What can I teach?

Our answer to this question is usually "Anything!" And that is the short answer. There are a handful of exceptions to our "teach anything" policy, but for the most part, we encourage teachers to be as creative as possible.

It's ok to not have have a very flashy or cool-sounding class! Classes like "Introduction to Python" or "Introduction to X language" have been very popular in the past, because many students want to learn about these topics! Think about the things you're interested in, and you'll probably find many interesting things to teach!

Many people have a hard time coming up with ideas for classes off the top of their heads. This page has a summary of some class ideas, and the materials we have to offer for your classes. Even if you don't directly use things from the lists, we hope they inspire you with the possibilities.

If you want to look at past classes with detailed class materials, resources, and advice, here's a spreadsheet for inspiration or reference when designing your own class!

If you're unsure what to teach, here's a sheet that could help you brainstorm some ideas!

Classes suggested by past students

  • Archaeology
  • Astronomy for non-physicists
  • Beginner or advanced knitting
  • Introduction to Programming in your language of choice (VERY popular!)
  • Music theory
  • Bubble tea-making
  • Basics of Chess strategy
  • Introduction to some language (many, MANY students suggest language classes, especially ASL)
  • Ballroom dance
  • Psychology, sociology, and/or criminology
  • Comparative religion
  • Neurodivergence
  • NaNoWriMo workshop
  • Anatomy and/or dissection
  • Checking out past catalogs is also a great way to get ideas.
  • Use our random class generator

Materials we have or can get (details)

  • Arts and crafts: popsicle sticks, fabric, glitter, etc.
  • Paint (and rollers, brushes, trays, masks, etc.)
  • Supplies to make dreamcatchers, henna, and plaster masks
  • All the fixings for tie-dye, except the dye
  • Balloons, helium regulator, water balloons
  • Oscilloscope and function generator
  • Sports equipment (frisbees, soccer balls, etc.)
  • Large wooden compasses (for e.g. drawing large circles)
  • Materials for speaker construction
  • Axis and Allies (3 sets)
  • Over 60 pairs of poi (made from pantyhose and tennis balls)
  • Over 20 Rubik's cubes
  • See our full inventory


Last modified on Oct. 05, 2023 at 09:55 a.m.