The Uses and Limits of the Model United Nations in an International Relations Classroom (original) (raw)
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Rationale and theoretical foundation for a model United Nations class
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A Model United Nations (MUN) class culminating in a simulation with other learners in the community is based on the social constructivist theory that merges simulation-based learning (SBL) and problem-based learning (PBL), to enhance active-learning strategies. Constructivism as a paradigm posits that learning is an active process, where the learner is seen as an information constructor. Simulations benefit by using PBL frameworks to promote student-directed learning and problemsolving skills, in explaining a real world dilemma with multiple solutions. Problembased learning benefits because simulations structure the information students receive, to focus learning on the intended curriculum and increase the strategies effectiveness. Research on PBL validates an increasing use of simulations in international relations programs. Simpson and Kaussler (2009) claim that simulations develop communication, analytical skills, convey issue based knowledge, and theoretical understanding. Unlike the traditional educational pedagogical model, MUN is built on constructivist theory, preparing students with an adequate skill-set needed to operate effectively in a globalized world. KEYWORDS: Model United Nations; contextualized learning; social constructivist theory; problem-based learning; simulation-based learning "Here we use the Socratic method: I call on you; I ask you a question; you answer it. Why don't I just give you a lecture? Because through my questions you learn to teach yourselves.
Model United Nations in the ESOL Classroom
Nothing stimulates high school students' learning like the Model United Nations (MUN). It challenges them to role play UN delegates from other countries, exercises their English (through research, writing, presenting, questioning, and debating) and promotes critical/creative thinking skills to attempt to resolve the most difficult issues of our day. This paper explains what the MUN is and discusses how the author prepared Okayama Gakugeikan High School students for the annual Kansai High School Model United Nations in Kyoto. It describes how the MUN fosters global literacy and features comments from former students about its impact on their education and future career paths.
A study of the role of the UN in the world today. Students will obtain experience in practicing diplomatic skills in a mock setting. Prepares students to represent accurately a member state of the UN in regional competition. The course may be taken three times for credit." (2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog,
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Model United Nations (MUN) as a teaching method is being developed to be implemented in many schools in many countries to acquire the demands of living in international community. High schools in Indonesia started practicing it in 2010. As this is quite new, its practicality is still frequently rare and quite complicated to do. Therefore, this study aimed at researching the students’ enthusiasm towards model united nations as a path to know whether this kind of teaching method is acceptable for them. The subjects of the research were 40 students of PondokPesantren Modern Darul Mursyid, Tapanuli Selatan, North Sumatera who joined the school’s English club. This is a qualitative research designed in a case study employing three instruments in collecting the data; interview, observation, and documentation. The interview showed that the students were enthusiastic to implement MUN, curious to know further, and engaged with all of the activities. The observation showed that the students w...
Model United Nations (MUN) as a teaching method is being developed to be implemented in many schools in many countries to acquire the demands of living in international community. High schools in Indonesia started practicing it in 2010. As this is quite new, its practicality is still frequently rare and quite complicated to do. Therefore, this study aimed at researching the students' enthusiasm towards model united nations as a path to know whether this kind of teaching method is acceptable for them. The subjects of the research were 40 students of PondokPesantren Modern Darul Mursyid, Tapanuli Selatan, North Sumatera who joined the school's English club. This is a qualitative research designed in a case study employing three instruments in collecting the data; interview, observation, and documentation. The interview showed that the students were enthusiastic to implement MUN, curious to know further, and engaged with all of the activities. The observation showed that the st...
TO BE A DIPLOMAT, WHY NOT? (A CASE STUDY ON THE STUDENTS' ENTHUSIASM TOWARDS MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Model United Nations as a teaching method is being developed to be implemented in many schools in many countries. High schools in Indonesia started practicing it in 2010. As this is quite new, its practicality is still frequently rare and quite complicated to do. Therefore, this study aimed at researching the students' enthusiasm towards model united nations as a path to know whether this kind of teaching method is acceptable for them. The subjects of the research were 40 students of Pondok Pesantren Modern Darul Mursyid, Tapanuli Selatan, North Sumatera who joined the school's English club. This is a qualitative research designed in a case study employing three instruments in collecting the data; interview, observation, and documentation to dig as deeply as possible information about the objective of the research. The interview showed that the students were enthusiastic to implement model united nations, curious to know further, and engaged with all of the activities. The observation showed that the students were active, consistent and discipline in following all the activities. While the documentation showed that their success in implementing this kind of teaching method was equipped by their sufficient background of English language mastery. Accordingly, it can be concluded that the students' enthusiasm towards Model United Nations was sophisticatedly high and their capacity to follow the teaching method was satisfying. These findings imply its possibility to be implemented in the class. The suggestion is addressed for teachers to simplify the procedures to make its practicality more tangible to do.
Learning by doing: a simulation of United Nations at university
This paper presents an experience of teaching International Relations to students of Communication Sciences at the University of the Basque Country within the framework of Bologna Process. First, this innovative experience is introduced by explaining the causes that have made it be recognised as an Educative Innovation Project. Second, the adaptation of the study plans carried out in order to fulfil the requirements of self-directed learning abilities within the framework of the Bologna Process is explained. The third section describes the development of the International Relations study plan in order to train the students to take part in a simulation of the United Nations Security Council. The basic assumption underlying this approach is that the best way of introducing students to international relations issues is by means of their own experience. Finally, the paper assesses the effectiveness of such a technique to familiarise students with international affairs.
Young Citizens of the World Unite! A Case for the Model United Nations in Middle School Classrooms
In this essay, the authors describe the benefits and theoretical connections of the Junior Model United Nations (JMUN) program in middle school classrooms. The lens used to view the JMUN program is informed by literature on the needs of young adolescents, inquiry learning, and global citizenship. Findings based on this literature illuminate nuances in the interaction between inquiry learning through the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies Standards and active learning participation. Implications for middle school students, in-service teachers, and teacher candidates are discussed.