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Course Description

This unique course combines class sessions and field learning. The sessions will be split into two parts. The first part will examine how birding affects the brain, body and personality of the individual birder. The second part will teach bird identification, appreciation and field study. We will take time at each session to observe bird feeders strategically placed on campus. The topics in the first part will include how birding promotes neuroplasticity and slows the progression of senile dementia and Alzheimer’s; reduces pain by decreasing baseline inflammation throughout the body; counteracts depression and anxiety; reduces loneliness by encouraging social interaction; promotes memory function by activating the auditory cortex of the brain; and offsets the negative physical effects of aging. In the second part, we will study bird anatomy, physical bird characteristics, flight adaptations, functions of bird behavior, migration, bird conservation and ecology, and identifying bird songs using eBird and Merlin.

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

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Section Title
Birding and the Brain w/ Daniel Dolesh and Jeff Potocsnak - Spring 2026 - Eastern
Type
Discussion/Lecture
Days
F
Time
9:00AM to 9:50AM
Dates
Mar 27, 2026 to May 08, 2026
Schedule and Location
View Details
Contact Hours
5.8
Location
Delivery Options
In Class/In Person  
Course Fee(s)
Encore Fee non-credit $0.00