Overall Learning Outcomes

*These learning outcomes were determined to ensure that HIST 1101 fulfills the Transfer Pathway requirements.

1. Demonstrate a broad understanding of World History from pre-History through the early modern era (thirteenth through seventeenth centuries CE).
2. Make use of historical thinking.
3. Analyze historical sources, distinguishing primary from secondary sources.
4. Communicate effectively using historical evidence and methods.
5. Analyze and understand the diversity of peoples within their distinctive historical contexts.

*These learning outcomes were added by me because they are invaluable skills and knowledge for success in historical thinking and in a wide variety of academic and professional fields.

1. Develop digital and quantitative reasoning skills (including the ethics of finding, using, and presenting data) that are applicable in history and other fields by working with data and digital materials.
2. Develop strategies for advancing your learning skills such as effective reading, writing, and file management.

What We'll Do in This Class

My goal is that throughout this course you develop your knowledge of world history by practicing the key skills of analysis, inquiry, and reflection on your learning. This course is organized into weekly Modules organized around a particular theme and historical period.

Consistency around expectations—both yours and mine—will be key for our success this semester. Each Module (after Unit 1) will follow the same pattern and each kind of assignment will be due regularly on that day. Here’s the sequence:

• Reading Posts (Learning Goals 1, 2, 4 - Due Wednesdays, 11pm)
• Post Replies (Learning Goals 1, 2, 4 - Due Fridays, 11pm)
• Annotations, Workshops, and Reflections (Learning goals vary by assignment - Due Mondays, 11pm)

INTERPRETIVE PROJECT: This project will be in the format of your choosing, and will take a topic within the class scope, conduct a small amount of additional research, and present your findings. I’ll provide models and feedback to help clarify scope and expectations for the project later in the second half of the semester. You will have an opportunity to revise your interpretive project once to improve your assessment.

FINAL REFLECTION PORTFOLIO: This is the summative activity for the class. For this final assignment, students will select key work from throughout the semester and narrate your trajectory learning about world history and developing historical thinking and learning skills.

Please Ask for Help

I understand that it can be daunting to reach out for clarification or to check-in on your progress. But, this is key to success in this class and in many situations beyond. I am happy to meet or chat with you about your own learning and your thoughts on the topics and materials we cover and to answer questions big and small about the assignments.