This seminar used a geographic lens to explore the social and historical construction of Palestine as a geographical entity. It examined how Palestine was understood through various interlocking geographical scales, including the body, the city, the nation, and the region. Students gained a comprehensive understanding of the actors, ideologies, processes, and power dynamics that shaped and continue to shape Palestine as a fractured, colonized, and contested geography.
The course introduced two key analytical frameworks—settler colonialism and national liberation—and used them to explore three central themes: land, demography, and capital. These frameworks helped students critically analyze the socio-spatial dynamics of Palestine, focusing on how historical and contemporary factors contributed to its ongoing fragmentation and struggle for liberation. Through this exploration, students engaged with complex theoretical and practical issues concerning Palestine's geopolitical significance.
In my role as a seminar coordinator for GEOG 422, I developed a range of critical skills in facilitation, content creation, and student engagement. I learned how to create an inclusive and interactive learning environment, ensuring that students felt engaged and supported throughout the seminar. Facilitating discussions on complex and sensitive topics such as settler colonialism, national liberation, and the geopolitical dynamics of Palestine required me to develop strong communication and active listening skills, as well as the ability to manage diverse perspectives within the classroom.
I was responsible for the creation and development of course materials, including readings, discussion prompts, and presentations. This experience allowed me to apply my knowledge of the subject matter in a way that was both accessible and thought-provoking for students. I also learned how to tailor content to different learning styles, ensuring that the seminar was intellectually stimulating while fostering critical thinking and open dialogue.
Additionally, I coordinated and facilitated various seminar activities and discussions, using my engagement skills to ensure that every participant had the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. I gained hands-on experience in managing group dynamics, promoting participation, and creating a space where diverse voices could be heard. This experience deepened my understanding of how to effectively engage with students in academic settings, and I developed a strong ability to adapt to the needs of the group.