Welcome!

Course Description: Contemporary Issues is a semester long class that will look at a variety of current day issues and problems. Throughout the course we will determine what topics to examine and approach each of these issues from multiple perspectives. We will be using many tools of social science inquiry including statistics, maps, original documents, political cartoons, and surveys. The use of technology will be heavily incorporated in this course. The goal of this course is not to tell you what to think, but to encourage you to think critically.

Course Outline: The course will be divided into five to six units of study, each lasting approximately 3 weeks. The first unit will be determined by the instructor. The next three or four units will be determined by the class, and the final unit will be a topic of your own personal choice that you will research and prepare a presentation on. A detailed list of potential unit topics will be provided.

Methodology: This course will be very reading intensive. Most readings will be online and will be completed either before class on your own time, or occasionally in-class time will be provided. Discussions are also integral to this course. Respectful, courteous, and substantive comments are expected. 

Grading & Assessments: Grades will be determined by homework assignments, reaction papers, post-assessments (tests), and participation. The standard grading system will be used.

Expectations: The main expectations for this course are to be respectful, participate, and be prepared. If you follow these three expectations, we should not have any problems.

Technology: As indicated, technology will be heavily incorporated into this course. Laptops will be used on a daily basis with readings, research, writing, collaboration, and creating. This will be a learning process for all of us. My goal is to have a virtually paperless class with all assignments, readings, projects, etc. delivered electronically. You will find most, if not all, information on this blog. Please make sure you are using technology in an appropriate manner and are on task. 

Please create a Contemporary Issues folder on your bookmarks bar to keep links, articles, this page, etc.

Your first assignment: 

Take three minutes and brainstorm possible broad topic areas (ex. military, health) you would like to learn more about through this course. Minimum of five.

In a group of 3-4 students, share and compare your answers.

Next, as a group, choose three of the broad topics and brainstorm possible subtopics to examine more closely in class (ex. Military/Use of drones, Health/Obesity)