Welcome to “Understanding Today’s World through History". 

This a unique and dynamic class designed for inquisitive minds eager to delve into the complexities of current world events. 

Going beyond the headlines, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of not just the “what” but more importantly, the “why” behind today’s news stories.

In this class, students will:

1. Explore Current Events: Stay informed with weekly discussions on the most pressing global issues, from politics and economics to social movements and environmental challenges.

2. Analyze Historical Context: Understand the historical roots and precedents that shape today’s world. By studying key historical events, students will gain insights into why things are happening the way they are.

3. Critical Thinking and Analysis: Develop skills in critical thinking, analysis, and debate. Students will learn to evaluate sources, differentiate between opinion and fact, and construct well-informed arguments.

4. Global Awareness: Foster a broader understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and geopolitical dynamics. This course will help students appreciate the inter-connectedness of our world.


My teaching approach is engaging, interactive, and student-centered, including:

1. Interactive Discussions: Each class will start with a brief chat on a current event, followed by an in-depth discussion, which encourages active participation, questions, and debates.

2. Multimedia Resources: I utilize a variety of resources, including news articles, and make recommendations for documentaries, podcasts, and historical texts that can be used outside of class, to provide diverse perspectives and to enrich learning.

3. Case Studies and Simulations: On occasion we will engage in case studies and simulations to experience the complexities of world events firsthand. This hands-on approach helps students apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

4. Project-Based Learning: Before class each week I will assign a current event for students to investigate in the coming week, along with their historical contexts. These projects will culminate (where appropriate) in (very informal) presentations that encourage collaboration and deeper understanding.


Students should come prepared to:

1. Engage Actively: Participation is key. Be ready to discuss, question, and challenge ideas.

2. Stay Informed: Keep up with current events outside of class to contribute meaningfully to discussions.

3. Think Critically: Be open to different viewpoints and learn to analyze issues from multiple perspectives.

4. Commit to Learning: Expect a blend of reading assignments, multimedia resources, and interactive activities that will deepen your understanding of the world.

By the end of this course, students will not only be well-versed in current events but also possess a robust historical framework to understand and interpret the complexities of our world.