Maps are used to orient the student globally and regionally. Speakers are used to explore the value systems of Islam as compared to the Western World. The lesson culminates in a food fest featuring dishes selected and prepared by students. This concept is valuable outside the university environment because it directly relates to an important component of multi-cultural education. Very often other cultures are what we perceive them to be.
Experience is the most effective watt to change perceptions.
We can read that Muslims are tolerant and respect life but when a resident of a Middle Eastern country tells you that, your perception will truly be altered. The object of this unit is that the students will be able to identify and compare data, ideas, and food with their experiences and perceptions. The levels of this objective may be adjusted to match the individual class. It is expected that students will gain an understanding of Middle East cultural, political, and religious ideas. The outcome will produce clarified and sharpened perceptions about the Middle East.