Unique course taught solely by international faculty
For the first time, a three-credit hour course is underway this fall semester titled "Countries and Cultures" - with 14 international professors donating time and energy to teach the class. In keeping with strategy four of Vision 2013, the university continues to provide a diverse and multicultural environment with this unique class that features a different country every week.
"In today's global world, it is important for students to understand and learn about the world around them," said Jared Kannianen, a senior history major in the course. "The Countries and Cultures class is a valuable tool for students as it broadens their horizons and helps them view the world in a truly global aspect."
Various countries of the world are presented by Minot State faculty and MSU International Faculty Association members native to those countries. This includes the following group of faculty and staff: Johnny Coomansingh, Trinidad and Tobago; Efthalia Esser, Greece; Harry Hoffman, Germany; Steve Hayton, Mexico; John Girard, Canada; Mikhail Bobylev, Russia; Daniel Ngugi, Kenya; Ernst Pijning and Amy Lopez, Netherlands; Kemerly Moorhouse, Peru; Virginie Vournas, France; Dennis and Penny Simons, United Kingdom; Kodwo Annan, Ghana; Prit Kaur, India; and Amina Escelara, Morocco.
"In receiving first-hand accounts of countries and cultures by MSU international faculty, students will gain a unique and remarkable sense of globalism, geography and diverse cultures," said David Fuller, president of Minot State University. "I can’t think of a better opportunity - beyond travelling to the countries - to develop a global perspective and an awareness of what students should gain through this distinctive course." Twenty-five students are enrolled in this course and meet every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon. Countries and Cultures is a sophomore-level class that fulfills a diversity course requirement for students. International faculty members involved in the class present lectures surrounding the social, cultural and historical elements of their countries.
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Published: 11/09/10 |