Thesis Discussion Forum

Throughout the course we will be discussing different issues in the study of history.  It is important to examine not only historical events but why the study of history itself is important.

While you might not be studying a traditionally historical subject for your Thesis Paper, the skills are still important.  Throughout this course you will be encouraged to think critically and ask the right questions. 

While we do not expect you to remember everything you learn, we do hope that at the end of this course you will be able to think about issues critically and find what answer is right for you.  It is your personal understanding of events in history and present day that is important.  You need to know why you think what you do.

Every few weeks I will be introducing a new article or subject to discuss as a class.  The expectations are as follows:

1. Over the two week period allotted, you will be expected to read the article or do the research required and discuss it in the forums provided. 

2. There will be guiding questions provided for you to help you frame your discussions.

3. You will also be expected to respond to at least two of your classmates' posts.  You will need to consider what they are saying and what it means to you.  You do not need to agree with what they are saying but you are expected to be constructive, not rude.  We want the discussions to be productive.  The best way to learn is to learn from one another.  Please remember, keep an open mind and don't be afraid to speak yours.

4. You will be evaluated based on the quality of the posts you provide.

Topic List:

1. Monday, February 9 - Friday, February 20 - "Why Study History?"
   
   After carefully considering the reading, discuss whether or not you believe the study of history is indeed important?  Do you believe it has value in the 21st Century? Why or why not? 

   You must write at least one post in response to this question and you must also respond to at least two of your classmates' posts.  We want to engage in an academic discussion of this topic so spend some time considering the issues presented in the article.

2. Monday, February 23 - Friday, March 6

3. Monday, March 23 - Friday, April 3 - Feedback open to April 9 - Critically Evaluating Websites
   
   Part One: Critically evaluate a history website.  The website should be based on a historical context.  In your evaluation you should consider the following but not limit yourself to:
   - The information on the site
   - Its focus
   - The interface - is it colourful? Attractive? Distracting?
   - Ease of use - can you easily navigate the page and find what you want?
   - Links to other resources?
   - Credibility? Is the information reliable?  How do you know?
   - Are sources cited for credibility?
   
   You might want to first write this in Word and then cut and paste it to the Discussion Forum after you edit it for grammar and spelling.
   
   Your evaluation should be approximately 1 page in length and needs to be posted by Friday, April 3rd.
   
   Part Two: Reflect on two of your classmates' reflections - This portion will conclude Friday, April 9th.