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Another FaCTS Mellon Project

COLONIAL ENCOUNTERS IN THE MODERN WORLD

by Dr. Steven J. Salm

This project transforms the course, HIST 1600: Colonialism Encounters in the Modern World, into an online format that effectively enhances active reading, critical thinking, and the ability to think through issues from a variety of global perspectives. I realize that it is impossible to apply a few, simple modifications to my current syllabus; it will be necessary to create an entirely new instructional strategy for online learning that includes innovative teaching methods and revised assessment strategies. However, one thing remains common to all formats: if students are engaged and motivated learn, they are much more likely to succeed. Just as I do with th ecurrent course, I will promote student engagement by teaching the material backwards - from the end to the beginning - and emphasizing self-authorship. Throughout the semester, students will play the role of detective, searching for clues in the past to determine why things happened in the present. Students will be required to pitch in regularly to help create a truly interactive online learning environment. The question is, of course, how to do this effectively in an online format?

Start date: Monday, May 13, 2013
Finish date: Tuesday, May 13, 2014