Exploring Science Through Literature
Instructor: Dr. Jennie DeMarco
Dates: January 12-March 27
Audience: All educators
Cost: $380 (2 credits)
This course will explore important scientific concepts through the lens of literature. The course takes a “reading club” style format where participants will read three books that introduce scientific concepts as they impact society. The books include: “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot which explores the origin of the HeLa cell line and its pivotal role in medical research, “The Book Women of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson which discusses the Blue people of Kentucky who had a recessive genetic trait resulting in a blood disorder that left their skin blue, and “The Seed Keeper” by Diane Wilson which includes discussions of the use of genetically modified seeds in agriculture and preservation of heirloom seeds. Participants will be required to read the assigned books outside of class and complete assignments online including watching recorded lectures, completing assessment questions, and posting discussion comments in an online forum. In addition, students are required to participate in three virtual sessions with the instructor and the other students to discuss the books and complete interactive activities. This course is being offered in the Spring of 2026 over a 10-week period.