A History of the “West” and the World up to 1500 through People, Places, and Things

Description

Research Prompts

A. Pick a person, invention, group/organization, event, or idea that you believe is deeply significant

for understanding the premodern world (pre-1500). If it’s something that you think has been

overlooked in historical memory or this course, that’s great, but not necessary. Construct an argument

about the significance of this person, event, idea, etc. to the sweep of pre-modern world history (ie, the

significance should be traced out beyond the generation of the person, event, or idea).

B. Create your own. Raise a question, articulate a problem, or identify an issue that has been

misunderstood. Your prompt will need to be approved when the prospectus is submitted.

C. See the Spotlight On Category Suggestions List for ideas.

Research Assignments

A. Since each student will create a different project (and project medium), you are required to write

and submit a 2 to 3-page prospectus for your project. The prospectus or project proposal should

include three sections:

1. Topic: Briefly introduce the subject of your project. Explain the who, what, when, and

where of your subject. What larger themes of the course and broader events in world history

does your topic relate to? What historical moments did it respond to? Why are you interested

in learning more about this subject?

2. Format: Explain the format that your “essay” research project will take (video, play, essay,

website, graphic novel, quilt, film, etc.). What will be the end result of your project? Why do

you think this medium suits your topic? Do you anticipate any challenges with this format?

3. Research: Outline what you need to learn to complete this project. How familiar with this

subject are you? What course readings and lectures will inform your project? What other

research do you need to conduct? Are there skills you need to develop to complete the

format of your project? What resources are available to you for this medium?

4. Grading: How do you think your project should be assessed/graded? Take the grading

guidelines from Blackboard and adapt them to speak directly to your planned project.

Include your revised grading guidelines with your prospectus.