The University of Texas at Arlington

INTRODUCTION TO GLOBAL STUDIES

Fall 2016

Department of Modern Languages

The University of Texas at Arlington

Instructor: Dr. Lonny Harrison

Office number: HH221F Office phone: 817-272-9506

Email: lonnyharrison@uta.edu Website: www.uta.edu/modl/russian

Office hours: MWF 1: 00-2: 00pm

Section information: GLOBAL 2301-001

Time and place of class meetings: T/TH 9: 30-10: 50AM

Description of Course Content

In this course students will engage with essential topics on global civilization and culture grouped around the categories of Equity, Peace, and Sustainability. Focus is on the multifaceted connections among nation states, non-governmental organizations, diverse ethnic, cultural and religious groups, and populations around the world. Through close study and analysis of geography, history, culture, religion, politics and government, and world economy, a major aim of the course is to understand the global world, along with its itinerant problems and potential solutions.

Topics

Class

Gender and Family

Education

Issues of Conflict

Crime

War

Democracy and Human Rights

Ethnicity and Religion

Urbanization

Population and Health

Technology and Energy

Ecology

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the course, students will have gained essential knowledge about the major topics of global studies and confronted the issues and challenges of Equity, Peace and Sustainability in a globalized society. Through readings, lecture, discussion, reflection, and research, students will gain the skills for thinking strategically about the problems and issues facing the world in the present and future, as well as opportunities for developing diverse responses and solutions.

Descriptions of Major Assignments and Examinations

· Students are expected to read the assigned texts prior to class and prepare to interact with other students and the instructor based on these readings.

· Weekly quizzes will be based on the major topics covered in the course readings and discussions.

· Written assignments will consist of reflection journals based on each student’s learning process vis-à -vis the major global studies concepts encountered in the course.

· Each student will prepare one 10-minute presentation on a topic of his/her choice (but related to an aspect of global studies approved by the instructor).

· All students will write a final paper, the topic of which must be closely tied to the course content covered throughout the semester. Guidelines for the paper will be provided mid-semester.

· A final exam will cover all topics encountered in the course readings, discussions, and materials presented.

Grading

Attendance and participation are mandatory and form a substantial part of the final grade. See the attendance policy below.

Grades are apportioned as follows (NB: the following are meant as guidelines only, and are subject to change)

Class Participation (attendance, preparation, active participation) 10%

Chapter Quizzes 10%

Reflection Journals 20%

Presentation 20%

Final Paper 20%

Final Exam 20%

Expectations for Out-of-Class Study

Beyond the time required to attend each class meeting, students enrolled in this course should expect to spend at least an additional 12 hours per week of their own time in course-related activities, including reading required materials, journaling, completing assignments, preparing for exams, etc.

Readings and Course Materials

Please acquire the following book, available at the UT Arlington Bookstore: