Lecture Notes: Race, Democracy, Imperialism in US History

Class setup and expectations

• Instructor emphasizes impartiality and willingness to discuss controversial issues.

• Day 1: students choose to stay or drop; grade based on participation.

• Office hours: Tue/Thu 10:15–12, professor hall downstairs; invitation to talk after class.

• Participation is valued; two types of students: those who talk (rewarded) and those who are silent (less engaged).

• A participation-based bonus is discussed; importance of being involved.

# Participation norms and approach

The instructor began the class by emphasizing a commitment to impartiality and a willingness to engage in discussions on controversial issues, setting an open and inclusive tone for the course. Students were given the first day to decide whether to remain in the class or drop it, with a significant portion of their grade being based on active participation. To facilitate student engagement and support, office hours are dedicated on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:15 AM to 12:00 PM in the professor's hall downstairs, with an open invitation for students to speak with the instructor after class as well. Participation is highly valued, distinguishing between students who actively contribute, who will be rewarded for their engagement, and those who remain silent, who may be less engaged. The instructor also discussed the possibility of a participation-based bonus, underscoring the critical importance of students being actively involved in class discussions and adhering to established participation norms and approaches.