Project+Sketch

Project Sketch There are a number of components involved with creating a successful project based learning opportunity. Initially, one must begin with a big idea. In our case, we have chosen cultural diversity with the essential question being: How is culture defined and which factors influence cultural change? With this question in mind, we have proposed the challenge for students to develop an understanding of which factors have impacted the German culture since World War II. There are a number of questions that may be asked with regard to the challenge. Guided questions begin with the most basic, asking: What is culture: How is culture defined? What factors influence culture, and how? What is traditional German culture? Did the culture in Germany change following World War II? If so, how? What factors influenced this change? What other factors have influenced cultural change in Germany? What are the positive aspects of such change? What negative effects have occurred as a result of these changes? How has cultural diversity affected German society? As students are presented with thoughts and ideas, a number of questions will be prompted leading to a variety of ideas to consider the challenge. One fundamental guided activity is the creation of a timeline depicting the events that have taken place in Germany since World War II, that have resulted in cultural changes. Using a variety of on-line resources, this timeline may be creatively presented using facts, images and video clips to capture major moments and occurrences since 1945. A second essential guided activity is the exploration of traditional German culture. One cannot fully comprehend the scope of cultural change until one understands its background. This may be depicted in the form of a picture story that includes a variety of factors that contribute to the formation of a culture. A third guided activity is one that allows examination into one of the many factors that have influenced cultural diversity in Germany. One of these factors is the introduction of guest workers to Germany following World War II. Introduction of guest workers from one culture into another has the tendency to lead to potential concerns, especially when the guests cease to be just guests. This activity allows the examination of how Turkish guest workers have affected the German culture, as well as how both cultures have managed (or not) to blend their cultures. Students will be able to access a number of on-line resources to gain a deeper understanding of the impact the Turkish people have had on German culture.
 * Group 4: ** Karin Radhe, David Romancheck, Monica Romig
 * Course Number:** EDIM 502IND_201020B