“If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you
don’t understand it yourself.”
―
HIS250
Our Place in the Universe
Our Place in the Universe will take us from the beginning of time to today and tomorrow. We will be able to touch, photograph, and explore fossils, rocks, stone-age tools, and other archaeological finds to build an understanding of the story of the cosmos, earth, life, and humanity. We will weave evidence and perspectives from many disciplines into a single modern origin story that explores who we are, how we got here, how we are connected to everything around us, and where we may be heading.
LSO570
The Emergence of Complexity
Everything that exists has a history: each person, plant, animal, and object, our planet, the entire universe. Each of these histories offers valuable insights, collectively revealing even more. Big history is an emerging academic discipline that examines the long timeframes of history from the Big Bang to the present. It employs a multidisciplinary study of the cosmos, earth, life, and humanity using the latest scientific methods and empirical evidence. It weaves evidence and perspectives from many disciplines into a single modern origin story, one that explores who we are, how we got here, how we are connected to everything around us, and where we may be heading.
This Big History course begins with the origins of the universe and goes on to discuss the origins of stars and planets, of life on earth, the emergence of human beings, and the various types of human societies that have existed up to the present day. History on this sort of scale encourages each of us to consider our place in the global world of the twenty-first century and to think of how we might contribute to the future of that world.
LSO416
Toronto: Citizenship in the 21st Century 
Toronto is recognized as one of the world’s best and most livable cities. It has experienced tremendous growth throughout its history and promises to be a world leader in innovations and quality of life for its citizens. It is home to dynamic multicultural neighbourhoods, first-rate hospitals, educational institutions, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. However, it faces many challenges in the 21st century. Along with economic development comes the serious problems of climate change, the need to improve public transit, community health issues, and adequate support and housing. This course is designed to assess how the City works, and how active citizens can contribute to its development over the next 50 years.
This course is offered in partnership with the City of Toronto, Seneca College, and other Toronto area colleges and universities. Six of the classes will take place at Toronto City Hall together with students from the other colleges and universities. These classes will be taught by leading City of Toronto officials. The remaining classes will be held online by Seneca College. All assignments and grading will be conducted by Seneca College.
SLL307
Sociology: A Practical Approach
To understand the social
determinants of thoughts, feelings, and actions it is necessary to explore the role of social forces, that is, the role of society, social relations, social institutions, and the process of socialization in shaping human psychology and conduct. Since every individual is born into a pre-existing society, it seems reasonable that an introduction to the social sciences begins with a presentation of basic sociological concepts, theories, and principles, and how these may be applied toward an understanding of the individual’s place in the social world.
Richard Feynman
“The goal of teaching should not be to help the students learn how to memorize and spit out information under academic pressure. The purpose of teaching is to inspire the desire for learning in them and make them able to think, understand, and question.”
“Your intelligence cannot be measured by a number. It is defined by your willingness to learn, solve problems, and try new things. You are more than just a number. Develop your skills. Share your brilliant ideas. Your skills are more valuable than your grades.”
gus.lyn-piluso@senecapolytechnic.ca
ADDRESS
13990 Dufferin St King City, ON L7B1B3