History 381
HIST 381
Recent America (US) (WI)
Catalog Entry
HIST 381
Recent America (US) (WI)
Three hours lecture: (3)
Prerequisite: Three hours of History at the 100 level.
An in-depth study of major political, diplomatic, economic, social, and cultural developments in U.S. history during recent decades.
Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire greater knowledge and understanding of the major events and trends which have shaped the United States during recent decades. Major areas of emphasis will include:
• The international role of the United States.
• American Politics.
• Social and Political Movements.
• U.S. Economic Development.
• Demographic and societal change.
• Popular culture.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
This course will combine lectures, class discussions based on assigned readings and media presentations, a variety of written assignments, and in-class exercises. Students will also be encouraged to explore topics of special interest through primary research and/or directed reading in secondary sources.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Departmental Goals and Objectives:
1. Students will practice thinking critically and analytically about historical issues, acquire a broader knowledge and deeper understanding of pertinent historical events and processes, and cultivate a familiarity with the concepts of historical argument and interpretation.
2. Students will develop disciplinary research skills by designing strategies to locate and analyze primary and secondary source evidence, processing and organizing the resultant data, and composing proper citation and bibliographical entries.
3. Students will apply their critical thinking, research, and compositional skills to the creation and presentation of thesis driven essays that discuss, for example, historical social, economic, political, and/or cultural developments and that address issues such as the causes and consequences of historical change and continuity.
4. Students will acquire a broader knowledge and deeper understanding of recent trends in American society, culture, politics, economic life, and diplomacy.
Assessment Measures
Knowledge and understanding of the material covered in this course will be measured using an array of assessment tools that may include, among other things, class attendance and participation, written examinations, formal writing assignments of various types, and informal writing assignments. All exercises are designed to expand the student's ability to evaluate historical events and to develop his or her ability to compose persuasive arguments.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
Date Action Reviewed by
October 2010 Reviewed and Approved by Sharon Roger Hepburn
04/2011
March 01, 2021