Designing an Online Course to Facilitate Global Citizenship and Peace Building in Higher Education
Date
2024-09-10
Authors
Farooq, Mariam
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Volume Title
Publisher
University of Saskatchewan
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Degree Level
Abstract
In our rapidly advancing world, cultivating skills in promoting peace is crucial, as peace is key to helping individuals lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. This paper explores the development of a non-credit bearing online mini-course designed for first-year university students at the University of Saskatchewan, aimed at enhancing awareness of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 4.7. The "Creating Global Citizens for Peace" course focuses on equipping students with essential skills to promote sustainable development and foster a culture of peace, empathy and reconciliation. By incorporating a range of instructional methods and tools, including asynchronous content, multimedia resources, activities, and different assessments, the course seeks to address diverse student needs while making it engaging for them. This paper details the design and pedagogical processes followed in the course, highlights lessons learned and challenges faced, and discusses strategies for overcoming institutional barriers to the course’s implementation. This course features important initiatives and roles students can play to become informed and engaged global citizens, ready to contribute positively to their university, communities and beyond in promoting peace.
Description
Keywords
Course design, global citizenship, higher education, online learning, peace education, sustainable development goals