Instructor: James Chavez

No image available Biography: James Chavez spent 10 years as a high school educator in Colorado, teaching U.S. History and Introduction to Philosophy while also serving as a football coach and assistant principal. He also lived and worked in Singapore for four years. As a businessman, he has more than 35 years of experience traveling China and Taiwan, providing firsthand insight into the region's culture, history and business environment.

Courses by this instructor


Introduction to Mandarin Chinese

Introduction to Mandarin Chinese
Explore the basics of Mandarin Chinese while learning about Chinese history and culture. Students will develop practical communication skills through common vocabulary, simple conversations, and basic sentence structure. The course also introduces Chinese characters, allowing students to read and write simple words and phrases. By the end of the course, students will be able to communicate in everyday situations, including ordering food in a Chinese restaurant.
September 22, 2026 to November 10, 2026, WDC*D212

Introduction to Philosophy

Introduction to Philosophy
This introductory course explores the foundations of Western philosophy through the teachings and ideas of three of history's most influential thinkers: Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Participants will gain a basic understanding of key philosophical concepts, including ethics, knowledge, logic, and the nature of reality, while discussing how these ideas continue to shape modern thought and society. Through engaging conversation and reflection, students will be introduced to the art of critical thinking and philosophical inquiry in an approachable and thought-provoking format.
October 29, 2026 to November 5, 2026, WDC*D123