The Skeptics Society & Skeptic magazine

Episode 182
Teaching with Monsters

In episode 182 of MonsterTalk, we are delighted to introduce Dr. Thor Hansen to listeners. For several years he’s been teaching a course at Western Washington University that uses monsters to teach science. I think you’re going to enjoy what he’s been up to — and I know some of you may want to reach out to him about similar projects or check out his course online.

Geology professor Thor Hansen (left) and English professor Bruce Beasley (right) pose for a portrait in Beasley’s office in the Humanities building. (Photo by Caleb Galbreath)

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Books Mentioned

• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (link is to annotated version for Makers)
• Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood

Other Things

• High frequency sounds to deter loitering
• Spanish Flu of 1918 (details Louisiana’s “Wookie”)
• Stalking Cat (the “Cat Faced Man” (1958–2012)

Thor Hansen’s Class (Online)

• Geology 204 Syllabus
• Western Washington University Online (non-Matriculated student info)

Music

• Monstertalk Theme: Monster by Peach Stealing Monkeys

The views expressed on this program are not necessarily the views of the Skeptics Society or Skeptic magazine.