PHILADELPHIA There are lectures at the University of Pennsylvania this summer that can fit into even the busiest schedule. That because each of them lasts only a minute.

The 60-Second Lecture Series is the 1999 creation of Valerie Ross, director of summer sessions at Penn.

Past talks have involved a roll of toilet paper; the transformation of Benjamin Franklin, one of Penn founders, into the patron saint of Penn; singing; heckling; live local music; and free dessert.

Penn President Judith Rodin and Provost Robert Barchi are participating in this year series. Rodin will be discussing West Philadelphia, Penn home.

Ross created the series in 1999 instead of the more standard lecture series she had originally intended to establish.

She selected the subject of "error" as a topic for discussion and approached several faculty members with her proposal. The professors confessed that they could only talk on the subject for 60 seconds and wouldn know what to do for the rest of the hour.

"It struck me that we all have a condensed bit of wisdom, knowledge and insight to share," Ross said. "And that it might be more fun and interesting to hear especially when presented with a light touch and good humor."

Cristle Collins Judd, director of graduate studies in the Department of Music, chose musical time for her recent one-minute lecture. She felt that it was challenging to suggest "an experiential space" in the constraints of 60 seconds.

"It an extraordinary exercise in discipline," Judd said. "I really did try to make a serious point. It meant every word and note had to count."

In addition to Rodin and Barchi, other 60-second lecturers will include Sheldon Hackney, former Penn president; Charles McMahon, a professor of material science and engineering; and Neville Strumpf, interim dean of Penn School of Nursing.

The lectures take place outdoors Wednesdays at noon, except July 4, at 37th Street and Locust Walk.