Why teaching networks?
Because we typically develop courses (or course units) as independent projects, topics of broad interest often permeate our curriculum in a piecemeal way: no one knows who else is teaching similar material. But if we could connect the dots in curriculum development — sharing knowledge, experience and resources — wouldn’t that be helpful?
Take, for example, the issue of migration. The topic is a “burning issue” in the Middle East and in Europe; at the same time, it also affects the current political discourse in the US and even crops up as a pressing issue in discussions of the future effects of global warming. Some faculty may dedicate an entire course to migration; others may have a single class period that touches upon it. Regardless, these faculty may benefit from exchange and interaction. GEI serves as a clearinghouse to bring interested faculty together for discussion and more.
There are no pre-determined or required outcomes for teaching networks. It’s possible that some interactions among classes might occur, or a few professors might ask for resources to bring a particular speaker to campus. The network might spawn a reading group, or even future curriculum development grants. In many cases, CGRS has funding to help with this work—even enough to provide stipends for participants.
Current Teaching Networks
| Network | Contact |
|---|---|
| Migration and Refugees | David Tompkins |
| Colonialism, Post-Colonialism, and National Identity | In transition |
| Social Inequality | Annette Nierobisz |
| Middle East Connections | Noah Salomon |
Questions? Suggestions?
If you have questions about teaching networks or would like to propose a theme for a new teaching network (which CGRS could assist in forming), please contact us.