Common Course Outline

Catalog Description

Course Description

This course will be a global overview of the modern period of world history. It begins in 1500, with a comparison of different civilizations around the globe. It discusses colonialism, changes in religious patterns, the French Revolution, the industrial revolution, nationalism, and ideologies of the 19th century. In the 20th Century the focus will be the World Wars, disintegration of colonial empires, the Cold War, and globalization. The course will end with a brief review of contemporary conditions. Cross-cultural interactions are emphasized throughout the course.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

February, 2025

Outline of Major Content Areas

1. The Origins of Global Interdependence 1500 to 1750
   1. European Contact in the New World/Colonialism
   2. The Scientific Revolution
   3. Asian Civilizations
2. The Age of Revolution, Industry, and Empire 1750 to 1914
   1. Colonial Independence Movements
   2. French Revolution
   3. Industrial Revolution and Imperialism
3. The Twentieth Century
   1. World War I
   2. World War II
   3. The Collapse of Colonialism
   4. The Cold War
4. Globalization and the Post-Colonial World of the 21st Century

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

1. Assess the significance of political, intellectual, and social developments within this timeframe of world history.
2. Identify key personalities, institutions, and concepts within this timeframe world history.
3. Analyze the causes and results of major events within this timeframe of world history.
4. Recognize the diversity of ideas, religions, and cultures among those who live and have lived within this period of world history.
5. Analyze historical sources, distinguishing primary from secondary sources.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

Goal 5/History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences

The student will be able to:

1. History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences: The student will be able to:
2. Employ the methods and data that historians and social and behavioral scientists use to investigate the human condition.
3. Examine social institutions and processes across a range of historical periods and cultures.
4. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.

Goal 8/Global Perspectives

The student will be able to:

1. Global Perspectives: The student will be able to:
2. Describe and analyze political, economic, and cultural elements which influence relations of states and societies in their historical and contemporary dimensions.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of cultural, social, religious and linguistic differences.
4. Analyze specific international problems, illustrating the cultural, economic, and political differences that affect their solution.

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

• Objective tests
• Essay tests
• Formal and informal written assignments
• Classroom discussion

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Critical Thinking

Students will think systematically and explore information thoroughly before accepting or formulating a position or conclusion.

Special Information (if any)

None