Pat updated on 10/14/2013 Assigning Advisors to open sections.
Revised 10/15/13 J Kropp
UNIV 1301s by type: Open-enrollment, Pre-Business, Pre-Engineering, Pre-Science.
Alpha-order by instructor.
UNIV 2350s are last, also alpha-order by instructor.
UNIV 1301 23341 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Andrea Berta
747-7622
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Silvia Rodriguez
747-7329
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
747-6702
LART 122 0930 1020 MWF
EDUC 213A
anberta@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 216
smartinez24@utep.edu
eltorres@utep.edu
Fictional Women Detectives
This course will focus on fictional women detectives in short stories, novels, and movies. We will look at the
mysteries they solve and the lives they lead. In these mysteries, we will have the opportunity to read exciting stories
and examine how society has changed over the years. Students in this course will not only read about, watch,
discuss, and write on fictional women detectives but also hear from true-life women detectives and writers. These
detectives, both fictional and real, are generally smart, perceptive, hardworking, organized, and loyal and would
serve as good role models for incoming freshmen.
Andrea Berta started work at UTEP in 1985 as a tutor with the Tutoring and Learning Center and began teaching in
1986. She has taught reading, freshman composition, study skills, business communication, and technical writing. In
1999, she began teaching University 1301 with the theme of Fictional Women Detectives. In addition to reading
detective fiction, Ms. Berta enjoys reading science fiction.
UNIV 1301 25314 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Karina Calderon
747-8021
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Karina Calderon
747-8021
Librarian: Juan Sandoval
747-6713
LART 306
AAC 112
1030 1150 TR
kacalderon@utep.edu
AAC 112
LIB 212
kacalderon@utep.edu
jasandoval@utep.edu
Rhetoric in Popular Culture
Students will examine the use of rhetoric in the media by analyzing the languages and visuals used by prominent
figures in the media, new media, and popular culture. The genres of speeches, reports, movies, songs, and literature
will be explored. Students will learn to develop their critical thinking skills and will gain a deeper understanding of
the use of rhetoric in America by analyzing the social, political, and economic impact rhetoric has upon society and
their lives. Assignments will be based on an awareness of audience, subject matter knowledge, and rhetorical
strategies. Students will learn to strengthen their academic performance as productive college students and active
community members by developing research, critical thinking, writing and public speaking skills.
Karina Calderon earned a B.A. in Communications and a M.A. in Rhetoric & Writing Studies from UTEP. She has
taught courses in the English Department in expository composition, research and critical thinking, and public
speaking. She has also worked as a contractual writer and ghost writer for businesses in the greater El Paso area. Ms.
Calderon has been part of the UTEP community for over 10 years.
UNIV 1301 21041 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Daniel Duarte
747-7300
Peer Leader:
1
UGLC 208
AAC 112
1500 1620 MW
dduarte@utep.edu
Advisor: Daniel Duarte
Librarian: Juan Sandoval
747-7300
747-6713
AAC 112
LIB 212
dduarte@utep.edu
jasandoval@utep.edu
Visual Culture
This section will identify and examine elements of visual culture in the world around us and at the University of
Texas at El Paso. Examination of visual culture often extends into everyday interactions with media such as:
photography, painting, sculpture, fashion, advertising, cinema, virtual reality, and other electronic imaging systems.
By identifying and understanding concepts of visual culture students will begin to think how visual culture
influences them and how they in turn shape visual culture.
Daniel Duarte holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MA in Professional
Writing and Rhetoric from The University of Texas at El Paso. His thesis, Electronic Writing Technologies and the
Third Sophistic was awarded the English Department’s Outstanding Graduate Professional Writing and Rhetoric
thesis of spring 2004. Daniel also teaches UNIV 2350 - Technology and Society - and is an advisor at the Academic
Advising Center. Daniel is the Art Director for the textbook Borders: Crossing into Your Future.
UNIV 1301
24033 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
UGLC 334
0900
1020
TR
UGLC 108
cvgarcia@utep.edu
Recommended for students interested in STEM fields.
Instructor: Claudia Vanessa Garcia 747-6477
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Silvia Martinez
747-7329
Librarian: Les Arms
747-6701
UNIV 1301
25313 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
AAC
LIB 217
smartinez24@utep.edu
laarms@utep.edu
UGLC 334
1030
1150 TR
UGLC 108
cvgarcia@utep.edu
Recommended for students interested in STEM fields.
Instructor: Claudia Vanessa Garcia 747-6477
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Silvia Martinez
747-7329
Librarian: Les Arms
747-6701
AAC
LIB 217
smartinez24@utep.edu
laarms@utep.edu
Science is not just for geeks: Discovering the importance of STEM fields
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions have often been viewed as challenging
fields of study, pursued by people that are extremely good at mathematics or might be socially awkward.
Misconceptions like these can discourage students from pursuing a career in STEM fields and portray to the public a
view that science is a boring or hard subject. In this course you will learn key concepts that will help you appreciate
the importance of science in our daily lives and will help you understand current science and technology events. You
will also explore career options that interest you and how they can be associated with STEM subjects. In addition,
through a variety of reading and hands on activities you will acquire important research, critical thinking, and
problem-solving skills that are essential for academic and professional success.
Claudia Vanessa Garcia is the first member of her family to receive a college degree. She earned her B.S. in
Biology and her M.A. in Education from the University of Texas at El Paso and has worked at this institution in
several positions including University Studies Peer Leader, Graduate Research Assistant, and University Recruiter.
She currently holds the position of Program Advisor/ Lecture. In 2007 her passion and background in science and
education granted her with the opportunity to receive a research fellowship which funded her graduate education and
provided her with the opportunity to conduct research in Antarctica. Her education and employment experience have
made her aware of the underrepresentation of minorities in STEM careers as well the obstacles that discourage
students from obtaining higher education degrees. These issues have motivated Claudia Vanessa to work in a
profession where she can positively impact and mentor these populations, either through research or education. In
her spare time, she enjoys painting, playing the piano and taking ballroom dance lessons.
UNIV 1301 21113 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Nancy Hill
747-6722
2
BELL 143
LIB 221
0830 0920 MWF
nhill@utep.edu
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Stephen Pruett
Librarian: Nancy Hill
747-5132
747-6722
AAC
LIB 221
sjpruett@utep.edu
nhill@utep.edu
Thinking Boldly With Star Trek
Star Trek is one of the most popular expressions of American science fiction literature. In this class, we will
examine common themes in classic science fiction stories and Star Trek episodes with related themes. Students will
see how science fiction both addresses contemporary scientific ideas and social concerns and contributes to the
development of new ideas and perspectives. Students will watch episodes of Star Trek, read classic science fiction
stories, and respond to them with opinion papers, critical questioning, research, and academic writing. Students will
build on their viewing, reading, and class discussions by selecting topics for research papers about some issue
treated in the series. They will watch and analyze relevant Star Trek episodes, read related science fiction stories,
and find, evaluate, and use primary and secondary sources to construct brief scholarly papers and oral presentations.
Nancy Hill, Associate Library Director for Technical Services at the UTEP Library, has a BA in English Literature
from Michigan State University, an MLS from the University of Michigan, and course work in history at UTEP.
Before coming to UTEP, Mrs. Hill worked at academic and corporate libraries in Missouri, Virginia, and several
countries in the Middle East. Along with her specialization in the technical aspects of librarianship, Mrs. Hill has
had extensive experience in teaching information literacy and research skills.
UNIV 1301 25391 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Cinthia Jiménez
747-5290
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Cinthia Jimenez
747-5290
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
747-6702
UGLC 336
AAC 116
AAC 116
LIB 216
1200 1320 TR
cjimenez@utep.edu
cjimenez@utep.edu
eltorres@utep.edu
Technology and Change
Students will examine how businesses utilize social media (SM) platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc.,
in order to be more efficient and productive. Students will examine the practices and processes conducted before
and after the integration of SM technologies, predominantly into the Human Resource field. Students will also
examine the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing SM tools and the measures businesses need to take in order to
avoid any negative repercussions. In this course students will also improve their academic skills in order to facilitate
a successful academic career. Students will learn how to proactively respond to the changes and transitions they
face as entering students by practicing the basic academic skills taught in this course.
Cinthia Jimenez received her BA in Business Computer Systems from New Mexico State University (NMSU) at
Las Cruces in 2005. She received her MBA in Human Resource Management from American InterContinental
University in 2006. She has a certificate in Library and Information Technology from NMSU-Dona Ana
Community College. She currently holds the position of Program Advisor/Lecturer. She is a program advisor at the
Academic Advising Center and a liaison for the Philosophy and History Department. She started teaching
University 1301 for the Entering Student Program in Spring 2010. Mrs. Jimenez is also the advisor for Sigma Alpha
Lambda.
UNIV 1301 24031 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Kimberly Kilpatrick
747-5547
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Vanessa Vandeburgh
747-8723
Librarian: Angela Lucero
747-5685
UGLC 208
UGLC 130
0730 0850 TR
kimcastillo@utep.edu
AAC 131
vanessaa@utep.edu
ajmartinez5@utep.edu
UNIV 1301 24032 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Kimberly Kilpatrick
747-5547
Peer Leader:
UGLC 208
UGLC 130
0900 1020 TR
kimcastillo@utep.edu
3
Advisor: Vanessa Vandeburgh
Librarian: Angela Lucero
747-8723
747-5685
AAC 131
vanessaa@utep.edu
ajmartinez5@utep.edu
The Art of Communication
The focus of Ms. Kilpatrick's UNIV1301 seminar courses is effective communication at many levels: intrapersonal,
interpersonal, small group, and public speaking. With her academic interests predominately within the realm of
communication, Ms. Kilpatrick actively implements assignments and activities that help students sharpen their skills
in effectively communicating with others.
Kimberly Kilpatrick received both her BA, with honors, and MA in Communication from the University of Texas
at El Paso. She has worked in both the UTEP Entering Student Program and Communication Department as a
lecturer. Ms. Kilpatrick began teaching at UTEP in fall 2001 as a full-time lecturer of both Communications 1301
and University 1301 classes.
UNIV 1301
21039 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (GLC)
UGLC 208
1330 1450
MW
This Global Learning Community course is linked to a similarly themed class at Victoria University in
Melbourne, Australia, entitled Imagining Australia.
This section is restricted to students with credit for or concurrently enrolled in ENGL 1311.
Instructor: Joanne Kropp
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Jennifer Dunlop
Librarian: Luke Jastrzebski
747-5111
UGLC 332
jtkropp@utep.edu
747-8700
747-6723
AAC 117
LIB 320
jmoseley@utep.edu
ljastrzebski@utep.edu
Stories Across Cultures: Mobile Worlds and the Politics of Belonging
Amongst Communities in Australia and the United States
This collaborative course focuses on the themes of diaspora and migration and the personal stories that tie
immigrants to broader Australian and American cultures. The term diaspora can be understood to mean persons
who are displaced as a result of religious, cultural, political, and socio-economic reasons. Examples of people
understood to fall under this definition in Australia are immigrants from China and South Asia, and refugees seeking
asylum. Migration to the United States has occurred under numerous conditions resulting from conquest, forced
relocation, religious persecution, and contemporary socio-economic and political issues. Groups that are commonly
understood to fall under this definition in the United States include Native Americans, Africans, Chinese, South
Asians, and Latinos. Students will read stories of the diaspora as well as stories of arrival represented in short
stories, fiction films, and documentaries. Additionally, students will deepen their understanding and appreciation of
the ways in which diaspora, migration, race, racial discrimination, and resistance to racial discrimination have
shaped and continue to shape social thought and institutions in both countries.
The goal of the Global Learning Community is to explore the significance of stories told within and across cultures
by groups of people who have been displaced. Together students at both universities will investigate their own
backgrounds and experiences for a better understanding of the “stories” that exist in two classrooms on opposite
sides of the globe. This Global Learning Community is an exciting project that provides a virtual space where
students at both universities can better understand the impact of globalization by investigating their own
backgrounds and experiences and those of their global cohort for a better understanding of the social and cultural
tapestry that exists in two classrooms on opposite ends of the globe. Additionally, students from both universities
will enhance their use of technology as they share their research findings via videoconference, social networks, web
design, and other multimedia projects. Two videoconferences will take place outside of class and a meal will be
provided.
Joanne Kropp has a BA in Drama with a minor in Social Work from Texas State University and a MA in History
from The University of Texas at El Paso. Her Masters thesis won both the College of Liberal Arts Outstanding
Thesis Award and The University of Texas at El Paso’s Outstanding Thesis Award in the Humanities and Social
Sciences. Ms. Kropp is the Assistant Director of Academics in the Entering Student Program and a History PhD
candidate. Her fields are World History, Latin America, and Borderlands. Since 2001 she has taught open
enrollment and Honors courses in American History, World History, Latin American History, and Women’s Studies.
Her other UNIV 1301 topics are: “Voices of Protest: Protest Movements in the U.S., 1950-1980,” “Afghanistan:
4
Global Crossroads,” and “Entradas, Empires, and Nations: Borderlands History to 1865.” Her research interests
include gender, legal history, environmental history, and revolutions and rebellions. She also serves as a co-advisor
for the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.
UNIV 1301
26487 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (DP)
BUSN 326
1630
1750
MW
This section is restricted to military affiliated students (active duty, reserves, veterans, dependents, spouses).
Departmental approval required.
Class meets face-to-face Mondays, online Wednesdays. Computer access required.
Instructor: Michael Lewis
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Michael Lewis
Librarian: Les Arms
747-5290
AAC
melewis@utep.edu
747-5290
747-6701
AAC
LIB 217
melewis@utep.edu
laarms@utep.edu
The Science of Military Technology in the World
The purpose of this course is to provide veterans, active duty soldiers, and their family members with an in-depth
look at the Science of Military Technology and how it has shaped the world. The course will provide students with
an in-depth look at Military lessons learned so that they can apply those lessons to college. Students will explore
topics such as Military vs. Civilian Culture, Military History, Military Inventions, Resilience, and Critical Thinking
skills. The course will also address basic success skills for all learners, such as writing skills, note taking, test taking,
study strategies, and learning styles. The class lessons, class work, and homework assignments will provide
students with a wealth of knowledge needed to understand how to be successful as a college student coming from a
military background. The benefit of this class is that this class provides students with valuable information that is
crucial to becoming a successful student transitioning from the military to college.
Michael Lewis is an educator from North Carolina who holds a Masters in Education with a focus in Instructional
Specialist Science Education. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D in Teaching, Learning and Culture at the University
of Texas at El Paso. His research focuses on how African American students experience college life at a Largely
Hispanic Serving institution. He has presented his research proposal at the University of Texas at El Paso 2012
Circle Conference and plans on doing a pilot study in 2013-2014. Michael Lewis has a background in Engineering
as well as in Criminal Justice. Prior to beginning his career in Education Michael Lewis was a Field Artillery
Officer and also worked as a Senior Network Administrator/Technician for Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics.
He also taught Elementary school prior to pursuing his dream of teaching Higher Education.
UNIV 1301
22272 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (BI)
UGLC 208
0930
1020
MWF
747-6673
AAC 134
penam@utep.edu
747-5361
747-5687
AAC
LIB 102B
scontreras@utep.edu
vrassaei@utep.edu
UNIV 1301 23415 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Michelle Pena
747-6673
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Sergio Contreras
747-5361
Librarian: Virginia Rassaei
747-5687
UGLC 208
AAC 134
1030 1120 MWF
penam@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 102B
scontreras@utep.edu
vrassaei@utep.edu
UNIV 1301 23768 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Michelle Pena
747-6673
Peer Leader:
UGLC 208
AAC 134
1130 1220 MWF
penam@utep.edu
This section is restricted to ESOL students.
Instructor: Michelle Pena
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Sergio Contreras
Librarian: Virginia Rassaei
5
Advisor: Sergio Contreras
Librarian: Virginia Rassaei
747-5361
747-5687
UNIV 1301 21040 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Michelle Pena
747-6673
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Sergio Contreras
747-5361
Librarian: Virginia Rassaei
747-5687
AAC
LIB 102B
scontreras@utep.edu
vrassaei@utep.edu
LART 204
AAC 134
1330 1450 MW
penam@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 102B
scontreras@utep.edu
vrassaei@utep.edu
Eating, Breathing and Beautifying Ourselves Sick
We live in a world where environmental contamination is inevitable. However, we often don’t think about how the
food we eat, the beauty products and cleaning agents we use contaminate our bodies and our homes. Many would
never imagine that those contaminants are what affect us most each day. In this course you will read, analyze and
investigate about how we are affected by the food and products we buy in today’s market. Also, you will learn about
success strategies needed in order to be successful in college. Amongst those success strategies are effective time
management, note-taking, exam preparation, critical thinking and reading, and career guidance, amongst others.
Also, students will participate in UTEP and community events, thus helping them become part of the greater
UTEP/El Paso community.
Vivimos en un mundo donde la contaminación ambiental es inevitable. Sin embargo, casi nunca pensamos que la
comida que comemos, los productos de belleza que utilizamos y los productos para limpiar nuestra casa también
contaminan nuestro cuerpo y hogar. También muchos no pensarían que esos contaminantes son los que nos afectan
más cada día. Los estudiantes en este curso no solo aprenderán e investigarán acerca de los temas mencionados, si
no también aprenderán acerca de estrategias para el éxito tales como manejar el tiempo efectivamente, tomar notas,
preparación para exámenes, pensar y leer críticamente, y orientación de carreras, entre otros temas. También, los
estudiantes participaran en eventos de UTEP y la comunidad, así ayudándolos a ser parte de la gran comunidad de
UTEP, El Paso y Cd. Juárez.
Michelle Peña holds degrees from UTEP in Education and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a
concentration in environmental sciences. Michelle currently holds a position as a lecturer within the Entering
Student Program at UTEP. Her research interests are in environmental science and social and environmental
injustice within the border area. Michelle was named a National Science Foundation teaching scholar, and served in
El Paso’s public schools as a science and math teacher before coming to UTEP. She also obtained a certification in
English for Speakers of Other Languages while teaching in the public school sector. She currently teaches
University Seminar 1301 in both English and Spanish, thus serving our El Paso area students and also our Latin
American freshmen populations.
Michelle Peña tiene una licenciatura de UTEP en Educación y una Maestría en Ciencias Interdisciplinarias con una
concentración en ciencias ambientales. Michelle actualmente tiene una posición como maestra de clases de
Seminario de Universidad (University Seminar 1301) dentro del Entering Student Program para estudiantes de
nuevo ingreso en Ingles y en Español, así sirviendo a nuestros estudiantes locales y de Latinoamérica. Sus temas de
interés e investigación se concentran en injusticia ambiental y social en el área fronteriza de México-Estados Unidos.
Fue nombrada “Teaching Scholar” por la Fundación Nacional de Ciencias. También, obtuvo una certificación en
ESOL (Ingles para Parlantes de otros Idiomas). Antes de venir a UTEP, Michelle impartía clases de ciencias y
matemáticas en escuelas públicas en el área de El Paso.
UNIV 1301 25315 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Nancy Shaffer
747-8955
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Alejandra Sifuentes
747-7304
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
747-6702
Discovery of Poetry
6
MAIN 201
WORR 101
1030
1150 TR
nshaf@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 216
asifuentes3@utep.edu
eltorres@utep.edu
This course offers you the challenge of discovery. We explore the voices inside poems—what they say, how they
say it, and what that can mean to us as we experience poems. Our special emphasis is on the voices of American
poets of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, with opportunities to read, discuss, analyze and write poetry.
Poetry writing, however, is optional, and a student’s choice. If you don’t want to write poetry, it’s still a great
course for developing understandings of how to unravel many seeming complexities of poetry. Also, importantly, in
this course we explore and develop many study skills necessary for survival in the university’s academic
environment, and explore the myriad opportunities for students at UTEP to participate and succeed.
Nancy A. Shaffer, MFA, holds a Masters in Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Texas El Paso
with specialties in both poetry writing and short fiction. In addition, she holds a B.A. in Political
Science/International Relations from the University of Michigan, and lived overseas for many years as a part of the
United States Foreign Service. She has taught many courses at UTEP since 1996 including Creative Writing,
Introduction to Poetry, First Year Composition, University Seminar, Developmental Reading, and both
Developmental and Technical Writing, all in fields where she actively continues research. In addition, she loves to
read and write poetry and learn new things, and to share the excitement of that with her students.
UNIV 1301 24030 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Terri Storey-Gore
747-6522
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Suzanne Ashour-Bailey
747-6584
Librarian: Harvey Castellano
747-6734
UGLC 208 1230 1320 MWF
EDUC 211C tlstoreygore@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 213
seashour@utep.edu
hcastell@utep.edu
Mosaics: Reflections of the Myths of American Life
Through selected readings and academic research, we will examine various cultural perspectives and their
importance to the development of becoming a successful college student. Many entering students find themselves
transitioning from a micro-culture to macro-culture, often experiencing isolation. This course will attempt to
explain and examine the culture of “otherness” based on race, class, gender, and ethnicity, demonstrating the
benefits of maintaining cultural identity while engaging in the macro-culture.
Terri Storey-Gore is a full time Lecturer at The University of Texas at El Paso where she teaches for
Developmental English, including both reading and writing, and for the First Year Composition Program. Her recent
work with the D.E. team has focused on teaching with technology, developmental reading and writing course
redesigns, including a hybrid bridge lab course which helps students transition from developmental writing to First
Year Comp Courses, and currently works on an on-line, in-house course in developmental writing, as well as
presenting on these subjects at Developmental English conferences. She teaches developmental reading and writing,
hybrid lab courses, University Studies, two levels of First Year Composition, and has taught Speech, Drama
Literature, and Literature survey courses. She also directed a public school writing lab for three years.
UNIV 1301
26488 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
EDUC 203
1330
1450
TR
747-6532
AAC 120
kmweber@utep.edu
747-6532
747-6701
AAC 120
LIB 217
kmweber@utep.edu
laarms@utep.edu
EDUC 203
1500
747-6532
AAC 120
kmweber@utep.edu
747-6532
747-6701
AAC 120
LIB 217
kmweber@utep.edu
laarms@utep.edu
This section is recommended for Pre-Science majors.
Instructor: Katrina Weber
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Advisor: Katrina Weber
Librarian: Les Arms
UNIV 1301
26489 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
1620
TR
This section is recommended for Pre-Science majors.
Instructor: Katrina Weber
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Advisor: Katrina Weber
Librarian: Les Arms
The Conspiracy of Global Climate Change: Science and Politics in Today’s World
7
Science teaches us to question everything, but many current environmental issues do not have an easy answer or a
general consensus position. This seminar will examine the environmental and political implications of such issues
through the use of structured debates. Students will use role play to objectively discuss complicated issues by
researching their position, presenting their arguments to the class, and summarizing the outcome of their debates in
writing. By playing a different role in each debate, students will also be introduced to different science career paths
in research, conservation, government, and more. Students will be required to evaluate their own opinions of
complicated issues while learning to successfully work in groups and communicate their ideas orally and in writing.
Katrina Weber has a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences
from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Her Master’s thesis research focused on completing a genetic
phylogeny of the anuran genus Ptychadena using specimens collected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She
has taught Introductory Biology, Human Biology, and Anatomy and Physiology at El Paso Community College
(EPCC) and was a professional science tutor at South Central College in Mankato, Minnesota. As an educator, she
aims to instill and inspire a love for learning in my students and attempts to teach students how to think and
approach information within a class environment driven by the students’ own ideas, discoveries and questions.
UNIV 1301 21114 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Owen Williamson
747-7625
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Sergio Contreras
747-5361
Librarian: Juan Sandoval
747-6713
EDUC 309 0830 0920 MWF
EDUC 209 omwilliamson@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 212
scontreras@utep.edu
jasandoval@utep.edu
Preliminary Exercises in Effective Persuasion
In this course you will learn some of the classic strategies for effective argumentation by following a rigorouslydesigned and tested series of exercises, assignments and declamations. Informed by the discipline of rhetoric, you
will study and practice the "progymnasmata," or "preliminary exercises" of classical rhetoric, mastering powerful
and effective techniques to strengthen your intellectual confidence. At the same time, you will learn about the
policies, academic requirements, resources and expectations of the University, all with the goal of "taking the
wheel" of your own education and of your own future. The overriding goal of this course is to help you succeed as a
student in the challenging environment of a large border university.
Owen Williamson earned a B.A. in English at the College of St. Thomas (now University of St. Thomas) in
Minnesota, and a M.A. in Professional Writing and Rhetoric at UTEP. He worked for a number of years in Texas as
a certified Social Work Associate, and later taught ESOL in Kansas before being hired as a Lecturer for the
Developmental English Department at UTEP. He is an author and translator, and has published a large number of
articles and translations in English and Spanish on a wide variety of subjects. Among his research interests are
classical, post-classical and Marxist rhetoric, Byzantine history, Latin American history and politics, and the use of
online social networks in university teaching. In his free time he is an amateur radio operator, and during summers, a
National Weather Service volunteer Skywarn severe weather spotter.
UNIV 1301 23363 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Sycora Wilson-James
747-6088
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Kaay Miller
747-7306
Librarian: Sebastian Diaz
747-6721
LART 306
UGLC 132
0930 1020 MWF
sajames@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 322
akmiller@utep.edu
sdiaz@utep.edu
UNIV 1301 23680 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Sycora Wilson-James
747-6088
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Kaay Miller
747-7306
Librarian: Sebastian Diaz
747-6721
LART 304
UGLC 132
1030 1120 MWF
sajames@utep.edu
8
AAC
LIB 322
akmiller@utep.edu
sdiaz@utep.edu
UNIV 1301 23769 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
Instructor: Sycora Wilson-James
747-6088
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Kaay Miller
747-7306
Librarian: Sebastian Diaz
747-6721
LART 304
UGLC 132
1130 1220 MWF
sajames@utep.edu
AAC
LIB 322
akmiller@utep.edu
sdiaz@utep.edu
Contemporary Issues in Higher Education
This course will explore the changes and challenges of Higher Education over the last three decades and examine
how Higher Education as a whole is affected by current social, political, environmental, financial, and scientific, etc.,
arenas. Students will take from this course an understanding of, and appreciation for, the value of a global
education. This course is taught in both lecture and discussion format.
Sycora A. Wilson-James received her BA from Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA, in Social Science and a
M.Ed. in College Student Affairs from Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA. She is pursuing her doctorate in
education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership & Change at Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA. Ms.
Wilson-James has been involved in many aspects of Student Affairs as an undergraduate, graduate, and in her
professional career including residence life, new student orientation, academic advising, service learning, and
student disability services. She has been at UTEP since April 2000 when she began as the Program Coordinator for
the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation program; a multi-million dollar grant funded by the National
Science Foundation which awards research opportunities to undergraduates majoring in Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics. She was an Academic Advisor/Lecturer and served as the Peer Leader Coordinator
for the Entering Student Program. She teaches University 1301: Seminar in Critical Inquiry on the topic of
contemporary issues in higher education. She also teaches University 2350: Interdisciplinary Technology and
Society, with a theme of ‘Cyber U: Technology and Higher Education’. Ms. Wilson-James’ professional interest in
Higher Education is to develop a theory on the socialization of African-American women in college.
UNIV 1301 21112 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (DP)
Instructor:
Peer Leader:
Advisor:
Librarian:
LART 206
0800
1050
S
TBA
____________________________________________________________________________
THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS ARE RESTRICTED TO PRE-BUSINESS MAJORS:
The Modern Business Adventure
These courses focus on the theme of a modern business enterprise. Students will gather, organize and analyze
information in order to understand the functional areas of a successful business enterprise. Students will hone
writing skills and oral presentation skills by writing short papers and working in teams to create and deliver
presentations. Networking and corporate presentations will allow students to learn from professionals and better
understand the expectations of the business community. Critical thinking skills will be enhanced through in-class
case studies and use of business periodicals.
UNIV 1301
23681 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (BC)
MAIN 201
1030
1120
MWF
BUSN 104
pcano@utep.edu
This section is restricted to Pre-Business majors.
Instructor: Paulina Cano
Peer Leader:
747-7764
9
Advisor: Paulina Cano
Librarian: Lilia Fernandez
747-7764
747-6716
BUSN 104
LIB 216
pcano@utep.edu
lfernand@utep.edu
Paulina Cano has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology from UTEP and a Masters in Business
Administration from UTEP. She is currently an ESP Lecturer/Advisor for the College of Business Administration.
She teaches University 1301 and advises freshmen and sophomore students for the College of Business. In addition,
she has served on various committees, including the UTEP Leadership, Innovation, Vision and Engagement
Planning Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee for Entering Student Programs. Prior to joining the
College of Business, she worked as a research assistant for the Industrial Engineering Department at UTEP and the
United Way of El Paso County.
UNIV 1301
21131 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (BC)
EDUC 318
0830
0920
MWF
747-8728
BUSN 104
cmrogers@utep.edu
747-8728
747-6716
BUSN 104
LIB 216
cmrogers@utep.edu
lfernand@utep.edu
This section is restricted to Pre-Business majors.
Instructor: Carmen Rogers
Peer Leader:
Advisor: Carmen Rogers
Librarian: Lilia Fernandez
Carmen M. Rogers is an undergraduate advisor and lecturer in the UTEP College of Business Administration. Prior
to joining the COBA, she worked in grants and program management at Union County College in New Jersey and
Mercy College in New York. Before that, she spent several years in executive and managerial positions in the
nonprofit sector and hospitality industry. Her teaching experience includes several semesters of undergraduate
Organizational Behavior at Rutgers University’s School of Management and Labor Relations in New Jersey. She
earned a B.S. in computer information systems from Bethune-Cookman University and an MBA from Robert Morris
University, and is a graduate of the nonprofit leadership executive education program at the Harvard Kennedy
School. Carmen is a doctoral candidate in workforce development at the University of Arkansas, and actively
conducts research on adult education and learning, nonprofit management, and volunteerism. Her research has been
presented at the Academy of Management and the Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and
Voluntary Action annual meetings, and has been published in the peer-reviewed journals Hospital Topics and The
Research Journal of the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors.
UNIV 1301
25272 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (BC)
MAIN 201
0900
1020
TR
747-7776
BUSN 103
dsterlin@utep.edu
747-7776
747-6716
BUSN 103
LIB 216
dsterlin@utep.edu
lfernand@utep.edu
This section is restricted to Pre-Business majors.
Instructor: David Sterling
Peer Leader:
Advisor: David Sterling
Librarian: Lilia Fernandez
David Sterling has a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems from UTEP and a Masters of
Information Technology from UTEP. He is currently an ESP Lecturer/Advisor for the College of Business
Administration. He has received The Excellence in Instruction Award in 2007 and 2009 and is currently an advisor
for The Regional Economic Development Association and The Business College Council. He teaches University
1301 and 2350 and advises over 300 students for the College of Business. In addition, he directs workshops and
other student related events hosted by the College of Business. Mr. Sterling was an advisor at the Academic
Advising Center for many years prior to moving to the College of Business (COBA), where he has helped develop
new advising procedures. He has served on various university-wide committees, including the Banner User Group,
Probation/Suspension Committee, Marketing Committee, and University College Personnel Committee. He was an
assistant to the TSI Coordinator for UTEP.
THE FOLLOWING SECTION IS RESTRICTED TO PRE-ENGINEERING MAJORS:
Foundations of Engineering for the Problem Solvers!
10
Engineers are problem solvers! In the following courses you will learn to use the basic tools of engineering problem
solving, no matter what kind of engineer you intend to be. We will explore engineering innovation, creative and
critical thinking, and hands-on applications, making real-world connections to the magic of engineering and
mathematics. Fundamental engineering competencies, technical and professional, will be introduced, developed,
and practiced, to include working in teams, generating ideas, communication, and trouble-shooting. The outcome for
this course is to apply these competencies to solving engineering problems and to see how these same competencies
can be applied to solving any kind of life problem.
UNIV 1301
21038 Seminar/Critical Inquiry (EC)
QUIN 202
1030 1150
MW
This section is restricted to Pre-Engineering majors.
Instructor: Irene C. Tejeda
Peer Leader:
Advisor:
Librarian: Debjani Mukhopadhyay
747-6779
CRBL C001 itejeda@utep.edu
747-6715
LIB 215dmukhopadhyay@utep.edu
Irene Tejeda has a MA in Business Management/Human Resources from Webster University. Ms. Tejeda is
currently a Professional Advsior/Lectuer with the College of Engineering. She has been actively involved in
working with bi-national groups on the U.S.-Mexico border over the past ten years, specifically exploring binational management and the use of applied human resource management to examine successful practices in the
Paso del Norte region. Irene Tejeda has participated in several bi-national efforts through EPA as well as various
universities. Irene has a particular interest in building working teams that bring people of various backgrounds and
sectors to bi-national, tri-regional work groups. An area of special interest is how regional stakeholders work
together within both existing institutions and newly forming ones. She enjoys the interaction and working with new
ideas that students bring to various environmental, bi-national, and tri-regional issues.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
UNIV 2350 – THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS ARE RESTRICTED TO STUDENTS WHO
HAVE COMPLETED AT LEAST 30 CREDIT HOURS AND HAVE PASSED ENGL 1312.
UNIV 2350
21136 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
LART 209
1030
1150
TR
747-8939
LIB 214
cgaunce@utep.edu
747-8939
LIB 214
cgaunce@utep.edu
Computer access required.
Instructor: Charles W. Gaunce
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Charles W. Gaunce
Technology and Society
This UNIV 2350 course is a journey into thinking critically about how modern American culture travels through and
among various technologies, how those technologies induce changes into the culture, and how the adoption of some
technologies, and the rejection of others, leads to results that produce various winners and losers among the
population.
Dr. Charles Gaunce has a B.A. from the University of Minnesota, a M.A. in Library and Information Studies from
the University of Oklahoma, and a J.D.(Juris Doctor) from the University of Tulsa. Dr. Gaunce is currently the Law
Librarian in the UTEP Library Reference Department. His research interests include the process of research, the
political process, social adaptations, and technological innovations. Dr. Gaunce practiced law full time for over
twenty years and in that capacity encountered a broad spectrum of legal issues including homicide litigation,
personal injury litigation, worker’s compensation representation, patent litigation, and environmental litigation. His
experiences led him to pursue research in the education field. He has been licensed to practice law in Minnesota,
Colorado, and Oklahoma, and he maintains a current license to practice law in Oklahoma.
UNIV 2350
25273 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
11
Instructor: Didier Hernandez
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
UNIV 2350
7471-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
747-8444
UGLC 130
bspihlaja@utep.edu
7471-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
747-8444
UGLC 130
bspihlaja@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
747-8444
UGLC 130
bspihlaja@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
22342 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: Beau Pihlaja
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
UNIV 2350
22437 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: Beau Pihlaja
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
UNIV 2350
22440 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: Beau Pihlaja
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
Taking Calls in Mumbai: Technologically Mediated Intercultural Communication
What impact does technology have on intercultural communication? Does it enable it? Inhibit it? Improve it?
Complicate it? For instance, what issues do individuals and groups face when they attempt to communicate crossculturally via the internet? What implications does this have for businesses that rely on computer mediated
communication (CMC) to interact with international business partners? What implications does increased CMC
have for national security? Could increased and improved intercultural CMC defuse international tension? These are
the questions that will occupy us in this section of UNIV 2350. Students will use our theme to address UNIV 2350
course goals. Students will study issues in intercultural communication, the history and development of CMC, and
issues in intercultural CMC through the study of specific cases related to international business and national security.
Beau Pihlaja is a full time lecturer with UTEP’s Entering Student Program. Mr. Pihlaja has a masters of divinity
with an emphasis in cross-cultural communication and a masters of theology from Trinity International University.
He is also a PhD. candidate in UTEP’s Rhetoric and Writing Studies Program. He is a fellow with SUNY’s COIL
Institute. During 2008-2009 he taught masters-level seminars in a small ecclesial college in Bangalore and in several
other cities throughout India. He continues to visit and teach there periodically. His research interests include
Intercultural Rhetoric, Technologically-Mediated Rhetoric, Technical and Professional Communication, First Year
University Experience, Global Learning Communities, Educational Technology, Political Theologies. He currently
resides in El Paso, TX with his brilliant and lovely wife Charity, son Asher, and daughter Cressida.
UNIV 2350
23365 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: DeAnna Varela
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
UNIV 2350
747-7065
UGLC 344
dkvarela@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
23647 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
12
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: DeAnna Varela
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
UNIV 2350
747-7065
UGLC 344
dkvarela@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
747-7065
UGLC 344
dkvarela@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
24034 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: DeAnna Varela
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
Women, Girls & Technology
This course will focus on the relationship and effects of technology on women and girls in today’s society. We will
analyze key social institutions and systems of power and oppression, with emphasis placed on diverse perspectives
related to gender, class, race, sexuality, ability, and culture. Topics will include: technology in relation to gender,
education, work, reproductive rights, media, the internet and activism. In addition to introducing you to the theme of
women, girls and technology, we will address the UNIV 2350 course goals as well as develop key reading, writing
and critical thinking skills.
DeAnna Kay Varela holds a BA in Psychology and Spanish from the University of Texas at Austin, a MA in
Communication and Graduate Certificate in Women and Gender Studies, both from the University of Texas at El
Paso. Professor Varela holds a fulltime appointment as lecturer with the UTEP Entering Student Program. In 2012
she was awarded the University of Texas Regents Outstanding Teaching Award for her commitment to teaching and
mentoring students. Her research interests include social justice movements and activism, cultural studies, and
contemporary women and girls’ issues.
UNIV 2350
21137 Seminar/Critical Inquiry
LART 206
0900
1020
TR
90% online. Computer access required. Class meets face-to-face first day, Mar. 4, and day of the final exam.
Instructor: Sycora Wilson-James
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Sebastian Diaz
747-6088
UGLC 132
sajames@utep.edu
747-6721
LIB 322
sdiaz@utep.edu
Cyber U: Technology and Higher Education
This course will address the role technology plays in shaping American higher education. Students will explore the
history of technology in higher education; discuss how technology affects the cost of education, some of the latest
uses of technology in the classroom, privacy of information, and who is held accountable for the wealth of data
generated and collected on a college campus. Students are highly encouraged to bring new light to the weekly
discussions
Sycora A. Wilson-James received her BA from Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA, in Social Science and a
M.Ed. in College Student Affairs from Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA. Ms. Wilson-James has been involved
in many aspects of Student Affairs as an undergraduate, graduate, and in her professional career including residence
life, new student orientation, academic advising, service learning, and student disability services. She has been at
UTEP since April 2000 when she began as the Program Coordinator for the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority
Participation program; a multi-million dollar grant funded by the National Science Foundation which awards
research opportunities to undergraduates majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. She was
an Academic Advisor/Lecturer and served as the Peer Leader Coordinator for the Entering Student Program. She
teaches University 1301: Seminar in Critical Inquiry; themes include “Holidays, Traditions & Celebrations”, and
“College Life: past, present, future”. She also teaches University 2350: Interdisciplinary Technology and Society,
with a theme of ‘Cyber U: Technology and Higher Education’. Ms. Wilson-James’ professional interest in Higher
Education is to develop a theory on the socialization of African-American women in college.
13
7 WEEK PART OF TERM FOR RN-BSN STUDENTS (7 wk 2)
UNIV 2350
26644 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc (DP)
7 week Part of Term
This course is restricted to RN-BSN students. Departmental approval required.
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: Debbie Sikes
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Harvey Castellano
747-8263
SON 334
dlsikes@utep.edu
747-6734
LIB 213
hcastell@utep.edu
Expanding Professional and Technological Horizons
By using technology, this course provides students with foundational knowledge in health care locally and
nationally. Concepts related to communication, cultural awareness, critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration
with health care professionals, health-illness continuum, ethics, and health trends in the 21st century through the
advance of technology are presented. Students will examine the impact the technology has had on their life as well
as their behaviors as a consumer and/or provider. Readings, discussion boards, electronic database access, and
Blackboard to assist in the learning process will be used.
Debbie Sikes received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Missiouri in Nursing and a Master’s of
Science degree from the Univerisity of Texas at El Paso in Nursing Education. Ms. Sikes has served as the Director
of the RN-BSN online program at UTEP for the past 3 years. Ms. Sikes has practiced nursing for over 26 years in
numerous healthcare settings including hospital, outpatient clinics, school health, and nursing education. She is
continuing research related to the use of Standardized Patients and students’ satisfaction in Objective Structured
Clinical Examinations. She has presented her programs at conferences throughout the country. Her interests include
the use of technology related to healthcare and nursing administration. She is an active member of Sigma Theta Tau
International, the honor society for nursing and currently serves as the Delta Kappa Chapter treasurer.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
WINTERMESTER
UNIV 2350
26646 Interdisciplinary Tech/Soc
100% Online. Computer access required.
Instructor: Beau Pihlaja
Peer Leader:
Librarian: Elizabeth Torres
747-8444
UGLC 130
bspihlaja@utep.edu
747-6702
LIB 216
eltorres@utep.edu
Taking Calls in Mumbai: Technologically Mediated Intercultural Communication
What impact does technology have on intercultural communication? Does it enable it? Inhibit it? Improve it?
Complicate it? For instance, what issues do individuals and groups face when they attempt to communicate crossculturally via the internet? What implications does this have for businesses that rely on computer mediated
communication (CMC) to interact with international business partners? What implications does increased CMC
have for national security? Could increased and improved intercultural CMC defuse international tension? These are
the questions that will occupy us in this section of UNIV 2350. Students will use our theme to address UNIV 2350
course goals. Students will study issues in intercultural communication, the history and development of CMC, and
issues in intercultural CMC through the study of specific cases related to international business and national security.
Beau Pihlaja is a full time lecturer with UTEP’s Entering Student Program. Mr. Pihlaja has a masters of divinity
with an emphasis in cross-cultural communication and a masters of theology from Trinity International University.
He is also a PhD. candidate in UTEP’s Rhetoric and Writing Studies Program. He is a fellow with SUNY’s COIL
Institute. During 2008-2009 he taught masters-level seminars in a small ecclesial college in Bangalore and in several
other cities throughout India. He continues to visit and teach there periodically. His research interests include
Intercultural Rhetoric, Technologically-Mediated Rhetoric, Technical and Professional Communication, First Year
University Experience, Global Learning Communities, Educational Technology, Political Theologies. He currently
resides in El Paso, TX with his brilliant and lovely wife Charity, son Asher, and daughter Cressida.
14
15