Addressing 21st-Century Challenges

Course Description

This innovative course is designed to revolutionize the way educators engage with students on pressing global issues. By leveraging the vast resources of the Smithsonian, including expert lectures, digital collections, and artifacts, this course empowers educators to create dynamic, interdisciplinary learning experiences that tackle complex challenges such as climate change, social justice, and pandemics.

What Students Will Learn

• Innovative teaching techniques using museum pedagogy and artifacts
• Methods to integrate Smithsonian resources into classroom activities
• Strategies for addressing 21st-century challenges from multiple perspectives
• Techniques to enhance student engagement and critical thinking
• Ways to design theme-based projects that meet course objectives while incorporating museum content
• Approaches to encourage students to apply classroom learning to real-world issues

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. It is designed for educators at various levels, including high school, community college, and college instructors. A passion for innovative teaching methods and an interest in interdisciplinary approaches to education would be beneficial.

Course Content

• Virtual lectures with Smithsonian experts and educators
• Replicable classroom activities using Smithsonian images and artifacts
• Testimony from Montgomery College-Smithsonian Faculty (MCSF) Fellows
• Exploration of 21st-century challenges (climate change, social justice, pandemics)
• Integration of museum content and pedagogy into course design
• Techniques for student empowerment and engagement
• Multidisciplinary approaches to complex global issues

Who Should Take This Course

• High school teachers
• Community college instructors
• College professors
• Educators interested in innovative teaching methods
• Those looking to incorporate museum resources into their curriculum
• Professionals seeking to address global challenges in an educational context

Real-World Applications

The skills acquired in this course will enable educators to:

• Create more engaging and relevant lessons that connect classroom learning to real-world issues
• Empower students to think critically about complex global challenges
• Utilize free Smithsonian resources to enhance curriculum and student experiences
• Design interdisciplinary projects that encourage students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom
• Foster a more sophisticated and capable student body through museum-based learning
• Develop professional networks with Smithsonian experts and fellow educators
• Contribute to addressing 21st-century challenges through education and student engagement

Course Structure

While a specific syllabus is not provided, the course structure appears to include:

• Virtual lectures with Smithsonian experts
• Presentations by MCSF Fellows on their experiences
• Hands-on activities using Smithsonian resources
• Discussions on 21st-century challenges
• Guidance on designing theme-based projects
• Exploration of museum pedagogy and its application in various educational settings