IS–Interdisciplinary Studies – 2005-07 Catalog
Cal Poly Continuing Education

IS 101 Orientation to Interdisciplinary Studies and the University (3)

Introduction to collaborative interdisciplinary inquiry. Topics include: Scholarly knowledge production and bibliographic finding tools, University role in knowledge dissemination and creation, and information search and evaluation processes. “Learn-by-doing” disciplinary investigation and interdisciplinary analysis and synthesis. 3 lectures.

IS 301 Critical Issues Seminar (4)

Discussion-oriented seminar focusing on ethics and effective interdisciplinary decision-making in the contemporary world. Examination of ethical and other issues facing society through current public debates, as well as great intellectual traditions that have shaped the past. Class Schedule will list topic selected. Total credit limited to 8 units. 4 seminars. Prerequisite: Admission to the Adult Degree Program (Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies) prior to enrolling in this seminar.

IS 302 Analytical Skills Seminar (4)

Improvement of abilities to collect data, analyze information, frame questions, reach and defend logical conclusions. Emphasis on applying methods of data analysis to a variety of contemporary interdisciplinary issues. Class Schedule will list topic selected. 4 seminars. Prerequisite: Admission to the Adult Degree Program (Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies) prior to enrolling in this class, and IS 101.

IS 450 Advanced Investigation Seminar (5)

In-depth interdisciplinary investigation into a narrowly defined issue of personal and/or professional interest. Identification of topic and examination from a variety of standpoints (e.g., cultural, environmental, religious, political, or economic). Class Schedule will list topic selected. 5 seminars. Prerequisite: Admission to Adult Degree Program (bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies), IS 301 and IS 302.

IS 460 Capstone Project (6)

Selection and completion of a summative project or report under the supervision of a faculty member. Topic must be approved by the seminar instructor and the ADP director. Investigation of the topic from an interdisciplinary approach. Prerequisite: Senior standing, IS 301, IS 302, IS 450.