The best aspect of this course was the gripping lectures, in which the passionate professor always addressed current events and correlated them with the course material. The discussions were fascinating and the course topics were very enjoyable. The worst aspects of this course included the large class size and the grading structure, which was made up of only one midterm and a paper. The course would improve if more assignments were given out during the semester in order to give students more grading opportunities. Prospective students should expect to do lots of reading in this very enjoyable course that covers lots of current events in the Middle East.

Students thought that the best aspects of this course included the professor’s passion and knowledge about the subject. The lectures were fast and interesting, and students real y liked that they went over current events in class. Many thought that the reading assignments were heavy and difficult and that lectures were too fast and covered too much information. Students also did not like having only two grades, and suggested adjusting the schedule to fit in four smal er exams to make it easier to study the content. Students also wanted fewer, more focused readings and thought that the course materials would be better covered if the class met twice a week and in smal er discussion groups. Prospective students must attend lectures and be prepared to take notes. Students wil find the workload heavy and the materials challenging but interesting, especially if they enjoy history or have an interest in the Middle East.

Students praised this course for having an engaging instructor who contributed his real world experience to the class. Perceived issues with the course varied; while some students didn’t have an issue with the course, other students felt the course covered too much material to the point where it could be intimidating for people without a background in the conflict. Suggestions for improvement were few as many students enjoyed the course as it was. Some students found that they wanted the course to move slower or to cover fewer topics. Prospective students should know that students found the course was intellectually rewarding and challenged students to complete a significant amount of reading.