Intensive Arabic Semester

The Middle East Studies course explores both recent events as they are portrayed in the media and significant occurrences in the history of Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Iran. The Shiite Revolution in Iran and Lebanon and the rise of the Islamic Brotherhood in Egypt are discussed in terms of their relationship to Israel. The course also focuses on the history and culture of Arabs in Israel, including Muslims, Christians and Druze (Bedouin history and Bedouin law will be examined separately) with the aim of better understanding Israel's relationship with its Arab minorities.  A typical lesson involves group discussions based on current events in the Middle East and their effects on Israel. It also examines the history and politics of Islam and its influence on countries in the Middle East. Each student is expected to choose, research and deliver a class presentation on a topic relevant to the course. Participants include teachers and students from the School of Science and Technology in Baqa-Al-Garbiyye where the course takes place.