Changes for next year

I think that our final projects were interesting and fun to get into, however I would argue we were spread way too thin. There are so many problems in the world today, and trying to discuss a few here and there doesn't really get too much below the surface and into the heart of the problems. I would suggest the class chooses one or two issues, like just HIV/AIDS, energy, or poverty etc. and focus just on those couple of topics. I think this would spur a more meaningful and deeper discussion during class, and during final presentations, less time would need to be spent on background information and more on analysis and solutions.

I would also agree with having more diverse readings - the books sometimes got a little repetitive and took up a lot of reading time that could be devoted to more case studies or other articles. One thing that might be interesting is to include things going on in the news that relate to whatever topic your discussing. I was definitely behind on the current events on some of the issues we talked about, and having an article to read a week would be an enjoyable and light, yet informative source for information.