Many Europes: Choice and Chance in Western Civilization

More and more we are challenged by today’s learning environment – students are different, digital tools are evolving, and instructors are continually asked to do more with less yet show greater results. With the creation of Many Europes, Choice & Chance in Western Civilization, an entirely integrated program, we recognize this changing environment and set out with the goal of better meeting the western civilization course challenges of improving student performance, critical analysis skills, and overall comprehension in a continually evolving teaching and learning environment.

What does it mean – integrated program? Rather than a traditional narrative text that then has ancillary support material or supplements tacked onto it, Many Europes was constructed as a program. Each narrative section has clearly stated learning objectives that are tied to the digital tools which drive the program’s assessment. A key tool in driving knowledge is McGraw-Hill’s LearnSmart, an adaptive assessment tool, which has proven results of increasing student comprehension and overall course results. Yet, we realize that while history instructors want students to know basic historical facts, the actual goal of the course is improving student’s critical thinking abilities. Our Critical Missions develop analysis skills through the examination of maps, primary sources and the completion of a written argument. In addition, several other assignment types within McGraw-Hill’s Connect drive the development of analysis skills and are also tied directly to learning objectives.

What do we mean by Choice? Unique to this program, Many Europes discusses European history as a series of choices within a set of historical circumstances, driving greater critical analysis as students realize that Europe's fate was never inevitable but instead was created by individuals with diverse voices and perspectives. Choice also means flexibility. Many Europes’ flexible content including a customizable documents collection available as print or digital as well as many user options from a completely digital experience to a hybrid print and digital experience, or if you must, an all print experience.

What do we mean by Chance? In history chance shows itself as a dropped letter, an unexpected storm, or surprise turn of events. Chance can also show itself as a new way, path, or direction that allows for the anticipation and expectation of something better. Many Europes’ flexible content coupled with powerful digital learning tools and a customizable documents collection gives users an innovative choice for the teaching and learning of Western Civilization as well as a better chance for improved student results and course outcomes.