However, if this is your first course in Latin American history, it is strongly suggested that you buy, read, and frequently consult the optional textbooks. Because the course depends on your participation, attendance is required. All assigned reading must be completed before the beginning of class for the day on which it is assigned. To participate in classroom discussions, you do not have to be right. Making mistakes, trying out new ideas, and asking questions are the best ways to learn.
All comments are welcome in discussion except direct personal insults to classmates.
You should argue with your classmates and, especially, with the professor. All written work for this course should aim for logical rigor, concision, clarity, and factual correctness. The research exercises and the written portions of the discussion leadership assignment will not be accepted late under any circumstances. All written work will be accepted early if you complete it ahead of time. Some of the work for this class will be submitted by email and some assignments for this class will be sent to you by email.