Middle East

In 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 2010-2011

Iran Today: Life and Politics in the Islamic Republic
Course Date: Nov. 4
Location: Primary Source
PDPs/Credits: 5 PDPs
Fee: Partnership educators—no cost; Non-partnership educators—$125

Who are the Iranian people and what is life like for them? Much of our knowledge about Iran is based on the media's portrayal of its turbulent politics and iconic leaders, rather than on the voices or lived experiences of the Iranian people. This workshop will provide historical context and analysis of the social and political issues that affect Iran today, and explore how they play out in daily lives. Workshop participants will engage with images from Randy Hope Goodman's "Iran: Images From Beneath a Chador" exhibit, explore the country with Google Earth, and take part in a mini-film festival featuring provocative documentaries from Iran.

Selected Faculty: Naghmeh Sohrabi, Brandeis University; Barbara Petzen, Middle East Policy Council

Especially for educators in grades 9-12.

Registration for 2010-2011 programs will begin in early September 2010.

Partnership educators: Registration must be approved through your school district.
Please get in touch with your school district's Primary Source contact person and let them know which program(s) you are interested in. Upon approval from your district, Primary Source will contact you with instructions for online registration.

Non-partnership educators:
Space is limited. Please send your registration request to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Space permitting, retired educators are welcome to register for Primary Source seminars at a discount of 50% off the non-partner rate.

Registration deadline is Friday, September 24, 2010.