UC Berkeley Extension Announces Free and Low-Cost Public Events for Spring 2010

Programs to highlight green chemistry, technology in education, the Obama administration, and interior design

BERKELEY, Calif., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The newest developments in green chemistry, the impact of technology on education, an in-depth analysis of President Obama's first 15 months in office, and the latest trends in working with color are the subjects of this spring's public lecture series from UC Berkeley Extension. These free and low-cost public programs are part of how UC Berkeley Extension fulfills its mission to bring the educational excellence of the University of California, Berkeley, to the community.

Can We Achieve a Sustainable Future? The Role of Green Chemistry

Discover the latest developments in green chemistry, a growing field that is reducing and eliminating the use of hazardous substances in the environment. Join Dr. Robert Peoples, director of the American Chemistry Society's Green Chemistry Institute, for a lively dialogue about green chemistry's role in weaning the public off petroleum and tackling the challenges of global sustainability.

Thursday, March 25, 6:30–8 p.m.; UC Berkeley campus, 105 Stanley Hall; free

The 29th Annual Panel on the Presidency: Obama Settles In

During his first 15 months in office, President Obama has faced a series of  political challenges: an economic crisis, record-breaking unemployment, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and health care reform. Join political experts and commentators for a lively discussion of the president's performance and what may lie ahead. Presented by the Institute of Governmental Studies and UC Berkeley Extension.

Monday, April 12, 6:30–8 p.m.; UC Berkeley campus, 155 Dwinelle Hall; free

How Technology Is Transforming the World of Education

Collaborative technology and interactive media are dramatically changing education in the classroom and how students learn. Join Chris Walsh, director of innovation and design for New Tech Network, for an inside look at the major trends in the use of Web 2.0 -- from e-learning to professional development -- as he outlines important steps that educators, parents, and students can take now to prepare for the changes ahead.

Saturday, April 17, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; UC Berkeley campus, 160 Kroeber Hall; free

The Power of Color

This fast-paced lecture offers insight into working with color, including how to use color indexes, how to pick colors for any space, and how to understand the latest trends in color. Through in-class exercises, learn how seeing and vision are distinguished, how light influences color, and how pigments are harmonized.

Saturday, May 1, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; UC Berkeley Extension Art and Design Center, 95 Third St.; $10

For more information or to reserve a seat for any of these events, please visit: extension.berkeley.edu/prog/public.html.

Founded in 1891, UC Berkeley Extension is the continuing education branch of the University of California, Berkeley. Today, Extension offers 1,500 courses each year, including online courses, along with more than 60 professional certificates and specialized programs of study. Free and low-cost public programs are also frequently offered as a community service. Learn more at extension.berkeley.edu.

SOURCE UC Berkeley Extension