Final Quiz!

1) “Hallmark Five: We Embrace The Gift Of Diversity.” In what way does Strayer’s textbook, Ways of the World, reflect Hallmark 5 of the SND de Namur?

I think Strayer did an excellent job with the inclusions of different parts of history, both highly regarded and not so highly regarded. The first example that reflects Hallmark Five is the initial reference to what we’ve always known as “hunter-gatherers”, to be “gatherer-hunters”. He explains how although the civilization was egalitarian, women still did bring a higher percentage to the family income which should be represented first in the phrase and as an equal. He also was very inclusive of women in history and their part in civilizations, religion, politics, etc.   Strayer thoughtfully reflected on the forming and practices of different religions and gave us a different perspective of them than what we I had been used to learning. This text was different in the way that it was all inclusive of the variety in our history and what has formed the world to be today.

2) Please refer to the learning outcomes in your syllabus for this class. Did the course meet these outcomes? Were any of the outcomes not met? In answering this question, cite specific course activities or assignments that stand out to you.

The class met all seven of the learning outcomes listed in the syllabus. Honestly, I have pushed back taking my required history courses because of the anxiety of not understanding or being able to keep up with material in the past. When I reflect on the last 10 weeks and the material discussed and read, I actually learned and retained so much information thanks to the activities, assignments and the text.

As much as I do not like public speaking, I found the debates helpful that took place in class. These activities allowed us to reflect on our readings and to develop an understanding of different perspectives of different eras or civilizations we discussed, as the third learning outcome is expected to do. It offered the opportunity to learn from our peers as well. Also, who doesn’t love a little quick thinking.

The quizzes allowed me to fine-tune the interpretation of the material of what we’d discussed in the weeks prior. I believe this is what has also helped me retain information and communicate it in writing, as expected with the sixth learning outcome.

4) Are we moving into a new historical era? Do the items listed under “Post-Modern” reflect the world we live in today and the future we seem to be working toward? Why or why not? 

Post-Modern?

1) Regulation of capitalism & cooperation among peoples

2) Environmental sustainability becomes a critical goal of technology

3) Government is increasingly global with emphasis on cooperation

4) Western European civilization recognizes co-equality of other peoples

I believe we are moving into a new historical era. When reflecting on the ways of the world today, I feel that the only way we can go is up. If we continue at the rate we’re going, we will experience a very dark era in the future. The items listed compliment where we are trying to move to. It is a bit frightening because the current president does not believe in climate change, yet there is physical proof of it and something needs to be done. I think that with this environmental neglect, this will spark what the second item lists—environmental sustainability will be the goal of technology. Yes, technology has taken over our lives, but since I don’t think it is going anywhere, it should be put to use to improve the earth. I KNOW world peace is far-fetched and naïve, but the fourth item listed I feel can be a step towards equality. We’ve learned that superiority has gotten us to places in history that have not been just i.e. racism, politics, to name a few. With the move towards co-equality, people of future generations can learn equality instead of superiority, racism, prejudices and any negative trait our generations of today should be unlearning. I’m hopeful!