THE PROJECT
This course module, part of the curriculum for SLAVIC 101: The Rise and Fall of Yugoslavia, was designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of the ethnic diversity and cultural dynamics in the South Slavic region. Focused on Week 6: Ethnic Diversity, the module explores the complex interactions of South Slavic ethnicities through the lens of Maria Todorova’s Imagining the Balkans. This module integrates interactive eLearning, group discussions, and a culminating group presentation to enhance students’ critical thinking and ability to articulate nuanced perspectives on the cultural and political history of Yugoslavia. The comprehensive design ensures a cohesive and engaging learning experience that fosters collaborative exploration and individual insight.
SPECIFICATIONS
The module includes a structured agenda, assigned and optional readings, eLearning components, and group activities. The readings highlight critical scholarship, including Todorova’s analysis and supplementary research on language, identity, and folkloric discourse. The interactive eLearning segment is designed to support diverse learning styles, incorporating multimedia resources such as videos on traditional folk dances and recipes, alongside textual and visual content. Assessments include a group presentation project, where students are assigned to represent one of the six Yugoslav republics and focus on a specific cultural topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of regional diversity. All materials and activities were developed using Canvas and advanced instructional design strategies to ensure accessibility, engagement, and logical content flow.
MY APPROACH
This module leverages Mayer’s Multimedia Principles to integrate multimedia formats that enhance engagement and understanding, alongside constructivist learning theory to encourage active participation and knowledge construction. The class sessions are structured to balance group discussions, individual eLearning, and collaborative project work. The group presentation activity applies Bloom’s Taxonomy, progressing from knowledge acquisition (reading and eLearning) to analysis and synthesis (group research and presentation preparation). This holistic approach ensures students not only understand the complexities of South Slavic ethnic diversity but also develop the skills to articulate and critically analyze these dynamics. The module’s alignment with WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards ensures an inclusive learning environment for all students.