History for the Twenty-First Century: New Materials for Rethinking the World History Survey Course
The H/21 Project (History for the Twenty-First Century) is a collaborative project of the World History Association, which seeks to rethink world history curricula by designing inquiry-based and student-centered lessons on critical topics in world history. The goal of this project is to support college and university faculty by offering open-access instructional materials, which include curated lessons with primary sources, instructor guides, and classroom activities. On this panel, three H/21 authors will discuss their new modules: Eric Nelson’s presentation explores a “Big History” module that aims to provide students with a mental map of four critical eras in our shared human history, while also strengthening skills in synthesis and historical empathy. Jodie Marshall will present a module in which students explore the early modern Indian Ocean as a space, connected through imperial ambition, trade, and human movement. Brenna Miller’s presentation will address teaching the history of shifting identities in Southeastern Europe, from imperial collapse, the rise of nationalism, war, and the Cold War. All of these papers offer a discussion of interactive, student-centered pedagogical strategies.