Thus from my thesis, Manitou Movie School was born, an effort to put theory into practice.
This intial incarnation of the school consists of a pilot project divided into three phases:
Implementation of basic introductory cannabis course targeted to select groups. Possible implementation of more advanced specialized cannabis courses as well as noncannabis-oriented exploratory movie courses.
Continuation of basic cannabis course. Implementation of specialized cannabis courses as well as exploratory movie courses. Possible implementation of more advanced cinema-based courses.
Continuation of basic and specialized cannabis courses and exploratory movie courses. Implementation of more advanced cinema-based courses.
Phase I (2015):
Phase II (2016):
Phase III (2017):
In 2014 I obtained my Master of Arts degree from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.
With a specialization in creative writing, I combined my scientific leanings and investigations with my more artistic side, exploring forms and methods in creative nonfiction, screenwriting, playwriting, short story, graphic novel, and other areas.
Central to my studies were two ideas I harbored and continued to develop throughout my Master's pursuits:
1. Creating my own ideal school or classroom
2. Teaching with film, a method I came to call cinema-based education
These ideas were explored and developed in a number of papers as well as independent studies.
While working on my Master's degree I also continued to pursue my work on medicinal use of cannabis from a pharmacist's perspective. This resulted in two public presentations on cannabis, one at Regis' graduate symposium in the summer of 2012, and another in my hometown of Manitou Springs in early 2014.
For the fuller story of how I got to Regis, along my various previous experiences and explorations that led to Manitou Movie School, go here.
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History of the Sixites on Film
A Prototype Course Demonstrating the Application of
Cinema-Based Education
&
An Initial Blueprint for the "Manitou Movie School"
Dean A. Frankmore
In the choosing of my thesis I decided to further develop the idea of cinema-based education and outline what a typical course (in this case one called History of the Sixties on Film) might look like in utilizing this approach. I would also cite research to support this method of instruction as well as other practices and approaches that would be found in my ideal school/classroom.
While writing my thesis the subject of cannabis once again came up, so I decided to weave this topical subject into the rest of my presentation. Thereby I would create a "thesis within a thesis" or what would come to be called my thesis of the garnish.
To be honest, the entirety of this thesis would be my solution to the root of humanity's ills. At least that was my intent as I wrote it. But, if there is in fact a difference, perhaps it is first and foremost an answer to my own.
For a detailed synopsis of my thesis go here.
A Thesis on Education and Cannabis
A Master's in Creative Writing
The Beginnings of a Pilot Project
For a glimpse at my original conception of course organization and descriptions go here.
