Our summer 2024 course offerings embrace popular subjects while fostering innovative thinking. Each course provides an introduction to its subject, offering a holistic perspective that delves into career possibilities. Beyond that, it encourages interdisciplinary exploration, considering the subject’s relevance to societal challenges and fostering bold solutions. Courses aim not only to educate but to empower, preparing students to become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators and culture creators.
Selecting your course(s)
>Tip: to help with your course selection and understand the benefits of each class, be sure to review these “Outcomes” in each of the course descriptions:
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- Fundamentals: Essential core concepts vital for a strong grasp of the subject
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- Critical thinking in action: Development of skills in analysis, problem-solving, and creative thinking beyond just absorbing information
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- Experiential application: Connect theoretical learning to real-life situations, highlighting the subject’s impact on future opportunities and experiences
Participants following the Student Experience should select TWO courses — one in the AM and one in the PM. For those seeking an immersive experience in a particular subject area, each course has a co-course suggestion to select. However, in keeping with Wheaton’s emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, you are free to select any combination of courses to suit your interest and curiosity.
Participants in the Athlete Experience will take ONE course in either the AM or PM schedule depending on your sport. Fencers should select a course in the PM Schedule. Swimmers should select a course in the AM Schedule. Strength and Conditioning athletes may choose ONE course from either schedule. If you choose a course in the AM, your training will be in the afternoon. If you choose a course in the PM, your training will be in the morning.
Course schedule
| AI for Good!?! | Innovation Lab: Ideation to Fabrication |
| Nature’s Classroom: Environmental Science Field Methods | Climate Change Solutions: Science in Action |
| Nursing: Careers and Considerations in Healthcare | Neuroscience: Mental Health & Medication |
| Psychology and the Law | Criminal Justice and Social Impact: Unlocking Crime and Punishment |
| Storytelling: Online and On Stage | Digital Beats and Beyond: Electronic Music Production |
Morning courses
Tues-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The short history and progress of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has featured more hype than reality, yet we now find ourselves faced with systems and devices that exceed many of our expectations. New tools and careers are emerging at a rapid rate and will require some degree of computational skills, along with the ability to think critically about how Machine Learning (ML) can and should be used.
This course bridges the gap between curiosity and practical understanding, offering a hands-on exploration of AI. Beginning with the basics, students explore its history, core elements, and real-world applications across industries. You’ll then dive into data manipulation, computational tools, and the workings behind ML applications, gaining valuable insights into how these technologies function and impact our world. Conversations center on crucial AI concerns: ethics, algorithm biases, distinguishing between intrusive and helpful AI applications and just how do you fight the instinct to trust a human-sounding machine?
By course-end, students develop a foundational grasp of AI concepts and practical skills in data management, analysis, effective communication, and critical evaluation of information. Equipped with these skills, you’ll navigate the ethical and practical aspects of AI, recognizing its potential for both risk and positive change. Empowered with essential computing skills and the ability to think critically, students craft a final project reflecting their personal interests.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a more comprehensive understanding of key issues in Technology, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Innovation Lab: Ideation to Fabrication.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in computing skills
Gain a level of expertise when using AI in multiple domains and demonstrable proficiency in navigating data-driven models. You’ll know how AI works, how best to use it, and manage information in clear and practical ways.
- Critical thinking in action
To understand and articulate the potential for good as well as the ethical implications and limitations of Artificial Intelligence (AI). You’ll learn to consider how, when (or if) AI should be used and how to communicate those ideas.
- Experiential application
The ability to consider the utilization, impact, concerns, and scope of Large Language Models (LLM) in future learning and careers. You’ll learn about computer-related professional pathways, but also why understanding and using AI matters to your future — no matter what subjects or career you pursue.
Note: This course is open to students of all skill levels from beginner to advanced. No previous coding or computer science experience is required – only a desire to explore and expand upon your ideas and areas of interests.
Instructor
Understanding the complexity and diversity of ecosystems and wildlife is essential for preserving our planet’s natural wonders. This course offers students an opportunity to delve into the fascinating field of environmental science, where they will gain hands-on experience in data collection methods and learn about the interconnectedness of human and natural systems.
Throughout the course, students engage in immersive fieldwork in the diverse ecosystems of southeastern Massachusetts. Through exploration of local forests, wetlands and meadows, students practice reproducible data collection techniques to census birds, mammals, pollinators and both native and invasive plants. By directly interacting with nature, students gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationships within ecosystems and the importance of preserving biodiversity. When not in the field, students develop skills in reading and interpreting scientific articles, organizing, mapping, and analyzing environmental data.
Course concepts will be contextualized within broader themes of environmental justice, conservation biology and the global climate crisis. Upon completion of the course, students will have acquired a deep understanding of the scientific method and its application in environmental research, represented in a final project or presentation of their choice.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a more comprehensive understanding of key issues in Environmental Studies, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Climate Change Solutions: Science in Action.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Environmental Science
Proficiency in practical field methods for environmental data collection and the ability to critically analyze, evaluate and interpret scientific information. You’ll know how to look at the natural world more deeply (in and outside of the lab) and clearly present your findings.
- Critical thinking in action
To understand and articulate the connection between human actions to environmental and social consequences. You’ll learn how understanding the profound beauty and importance of our natural world can provide solutions to support sustainability — for nature and people.
- Experiential application
The ability to consider how leveraging skills in data collection and critical analysis can contribute meaningfully to future studies, as well as personal environmental stewardship. You’ll know about potential career paths in science and conservation, along with a significant recognition of the value of our environment — regardless of your chosen college or career direction.
Instructor
Nursing has become one of the most critical roles in today’s health care world, offering vital care and support to patients in a wide variety of settings. In a rapidly changing health care scene, nurses face exciting technological advancements and challenges, striving to ensure everyone receives the quality care they need.
In this course students are introduced to the art and science of nursing as a profession, including nursing’s historical evolution, core concepts, and the essential clinical skills needed. Discussions examine nursing’s role within the health care system and ethical considerations surrounding health equity and justice. As the course progresses, students delve deeper into foundational nursing theories, critical thinking, and the practical application of nursing skills in patient care. Through interactive group dynamics, students learn about the nursing process and its pivotal role in patient care scenarios.
In the simulation lab, students actively participate in caring for a high-fidelity simulated patient using augmented reality (AR), providing a unique learning experience in the nursing process. Through these hands-on practices, students apply nursing principles, incorporate diversity and equity into patient care, and strengthen their therapeutic communication skills within team-based simulations that closely resemble real-life nursing scenarios.
Culminating in a final group assignment, students present their research on patient cases and nursing care plans, emphasizing teamwork, diversity integration, and effective communication.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in the medical or biological science students should consider enrolling in this course along with Neuroscience: Mental Health and Medication.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Nursing
Understanding and practice of the basic clinical skills along with the core principles and qualities of nursing. You’ll understand what it means to be a practicing nurse.
- Critical thinking in action
Ability to articulate the difference between the art and science of nursing and analyze ethical health care practices. You’ll know how the care, compassion, and support of patients merge with the clinical application of medical knowledge, fostering a holistic approach to patient care.
- Experiential application
Understanding of the strategies in research, teamwork, diversity and communication in preparation for college and potential clinical careers. You’ll know about the wide variety of career pathways in nursing and health care and what differentiates them in terms of scope, responsibilities and opportunities for specialization and advancement. You’ll have the advantage of knowing your areas of interest before applying to college.
Instructor
TBA
Have you ever wondered how reliable eyewitness testimony truly is, or how a jury is actually selected? What kinds of factors influence how people formulate ethical decisions that serve justice? This course explores the intersection of psychological science and the law, while also introducing relevant insights from fields such as sociology, anthropology and biology. By examining how psychology influences our legal system, students gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behavior within the framework of the law.
After first being introduced to foundational principles in cognitive psychology (learning and memory consolidation, memory retrieval, decision-making strategies, etc.) and social psychology (social cognition, attitude formation and stereotyping), students are presented with specific psychological studies that highlight their importance in legal settings, ranging from eyewitness testimony errors to the effects of stereotyping.
Through lectures and class discussions, in-class experiments, team debates, and group presentations, students develop an understanding of how psychology impacts our legal system and the broader implications for societies at large. Students then learn about different frameworks used for critically analyzing legal scenarios, culminating in a group presentation of a legal case utilizing a framework of their choosing.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in Legal and Justice studies, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Criminal Justice and Social Impact: Unlocking Crime and Punishment.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Psychology and Law
Understanding of the history of psychology, its foundational principles and how they play a role in our legal system. You’ll learn how human behavior impacts legal processes and decisions.
- Critical thinking in action
Discernment and ability to articulate how psychological, social and biological influences can shape our legal system and practices. You’ll be better equipped to contribute meaningfully to informed legal and ethical discussions.
- Experiential application
Understanding of psychology’s role in the legal system provides a solid foundation when considering studies in psychology, legal or related fields. No matter your career direction, you’ll benefit from enhanced problem-solving skills and the ability to better assess your own perceptions and judgment.
Instructor
Kendall Joseph Eskin
Storytelling has been an essential part of the human experience since the dawn of language and its relevance in today’s information-saturated world is even more pronounced. In this course students discover the power of weaving words into effective narratives that resonate with audiences — whether in social media, live performances or a business meeting.
Through an exploration of storytelling techniques, including writing, crafting and improvisation, students explore the use of humor to engage audiences, the power of satire to provoke thought, and the emotional depth of tragedy to create empathy. Students gain insight into the historical and contemporary significance of storytelling in diverse fields such as design and innovation; acting and directing; business management and leadership; governance and politics; sports and entertainment; and published works.
Emphasis in this course is placed on a supportive environment where teamwork and adaptability are developed to help each student build in confidence and creativity. By learning to construct compelling narratives, students appreciate how stories can bring depth and meaning to societal issues, create mutual understanding, motivate others and foster personal growth. Whether through a poignant poetry slam, a hilarious skit or a brand blog, students harness the art of storytelling to captivate, entertain and inspire. The culmination of the course will be a final performance where students have the opportunity to showcase their storytelling skills.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in the Creative and Performing Arts or Communication, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Digital Beats and Beyond: Electronic Music Production.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in storytelling
A comprehensive understanding of storytelling techniques, from idea generation to presentation in a variety of platforms. You’ll know how to create and communicate your “big Idea” more effectively — personally and professionally.
- Critical thinking in action
The ability to evaluate the impact of storytelling in different cultural contexts, through the development of tone, style and authenticity. You’ll be able to make more meaningful connections through genuine communication and attentive listening.
- Experiential application
Enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities along with the essential communication skills that are universally applicable for success in all academic disciplines and professional settings. You’ll learn practical tools to help build your confidence and overcome social and performance anxiety — while telling your viewpoint with clarity and conviction.
Instructor
Afternoon courses
Tues-Friday, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Enter the world of digital fabrication! Technologies like 3D printing are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to understanding how digital tools are transforming our world. This course provides students access to Wheaton’s Innovation Lab — a makerspace with a world of possibilities where creativity and technology converge.
Students are guided through the basics of 2D and 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and an understanding of when to use Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software to control specific machines. Balancing the precision of STEM principles with the expression of creative freedom, students develop their own designs and artistic ideas which are then turned into physical objects through laser-cutting, 3D printing and vinyl cutting tools.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore a diverse range of materials and their applications, engaging in lively discussions to refine your design concepts. By the end, you’ll have crafted a personal portfolio showcasing your decorative and functional designs, demonstrating your newfound technical skills and creative prowess. Whether you’re interested in engineering, art, or simply want to unleash your creativity, this course is your gateway to the exciting world of digital fabrication to create merch, swag and more.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in Technology, students should consider enrolling in this course along with AI for Good!?!
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Digital Fabrication
Technical proficiency in digital fabrication software and technologies. You’ll know how to plot and operate 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters and master equipment setup, calibration and execution.
- Critical thinking in action
Understanding of the ethical dimensions of digital fabrication, collaborative design and the implications of creative decisions in art and technology. You’ll understand how to use the iterative process to create many options and possibilities when problem solving.
- Experiential application
Gain valuable insights for consideration of future studies or careers in fields like industrial design, engineering, architecture, or digital arts. You’ll gain versatile skills applicable to fields like research and development, product design, technology consulting, entrepreneurship, and simply your personal enjoyment.
Note: This course is open to students of all artistic and technological skill levels from beginner to advanced. No previous coding or design experience is required — only a desire to learn and create something uniquely yours.
Instructor
Brandon Witter, Manager, Innovation Programs and Spaces
How is the world’s climate changing? How can we be certain humans are responsible? How reliable are our planet’s climate predictions, and how can we think beyond conflicting messages and fatalistic viewpoints? In a world grappling with climate change, a solid understanding of climate science is essential. Students in this course are equipped with the knowledge and skills to understand, analyze, and act on climate change policy with a sense of realistic optimism and proactive involvement.
Students engage in a dynamic learning environment that combines theory with practical hands-on experiments in both laboratory and field settings to gain a deeper understanding of global climate patterns, energy flow, and heat distribution. Using scientific instruments, students measure and analyze solar and infrared energy to comprehend the intricate mechanisms driving climate change. Additionally, students create their own computer simulation, enabling them to study the impact of human activities on the Earth’s climate system.
Discussions cover the costs and benefits of climate change mitigation and adaptation options, with a focus on critical local issues like rising sea levels. Students participate in role-playing exercises to examine stakeholder viewpoints in both local and global climate action plans. These exercises also involve examining strategies for addressing climate change, such as renewable energy systems, carbon capture, and geoengineering. Students collaborate on a final project outlining their research and findings.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in Environmental Studies, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Nature’s Classroom: Environmental Science Field Methods.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Climate Science
Proficiency in scientifically analyzing real-world climate data and the latest projections, evaluating the feasibility of climate change solutions, and assessing their global impact. You’ll understand the latest climate information and its implications.
- Critical thinking in action
The ability to engage in informed discussions on climate policy with scientific data analyzing both natural patterns and the influence of human activity. You’ll be able to address denial and doomerism with scientific data and change solutions.
- Experiential application
An informed consideration of future studies, careers and opportunities in fields such as environmental science, climate policy, and advocacy. You’ll leave with a sense of optimism knowing you’re empowered to make informed decisions about climate issues and play an active role in shaping a sustainable future.
Instructor
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 970 million people worldwide suffer from mental disorders, making mental health one of the leading causes of disability. In today’s rapidly evolving world, an understanding of the intricate connections between neuroscience, mental health, and medication is more crucial than ever.
This course explores the intersection of biology and psychology to provide valuable insights into mental health disorders and their treatment options. We begin with an overview of the nervous system’s structure and function, delving into how brain cells communicate through electrochemical signals. This foundational understanding sets the stage for exploring structural and functional changes in the brain associated with conditions like depression and anxiety, as well as the use of drugs like antidepressants and anxiolytics to manage these conditions.
Throughout the course, students engage in hands-on laboratory experiences, such as dissecting sheep brains and studying rodent brain tissues, to gain practical insights into the structure and function of the mammalian brain. By comparing these animal brains to human brains, students learn to predict and justify structural differences based on physiology and lifestyle. Additionally, students develop the ability to predict the behavioral and psychological consequences of changes to various components of the nervous system. These skills culminate in a final project where students demonstrate their understanding of neuroscience’s relevance to mental health and medication.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in medical or biological science, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Nursing: Careers and Considerations in Healthcare.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals of Biological Psychology
A foundational understanding of the structure and function of the mammalian nervous system and the ability to utilize key terminology to discuss its processes effectively. You’ll understand how the brain works and recognize the significance of studying the brain for insights into the etiology and treatment of mental illnesses.
- Critical thinking in action
The ability to describe why neuroscience research relies on animal models and its impact on scientific understanding. You’ll know how to apply evidence-based reasoning to real-world scenarios.
- Experiential application
Development of practical skills essential in considering future studies and careers in neuroscience, psychology, biology and health professions. You’ll be able to perform common histological and microscopy procedures — transferable skills to a wide range of future studies and careers.
Instructor
Christina Reppucci, Visiting Assistant Professor of Psychology
The American justice system serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance, embodying society’s collective values and norms while addressing the challenges and complexities of modern-day crime and punishment. In this course, we’ll explore the criminal justice system and its role in our society. We’ll learn about criminal law, the police, courts, and (juvenile and adult) corrections, and how they’ve evolved over time. By understanding these institutions, we can better grasp how our society deals with crime and punishment.
Throughout the course, we’ll examine how social and political forces have shaped the criminal justice system. We’ll look at how our ideas about crime and punishment have changed and how they impact our communities. We’ll also study the ways crime is measured and reported, and how this information affects public opinion and the justice system itself.
Through discussions, readings, activities, and real-world examples, we’ll explore key issues like gender, race, age and class. We’ll evaluate different policies and their effectiveness and (un)intended consequences, considering questions of fairness and justice and their effects on society as a whole. By the end of the course, we’ll discuss possible reforms and alternative restorative practices that have been implemented and/or proposed in recent years. Students will research and present on a topic of their choice for their final project.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in Legal and Justice studies, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Psychology and the Law.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Criminal Justice
Understanding of the history and structure of our criminal justice system, and its impact on society. You’ll know how the criminal justice system operates, why and how offenders are punished, and what the individual and social consequences of punishment are.
- Critical thinking in action
The ability to distinguish between social justice and the operations of criminal justice. You’ll understand how current controversies reflect differing community and political values – and be able to separate the facts from myths surrounding crime and justice.
- Experiential application
Understanding of the structure of the justice system provides a solid foundation when considering future studies in law, political science, psychology and sociology. You’ll acquire essential data literacy skills in various numerical, video, graphical, and textual formats which can be applied to any field of study.
Instructor
The fusion of technology and creativity has propelled electronic music production to the forefront of artistic innovation. Driven by advancements in computer software and hardware, the medium represents a vibrant and rapidly evolving field that offers unique opportunities for artistic expression, technical innovation and broad application for many career paths.
This hands-on course offers an exploration of electronic music creation, providing students with the skills to compose, record, and mix music using digital audio workstations (DAWs). The course begins with an introduction to basic music theory concepts and principles of songwriting needed to create well-structured and harmonically rich compositions. Students delve into digital signal processing (DSP), focusing on audio equalization, dynamic range compression, and various effects such as distortion, reverb, and delay. Students learn how to manipulate audio signals using these techniques to achieve desired sonic characteristics and create unique sounds. Additionally, the course explores film composition using Logic Pro to develop the skills needed to create compelling soundtracks for cinematic works.
Discussions into the history of music production tools and industry pioneers, help students gain not only technical expertise, but also a broader cultural and historical perspective on this influential art form. Through engaged and active listening exercises, students hone their critical listening skills and explore the intricate relationship between technology and music perception. Participants leave the program with original songs and a scored soundtrack for a short film.
Subject immersion (students taking two courses)
For a comprehensive understanding in the Creative and Performing Arts or Communication, students should consider enrolling in this course along with Storytelling: Online and On Stage.
Outcomes
- Fundamentals in Electronic Music
Development of skills in MIDI data manipulation, audio synthesis, sampling techniques, digital signal processing, and project management for film scoring. You’ll know how and why to use the right tools to create your own original music — for songs, film and video.
- Critical thinking in action
The ability to articulate an understanding of electronic music, its cultural relevance and future potential. You’ll be able to listen more deeply and express why this artform matters and how it is shaping the way we create and experience music.
- Experiential application
An understanding of the crossover applicability of electronic music production in today’s creative and technical industries. You’ll see how these skills can be applied to diverse career paths in music production, sound design, film and new media, electrical engineering, computer science and more.
Note: This course is open to students of all skill levels from beginner to advanced. No prior experience in music production is required, but basic computer literacy is recommended. An interest in music, music composition and songwriting, technology, or film scoring is beneficial.
Instructor
Make it a summer to remember
This summer, connect with other motivated pre-college students who share your academic and extracurricular interests. Discover your passions. Explore new ideas. Create memories that will last a lifetime.
Questions?
For Pre-College inquiries, contact:
Wheaton Office of Summer Programming
508-286-8242
[email protected]
Learn more about Wheaton: