Courses and topics

Arts First course descriptions

Although oriented toward different modes of inquiry, both ARTS 130 and 140 will support instruction in the communication competencies outlined by the Steering Committee for the English Language Competency Initiative (SCELCI) and both support instruction in analytical thinking.

ARTS 130 – Inquiry and Communication

This course provides an introduction to diverse intellectual modes of inquiry in the social sciences and humanities with an emphasis on the development of communication skills. In a small seminar setting, students will explore a variety of topics based on instructor expertise in order to build social awareness, ethical engagement, and communication competencies in comprehension, contextualization, and conceptualization. Students will be expected to engage with the work of others, articulate positions, situate writing and speaking within contexts, practice writing and speaking for situations beyond the classroom, engage in basic forms of research, and workshop, revise, and edit writing.

ARTS 140 – Information and Analysis

This course introduces students to diverse ways of finding, examining, and using data and information in the social sciences and humanities. In a small seminar setting, students will explore a variety of topics based on instructor expertise in order to understand quantitative and qualitative methods of data gathering and build competencies in conceptualizing, contextualizing, and comprehending methods of information analysis.  Students will be expected to investigate, use, and assess the presentation of information in their own work and the work of others so that they can better understand the range of social, ethical, and political challenges of our world.

Please also review the ARTS 130 and ARTS 140 learning outcomes.

Arts First course topics

Arts First course topics are listed in alphabetical order in the following drop-down section, however they are not listed in alphabetical order in Quest.

For instructions on how to add your Arts First course, see the How you'll enrol page.

Spring 2025 - ARTS 130

ARTS 130 – Ethics of Belief

The ethics of belief investigates the nature and norms of belief. What are beliefs, and what does it mean to believe responsibly? Are beliefs private or public? We will consider whether science, philosophy, culture, tradition, or religion can provide adequate grounds or guidance for our beliefs.

Delivery mode: Online

ARTS 130 – Language of the Media

The importance of the Media in today’s world is undisputed. The media’s impact has helped change the trajectory of modern history and continues to influence public opinion. In this course, we are going to explore the different aspects of language that are used in the media and how this language use affects the individual members of our society. In light of the full scale invasion of Ukraine, we are going to use Mr. Putin’s Russia as a case study.

Delivery mode: Online

Spring 2025 - ARTS 140

ARTS 140 – Social Change and Social Development

Note: This section is fully reserved for Social Development Studies students and online students.

Drawing on the work of social theorists, activists, artists, film-makers, writers, poets, and pop icons, this course asks: How can everyday people work together to effect social change? Through experiential learning and a case study approach, students will explore the possibility of turning social justice goals into action.

Delivery mode: Online

ARTS 140 – The Economics of Information

Information – who knows what, and whether what they know is true – influences the gains that people receive from economic exchange. This course examines how information affects the distribution and equity of social outcomes, and the ways that societies can use what is known about these effects to improve prosperity.

Delivery mode: Online