collective of the individual behaviours of tiny atoms and even sub-atomic particles it is composed of. Established on this principle, this class will try to provide a re-interpretation of various biological phenomena through the conceptual basis of quantum mechanics. We will examine how various physical aspects, such as energy efficiency, of various biological processes are made possible through quantum mechanics.
**This class will not take all of 105 minutes. We will have some time at the end for discussion and questions, which you will be welcomed to stay!


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
**All beginners are welcomed! (This is a VERY new field so no-one really knows about it :) ) Preferred: None to intermediate understanding of photosynthesis and nervous system.. At least, a conceptual understanding of some of the primary concepts in quantum mechanics like a wave function or wave-particle duality. (Conceptually, not mathematically)

We will teach about different properties of light and demonstrate how they result in different phenomena in our world.


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
some electromagnetism background may help but just careful observation of the world around you is enough

Beyond the capability of the human eye, there exists an entire landscape accessible only through microscopes. Join us for an exploration of the invisible world at the nanoscale through scanning electron microscopy (SEM)!

In this class, we will cover the basic physics and functionality of this powerful tool and compare it to traditional optical microscopes. We will take a field trip to the Stanford Nano Shared Facilities to visit the SEM and image some samples. Get excited to see everyday objects, such as hair, in a whole new light!


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
Basic understanding of what an electron is

When you spin a globe, you see the same oceans and continents that have defined the world since the dawn of civilization. It's tempting to think they've been there all along. This geology and paleontology class will take you back -- WAY back -- to a time before humans, before dinosaurs, even. You'll learn about cataclysmic events, extreme environments, life and the mass extinctions that challenged it. Earth has been home to entire worlds you didn't know existed. Once you see the big picture, you will feel wonderfully small.


Class Style
Lecture

Should water be released from a reservoir to generate electricity or be stored and used later for agriculture? Should river flows be maintained to preserve ecosystems or does domestic water consumption take precedence?

In this activity based class, you will put on the hat of a water manager and make decisions to the questions above. We'll learn about the different ways we use water and how these uses can be in conflict. This class will give you a greater appreciation of water, and the challenges of managing this precious resource.


Class Style
Activity

From personal choices to hobbies, diet to activism, from housing to commuting and travel, the choices we make everyday impact our environment. What does it mean to live sustainably, and how do we balance sustainable choices with satisfying ones? Through games and discussion, this class aims at exploring what choices we can make that help us achieve our own personal balances between sustainability and comfort.


Class Style
Discussion

The Earth's climate is warming at an unprecedented rate, and humans are to blame. The consequences of this warming have already been felt across the world and will continue to worsen as the planet warms. This class will explore the science behind the causes and effects of modern climate change, as well as practical solutions ordinary people can incorporate into their daily lives to help reduce their carbon footprint.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Basic Chemistry

Are we alone in the universe? How can we know? If we do find life, where can we find it and what will it look like? Will it be microbial or multi-cellular? Will life on other planets even have cells?

In this class we'll discuss these questions and the modern attempts to answer them in a brief overview of the Search for Life in the Universe!


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
basic biology (recommended)

From the Enterprise’s Warp Drive to the Millennium Falcon’s Hyperspace Drive, faster than light travel is an integral part of every science fiction story. Although humanity can’t travel faster than the speed of light yet, we’ve come far in our understanding of spacecraft propulsion.

This course describes the different techniques that have been used to propel spacecraft, from explosive rocket engines to plasma-powered hall thrusters. We will then discuss future methods of space transportation and explore the challenges associated with traveling faster than the speed of light.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
All are welcome to take this class, but a previous knowledge of physics would be helpful. Concepts such as momentum and electric fields will be discussed throughout the course. An open mind will also be helpful as we'll be discussing special relativity.

We’ll be taking apart my 1964 Honda Dream motorcycle and exploring how it works.

Students will get hands on experience taking things apart and putting them back together.

Here’s a picture of a motorcycle similar to mine: http://www.rcycle.com/Ken_Fisher_Honda_305_Dream_068_cropped_op_800x512.jpg


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Be Hands-On

Soft robots are changing the world, and are huggable! Come build soft robots, or robots powered by air, that are good at being around humans and interacting with the world around them. There will be a short lecture, followed by hands on robot building challenges.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
None.

Want to learn how solar panels work? Wondered how to make solar flexible? Interested in next-generation solar technologies? Join the Stanford Energy Club’s Splash Class: The Solar Strategy. We will be examining solar energy and its potential for scalable green energy around the globe!


Class Style
Lecture

Students engage in hands-on projects to reinvent traditional notebooks and create an original programmed paper circuitry project. Using introductory programming electronics, circuitry, and art supplies, students design and prototype a notebook made alive with beautiful electronics.


Class Style
Activity

Learn about renewable energy technologies and the electrical engineering principles behind solar panels and diodes, then apply your newfound knowledge by building your own portable USB charger in this hands-on lab-style class!


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
None

How can a car reach speeds of 200+ mph and still be controllable? How can a 3,000 lb hunk of metal even accelerate uphill? How can a trailer weighing over 100,000 pounds even move forward? The answer lies within transmissions, gear ratios, and drivetrains.

This short course will go over basic transmission operation and theory, speed and torque theory of gearing ratios, and how the drivetrain system in a vehicle can make your slow Corolla pick up speed crazy fast or make your 1200+ HP Bugatti Chiron slow as molasses. No previous experience required.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Some previous knowledge in automotive systems will be helpful, but not required.

You will experience and understand different components that makes up virtual reality devices today. You will also gain exposure to several hacks that our brain plays to create the reality that we perceive.


Class Style
Lecture

Ever wonder why Transit Agencies put bus routes where they do? Or why BART doesn't connect with Silicon Valley? Explore a brief introduction into how we put mass transit on the map, how it doesn't function, and how to make it better.


Class Style
Seminar

Each student will build a simple styrofoam cup speaker. We will learn about sound, audio signals, how speakers work, and basic circuits. This class is run by the Stanford Women in Electrical Engineering group.


Class Style
Activity

The space industry is in a renaissance. Thanks to the likes of Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson and hundreds of other entrepreneurs across the industry, it is easier than ever to get to space and new technologies are continuing to push the limits of what spacecraft are capable of doing. In this class you will learn more about some of the latest developments in the space industry and try your hand at developing your own idea for a space company.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
A basic knowledge of the space industry is recommended though not necessary.

Workshop based class in which students learn the basics of HTML/CSS and create a website using the skills that they have learned. Chromebooks will be provided.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Bring a laptop if you are able to

Students will be working in pairs to understand basic concept of design thinking. For this activity, students will be given materials like A4 paper and eggs and some time to do a specific time-bound activity with the materials provided.

Throughout the process, students will also learn the importance of 21st Century skills like collaboration, communication, creativity.


Class Style
Activity

Do you have the idea for the next Instagram? Spotify? Flappy Bird? Come learn basic programming skills and create your own app for your phone! No experience required.


Class Style
Activity

Robots are becoming more and more human-like. They are jumping, tumbling and getting artificial intelligence. However robots still can not be our friend due to the loss of the tactile sense. Then, what if we make electronic skin for robot? The electronic skin will help prevent robots from crushing us! Let's learn what kind of electronic skins for robot are developed and share a great idea to make robots our friend-like.


Class Style
Seminar

Earthquakes are one of Earth's most devastating phenomena. Come to learn about earthquake mechanisms and design of structures in earthquake prone areas (like California) and experience shaking first hand!
The class will cover the basic physics behind structural earthquake engineering design; the focus will be on explaining concepts through demonstrations.


Class Style
Lecture

In our everyday lives, we think very little about how we move. Even toddlers, when learning how to walk, seem to do so without specific instructions. However, even the most advanced robots cannot recreate realistic human locomotion, and assistive devices like exoskeletons and prostheses are limited in their abilities. In this course, we will discuss the basic mechanics and neuroscience behind walking, current state of the art robotic assistive devices, and the limitations faced in developing them further. Come learn why scientists are still baffled by something as simple as walking.


Class Style
Seminar

It's a bad day if your phone screen cracks, but it's something else entirely if your airplane falls out of the sky. Learn about the science and engineering behind materials failures in history through demonstrations and hands-on experiments. Emphasis on HANDS-ON demonstrations, not a boring lecture! We'll experience first-hand how liquid metals can catastrophically destroy structural materials in applications like space exploration and aerospace. We'll explore how many materials can change dramatically with changes in structure, temperature, and other conditions. You'll walk away from this class with greater knowledge of the atomic structure of materials and a deeper appreciation for the diverse properties of the materials that surround our everyday life.


Class Style
Activity

Catalysts play a central role in enabling the reactions that sustain our bodies, our machines, and even our lawns. Come learn how these fascinating substances are central to some of the world’s most useful processes and how the latest cutting edge catalysis research has the potential to change the future of these processes as we know them.


Class Style
Lecture

Cars are everywhere! But how do they flippin' work?!?!?

Cars are one of the most underappreciated and least understood machines that our modern societies are privileged to have. This course will help students develop a basic understanding of how an automobile functions through lecture and the use of working models, example vehicles, and various parts.

We will learn to be able to recognize components under the hood of most cars as well as identify the components and functions of various systems working within the car. Topics will include general engine operation, brake systems, suspension systems, as well as a brief insight in how technology plays a pivotal role in a modern automobile. This course assumes no previous knowledge in automotive technology and all students are welcome to join (including those unable to register due to grade restrictions). Breaks and snacks will be included!


Class Style
Lecture

Have you ever played a computer game and wondered, "How does that work? Could I make cool graphics like that?" Well it turns out the answer is yes! In this course, we will use Processing, a programming language based on Java, to develop graphics and understand what it takes to make a video game using these ideas. No prior experience is required! If you have prior experience, you are still welcome to join the class--you will work on a more advanced project! We will start with the basics of how a programming language works: variables, syntax, functions. After this, we will learn about Processing and how you can use it to make graphics appear on your screen. Then we will talk about how to make these graphics work in such a way that they can do whatever you want them to (in this case, become a video game). We will move quickly through all the concepts required to do programming. The class will be fun and interactive. We will begin with a presentation, and then we will work in groups of one/two to build our very own games!


Class Style
Activity

Are you curious about language? Have you ever wondered about what we say and why we say it the way we do? Do you want to learn more about headlines like “Gator attacks puzzle experts”, whether a “stone lion” is really a lion and a “fake gun” is really a gun, and why “get well soon” isn’t a command?

In this course, we’ll take a look at fun and humorous case studies of different kinds of linguistic occurrences. Through in-class experiments and group discussions, we’ll dive into the science (and art) of linguistics together. This class is about you and what you’re interested in, so bring your opinions to the table. We hope you’ll walk out of here excited about language and its quirks and amazed at the intricacies of the way we communicate regardless of the language we speak!


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
An open mind and a healthy curiosity for words and language!

Welcome to the art of letter-writing. From creating a well-crafted letter and designing and illustrating a beautiful composition, to envelope art, wax seals and decorations, you'll make your future self a beautiful keepsake and future surprise in the mail.


Class Style
Activity

(1) I sleep.
(2) *I sleeps.

Why is sentence (1) grammatically accurate while sentence (2) is grammatically inaccurate?
Syntax is a field of linguistics that deals with the structure of languages and the underlying rules behind such structure. Although we are often unaware of grammatical correctness while speaking and writing, we are in fact creating sentences that abide by certain rules. In other words, we are constantly considering syntax and incorporating it in our daily life.

In this class, we will explore and challenge our knowledge of languages, mostly at the sentence level. Our goal is to discuss syntax in a "professional" but fascinating manner with the following topics: syntax as a discipline, syntactic rules and theory of English, fancy syntax trees, syntax of languages all around the world, etc.

If you are interested in languages, want to learn about grammar in general, learn other languages easily, this class will definitely help you.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
No prerequisite, except for intellectual curiosity and the interest in languages

Modeled after Stanford's English 9CE: Introduction to Creative Writing class, this class is intended for students who are interested in learning more about the creative writing process. We will explore the roles of word choice, syntax, form, imagery, emotions, and much much more in creating pieces of prose and poetry that are truly moving. The course will involve large group didactic sessions interspersed with small group and individual writing and creative expression exercises. So come prepared to read, discuss, and write!


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
A willingness to participate

Religions have historically played important roles in shaping cultures. We'll talk about how this has had differentiating effects on literature, music, and visual art, and moreover, how these media have shaped religious perceptions.


Class Style
Discussion

Most college application advice boils down to one dilemma: being yourself or not being yourself at all. Which one works out better in the end?


Class Style
Lecture

Research has shown that reading fiction can increase empathy. We will read excerpts from several stories and discuss them over snacks.


Class Style
Discussion

How do science and religion see each other? Is there a fundamental conflict? Do they interfere in each other?
In this course, we review the history of science and analyze how its relationship with religion was, namely with the Roman Catholic Church.
We will talk about medieval science, Galileo and the Inquisition, the conflict thesis, the influence of the Jesuits, the Big Bang theory, genetics and evolution, and we end up talking about the two great philosophical assumptions of science and how they relate to Christianity.
Cheers!

PS: the true duration of the course is 1:00, the rest is for questions and for a surprise


Class Style
Seminar

We read all about the "good guys," the heroes and heroines, and the world-savers. In this writing workshop, we'll focus on the character development of those who are big-time screw-ups, superheros' headaches, and the opposite of perfect. With the help of some unique writing prompts, we'll create and share stories from their perspectives and (probably) end up wishing we could tag along on their adventures.


Class Style
Activity

Love film and/or television? Interested in writing it? Want to know its secret structure (and what makes almost all movies/episodes the same)? This is the class for you!

Inspired by FILMPROD 105 at Stanford, this class analyzes film and tv from a writer's perspective, covering topics including stakes, tension, act breaks, Hero's Journey, sub-plot, and theme.

As case studies, we'll watch a comedy episode we watch in class, and break down well-known Pixar films as examples.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Watch Coco and Finding Nemo beforehand if possible.

This course examines Ernest Hemingway's short story, "A Clean Well-Lighted Place," from 1933. The tale will be the lens through which we explore greater questions of nihilism and existentialism. Upon first read, the story may seem overwhelmingly sad. We hope to push students beyond that initial barrier, and have a conversation about what gives us meaning in life.


Class Style
Discussion

Prerequisites
Please read the short story before entering class - it is only three pages long. No other prerequisites except an open mind!

This class will be a creative writing workshop in which the students will read poems and watch spoken word videos on different topics, then discuss with one another what aspects of the poems resonated with them (or what didn't!). After each topic, the students will write their own poems and share with the class, encouraging each other's writing.


Class Style
Discussion

안녕하세요! Love K-Pop? What about K-Dramas? Wanna learn some Korean and think critically about Korean culture through a *scholarly* lens? Then this class is for you! Whether you're a new Korean culture enthusiast or you've been watching Coffee Prince since before you were potty trained, welcome, welcome!


Class Style
Seminar

There is something intrinsically beautiful about sadness. Sadness, in a sense that isn’t synonymous with tragedy or despair, but with a mutual appreciation for the fact that we, as humans, are woven together by imperfection and an incessant yearning for greater meaning.

This course aims to instill a profound appreciation for the complexity of human sadness through the works of classical and modern literary texts and introspection. We will look closely at a broad range of works from the poetry of Edgar Allan Poe, William Blake, Sylvia Plath and Emily Dickinson to the plays of Chekhov and Shakespeare. Throughout the course, we will delve deeper into the minds of both the creators and the creations to better understand the root of their sadness and how they morphed this abstract emotion into masterpieces of tremendous emotive, aesthetic and intellectual value.

Students who have enrolled in Appreciating Sadness: Aesthetic Perspectives are encouraged to enroll in this course as well, although it is not a prerequisite in any way.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
No prior experience with literary analysis is required, and snacks will be provided!

Are you bored that school is teachers telling you what to think and then you writing it down? This class is the opposite! With the Socratic question-and-answer method of learning, this discussion-style class engages the students' beliefs as we explore challenging questions like "What is right?" and "What is true?" An introduction to various philosophical and ethical theories, as well as thought-provoking thought experiments!


Class Style
Discussion

Prerequisites
Anyone with a passion for thinking about tough questions is welcome!

This class investigates European populism as a long-term historical trend, examining a few prominent explanations for populist successes as well as the effects of populist politics on governance and discourse.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
A basic understanding of current populist phenomena.

Why are we here? More importantly, what is the point of us even being here? Is it worth it? Is anything worth it? What is worth? Where are we going, and why are we going to begin with?

The philosophical and realistic implications of scientific discoveries have stricken many with great dread, depression, and insecurity regarding the purpose of life and the world around us.

In this discussion seminar, we will seek to explore these issues and concerns to try and find answers within ourselves. A great goal of this class is to share your perspective with others and learn from others' perspectives so that you may enrich your view of your place in the world.

Be warned that this class openly and freely challenges in discussion topics like religion, purpose, and morality. This class will also deal with dark subject matter. However, by treating these subjects with gravitas we will learn and explore a lot about our existence.

NOTE: this class will not take up the entire 105min block. You'll be dismissed early, but feel free to stay to ask questions.


Class Style
Discussion

Prerequisites
Must have an open mind. Must be able to discuss and challenge topics like religion, purpose, and morality. Must be able to handle discussing dark subject matter. No prior knowledge regarding philosophers or their works is required, as none will be used.

안녕하세요! Love K-Pop? What about K-Dramas? Wanna learn some Korean and think critically about Korean culture through a *scholarly* lens? Then this class is for you! Whether you're a new Korean culture enthusiast or you've been watching Coffee Prince since before you were potty trained, welcome, welcome!


Class Style
Seminar

Proto-Indo-Europeans lived in the late Neolithic period and left very little archaeological evidence. But we do know very specific things about them—their patrilineal society, their focus on animal husbandry, their lack of understanding of silver smelting. How? Their words. No one speaks their language today, but we do have reconstructions of their words based on languages that descended from Proto-Indo-European—languages as diverse as Bengali, Armenian, and English.

Archaeology’s not just digging in the dirt. Come explore how old words can be put together to make discoveries, and how regular sound changes can tell us what words people were using thousands of years ago. We will reconstruct words and show how they can be adapted to fit other languages.


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
An interest in linguistics/language/history would probably increase your enjoyment of this class!

Learn basic Mandarin from scratch! We will look at the stories behind the most common characters. Each word is a little picture with a history-these backstories will help you remember characters and inspire curiosity about Chinese culture!


Class Style
Lecture

An introduction to modern Caribbean culture through the lens of its tumultuous history. Topics include colonization, the Haitian Revolution, and other major events that impact the Caribbean to this day. The Caribbean's resilience is often overlooked in history books, and we aim to address common misconceptions about the region!


Class Style
Seminar

There is something intrinsically beautiful about sadness. Sadness, in a sense that isn’t synonymous with tragedy or despair, but with a mutual appreciation for the fact that we, as humans, are woven together by imperfection and an incessant yearning for greater meaning.

This course aims to instill a profound appreciation for the complexity of human sadness through the works of classical and modern art and introspection. We will look closely at a broad range of works from the art of Van Gogh, Leyden, Munch, Legrenée and Picasso to the music of Shostakovich, Verdi, Schubert and modern artists such as Edith Piaf, Lana del Rey and Aurora. We will also examine the film adaptation of Chekov's The Seagull. Throughout the course, we will delve deeper into the minds of both the creators and the creations to better understand the root of their sadness and how they morphed this abstract emotion into masterpieces of tremendous emotive, aesthetic and intellectual value.

Students who have enrolled in Appreciating Sadness: Literary Perspectives are encouraged to enroll in this course as well, although it is not a prerequisite in any way.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
No prior experience with aesthetic analysis is required, and snacks will be provided!

Enjoy a break for lunch with your friends! Please register for at least one lunch period on each day of the program.

Enjoy a break for lunch with your friends! Please register for at least one lunch period on each day of the program.

Computers are generating art which people find value in and can't differentiate from that made by humans. Understand recent progress in art generation including music, literature, visual art and see them in action. Discuss the broader implications of these developments on art and society.


Class Style
Seminar

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications are all around us: the voice behind our phone assistants, the search and recommendation engines on the internet, and most recently, the self-driving cars we are beginning to see on our roads.
Besides providing these services, how else can AI and ML contribute to sustainable development?

In this class, we will look at some of the most exciting advances of AI/ML in the pursuit of sustainable development. These are 17 goals recognized by the United Nations, and include poverty, hunger, health, education, climate change, water, energy, and environment. The class will consist of two case studies (and demos) in light of these goals. With each of these studies, we will lay special focus on how to model these problems from a computational perspective. Finally, we will devote the last half of this class to open challenges and how each one of us as citizen scientists can contribute to these worldwide efforts in using artificial intelligence and machine learning for building a sustainable planet.


Class Style
Lecture

We will go through a few techniques of hiding data within different forms of data. That is, we will hide text messages within images, audio files, and source code.


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Activity

And I'm not talking about the boring old coordinate plane - instead, let's explore the mathematical field of graph theory! Graph theory is used to describe pairwise relationships between objects, and it has applications in biology, computer science, social science, linguistics, and more! In this class, you'll learn about the historical foundations of graph theory as well as current applications, but most importantly, you'll get a feel for the intuition through hands-on activities and competitions!


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Activity

How do you make a good educated guess? How do you easily remove wrong answer choices on an exam?

In this class, we will learn how to simplify and approximate a wide range of questions ranging from quickly estimating square roots to guessing probability in drawing cards. This class will also involve mathematical puzzles and how to tackle them.

By the end of the class, students will be able to gain a deeper intuitive understanding of the mathematical and physical laws that shape our universe.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Basic high school algebra and geometry is recommended

Ever suspected that computer science was more than just programming? Ever been excited by this suspicion? Ever wonder about the basic, fundamental building blocks that go into computer science, from graph theory to bit-shifting to recursion to logic gates? Never heard of these concepts before, but think they sound cool? Come join us to dive into these intriguing computing fundamentals!

Inspired by the Written computer theory questions on the American Computer Science League tournament questions, we're going to be exploring some of these fundamental concepts that will no doubt show up again if you plan to pursue computer science as a field of study (in more places than you'd expect). These concepts might sound daunting and complicated on the surface, but they can actually be really fun and accessible when you look at them from the right angle. That's what this class is for! We're assuming no background in these concepts at all, and only ask that you bring a curiosity to learn. :)


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
Curiosity and a healthy appetite for learning! :)

Experiments in Extra-Sensory Perception [ESP]

1.Survey of class members’ views and beliefs regarding psychic phenomena

2.Historical review of ESP experiments – including those at Stanford

3.In-class ESP experimentation using paired class members [includes web-based experiments]

4.Summarizing results of the in-class experiments -- how to present results of experiments

5.How to tell the difference between ESP and pure luck


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
Algebra

Ever wondered how people come up with magic tricks? Ever thought some math proofs were so clever it almost seemed like magic? Love card tricks but too clumsy to pull off any sleight of hand? In this class you'll learn the secrets behind some math-based card tricks that are sure to impress even your most number-savvy friends. We'll explore strategies like Hummer arrangements, de Bruijn sequences, and the Gilbreath principle for performing magic tricks and even inventing your own.


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Seminar

We will teach you how to train a computer to play games like Atari Pong, Breakout and Space Invaders!

We'll first introduce convolutional neural networks, a popular tool in machine learning. Then we'll teach the Q-learning algorithm, which will allow us to use a neural network to teach a computer how to behave intelligently in an active environment, like a game.

Then you'll write your own code to train an AI to play games, and see if you can beat your own code!


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of computer programming in Python is mandatory. Calculus (specifically knowing what a derivative is) would be helpful although it is not necessary.

How is your information kept secure? What mathematical tools enable us to keep secrets, thwart malicious tampering, and establish the identities of others on the internet? We'll cover a broad variety of topics from encryption, integrity, public key cryptography, digital signatures, key exchange, as well as a brief survey of how these ideas interplay in modern technologies such as cryptocurrencies.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Good familiarity with algebra and mathematical notation.

Persuasion is a great skill to have. Is it possible to automate it?
In this class we will explore the field of persuasive technologies and behavior change systems, a field where Artificial Intelligence, Human Computer Interaction, behavioral science, and psychology are combined to change users’ minds and habits gradually.


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Lecture

Challenge your mind in this hands-on class! We'll be presenting and trying all kinds of fun logic puzzles. Some puzzles we'll be exploring will include logic grid puzzles, word puzzles, deduction puzzles, and the Beautiful Line game.


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Activity

Modern tech companies make their fortune by dealing in data. Capturing, storing, and -- above all -- learning from data drives the modern economy.

How do we learn from data? Long before running complicated algorithms, data scientists perform Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) to begin the learning process.

In this interactive, discussion-based course, we will analyze datasets together, and discover how to learn from data.


Class Style
Discussion

This class will cover basic logical concepts in computer science. We will use the Java programming language and code in an online IDE.

We will be working with "hard code" as opposed to something graphics-based like Alice, Scratch, Greenfoot, etc. because I feel I can best teach with code, not drag-and-drop graphical interfaces.To clarify: We will be writing code and reading textual output; not making mini graphical games or building websites.

Due to our highly limited time, we will move quickly. My goal is to give you exposure to many fundamental programming concepts (and their Java syntax) such as variable declarations, I/O, for and while loops, and if statements. I will also briefly address more general ideas in computer science such as other programming languages, IDEs, APIs, comments, and debugging. We will not cover object orientation due to time constraints.

This class is designed to give beginners a taste of the logic and mechanics involved in entry-level computer programming. Those with prior CS experience are welcome but should note that I will be starting from the beginning. Due to our limited time, we will not be able to do exercises on every concept I cover, so this class is probably *most* useful to someone who is going to continue studying CS after this class so they can solidify their understanding of the concepts I introduce. I will address avenues for continuing CS study (e.g. online MOOCs, high school classes, etc.) in class as well.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
familiarity with algebra is highly preferred

Ever wanted to blast robots in space, paint in three-dimensions, or become the guardian of a medieval castle? In virtual reality, anything is possible. Come learn about the blossoming industry of immersive technology, also known as virtual and augmented reality, mixed reality, or XR. We'll take turns trying different types of XR experiences and talking about the possibilities for the future of XR.


Class Style
Activity

Imagine winding the hour hand of a clock back from 4 o’clock to midnight. Mathematicians have long known how to describe this rotation as a simple multiplication: A number representing the initial position of the hour hand on the plane is multiplied by another constant number. But is a similar trick possible for describing rotations through space? William Hamilton, one of the most prolific mathematicians of the 19th century, struggled for more than a decade to find the math for describing rotations in three dimensions. The answer is surprisingly complicated, yet beautiful: points in a four-dimensional number system, the space of quaternions.

In this 45-minute lecture, we will cover the history of quaternions from Hamilton to their immense influence on the modern development of math and physics. We will also cover the spatial intuition and theoretical backing behind them: a circle lives in two dimensions, and a sphere in three. With quaternions, can we lift these structures into a fourth one? Find out at Splash!


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Algebra 2/Trigonometry or equivalent, and onward.

What do maps, Facebook, and power grids all have in common? They can be studied with graph theory! These aren't the graphs you're used to - instead, these graphs help us study things that have connections with one another. In this class, we'll learn about some basic concepts in graph theory and how it can be applied to problems in our daily lives.


Class Style
Seminar

Have you ever wanted to make your own website from scratch? Or wondered how lines of code can be translated into pictures and colors? In this class we will be building websites from the ground-up, covering basic elements of design as well as the basics of CSS and HTML.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
No prior experience is necessary, though comfort with typing is recommended.

Computer and network security has been in the news frequently over the past year. Hackers breach businesses and governments to steal confidential information and wreak havoc on their systems. Learn the basic techniques hackers use to do this and how programmers should create more secure systems.


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Lecture

Learn all about combinatorial mathematics! In this class, you will learn some of the basic techniques of combinatorial mathematics, as well as try your hand at some simple problems. Learn about techniques like pigeonhole principle, coloring and double counting, and play fun math games. Yes, that's right! Fun math games! They definitely exist! Definitely!


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
Can add. Can subtract. Can multiply. Can divide.

Fairly accessible way into some of the most interesting results in the foundations of mathematics. I use algorithmic information theory to prove the infinitude of the primes, and apply similar ideas to prove Chaitin’s incompleteness theorem. This results in proofs of Godel’s theorems. We’ll also discuss this simple information theory based approach versus the classical proof technique for Godel’s First Theorem, in the context of analogous paradoxes from non-mathematical logic, which may include (time permitting) a sketch of Godel’s proof of his first theorem.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
Some familiarity with proofs. Interest in theoretical mathematics.

Is recess your favorite subject? Do you like running around outdoors? Do you want to play games with some new friends? Then this class is for you! We will be learning some new playground games and also playing old favorites like Sharks and Minnows, Freeze Tag, and Red Light, Green Light


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Please bring a positive attitude and practice mutual respect. Comfortable clothing is recommended

All levels welcome! We'll first cover the basics of throwing and catching, go over the rules of the game, and then dive deeper into strategies for offense and defense. We'll also learn some fun variations e.g. "Three Flags Up," "Mini," etc. We'll get it a good deal of playing time towards the end. Feel free to bring cleats if you have them, but they are definitely not required.


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Activity

Whether you are taking photos with your phone or with a single-lens reflex camera, there are some simple tricks you can use to improve your photos.


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Lecture

What do Taylor Swift and Bach have in common? In this class we will investigate the underpinnings of music, starting with notes, intervals, and moving up to chords and chord progressions.

Then we will look at famous old composers and compare their music to the modern generation!

You'll be able to write yourself a hit song at the end of this class :)


Class Style
Seminar

Prerequisites
Should be able to read the notes on the staff. This class is geared towards students who have yet to learn music theory, but have played music. There are many ways to learn the notes online should you want to take the class but not know how yet.

Do you want to make music? Anyone can create their own songs instantly by learning how to improvise. The class will be a short lesson on how to improvise followed by a jam with all students.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
No musical or instrumental skills required!

Tired of the same old 4-chord songs?

We're going to discuss the following tools to spice up your chord changes

-- color chords and related scales
-- chord substitutions
-- changing the cadence
-- modulating keys
-- going modal
-- and more!

Everything is subjective so come prepared make your own judgements, and expand your ears!
I'll not be talking at you - we'll be holding a group discussion about these ideas.

If you'd like (it's optional) you can bring:
- a song you like that you'd like to add color to
- a song you like that you want to analyze/reharmonize together
- cool ideas for tonality you've heard about somewhere
- or anything else you feel is relevant.

I'll also leave the last half of class open for you to bring up your own ideas so we can discuss them openly together.
I also have many resources to share with you at the end of class so you can continue exploring!


Class Style
Discussion

Prerequisites
C Dm G7 C is a I ii V7 I chord change. Yes? No? If you know, you're good. In general - strong understanding of how chords work and how to read chord symbols. You can teach yourself by playing around: http://www.tsmp.org/keyboard/lias/pdf/symbols.pdf. There are many good resources for learning basic chord symbols and analysis, so don't feel shy about not knowing everything before you sign up - you can brush up your skills before class if you get in!

This class will cover how to create basic melodic synth sounds from scratch using a virtual synthesizer. The following questions will be addressed: How does sound work? What are the sounds we hear comprised of? What makes a note sound musical? What makes something sound "natural"? How do you make some of the most common synth leads, basses, plucks, etc. that we hear in electronic music?
Towards the end of class, students will help design some synth sounds based on what was covered.


Class Style
Activity

As Dries Van Noten stated in his eponymous documentary, fashion is a commodified art form by its very nature. The industry toes a delicate balance between selling clothes and maintaining artistic integrity (and in the case of some luxury brands, maintaining exclusivity). In this course, take a look at the diverse business structures and economics of the fashion industry, delving into case studies on Louis Vuitton, Supreme and Palace Skateboards, and Burberry. After learning the basics, you'll be able to work through a hands-on fashion business activity with other students (materials provided)!


Class Style
Seminar

Come learn how to "shimmy" and "thumka" in this introductory Bollywood dance class and be the Priyanka Chopra to your Nick Jonas!

Bollywood refers to the Indian film industry centered in Bombay (now Mumbai). Bollywood movies are known for their intermittent musical numbers with lots of dancing. Bollywood dance is known to be an energetic, freestyle dance, fusing a variety of other dance styles - from indian classical and indian folk, to hip hop, and contemporary.

A short choreography will be taught in this class - beginners are encouraged!


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
None, other than being excited to dance and willing to learn! All dance backgrounds (including none!) welcome :)

Tension and resolution. This is the key to storytelling through movies, games, and especially music. We will analyze examples from pop music, movie soundtracks and video game BGMs and find out how musicians use one powerful tool - chords - to build different progressions and tell different stories.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
No prior music knowledge required.

Come experiment with various media to express yourself.
Explore different identities and ways in which you can communicate yourself to other people.

Possibilities include but are not limited to:
> Choreographing your own dance
> Drawing a self-portrait
> Making your own music video


Class Style
Activity

Ever wanted to make a song, but had no idea where to start?

This class will go over basic chord progressions and improvisation techniques in pop music and jazz music, such as the 1-5-6-4 progression and the blues scale.

At the end, students will be able to experiment with generating their own melodies and motifs using a digital keyboard.


Class Style
Activity

Like bad puns? Fake deaths? Love triangles? Secret twins??? Come join StanShakes and learn all about the original soap operas.

Shakespeare is ridiculous and beautiful, but also super confusing and weird. (Godgigoden! Gramercy! 'Sblood!) We will teach you how to understand and perform Shakespeare so you can impress your friends. No acting experience is required, but a willingness to be silly is highly recommended.


Class Style
Activity

Like Pentatonix? Hamilton? So do we! We are Stanford O-Tone: one of Stanford's many and varied a cappella groups. Together we'll be learning how to harmonize, beatbox and blend—and finding out how to control vocal muscles you never knew you had voluntary control over.

This workshop will focus on all the basic skills you need to sing a cappella with a group. Absolutely no experience required.


Class Style
Activity

Ever seen an amazing photograph of a starry night sky? The Milky Way? The Northern Lights? Attend this class to learn some basics of photography and understand how these photographs can be taken under some of the most challenging conditions when the most important element - light - is in short supply.


Class Style
Lecture

Prerequisites
A keen interest in photography!

Gratitude can make a huge difference in your day to day activities. This class will teach you how to create beautiful mixed-media holiday cards to express your gratitude to loved ones! Ever watched those YouTube videos about card-making and wanted to try making holiday gratitude cards like the professionals? Here you'll learn the fundamentals to card design! You won't ever look at paper the same way again.


Class Style
Activity

Prerequisites
Bring a good attitude! It's okay if you don't feel naturally creative, that's what this class is for!

Learn how to create your own 3D designs and bring them to life with a 3D printer. No prior experience necessary!


Class Style
Activity

Come learn about the ancient game of Go, which originated from east Asia. This game has been the center of attention in the computer science world recently as the platform for the powerful AI AlphaGo. Also drop by at the same time to fold some origami, a paper-based folding art activity.


Class Style
Activity

This will be a walk-in activity in which students can learn and play Chinese chess! Chinese chess is wonderful game that is not very commonly played in the States. This game will be great for people who may be very interested in learning something new and to those who like chess! I will have many pamphlets to hand out to people to help them learn the game. I will also personally be helping out and showing students how to play.


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Activity

Drop by to solve some fun and challenging logic puzzles! We will be working through puzzles with a variety of difficulties. Puzzles can be done individually or collaboratively.


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Activity

Calling all math speedsters! This activity simulates one of the most exciting parts of the MathCounts competition: the countdown round. In each game, two players compete head to head, attempting to answer tricky questions in under 45 seconds each.


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Activity

Learn to Juggle with members of Down with Gravity, Stanford's juggling club (get it? we juggle clubs). No experience required — and we provide the props. =)


Class Style
Activity

In this workshop, we will go full arts and crafts to paint cards/paintings for the holidays. You can follow an example or create your own masterpiece for you and your loved ones. We will provide paint, paper, brushes etc.


Class Style
Activity

Build sculptures with nothing but the nature around you! You will surely obtain inspiration from taking a walk outside, enjoying the beautiful nature and figuring out what you can use for your own artwork!

*Note: students will have to gather their own materials for building their sculptures. Only hot glue guns will be provided for speeding up the building process.


Class Style
Activity

How does a glow stick work? How about a fluorescent light bulb, an LED, or a glow-in-the-dark star? And what does this have to do with quantum mechanics?

Light is all around us. It's how we see and how we communicate as well. In this walk-in activity, we explore hands-on demonstrations of everyday phenomena involving light (fluorescence, phosphorescence, chemiluminescence) that provide a glimpse into the quantum world. Plus, take home a glow stick!


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Activity

A simple and fun orienteering activity where the students would learn the basics of orienting themselves using a map and then could also go and try out their newly learned skills outside.


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Activity