Contemporary Questions examines a current topic or theme of critical importance that is affecting life, driving support - or dissent - in Berlin, Germany or the E.U. This class will expand student's view of the world through the lens of EU thinking. How does Berlin's complex past, influence decisions it must make for the future? Understanding the complex relationships within the tightly knit but culturally and economically diverse European Union will be equally as important as addressing diversity in the local demographics inside Germany.
We might address issues around immigration and refugees, cultural integration and tolerance, climate change and energy consumption - or how colonialism is being addressed in the EU. Students will take different positions to grasp local, national or continental EU points of view and brainstorm scenarios to offer solutions.
Course Learning Outcomes Contemporary Questions will: - promote cross-disciplinary discourse and improve oral skills around collective problem-solving. - connect students with relevant contemporary issues that drive the cultural, political and economic landscape from Berlin (local) to the EU (continental) - examine the complex relationship between communities: within Berlin or between EU countries. - highlight accountability as a Global Citizen - identifying critical local issues within a global context. - utilize critical thinking and strategy skills in non-design disciplines. (economic, political, cultural)
Requisites
Must be Term 3 or higher