ISTL - Global Studies

 

Course Descriptions

 

ISTL 1000 Introduction to Global Studies (3)

This course serves to expose students to global issues and cultures different from their own. It also introduces students to cross-disciplinary perspectives to key theoretical and methodological issues in global studies. GCP Coding: (GLBL) (INTC).

ISTL 1100 Introduction to Latin American Studies (3)

An interdisciplinary survey of the cultures and people of Latin America. Introduces students to the accomplishments and problems of Latin Americans and to the concepts and methodologies employed in area studies. GCP Coding: (GLBL) (INTC).

ISTL 1492 Topics in Latin American Studies (3)

A topical course integrating distance learning and/or attendance at lectures, films, plays, and artistic performances, as well as class discussions and other more traditional academic activities. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

ISTL 1550 Topics in Global Studies (1-3)

Introductory topical course in global studies. Subject matter varies from semester to semester. May be repeated once for credit.

ISTL 1600 Introduction to International Tourism and Development (3)

Tourism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It is of economic importance to most countries and a major source of foreign exchange for much of the developing world. It is also the most intimate of all industries, bringing culturally diverse people together in close association, and placing large numbers of tourists in sensitive situations and socially/ecologically fragile places. In addition, tourism plays a significant role in conflicts that arise over how people and their places are represented and served with identities. This course will explore some of the social, cultural and environmental consequences of travel and tourism. 

ISTL 2150 Global Exposures: Study Abroad and Global Engagement (1-3)

This course introduces students to Webster's study abroad programs and the university's global network of campuses. The course builds basic academic, linguistic and practical knowledges and skills facilitating international travel, inter-cultural competence and engagement with global social-cultural issues. GCP Coding: (GLBL) (INTC).

ISTL 2450 Modern Latin America (3)

This course analyzes the history of Latin American since independence with a focus on the twentieth century and after. As well as looking at political events, students will uncover the cultural and social history of the region with an emphasis on issues of class, race and gender. Cross-listed with HIST 2040 when appropriate.

ISTL 2500 International Field Experience in Global Studies (1-6)

This course is for students embarking on travel and conducting topic-specific research through direct interaction and/or engagement with the material or people studied in a country other than that of the student's home campus. Requires prior and follow-up consultation with an appropriate faculty member approved by the head of the global studies program. To complete this course, the student must prepare a portfolio detailing the following: a comprehensive description of the intended field experience and projected itinerary, documentation of the travel and experiences, and a summary of and formal reflection on those experiences. Prerequisite: ISTL 1000 or approval of the director of the global studies major.

ISTL 2550 Topics in Global Studies (3)

Examines various global issues and topics from one or more disciplinary perspectives. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

ISTL 2600 Natural Systems and Sustainable Ecologies (3)

Examines ecosystems, how they function, and how they shape and are shaped by human societies. Includes both a comparative and global perspective on environmental issues and ecology.

ISTL 3550 Advanced Topics in Global Studies (3)

Allows students to pursue advanced studies in global studies or one of its subfields. Subject matter varies from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: ISTL 1000 or permission of the instructor.

ISTL 3600 Intercultural Negotiations (3)

Human communication is a complicated process replete with challenges. These are particularly acute when those involved come from different cultural backgrounds and communicate according to different norms. In this course, students will analyze the conditions of negotiations across cultures (geographical, cultural and organizational context, identities, motivation), the potential obstacles to a satisfying outcome of these negotiations for the involved parties, and finally strategies for a meaningful resolution. In order to accomplish the course goals, students will cultivate cultural and linguistic awareness and sensitivity, learn how to interpret nonverbal cues, consider the implications of language choices and practice the integration of perspectives and the articulation of intercultural motivations, ideas and action steps. Prerequisites: ISTL 1000 or ISTL 1600. Knowledge of a second language is strongly recommended.

ISTL 4500 Capstone Seminar in Global Studies (3)

Thematic topics chosen to encourage interdisciplinary engagement, such that students from different thematic concentrations in global studies make special contributions. A senior project related to both the student's areas of concentration and the seminar theme is required to fulfill the overview requirement for students majoring in global studies.

ISTL 4510 European Studies Overview (0-1)

This course is required for and only open to European studies majors with senior standing. Students will write an 8-10 page essay that synthesizes their reading and course work on European politics, culture, and history. Each year there will be one question, general in nature, that provides an organizing theme for the capstone. The students themselves – in consultation with the instructor – will choose the question. The course will meet only intermittently -- at most, 3 times in a semester.

ISTL 4550 Topics Seminar in Global Studies (3)

Allows students to pursue advanced studies in global studies or one of its subfields. Subject matter varies from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: ISTL 1000 and senior standing or permission of the instructor. 

ISTL 4610 Reading Course (1-4)

Involves preparing a bibliography on a topic chosen by the student, submitting it to the instructor for approval, reading the listed books, meeting with the instructor, and writing papers. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: ISTL 1000.