World History from 1700, Part 2

This class is taught in English.

The class has two main goals. The first goal is to provide you with a basic factual understanding of the development of human civilization from 1700 to the present. Just as important, however, is the ability to use this information productively.  Thus, this class will also stress the ability to integrate the mass of factual data into some basic understanding of how the “modern” world arose, and the issues which concern policymakers today.  In addition, the examinations are designed to develop the ability to think critically.  Rote memorization is not as important as the ability to produce and evaluate arguments based on historical evidence.  Please do not forget that the most effective learning occurs when you are actively involved.

Dr. Brezina has taught world history at various university prep schools in Europe and the United States and as well as at several American colleges and universities.

Every second week students will read one primary document related to our topic that we will discuss in class. If students are interested, I will add additional material (books, articles, documentary films, etc.) that will be optional sources of information for the students. The class will be a combination of engaging lectures and facilitated Socratic seminar-style discussions. 

1 hour 40 minutes per week in class, and an estimated 0 - 1 hours per week outside of class.

There are many sources that are used for teaching the global past in this course. Dr. Brezina studied various primary and secondary sources (articles, book, dissertations, etc.) during his years as a teacher and professor of history that will allow him to interpret world history objectively and address the full range of a variety of peoples' histories, including marginalized populations. For example, Dr. Brezina will draw from two books, Patterns of World History, Volume Two, by Peter von Sivers and Worlds of History, Volume Two: A Comparative Reader by Kevin Reilly, both of which are commonly used as objective and multi-cultural history textbooks in U.S. higher education. (However, Dr. Brezina does not require students to purchase or use these books.)