Hello class;
Thank you all for your professional participation today. It was a pleasure for me to witness such scholarly dialogue and to be part of such a productive learning environment.
As we discussed, please briefly describe your learning and feedback as we did in class today. This is an important aspect of evaluation and assessment so that I can continue to meet your learning needs moving forward,
Regards
Dr. Kalam
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I learned that it is vital that the inmates in Guantanamo Bay (terrorist suspects) receive their justice outside of the United States. I do believe that everyone is entitled to due process but for some of those suspected terrorists to receive such justice is unfair if they are willing to die for their belief in terrorizing the world. I do not believe that everyone in Guantanamo Bay is guilty of a crime; however, me being an American, why take that risk to give them a fair trial here in the United States. That’s my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised to know that Israel was founded in 1949 by Jews who fled from the Holocaust. Since I was a child I always heard of Israel being in the times of Christ. Now I officially know that Israel is a sovereignty state and also hated by many globally.
In this class I learned about the Just War Theory. War can only happen as a last resort. First two opposing sides must try to come to terms before a war starts. This theory also included principles to follow while in a war. I figured that when you are fighting a war you fight dirty no rules or laws to govern your war; and in doing so may the stronger side win. That was my opinion.
One of the things that I learned during this class is that this format is a great way of learning because it combines the traditional lecture with blogs, research, and discussions.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing that I learned in this class and that also caught my attention is Public International Law, also known as Law of Nations; which is divided into two categories: Jus In Bello (law concerning acceptable justification to use armed force) and Just Ad Bellum (law concerning acceptable justification to use armed force).
ReplyDeleteAnother concept that caught my attention is Realism; (as indicated in our text) which has skeptism as its core principal. Realists believe that moral concepts should never prescribe nor circunscribe a state's behavior. Instead a state should place an emphasis on state security and self-interest.
ReplyDeleteDr. Kalam I suggest that for your next class you show the movie "Network" which shows how the media influences and molds our society. At the same time, this media is owned or influenced by a group of people that are very economically powerful. This movie would tie in with the concept of Realism, the United Nations, all the different nations around the world, and much more because it shows that globalization has almost eliminated the individual power that each nation believes they have.
ReplyDeleteAlan:
ReplyDeleteThanks for the suggestion and I will certainly get that movie and show it in class.
Your input as always has been valuable in terms of helping make the class more productive.
I learned from this course the following:
ReplyDelete1. That genocide is still a topic that continues happen in our world, and history has repeated its self time and time again with the Armeniams, Jews, Poles, Tutsis Bosnian Muslims, Sudan. It seems that world does not learn from the past, or is it that some people lack the humanity live around others that different from themself.
2. That policies are only done when there seem to be a an problem that others that effective the masses. Could it be that we really don't know what needs to be until it happens, maybe we just want it to become someone else's problem, or maybe do we want others to make us believes before we react.
3. That dialogue is the principle part of people and countries understanding of one another. The United Nationals plays a part of the world forum, it may not resolve all the issues of the world, but it does help bring to light problems that other countries have and may become to others surrounding them.
I believe that is there was some kind of forum for citizens of every country to understand one another wouldnt be issues with different groups, and this forum should be with citizens not leaders, because they really are not the ones that have to deal with the differences of others.
ReplyDeleteAnd to continue on my previous comment, we need to said forum of understanding for our citizens as well to avoid some the issues that other countries are currently facing. Even though we have come a long way from our past, we should try to be more understanding of others. We had a great class and we got alone great as well I believe, but in the real world this form of unity really does not happen; could it be because of education that helps us keep a open mind, and believe so.
ReplyDeleteGreat point Carlos:
ReplyDeleteEducation teaches us all in many different ways. We intend to lear something, and oftentimes, we learn something else, but it is still learning.
The round table format of the class worked beautifully. It allowed the students to fully discuss the subject matter and to freely express their opinion.
ReplyDeleteI discovered that the UN has no enforcement power. Oftentimes the UN bows to the will of the nations with the greatest interest. With all the talk about protecting human rights, I have always wondered how the UN forces could stand idle in the face of genocide and ethnic cleansing. Now I understand that it‘s more political than practical. The UN has no legislative capacity and when they pass a resolution, nobody cares.
ReplyDeleteImmigration was a hotly debated topic in the class. I appreciated the fact that everyone presented their views courteously. I learned that there is no simple solution to the immigration problem. The US government is doing all it can to prevent illegal immigration, however when faced with the unrelenting and overwhelming determination of the human spirit, the government needs to continuously renew its strategies in order to stem the flow of illegal immigrants coming to our shores.
ReplyDeleteWhat I liked most about this course is the way it has been set up. The fact that we sat in a conference table to discuss issues is pretty much the type of set up that diplomats, leaders, politicians, and in general, government officials discuss and negotiate national and world matters. This face-to-face interaction gives each participant the respect he or she deserves to discuss the issues at the same level, which I think it cannot be replicated or achieves the same results as in a typical classroom.
ReplyDeleteDuring the course, one of the things I have learned is that the meaning of the words we use have the power to manipulate public opinion, according to the interest of a particular group. Depending on which side of the issue we stand, the same person could be a “freedom fighter” or a “terrorist”.
As a result, the course has validated my point of view that an institution like the United Nations is very important as a forum for nations to discuss and negotiate issues of their concern. That is because we were a diverse group, that was able to express different ideas, and each one of us has had the opportunity to learn from others experiences in order to reevaluate our thinking about the issues that were discussed - pretty much like they do at the U.N. and other world forums.
One of the lessons I've learned in class, is when creating a policy, it has to be implemented properly and whether you are making a policy or making changes to it,there are many considerations and issues that must be taken into account in order to ensure that the policy will be efficient, effective and usable.
ReplyDeleteI've aslo learned that as americans, perhaps we need to become more receptive of the differences in others. Everyone should embrace their diiferences in other people because a great deal of what we learn comes from a shared knowledge.
I've learned Israel was founded by the Jews who fled the Holocaust in 1949. That was a pretty eye opening, because I've always thought that Isreal always existed way back before ancient times, and before the birth of Jesus Christ, according to the bible.
Ladies and gentlemen, it's been a wonderful experience having you all as my classmates, the wonderful times, and the laughter we've shared will never be forgotten. You guys have been very informative and inspiring.
Good luck and I wish you all the best in everything you do and accomplish, and be all that you can be.
Bye
Dr. Kalam,
ReplyDeleteIt has always been a pleasure having you as a professor, a guidance and a mentor.
You have a unique style of teaching, and definetely makes a difference in the lives of everyone you encounter.
Thank you, It's been a pleasure.
Overall the class has been a positive experience in which I have learn not only from the professor but I have also learned from my peers. In the class I learned about the capacity of the United Nations. How limited they are in administering justice and how they impliment policies. It help answer some of the questions that I had after watching "God Grew Tire of Us" and "Hotel Rwanda". The films include a lot of the topics we covered in the class. I also learned how the "sneak and Peak" doctrine is associated with the Patriot Act.
ReplyDeleteThe format for this class was outstanding! The round table setting encourages participation of all students. Although the 3 week classes seem to be of long hours, everyone becomes so engaged in topics that it makes the time spent learning enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteIn this course I learned what the root of all the troubles in the middle east consist of. I also learned some of the interests the United States has in globalization.
I learned how the United Nations has no power. I always thought that the rules set forth by the U.N. had to be followed by all nations. It was interesting to see how there are "rules" in war and how countries follow them. Also, the difference between terrorism and war.
Other topics that were not discussed in this class but I feel are appropriate are:
- Emergency Proclamations
- Implementing and Creating Recovery Plans
- Powers of the Governor in Emergencies
- Policies in Funding for Emergency Situations
- What the Public Expects from Law Enforcement
In conclusion, I really enjoyed this class! Thank you Dr. Kalam for your continued interest in helping your students succeed!
At the beginning of this class I was lost and couldn’t comprehend the topics on hand. However, as the weeks progressed I took it upon myself to do my own research. As I was doing the research it made it much easier for me to understand. I have learned a plethora of things from this class such as the genocide, which I didn’t have any clue about. Genocide means to kill an entire group of people, which I didn’t know was still going on to day. Also I learned that the president just couldn’t issue our military to a war the congress has the power to do so. I knew certain parts about the U.S patriot act, but I didn’t know about the “Sneak and Peak” warrants were officially sanctioned which was new to me. The main things I’ve learned is that the immigration status is more than just Cubans and Haitians in this class it made me think outside of the box. Indeed I have realized that this is a touchy topic and since I am a American citizen I don’t understand what immigrants go through. Sitting amongst my classmates it really has opened my eyes to know how abundant this situation is. Before I was only concerned with things that were around me, but from this class I have learned to think out of the box.
ReplyDeleteGreat class, loved the dynamics and the opened discussion atmosphere. I am going to start a Morgenthau’s Theory fan club. I liked the fact that we focus on international issues rather than local ones. It is necessary to understand international conflicts because there is a possibility that we can be affected by them. Many times conflicts that have started in the other side of the world had affected America, such as World War I & II, 911, etc, and when those occurred Emergency Management kicked in. I am sure but not thrilled that we are going to see the mechanics of Emergency Management in the other concentration classes. I really believe that the topics learned were necessary for Emergency Management.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding job Dr. Kalam!
Hello and Good Afternoon Everyone,
ReplyDeleteFirst let me say that I really enjoyed this class and look forward to the next class in March.
I learned a lot in this class. I always knew from my current job that writing policy was hard but I never knew just how hard. There are many considerations to keep in mind especially the 3 legs of policy making (openness, flexibility and growth). These are especially important because situations change and as with anything there are complexities involved that change what policies are needed for that time.
Another thing I learned was just how much further we need to go as a global community to strengthen the institutions that we look to for solving world problems like the U.N., the International Criminal Court, etc.
The last thing that I learned was just how hard it really is for people to come to the United States and become citizens. I took for granted the fact that I already live here and how easy it is to go places without much trouble at all. While those who wish to come here (from countries outside of Europe, Canada or Mexico) must divulge their entire lives just to vacation here.
Thanks to everyone who helped me learn something new. Hope to see all of you in March.
Hello class and good afternoon it was a pleasure being in this class and discussing and debating various topics throughout the weeks.
ReplyDeleteThese are three things I learned in class is realism (realpolitik) is the belief that all countries seek power and dominance. Also No laws or courts can stop a country from seeking power. An example of this is North Korea’s Kim Jong-Il seeking to gain nuclear power.
Another thing I learned in class is Social orientation, economic and moral law: impartiality, neutrality, certainty, equality, openness, flexibility, growth. The last three attributes are important for policy making if you wish to have a successful policy at least.
Finally I learned that drug trafficking is more spread than I previously knew. I never knew that Almost all of the world’s cocaine is produced in the Andean region of South America: Columbia, Peru, Bolivia.
To Fellow Classmates it's been a pleasure learning with each and every last one of you...Thanks for being respectable and open during discussion.
ReplyDeleteThe three things I've learned were the different between Just Cause and Just means.
Just Cause ban aggressive war and Just means ban unnecessarily cruel or destructive tactics.
I learned while during the policy project was in the mind frame of my job and one the constructive criticism hope me to realize I need to thing outside the box.
The finally thing was blogging I never done this before and it was exciting and well organized; everything one respected each other opinions and govern themselves in a manner way. Once again thanks.
First and foremost I will like to thank the class for allowing the discussion to go in a very educated way. Dr Kalam this was my first time taking a class with you, I look forward to many more.
ReplyDeleteThis class has left a lot of knowledge, and has given me a lot of new ways to look at things.
I enjoyed debating the topics we discussed and hearing the different point of views from all of you. I good to know that the level of students attending MDC is of such variety and of high caliber, I really mean this I'm glad I choose to pursue my degree at MDC. Thank you all, and thank you Dr. Kalam.
The three things that i learned in this class were the differences between internation law and domestic law, before this class i never think those laws were even existed.
ReplyDeleteThe differences between just cause and just means. just cause ban aggressive war and they go to war when it is acceptable, but my question is when it is acceptable to go to war? Just means bans unnecessarily cruel or destructive tactics.
Policy was the most difficult thing for me in the class, after that i realise how difficult it is for the policy makers to come out with a policy for every people in America. My point of view will be as follow not everybody can make a policy because it is very hard to come out with somethings that will benefit everyboby and you should be in the center of the table not for the right side nor the left side.
Another thing that attired my attention was U.N. i never think that U.N. doen't have no power.for example, in Haiti this military group never interfare in any thing good for the population. If the civilian are been attack the U.N. force drove right by them an go, so what is their purpose for them to being in this country.
It was a pleasure for me to be in that class,everybody was womderful thank you Dr. Kalam.
Dr.Kalam the commet that said Mohales is for me Windsor Deis i accidently send it on his account.
ReplyDeleteI'm very sory for this sir. "Mohales" is not in your class this is me "Windsor Deis" the reson that was happen it's because he was using the computer before me and he was not sign out yet.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I have learned and really surprised me was the just war theory. I never knew their was a such thing as a "just war". Wars are made out to be agressive and ruthless but the truth is their can many rules. Just war can only be waged as a last resort.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing I learned that really shocked me was genocide. I was not really familiar with genocide before this class but now I have learned about it and informed myself of these tragedies that are still occuring. As someone mentioned in class it is amazing how history keeps on repeating itself. It is like the world just never learns.
ReplyDeleteAlso I have better informed myself of the role of the United Nations. Although some may see it as useless but I think it is very important for countries to get the opinions and views of other countries. As we just did in class it seems to me as people can really learn alot from listening to others.
ReplyDeleteGood evening class!
ReplyDeleteThe first thing that makes Dr.Kalams's class different from any other professor is the way the class is set up and how professional all the students are. It makes a big difference being able to go into a class and being able to express your feelings, not fearing what others will say- only Flavio! Just kidding! The roundtable discussion is very benificial in being able to share your opinions.
I never knew how it difficult it was to write a policy and the many different voices and opinions people have. I have never been a big fan of international policies, but this class definetly opened my eyes to the bigger picture- and how everything really relates. In policy making it is important that there is a good balance.
The public policy class was a mind opener for me. I learned many interesting topics. I learned about extradition treaties, Sovereignty, and crime against humanity.
ReplyDeleteI had problem loggin in earlier. I hope to elaborate next time we meet. I am at a friend comupter. It was a pleasure to in the company of such bright minds. Just like everyone else , I love the round table format. We were able to express ourselves while we looked at whole class. The format helped us see who agree or disagree with you. Thank you all
I learned three main things in this class. The first thing I learned is that when making a policy the two important factors are growth and an opening that leaves room so other people can revise and add input. The second thing I learned was about the Just War Theory. Meaning that only war can be raised as a last resort. The third thing I learned was that immigration strikes up a great debate, and it is a broader subject than one may think.
ReplyDeleteI learned three main things in this class. The first thing I learned is that when making a policy the two important factors are growth and an opening that leaves room so other people can revise and add input. The second thing I learned was about the Just War Theory. Meaning that only war can be raised as a last resort. The third thing I learned was that immigration strikes up a great debate, and it is a broader subject than one may think.
ReplyDeletehi class
ReplyDeletepolicy making is what I think I learned the most of. I have much better understanding of what it takes to put together a policy. I learned that when setting a goal to keep in mind the important of policy and who it affects. The group project of creating a policy was a real eye opener for me, because I know that it take alot of people to create good idea for the good all. The mean thing me must remember is that everyone is a part of the decision that are made. We must all be open mind like are class to be able to process in the future.
ReplyDeleteI feel that feel that class room setting was good because we were able to face one another and express our idea and thought on a one on bases.
ReplyDeleteI also learned that there is a interpol law enforcement team, which I didnt realize they were not real people, just a liason between countries.
ReplyDeleteDr. Kalam,
ReplyDeleteIn taking this time to express my learning experience in your class, I want to first thank you for creating the “round table” discussion, and in answering your question what did I learn; many spoke on how they became knowledgeable about various Laws, Theories, and Acts. Well, I must say that I learned the same if not more; I found your course to capture and hold the interest of all that attended as well as yours truly (me). Dr. Kalam, I have taken several courses with you and always find myself wanting to participate, interact, and learn more.
The round table allows for your students to discuss topics and issues in an orderly fashion, that’s respectful and courteous; you allow for growth and never chastise for opinion(s); encouraging class participation has always been the key. I have learned to be very opinionated but to also be open minded to other views on various issues. Dr. Kalam, I really enjoyed your course and I am looking forward to attending another session with you in March.
Now, let me get down to the issue at hand which is what did I learn: I learned what “Just War Theory” is, and that it is waged as a last resort, meaning that all non-violent options must be exhausted before the use of force can be justified; never heard of this until I took this course. I learned how hard it is to write a policy, because you are trying to please all which is impossible. Rules and regulations can be bent or broken, but policy and procedures are a bit tougher to change or revise, because they are clear and concise and no room is left for ambiguous interpretation.
This was a wonderful experience and I look forward to another great learning experience in the upcomming Integrated Emergency Management course in March.
ReplyDeleteTake care
Dr. Kalam