Successful completion of this course will provide the following learning outcomes:

A basic understanding of the economic, political, and social geography of Europe.

An appreciation of the how contemporary economic, political, and social changes are
impacting institutions and life in Europe.

An awareness of the historical background to these contemporary economic, political,
and social changes.

An ability to analyze critically and interpret the impacts of these contemporary
economic, political, and social changes.

An appreciation of current issues affecting Europe.  For example, conflicts between 
supra-nationalism (e.g., formation of EU) and regionalism (e.g., Basques, breakup of 
Yugoslavia).

An understanding of Europe's position in the emerging global economy and polity.


This course meets the following General Education Abilities, by accomplishing the
specific learning objectives listed below:

Communicate effectively through writing.  This is met by a series of writing 
assignments associated with supplemental reading and data analysis.
 
Communicate effectively through speech.  This is met by oral presentations, 
discussion leading, and classroom participation.

Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty 
electronic interaction, and data analysis activities and assignments.

Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and are 
developed through homework assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry-
based learning efforts.

Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this course, as it explores 
linkages among human behaviors, economic development, differential cultural norms, 
and globalizing forces.  Moral reasoning is developed through lectures, writing 
assignments, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning activities.

Geography of resources across Europe

Centripedal and centrifugal political, social, and cultural forces at work in Europe
    Regional case studies:  Basques, Northern Ireland, Yugoslavia, devolution in
    Britain, unifying of Germany, and operations of the European Union

Implications of end of the Cold War

New landscapes of the post-Cold War era

Synthesis