PLATO - Fall 2024 Course Schedule
About
Spread the Word About PLATO
Board of Directors
Board Nominee Bios
Board Election 2026-27
Meeting Minutes
Committees
Weekly Update
Organizational Documents
PLATO Staff
Join PLATO
Courses
Spring 2026 Course Schedule
Winter 2026 Course Schedule
Curriculum Showcase
Propose a Course
For Course Coordinators
Course Locations
Attic Angel Place
Ashman Public Library
Bethany United Methodist Church
Capitol Lakes
Chazen Museum of Art
Christ Presbyterian Church
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Fitchburg Senior Center
The Gardens Retirement Community
Goodwill Community Room
Goodwill - Northside Town Center
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
Madison Senior Center
Middleton Glen
Monona Library
Mount Olive Lutheran Church
Neighborhood House
Oak Park Place
Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
Pinney Library
UW South Madison Partnership
UW Space Place
Verona Public Library
Verona Senior Center
Vista West
Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center
Wisconsin Bank and Trust
Wisconsin Historical Museum
DCS
Courses Past
Summer 2025 Course Schedule
Spring 2025 Course Schedule
Winter 2025 Course Schedule
Fall 2025 Course Schedule
Fall 2024 Course Schedule
Events
Annual Event Calendar
Field Trips
Lectures
Local Tours & Walks
A Self-Guided Walk in the Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood
Indigenous Earthwork (Indian Mound) on Lake Mendota's North Shore
Stewart Lake County Park
POPE Farm Conservancy
Cherokee Marsh: Yahara Heights Section
Edna Taylor Conservancy
Cherokee Marsh - North Unit
Donald Park: Woods, Hills and Farmstead
Wilkie Gorge of the Cross Plains National Scientific Reserve, where the Glacier Started to Recede
Pheasant Branch Conservancy
Olin Park, Turville Point Conservation Park
Social Gatherings
The Agora
Features from The Agora
Test page - Feature from The Agora
Past Recordings
Donate
Volunteer
Social Justice
UW Library Card
Senior Guest Auditors
FAQ
About
Spread the Word About PLATO
Board of Directors
Board Nominee Bios
Board Election 2026-27
Meeting Minutes
Committees
Weekly Update
Organizational Documents
PLATO Staff
Join PLATO
Courses
Spring 2026 Course Schedule
Winter 2026 Course Schedule
Curriculum Showcase
Propose a Course
For Course Coordinators
Course Locations
Attic Angel Place
Ashman Public Library
Bethany United Methodist Church
Capitol Lakes
Chazen Museum of Art
Christ Presbyterian Church
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Fitchburg Senior Center
The Gardens Retirement Community
Goodwill Community Room
Goodwill - Northside Town Center
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
Madison Senior Center
Middleton Glen
Monona Library
Mount Olive Lutheran Church
Neighborhood House
Oak Park Place
Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
Pinney Library
UW South Madison Partnership
UW Space Place
Verona Public Library
Verona Senior Center
Vista West
Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center
Wisconsin Bank and Trust
Wisconsin Historical Museum
DCS
Courses Past
Summer 2025 Course Schedule
Spring 2025 Course Schedule
Winter 2025 Course Schedule
Fall 2025 Course Schedule
Fall 2024 Course Schedule
Events
Annual Event Calendar
Field Trips
Lectures
Local Tours & Walks
A Self-Guided Walk in the Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood
Indigenous Earthwork (Indian Mound) on Lake Mendota's North Shore
Stewart Lake County Park
POPE Farm Conservancy
Cherokee Marsh: Yahara Heights Section
Edna Taylor Conservancy
Cherokee Marsh - North Unit
Donald Park: Woods, Hills and Farmstead
Wilkie Gorge of the Cross Plains National Scientific Reserve, where the Glacier Started to Recede
Pheasant Branch Conservancy
Olin Park, Turville Point Conservation Park
Social Gatherings
The Agora
Features from The Agora
Test page - Feature from The Agora
Past Recordings
Courses
Courses Past
Fall 2024 Course Schedule
Fall 2024 Course Schedule
Announcements
Most Fall Courses began the week of September 16, 2024,
and will run for 10-12 weeks.
You may register for
more than one course
each semester, and it's not too late to join some courses! Contact our office for details:
info@platomadison.org
New to PLATO?
You are invited to
sample a course by attending the first two classe
s – contact the course coordinator in advance so they know that you want to come. And if you decide to continue for the rest of the term, you are required to become a member. Visit our
Join PLATO webpage
to learn more.
Fall Courses 2024
Registration
To register for a course, please email or call the course coordinator.
Printable Fall Course Schedule
PDF - 33 Pages  09-30-24
Course Details
Click on a course title below to view detailed information about the course.
Monday
Time
Course
Coordinator
Location
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Classic Film Discussion
Tobey and Wes Marsceill
Virtual
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Reading US History: Reconstruction and the Gilded Age Part 2
Michael Stevens
Virtual
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Military History of the American Civil War 1860 - 1865
Bob Brown
Vista West
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Pathways to a Sustainable Planet
Richard Steeves
Virtual
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Money Skills for Retirees
Tom Eggert
Virtual
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Novels Old and New
––>
Watch the Course Coordinator's Video!
Cindy Collins, Jane Stimac
Fitchburg Senior Center
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Exploring Creativity
Karen Wulff
Christ Presbyterian Church
Tuesday
Time
Course
Coordinator
Location
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Biography
Chuck Pils
Vista West
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Healthy Aging and Self-Regulation
Frank Stein
Bethany United Methodist Church
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Short Stories and Essays
Irv Klibaner
Covenant Presbyterian Church
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Jazz
Mike Lipp
Wisconsin Bank and Trust
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
History of the Hollywood Musical
Michael Troudt
Capitol Lakes
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Social Justice Book Discussion Group “Insiders and Outsiders”
MaryJo MacSwain
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Wednesday
Time
Course
Coordinator
Location
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Current Events - AM
Mert Corwin
Virtual
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Discussions in Philosophy
Ed Cothroll, Bill Colwell, John Miller
Hybrid
- Bethany United Methodist Church
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Foundations of Modern Art
Mary Em Kirn
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Mindfulness of Daily Life
Craig Wille
Virtual
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Global Affairs and the Media
Leon Lindberg, Steve Hirsch, Kirk Elliott, James Danowski
Hybrid
- Capitol Lakes
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Writing Workshop – WED
Andy Millman
Virtual
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Film History
Mary Klink
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
CANCELLED:
What Confucius Might Have Said
William H. Nienhauser, Jr.
Bethany United Methodist Church
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
CANCELLED:
The Great Society 1964 to 2024. How Did it Change America?
Alan Zuckerman
Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge
10
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Current Events - PM
Meg Taylor, Jerry Burns
Virtual
11
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Pinney Lane Book Discussion Group
Nancy Miller
Pinney Library
Thursday
#N/A on Senior Center
Time
Course
Coordinator
Location
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
What in the World Happened
Chuck Pils
Vista West
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The Roots of Modern American Popular Music
Tim Otis
Covenant Presbyterian Church
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Exploring Generative AI or How I Learned To Stop Worrying and Love Large Language Models
Donaby Henton
Virtual
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Writing Workshop - THURS
Andy Millman
Virtual
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
The Play's the Thing
Tess Mulrooney
Madison Senior Center
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
We Love a Mystery
Barbara Evans
Virtual
7:00pm - 9:00pm
A History of Matter in the Universe
Sebastian Heinz
Hybrid
- UW Space Place
Friday
Time
Course
Coordinator
Location
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who's Driving the Bus?
Janet Bailey
Virtual
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Shakespeare's Comedies: Method and Meaning
Thomas Schlicht
Madison Senior Center
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
PLATO Travel
Annette Bollig, Kevin Bollig, Lois Baseler, Linn Roth
Capitol Lakes
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Reading the Classics: Reading Anna Karenina
John and Jan Kinar
Hybrid
- Fitchburg Senior Center
Fall 2024 Course dESCRIPTIONS
Monday
M1
Return to top
Classic Film Discussion
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Tobey and Wes Marsceill
platoclassicfilms@gmail.com
954-695-2778
Course Description
Lights, camera, action! Join and discuss films selected primarily from Turner Classic Movies (TCM) shown the previous week and watched at your convenience in your own home. Think of us like a book club for movies! We discuss the history and social relevance of the films, and learn about film techniques, cinematography, and the resumes of the directors and actors. You will be invited to join the Google Meet via email the morning of the discussion. Some movies may be shown off-hours so participants should have the ability to record/tape/or stream movies or obtain a DVD from their local library to fully participate.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Start Date
September 16, 2024
End Date
December 16, 2024
No Course Dates
December 2, 2024
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
35
# of Sessions
12
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M2
Return to top
Reading US History: Reconstruction and the Gilded Age Part 2
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Michael Stevens
Michaelstevens50@gmail.com
608-215-4887
Course Description
Read and discuss the second half of Richard White’s
The Republic for Which It Stands: The United States during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age
. White argues that the US changed immensely in the 30 years after the Civil War. He explores major changes resulting from immigration, urbanization, new technologies, powerful corporations, income inequality, failures of governance, and growing diversity. We will discuss Chapter 12 at our first session. This is a continuation of the spring course; priority in admission will be given to those who have already read and discussed chapters 1-11.
Download the syllabus
Download Michael Stevens' bio
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Start Date
September 16, 2024
End Date
November 18, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
20
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M3
Return to top
Military History of the American Civil War 1860 - 1865
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Bob Brown
brown9873@sbcglobal.net
262-347-9111
Course Description
During this course there will be weekly discussions of military strategies and tactics of Civil War battles from First Manassas July 1861 to Appomattox Court House April 1865. I use battlefield maps to discuss Union and Southern Strategies and Tactics complete with actual troop movements and formations at the beginning and end of major battles during the war.
Location
Vista West
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 30, 2024
End Date
November 18, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Some reading/discussion expected
Class Size
unlimited
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M4
Return to top
Pathways to a Sustainable Planet
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Richard Steeves
Coot42@gmail.com
608-833-5586
Course Description
This discussion group focuses on the challenges we face as we adapt to a sustainable society. We examine the consequences of our current path; acidification of the oceans, rising sea levels, migration, increasing temperatures, etc. And we explore how these consequences of climate change could be mitigated by using carbon-free energy sources. We’ll learn about opportunities afforded by nuclear and other carbon-free forms of energy and their effects on electrical distribution, as well as our own food choices, and how we promote biodiversity.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 23, 2024
End Date
November 25, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M5
Return to top
Money Skills for Retirees
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Tom Eggert
tleggert@wisc.edu
608 279-8608
Course Description
Retirees have different financial challenges than younger people. In general, we are no longer saving for retirement, but we are continuing to grow and use the money that we saved. We’ll cover topics such as the importance of diversification, taxes and retirement, investment decision-making, handling retirement fund distributions, creating qualified charitable distributions, leaving our kids money, understanding what should be in taxable vs tax deferred accounts and using tools (like the Morningstar rankings) in making investment decisions. The class is designed so that we’ll learn just as much from the experiences of our classmates as we will from guest speakers. Each semester offers  a mix of presentations, guest speakers and reviews of our investing successes and failures.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 16, 2024
End Date
December 2, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
12
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M6
Return to top
Novels Old and New
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Cindy Collins
cindaa0812@gmail.com
608-220-3812
Jane Stimac
jstimac242@gmail.com
608-347-7819
Course Description
Click here to watch the Course Coordinator's Video
! During this fall session we will discuss the following novels: 9/16
The Sympathizer
by Viet Thang Nguyen; 9/30
Lessons in Chemistry
by Bonnie Grams; 10/14
I Must Betray You
by Run Sepetys; 10/28
A Ladder to the Sky
by John Boyne; and 11/11
The Black Tulip
by Alexander Dumas.
Location
Fitchburg Senior Center
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 16, 2024
End Date
November 18, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Monday
M7
Return to top
Exploring Creativity
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Karen Wulff
wulff.karen@gmail.com
608-770-8408
Course Description
This class is an ongoing workshop where individuals work on their personal art goals in a sharing environment. Participants can exchange knowledge and offer “gentle” feedback to each other if they want to. Bring the supplies you will need for your own project. We are fortunate to use this space. Come and make a commitment to yourself to do art at least two hours per week. Join a group of people who enjoy working on their art together in a peaceful and supportive environment.
Location
Christ Presbyterian Church
Meeting Day
Monday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 16, 2024
End Date
November 18, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
10
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T1
Return to top
Biography
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Chuck Pils
cmpils3304@gmail.com
608-772-8575
Course Description
We are biography readers who enjoy sharing their experiences. Presentations are participants’ responsibility. It is optional for participants to do a presentation. We look at biographies of widely different people; historical; political; show business; environmentalists, etc.
Location
Vista West
Meeting Day
Tuesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
December 10, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
13
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T2
Return to top
Healthy Aging and Self-Regulation
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Frank Stein
Franklin.Stein@usd.edu
608-274-1242
Course Description
The purpose of this course is to learn about the strategies older adults can use to maintain a quality life and prevent decline. We will explore seven factors related to healthy aging: exercise, Mediterranean Diet, cognitive stimulation, stress management, social engagement, purposeful and meaningful activities, and spiritual awareness. We will also explore the lives of centenarians and people from the Blue Zones.
#REF!
Location
Bethany United Methodist Church
Meeting Day
Tuesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
November 19, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
15
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T3
Return to top
Short Stories and Essays
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Irv Klibaner
ihklibaner@yahoo.com
608-628-6154
Course Description
For those who love reading and discussion, this is the perfect entertainment. One hour each is devoted to a short story and an essay. There is always a lively, opinionated, and friendly atmosphere with a welcome for all participants. Come join us as we delve into the ever-fascinating world of short stories and essays created by some of the best writers who have put pen to paper. Texts to be used:
The Art of the Story: An International Anthology of Contemporary Short Stories
, by Daniel Halpern.
Location
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Meeting Day
Tuesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
November 19, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
15
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T4
Return to top
Jazz
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Mike Lipp
lippfamily@charter.net
608-233-3943
Course Description
We are a congenial group of jazz enthusiasts ranging from eager newcomers to seasoned aficionados. All jazz genres are thoughtfully presented through class participation, documentaries, and visiting jazz musicians and scholars. We welcome all levels of jazz knowledge and no musical skills are required. (Note: We encourage class participation. There are no assignments, however, your enthusiasm is deeply appreciated and presentations are welcome.)
Location
Wisconsin Bank and Trust
Meeting Day
Tuesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
November 19, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T5
Return to top
History of the Hollywood Musical
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Michael Troudt
mgmfanatic@aol.com
920-279-1846
Course Description
This is a chronological history of the film musical beginning in 1939 with
The Wizard of Oz
and continuing onward through each decade. The films have been chosen due to their historical significance as well as their popularity at the box office.
Download the syllabus
Location
Capitol Lakes
Meeting Day
Tuesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
December 17, 2024
No Course Dates
November 26, 2024
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
35
# of Sessions
12
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Tuesday
T6
Return to top
Social Justice Book Discussion Group “Insiders and Outsiders”
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
MaryJo MacSwain
mjmacwi@earthlink.net
847-372-6806
Robin Proud
robinrproud@gmail.com
608-236-2229
Course Description
PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee leads this social justice book discussion group called “
Insiders and Outsiders
” to read and discuss five books. Week 1
Solito
by Javier Zamora; Week 3
Milked
by Ruth Conniff; Week 5
The Two-Parent Privilege
by Melissa Kearney; Week 7
The Tyranny of Merit
by Michael Sandel; and Week 9
The 9.9%
by Matthew Stewart.
These topics are even more important as we experience a critical election year.
The class meets every other week to allow adequate time for reading.
Participants are expected to have read the assigned book and to participate in class.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Meeting Day
Every other Tuesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 17, 2024
End Date
November 12, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
18
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W1
Return to top
Current Events AM
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Mert Corwin
mdcorwinjr@gmail.com
608-774-3403
Course Description
This class will discuss local, national, and international events. Some topics will be hot and current and others will be ongoing issues. Topics will be determined each week at the start of the session. All viewpoints are encouraged. The format will be very casual and interactive. Participants are encouraged to share relevant links via email during the week about topics for discussion.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
December 18, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Some reading/discussion expected
Class Size
20
# of Sessions
14
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W2
Return to top
Discussions in Philosophy
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Ed Cothroll
cothroll@tds.net
608-831-4493
Bill Colwell
wscacct@live.com
847-830-1501
John Miller
milo13@fastmail.com
317-430-1111
Course Description
We will continue to read and discuss the book
The Stone Reader: Modern Philosophy in 133 Arguments
, by Peter Catapano and Simon Critchley, published by Liveright, available in hard cover, paperback, or eBook formats. This is a fun book with a series of short essays on philosophical topics, fueling lively discussion about how those concepts apply to today’s world. New members do not need to read preceding sections of the book covered in Spring 2024. The essays stand alone. We’ll begin this term at
Where Is My Mind?
, on Page 293 of the paperback, and proceed sequentially.
Location
Hybrid
Bethany United Methodist Church
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W3
Return to top
Foundations of Modern Art
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Mary Em Kirn
mkfloridays@yahoo.com
239-287-2325
Course Description
During these four lectures, we'll examine the stylistic foundations of 20th century abstract and non-objective painting. Beginning with Impressionist paintings by Manet and Monet, and Post-Impressionist paintings by Van Gogh and Cezanne, we'll discover how these works influenced painters like Picasso and Matisse. Kandinsky's accidental discovery of non-objective painting in 1910 and the development of conceptual art during World War I are also essential in understanding many of the paintings created from the 1920s through the 1960s by both European and American artists.
Location
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Start Date
October 9, 2024
End Date
October 30, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
30
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W4
Return to top
Mindfulness of Daily Life
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Craig Wille
wille.craig@gmail.com
608-692-3163
Course Description
This course offers techniques and insights designed to cultivate mindfulness throughout your day – not just in formal sittings. Participants learn to integrate mindfulness into their routines, enhancing awareness and presence. Topics include wise effort, wise mindfulness, wise concentration, checking the attitude and dealing with the wandering mind. The practices associated with Burmese monk Sayadaw U Tejaniya – sometimes called Receptive Awareness – will be featured. While prior knowledge of traditional mindfulness techniques may be helpful, this class can be successfully taken by those without a meditation background. Each class session with include lecture and opportunities to practice mindfulness techniques.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W5
Return to top
Global Affairs and the Media
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Leon Lindberg
lindbe@tds.net
608-571-9468
Steve Hirsch
hirsch4622@icloud.com
608-347-5810
Kirk Elliott
kirk_elliott@hotmail.com
608-213-6100
James Danowski
jdanowski@gmail.com
630-726-6442
Course Description
We focus on international events and concerns, addressing American issues only as they relate to the rest of the world. An invited speaker or a member of the group will make a presentation of about 40 minutes followed by your questions and comments for perhaps 20 minutes. We'll take a break and then pull some chairs into a circle and discuss items of interest that members have brought to the meeting. Members are invited to bring a news clipping or news item summary. We hope to increase our exposure to high-quality sources of news and information.
Location
Hybrid
Capitol Lakes
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W6
Return to top
Writing Workshop - WED
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Andy Millman
mill60062@yahoo.com
847-275-6251
Course Description
“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” Stephen King,
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
. Maybe you haven’t written the first word. Possibly you’re polishing that manuscript. Our writers’ group will provide you with the feedback, structure and support you need to push forward or get started. All writers are welcome, regardless of your experience or the type of writing you wish to pursue.
Andy Millman’s writing has appeared in several outlets, including
Whistling Shade, Points in Case, Midwest Review, The Big Jewel, Zest Literary Journal, Black Heart Magazine, Flash Fiction Magazine, The Helix,
and
Pif Magazine.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
14
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W7
Return to top
Film History
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Mary Klink
jgmk10@gmail.com
608–235–9631
Course Description
I LOVE MOVIES!!! If you love cinema as much as I do and enjoy learning about the evolution of film over the years, you will definitely enjoy this semester of film history. I will cover films of the 1930s, the beginning of the Golden Age of Hollywood Cinema. We’ll have a few international films in the collection as well. I’ll introduce each film with background on pertinent aspects of the historical times and the movie’s place in cinema history. We will watch the film in class and then have a spirited discussion after the class. All comments are welcome.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Oakwood Village University Woods Campus
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W8
Return to top
CANCELLED:
What Confucius Might Have Said Regarding the Analects
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
William H. Nienhauser, Jr.
whnienha@wisc.edu
--
Course Description
We shall read the first nine core chapters of the
Lunyu
usually known as
Confucius’ Analects
or sometimes
Confucian Analects
, a book of unknown authorship containing comments by Confucius as well as discussions with his disciples and political figures of that time (Confucius lived from 551-479 BCE).
The Analects
was compiled based on centuries of oral transmission by Confucius’s disciples in about 150 BCE. In the class the coordinator will introduce each chapter and point out some of the difficulties in understanding this enigmatic text, followed by a general discussion from class members.
Location
Bethany United Methodist Church
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 13, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
Unlimited
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
W8
Return to top
CANCELLED:
The Great Society 1964 to 2024. How Did it Change America?
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Alan Zuckerman
mzazdc@yahoo.com
608-216-5496
Course Description
President Lyndon Johnson and the Congress created the Great Society by passing 60 laws that created more than 150 new or expanded programs. They included the War on Poverty, Medicare and Medicaid, aid for cities, immigration, support for the arts, environmental initiatives, and voting rights. Most are still functioning. We will study the impact and trace their development and funding over 60 years.
Download the syllabus
Location
Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
November 20, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
18
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
10
W8
Return to top
Current Events - PM
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Meg Taylor
taylome@charter.net
608-369-3578
Jerry Burns
geburns@facstaff.wisc.edu
608-556-2924
Course Description
This is an in-depth discussion course on current events in Wisconsin, the United States and the World. Course members choose the topics and volunteer to lead and moderate a discussion or two. We email readings and website links prior to each discussion. Each presenter may invite a guest with some first-hand knowledge or experience on the topic for the discussion.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 18, 2024
End Date
December 4, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
27
# of Sessions
12
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Wednesday
11
W9
Return to top
Pinney Lane Book Discussion Group
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Nancy Miller
nancym2079@gmail.com
608-320-0896
Course Description
This group meets on the first Wednesday of the month to discuss a novel: September 4; October 2; November 6; and December 4. The book selections are determined in the spring of each year and assigned to a specific month. Group members volunteer to lead the discussion one month out of the year, and also select a month to bring treats to share with the group one month out of the year. The books selected for this fall and early 2025 are included on the syllabus.
Download the syllabus
#N/A
Location
Pinney Library
Meeting Day
Wednesday
Meeting Time
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 4, 2024
End Date
December 4, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
15
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH1
Return to top
What in the World Happened
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Chuck Pils
cmpils3304@gmail.com
608-772-8575
Course Description
This course is made up of presentations on eclectic historical topics of interest. Examples of topics come from natural disasters, historical battles, assassinations, political events, etc. Presentations last 45 minutes to an hour (or more, depending upon presenter and topic), with time remaining for questions and answers. Enthusiastic Q & A’s are the norm. Topics this semester are determined by the group.
Location
Vista West
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
December 12, 2024
No Course Dates
November 28, 2024
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
12
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH2
Return to top
The Roots of Modern American Popular Music
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Tim Otis
tierneyotis@gmail.com
608 233 1050
Course Description
This course will explore the variety of musical influences that have formed the foundations for modern American popular music. We will explore the complex interactions of a variety of musical forms that evolved from an incredibly diverse environment. We will review the following musical traditions: country, blues, folk, New Orleans jazz, western swing, gospel, urban blues, cajun/zydeco, etc.; and how they all influenced each other and evolved into the rich variety of modern American music. During each class we will will listen to music, watch videos, and engage in discussions.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
November 21, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
15
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH3
Return to top
Exploring Generative AI or How I Learned To Stop Worrying and Love Large Language Models
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Donaby Henton
aiexplorer125@gmail.com
--
Course Description
Take a non-technical dive into ChatGPT, Midjourney and Generative AI. We will take a high level look at how they work and what that means for their results. Try your hand at AI generated knock-knock jokes and pictures of tabby cats rollering skating on Venice Beach! We will review use cases and social ramifications, specifically the Writers Guild Agreement and the Midjourney lawsuit.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
October 10, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH4
Return to top
Writing Workshop - THURS
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Andy Millman
mill60062@yahoo.com
847-275-6251
Course Description
“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” Stephen King,
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
. Maybe you haven’t written the first word. Possibly you’re polishing that manuscript. Our writers’ group will provide you with the feedback, structure and support you need to push forward or get started. All writers are welcome, regardless of your experience or the type of writing you wish to pursue.
Andy Millman’s writing has appeared in several outlets, including
Whistling Shade, Points in Case, Midwest Review, The Big Jewel, Zest Literary Journal, Black Heart Magazine, Flash Fiction Magazine, The Helix,
and
Pif Magazine.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
November 21, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
14
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH5
Return to top
The Play's the Thing
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Tess Mulrooney
tlmmdsn@aol.com
608-257-5595
Course Description
Each semester we read (aloud) and discuss three or four plays using an integrated approach which allows everyone to participate. Participant volunteers will present a brief background of each play and playwright before reading begins. This semester we will read:
The Sisters Rosenzweig, District Merchants, A Doll’s House Part ll
, and presenter’s choice of an Inge play. During the final month of class, the group will select plays for the following semester and consider which play they may be interested in leading.
Note: On Nov. 21 class will meet in the Lake Room at Christ Presbyterian Church.
Location
Madison Senior Center
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Start Date
October 3, 2024
End Date
December 5, 2024
No Course Dates
November 28, 2024
Participation
Class Size
15
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH5
Return to top
We Love a Mystery
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Barbara Evans
evansbj@charter.net
608-833-6822
Course Description
This class meets every two weeks (or every other week)
to discuss and critique contemporary mystery novels. Members take turns leading the discussion focusing on the author, settings, characters, plot development, and conclusion. Readings are chosen at the end of each semester for the next semester. Novels can be found in the South Central Library System.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
very other Thursday
Meeting Time
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
December 5, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
18
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Thursday
TH5
Return to top
A History of Matter in the Universe
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Sebastian Heinz
heinzs@astro.wisc.edu
--
Course Description
This course will be a semester-long overview of how the stuff we and our planet are made of got to be and how it ended up on this planet, from the big bang to the formation of Earth's crust.
Download the syllabus.
Download Sebastian Heinz's bio.
Location
Hybrid
UW Space Place
Meeting Day
Thursday
Meeting Time
7:00pm to 9:00pm
Start Date
September 19, 2024
End Date
November 21, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Some reading/discussion expected
Class Size
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Friday
F1
Return to top
Who's Driving the Bus?
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Janet Bailey
jb.plato.jb@gmail.com
--
Course Description
Are politics and current events too much for you lately? Do headlines have you convinced we're headed for a black hole and there's nothing we can do to escape? If so, this might be the course for you. If you're not on guard, your mind and time can easily be hijacked. Take hold of the steering wheel and do a course correction toward a saner, less stressful life as we explore distraction, critical thinking, negativity, time, sleep, handling too much of everything, and much more.
Download the syllabus.
Location
Virtual
Meeting Day
Friday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Start Date
September 20, 2024
End Date
November 1, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Regular reading/discussion expected
Class Size
18
# of Sessions
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Friday
F2
Return to top
Shakespeare's Comedies: Method and Meaning
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Thomas Schlicht
608-831-6593
Course Description
We examine five often-staged comedies:
Twelfth Night, Merchant of Venice, As You Like It, Taming of the Shrew
and
The Tempest
. Discover how the Bard created his comic masterpieces as we read plot outlines and analysis by expert critics and watch key scenes from the plays. Join our fun-loving group as we discuss the young lovers who overcome the obstacles to love and marriage and the villains who get their just desserts.
Note: $15.00 fee for handouts and coordinator expenses such as purchase of books and DVDs.
Location
Madison Senior Center
Meeting Day
Friday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 20, 2024
End Date
November 22, 2024
No Course Dates
Participation
Some reading/discussion expected
Class Size
10
# of Sessions
10
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Friday
F3
Return to top
PLATO Travel
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
Annette Bollig
acbollig@gmail.com
267-303-1328
Kevin Bollig
kevinbollig@gmail.com
267-303-1328
Lois Baseler
loisbaseler@gmail.com
608-220-1840
Linn Roth
linnroth102@gmail.com
608-238-2297
Course Description
PLATO Travel Group participants are adventurous, curious, and eager to share their experiences and information from trips all over the planet. Members present travelogues of their adventures and information on their destinations in a friendly atmosphere where exchange and discussion are welcome. The group compiles information on various travel companies and tips for specific trips, and members socialize and explore trip materials during a mid-presentation break. We encourage members to bring friends interested in a trip topic and/or joining PLATO, and armchair travelers are always welcome!
Download the syllabus.
Location
Capitol Lakes
Meeting Day
Friday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 27, 2024
End Date
Either December 6 or 13, 2024
No Course Dates
October 11 & November 29, 2024
Participation
No reading to minimal reading
Class Size
No limit
# of Sessions
10 or 11
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
Friday
F4
Return to top
Reading the Classics: Reading Anna Karenina
Coordinator
Name
Email
Phone
John and Jan Kinar
jrkinar@gmail.com
608 238-2826
Course Description
This semester we will read
Anna Karenina
, one of Leo Tolstoy’s masterpieces. We will read the Rosamund Bartlett translation published by Oxford World’s Classics with an ISBN of 9780198748847. For the first class please read through chapter 16, page 60.
Location
Hybrid
Fitchburg Senior Center
Meeting Day
Friday
Meeting Time
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Start Date
September 20, 2024
End Date
December 6, 2024
No Course Dates
November 29, 2024
Participation
High participation with assignments and/or possible presentations by participants
Class Size
14
# of Sessions
11
Registration
Required, contact coordinator for instructions
PLATO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supported in part by:
info@platomadison.org
Facebook: @platomadison
608-572-6869
6209 Mineral Point Road #203
Madison, WI 53705
Wild Apricot
Membership Software