Weekend classes more than easy units
By Priscalla Castro
The Collegian
A department on campus offers weekend-long, one-credit classes, giving students a way to earn quick units.
The Division of Continuing and Global Education classes are designed to enhance learning for students and the community, Lynne Ashbeck, Extension Programs Director said.
The program offers courses during summer school; during the regular semester it offers more than just one unit courses.
Extension courses are open not only to students, but to anyone who would like to attend. They also extend learning beyond the original classroom setting. These classes differ from the regular classroom setting in the length. Many classes last about 15 hours and usually run on a Friday and Saturday.
The courses are offered on weekends because people who take the courses usually have jobs or “because the audience is different,” Ashbeck said.
It surprises people when they see how busy the campus is on Fridays and Saturdays, Ashbeck said.
University students who would like to take Extended Education classes can take up to 24 units (including summer school units), to be applied towards obtaining their bachelor’s degree. The courses that can be applied towards academic credit correspond with the catalog, said Ashbeck.
People with their bachelor’s degrees in professions such as teaching and health care also take extended education courses. There are a number of courses geared especially for teachers. Ashbeck said teachers like to take additional courses because these courses help them expand their careers.
“The goal is the lifelong learning idea,” Ashbeck said.
Extended Education also offers courses to prepare for exams such as the GRE and the CBEST. In addition, there are certificate program courses for students.
While some of the extended ed instructors are faculty members, they may not teach during the regular semester. Those who teach the extended education courses have a passion for certain areas.
“It gives them a way to explore things they love,” Ashbeck said.
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