Middle EastIn the aftermath of September 11th, many Americans have developed a heightened awareness of the Middle East and wish to learn more about this complex area of the world. Although the news media focuses on recent conflicts, a more complete picture of life in the Middle East highlights its rich cultural diversity and historical accomplishments. In addition to being the birthplace of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the Middle East is known for its extensive trade networks, architectural and archeological sites, and unique musical and artistic traditions. At the same time, the region faces deep political, social, and economic challenges around issues such as the role of religion, authoritarian government, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and tensions over reconciling globalization and western culture with local norms. Teachers frequently find themselves fielding student questions regarding recent events in the region, which our programs help them to contextualize. Primary Source provides teachers with meaningful professional development that includes both comprehensive academic content and practical classroom applications. This combination supports teachers in thinking critically and openly about how to teach the Middle East in their schools. Seminars 2011-2012The Golden Age of the Ottomans: Art, Achievements, and Governance Three-Day Seminar Series Though the Ottoman Empire is often portrayed as the "sick man of Europe," it lasted over 600 years (1299 to 1922) and became a political, cultural, and social powerhouse in the 16th and 17th centuries. This course will provide teachers with new techniques and resources for teaching about the Ottoman Empire and its enduring legacy by addressing questions such as: What were the Empire's unique contributions to government and political systems? What role did the Empire play in the Silk Road Trade? How did the Empire's support for art and culture affect architectural and aesthetic traditions across the Balkans, Middle East, and North Africa? What is the legacy of the Ottoman Empire in modern-day Turkey? Course highlights include a Turkish language lesson, a workshop on the Orientalism of the West toward the Ottomans, and an interactive artisan demonstration. Participation in this course provides eligibility to apply for future Primary Source study tours to Turkey or the Middle East. Especially for educators in grades 8-12. Course Topics Selected Presenters: Emine Fetvaci, Boston University; Barbara Petzen, Middle East Outreach Council; Jenny White, Boston University and author of The Sultan's Seal and The Abyssinian Proof An Introduction to Afghan Politics, Religion, and Culture Webinar Series The United States has been engaged in military operations in Afghanistan for the past decade, yet most Americans know very little about the country's complex history and culture, and only 12% of students in the U.S. can locate Afghanistan on a map. This timely webinar series elaborates on three themes drawn from Homeland Afghanistan, an online resource created by the Asia Society that explores the geopolitical and cultural heritage of Afghanistan through 75 vibrant and information-packed documentary videos. Each webinar will feature a dynamic presentation by a noted scholar, an interactive question and answer session, and a bibliography that includes classroom-ready resources. Attend one, two, or all three of the webinars to enhance your knowledge of Afghanistan and gain deeper insight into Afghanistan's rich political, religious, and artistic traditions. October 12, 2011: Politics and Political Culture in Afghanistan since the 19th Century November 2, 2011: Understanding Afghan Identity: The Role of Religion and Ethnicity in Modern Afghanistan November 30, 2011: Culture at the Crossroads: A Historical Look at Afghan Art and Architecture Register for one, two, or all three webinars. Open to all K-12 educators. Registration deadline is Wednesday, September 28, 2011. Partnership educators Non-partnership educators Retired educators
|
Educating for Global Understanding
