Discussion #5

Description

Now- this is not about critiquing the lesson plan (it is an outstanding example of Understanding by Design- which is taught in EDUU 609- in action). Our focus for this discussion is the following: How can American educators teach students (of all ages) about the depth of the conflicts and issues within the Middle East and its many cultures without being judgmental? After all those emotional ideas and horrifying statistics about children in conflict- can this subject be taught in a fashion that stays true to the academic and impartial focus written about in the “Brief Summary of Unit” (p. 2)? Also, to what extent should “we” embed peace education and or conflict resolution ideas or skills into the curriculum when “we” are teaching subjects where conflict and turmoil are a basic component of the focus? Here’s one more layer of complexity to this topic, please watch the following (it’s only 7 minutes but it is very worthwhile). How do Maz Jobrani’s comedic insights strike you as an educator? A Saudi, an India and an Iranian walk into a Qatari bar… http://www.ted.com/talks/maz_jobrani_a_saudi_an_indian_and_an_iranian_walk_into_a_qatari_bar#t-216220