Advanced Studies in International Affairs: War & Peace in the Middle East

HIST4100

Title	Advanced Studies in International Affairs: War & Peace in the Middle East
Code	HIST4100
School	RACL
Module Level	4
Module Code	HIST4100
Webster Code	HIST4100/70
Class	EL\|MA\|MI\|
Availability	DE\|SA\|
Available Summer	N
Semester	1
Credits	3
Contact Hours	42
Course Length (wks)	14
Learning Outcomes	To stimulate an awareness and interest in one of the most complex regions of the world at time of great crisis and transition. Students will be able by the end of the course to consider, discuss and evaluate competing explanations and interpretations as to the forces which has shaped the Middle East. Students will develop analytical and critical approach both in debate in class and in writing. Throughout the course emphasis is put on the need to examine unique circumstances in analyzing specific events and individual countries, without neglecting the general lessons and implications to the entire region and even the international system as a all. Upon successful completion of the course students will have a clear understanding of the main themes and issues which shape the Middle East and also an understanding of approaches to the study of foreign and security policy making in the Middle East. Transferable skills and other attributes: Rational and logical analysis in reference to diverse of opinions and approaches. Essay writing skills, while considering wide range of attitudes. Applying inter-disciplinary approach to the study of Globalization. Discussion and debate skills in a group with diverse opinions. Advancing and advocating arguments while respecting and appreciating opposing viewpoints. Data gathering skills (primary and secondary) – Printed as well as electronic
Presentation	Two weekly lectures in which issues are discussed in an interactive and open class atmosphere. All lectures are accompanied by Power Point presentations, and handouts of these presentations are distributed at the beginning of every lecture. In order to illustrate the applicability of theoretical concepts discussed in class and in the required readings to contemporary world affairs, students are asked to follow continuously the news. Similarly, during class reference to current affairs will be made using relevant online website on the internet. All theories and models are examined within their historical context.
Pre-Requisites	9 credit hours of history or permission of the instructor.
Course Conduct	Attendance & Punctuality Required for ALL scheduled meetings of the course. PENALTIES APPLY – See Academic Handbook Absence through illness must be reported directly to the lecturer for the course Assignments Required on the due date. PENALTIES APPLY – See Academic Handbook Plagiarism & Cheating Serious offences which carry heavy penalties including failing a course and possible expulsion – See Academic Handbook Mobile Telephones Mobile phones must be switched off for the duration of the class. Penalties apply – see Academic Handbook – Student Conduct