History 393N: Germany since 1945
Bartlett Hall room 125 – TR 11:15 – 12:30 pm

Goals:

  

From this class you should gain a better understanding of the development of the Germany between 1945 and the present and therefore a better understanding of the historical path that has culminated in contemporary Germany.  Equally important, however, this course aims to develop your ability to think critically – to read and think about complex historical issues beyond the simple facts of the case.  Certainly the facts are important, and the quizzes and exams will make sure that you are learning them.  But beyond that, you will learn to think like an historian, trying to understand not only the ‘what’ of history, but also the ‘why’.  You will then need to be able to express your views and interpretations in a clear, logical, and readable manner.

 

Expectations:

  

To succeed in this class you will need to keep up with the reading, participate actively in class discussions, and be prepared for quizzes and exams on the specified dates. If at any time you are having difficulties with the material or the assignments, or just need to talk, please do not hesitate to come and see me.

 

Attendance: I expect you to be here. You will do yourself a great disservice by not attending class – you will miss material and interpretations from that day’s presentation as well as the opportunity to ask questions and otherwise interact with your classmates – an important part of the learning process.  There are occasionally good reasons to miss class (medical mishaps, religious holidays, family emergencies, athletic & musical contests); you do not need to keep me informed of the details. However, if you miss more than two weeks worth of classes (4), your final grade will drop one full letter. If you miss more than three weeks of classes (6), I strongly suggest you drop the course, because otherwise you will fail automatically. This is only reasonable: why should you earn college credit if you miss a substantial portion of the semester?

Conduct in class: You may drink any non-alcoholic beverage that suits your fancy. Please refrain from eating and from chewing tobacco. Also, turn off cell phones and other electronic messaging devices before class.

Laptops may be used for the sole purpose of taking notes in class. Any other use (such as instant messaging, emailing, surfing the web or like activities) will cause you to lose this privilege.


Special needs: The University of Massachusetts is firmly dedicated to making a college education available to all students with the appropriate academic preparation, regardless of physical or other conditions. If you are entitled to special arrangements in order to fulfill the course requirements, please bring verification from the Office of Disabilities within the first two weeks of class.