This course is designed for high school students who are interested in learning about the Jamaica Stock Exchange and how to analyze data to develop profitable investment strategies. The course will introduce students to the basics of the stock market and financial statements, and then dive into data analysis using programming skills to extract insights from stock data. Students will learn how to use programming languages such as Python to analyze stock returns and trading volume, and how to identify key variables that can impact investment decisions. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of the Jamaica Stock Exchange and the tools and techniques needed to make informed investment decisions, particularly as it relates to computational trading strategies.

We are currently living in an era of unprecedented scientific progress, much of which has been fueled by the increase in computational power. In the 60 years since researchers first discovered DNA, the code of life, we have gained an understanding of the complex processes that turn this string of nucleic acids into the complex life forms we see across the planet. We are now able to genetically engineer cells, plants, animals, and even human beings with remarkable precision; develop novel vaccines for diseases such as HIV and even some cancers; and create artificial organs from stem cells. We are living in the era of the biotechnological revolution!

Given the imminent changes that will happen across the globe within the next 40 years due to climate change, we will need a generation of doctors, engineers, and scientists who can use their understanding of both biology and computer science to create new medicines, use nature’s complexity to engineer new materials, stabilize ecosystems from collapse and even generate new sources of food.

Heat transfer is a pillar (core class) for all disciplines of engineering and this course delves into the dynamics involved in the process. Students will learn about the fundamentals of heat transfer and the different parameters that govern the effective and efficient transference of energy. Furthermore, mathematical approaches to solving heat transfer problems will be developed as well as an ability to apply the lessons learnt to real world problems. Additionally, students will study different unit operations that are used on an industrial level for thermal control. Heat exchangers will be primarily covered but as time permits, other units may be touched upon such as air conditioners. Although these “practical” experiments will be virtual, students will be exposed to the actual operation of these equipment and how their data is collected and analyzed. Finally, students will be given scenarios to determine the necessary parameters and dimensions for a heat exchanger that will achieve the desired level of heat transfer/temperature of a process stream. This is an excellent opportunity for high school students with an advanced background in Chemistry and Math and are interested in Engineering in college.

The Self-Design Course in Humanities and Social Sciences is an interdisciplinary study program that allows students to tailor their learning experience according to their individual interests and goals. The course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore a range of topics across the humanities and social sciences, including but not limited to literature, history, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and anthropology. Through a combination of independent research, mentorship, and collaborative learning, students will develop critical thinking skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and deepen their understanding of the human experience. The course will culminate in a final project that reflects the student's unique learning journey and showcases their mastery of the chosen topics. Participants will approach projects with a distinctly Caribbean focus.

What might Vybz Kartel, Queen Elizabeth I, and Kim Kardashian tell us about this thing called ‘race’? Or how do we make sense of someone like Eileen Clemetson-Goffe, a biracial Jamaican woman who passed for a white person in Nazi Germany? And why would the American Anthropological Association release a statement in 1998 declaring that there is no biological basis for race? 

Is it possible that examining the past can help us to produce interesting answers to these questions? 

This course will introduce students to histories of race in the Caribbean and the United States through film, literature, historical archives, and cutting edge scholarly arguments. We will spend nine weeks meditating on the concept as we strive to engage three questions each time: How does race structure our societies? How have people responded to ideas about race? Why and how have these ideas shifted over time?

Class sessions will include visits to museums and historical archives in Kingston and St. Andrew. There will be three major assignments to get students exposed to research in this area.

The Self-Design Course in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is a personalized learning program that empowers students to pursue their interests and passions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This interdisciplinary course provides students with the opportunity to explore topics across a range of STEM disciplines, including but not limited to biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and mathematics. Through a combination of independent research, project-based learning, and mentorship, students will develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise. The course will culminate in a final project that showcases the student's mastery of the chosen topics and demonstrates their readiness for further studies or careers in STEM fields.

The 21st century presents us with complex social, political, environmental, and economic issues that challenge the international world order as we now know it. This course is designed for high school students interested in exploring contemporary debates in international politics, and developing a comprehensive understanding of the most pressing political issues of our times. We will cover basic international relations theory, with a twist: from the bottom up. We will cover the formation of the nation-state, the rise of corporations, globalization, historical justice, migration, climate change, autocracy, and war. Students will also have an opportunity to embark on an independent study, on a topic of their choice related to course materials. In this process, we will teach introductory research skills, key quantitative and qualitative research methods, and theory construction. We will also encourage students to engage in different short field trips, case studies, and interviews. By the end of the course, students will have a strong grasp of contemporary international political debates.

This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the principles of creative writing, as well as opportunities to gain practical experience in various forms of creative expression. Drawing on the expertise of award-winning poets, novelists, playwrights, and filmmakers, students will explore the theory and techniques of creative writing in a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

The course will cover a range of topics, including: The fundamentals of Storytelling and Narrative structure, Character Development and Dialogue, Setting and Description, Poetry and Verse, Playwriting and Screenwriting, Editing and Revision.

Students will engage in a variety of writing exercises and workshops, with opportunities to receive feedback and constructive criticism from their peers and instructor. They will also have the chance to draw on the practical experience of local filmmakers and other industry professionals such as Lorna Goodison, Tanya Shirley and Kei Miller.

This course will introduce students to the assessment and treatment of mental health conditions utilizing a clinical science approach. Students will learn the history of clinical psychology and current controversies in the field. Students will examine and discuss current practices in diagnosing and treating mental disorders, considering current research methodologies and findings. 

After gaining experience evaluating such research, there will be an opportunity for students to prepare a research proposal related to psychopathology and mental health. Proposals will allow students to learn how to conduct a literature review and common research methods in psychology. 

This introductory course is designed to introduce high school students to the fascinating world of biomedical engineering. Through interactive and engaging projects, students will learn about the principles of biomedical engineering and how it is used to improve human health. The course will cover topics such as biomedical instrumentation, bioimaging, biomaterials, and biomechanics. Students will work on interesting projects such as designing and building prosthetic limbs, developing and testing new medical devices, and exploring the field of tissue engineering. 

By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of the impact that biomedical engineering has on society and how they can pursue a career in this exciting field.

In this course, students will delve into the fascinating world of actuarial science, a field essential for managing risk in insurance, finance, and other industries. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, participants will gain insight into how actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess and mitigate risks.

Topics covered will include probability theory, life contingencies, and financial mathematics, providing students with the foundational knowledge needed to analyze and interpret data in actuarial contexts. Additionally, students will explore case studies and real-world examples to understand the role of actuaries in decision-making processes.

By the end of the course, students will have developed analytical skills applicable to various industries and gained an appreciation for the importance of actuarial science in managing uncertainty and securing financial stability.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the intersection between sports, business, and law, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and commercial aspects of the sports industry. Through case studies, discussions, and guest lectures from industry professionals, participants will examine key topics such as contract negotiation, intellectual property rights, athlete representation, and regulatory compliance.

Students will also explore the evolving landscape of sports media, sponsorship, and branding, gaining insights into the economic forces shaping modern sports organizations. Additionally, the course will cover legal issues surrounding doping, gambling, and athlete welfare, equipping students with the knowledge needed to navigate complex ethical and legal dilemmas in sports management.

By the end of the course, students will have developed critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of the business dynamics and legal frameworks that govern the global sports industry.