dominate the headlines, and it seems almost certain that most near-future military opponents of the USA will be non-state players. The course will define what non-state actors are by unpacking the very separate concepts of “terrorist,” “insurgent,” “tribal fighter,” and “militaman,” overview contemporary military conflicts (i.e. the Syrian War) involving non-state actors; discuss questions of practical utility (Does terrorism work? Were the founding fathers terrorists?); and examine the growth of non-state actors into states, which seems to be the ultimate goal of ISIS and Nusra. Finally and importantly, as most non-state actors are “bad” from our point of view, this course will extensively discuss techniques of counter-terrorism and ways in which national and global governments can combat actors other than states.

Course Format: Class periods will be used to emphasize selected portions of your reading assignments, however, the majority of class will be used to supplement the text, through a variety of classroom activities, including lecture, debate, role-plays, presentations, and discussions. You are responsible for all of the material covered in the texts and class (i.e., lecture, debates, discussion etc), as well as any additional reading assignments.

IV. REQUIRED TEXTS: (Readings to be determined by instructor)

V. BLACKBOARD: Your assignments and materials are posted in several different areas. Take the time to click on each of the buttons on your course menu to familiarize yourself with the course content. Other information is provided under the course documents section.

VI. STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES: The student learning

objectives will be assessed using a variety of methods:

1. Write clear and effective prose in several forms, using conventions appropriate to audience (including academic audiences), purpose, and genre.
2. Listen and speak competently in a variety of communication contexts, which may include public, interpersonal, and/or small-group settings.
3. Find, analyze, evaluate, and cite pertinent primary and secondary sources, including academic databases, to prepare speeches and written texts.
4. Identify, analyze, and evaluate statements, assumptions, and conclusions representing diverse points of view; and construct informed, sustained, and ethical arguments in response.
5. Plan, organize, revise, practice, edit, and proofread to improve the development and clarity of ideas.
6. Distinguish between various kinds of evidence by identifying reliable sources and valid arguments.
7. Evaluate the significance of human expression and experience in shaping larger social, cultural, and historical contexts.
8. Demonstrate knowledge of at least one area of the social and behavioral sciences.
9. Apply knowledge, theories, and research methods, including ethical conduct, to analyze problems pertinent to at least one area of the social and behavioral sciences.
10. Understand and demonstrate how at least one area of the social and behavioral sciences conceptualizes diversity and the ways it shapes human experience.