International Studies

Faculty

Bindu Madhok, program chair and professor.
B.A., University of Calcutta; Ph.D., Brown University. Appointed 1990.

Midori Yoshii, associate professor of international studies.
B.A., M.A., Tsuda College Tokyo; M.A., Ph.D., Boston University. Appointed 2004.

Introduction

International studies is a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary program that encourages students to examine cross-cultural, cross-national or transnational phenomena. It seeks therefore both a depth and breadth of knowledge about the human experience. Its primary justification arises from the belief that the world is increasingly interdependent and that many of the challenges to humanity are global in scope and cannot be usefully studied within the confines of a single discipline.

Students completing the international studies major at Albion College will have acquired a solid grasp of social, political, economic and historical forces at work in the world; competence in a second language equivalent to four semesters of college-level work; a familiarity with methodologies appropriate to the study of international phenomena; and a globally relevant experience through an appropriate off-campus program. For further information, contact Midori Yoshii, adviser.

International Studies Website

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Major:

1. Know more and in greater depth about international, transnational, and global issues.

2. Acquire the ability to analyze, critique, and explain new international, transnational, and global issues.

3. Know about a wide range of cultures, societies, and countries outside of the student’s home country.

4. Learn strategies for interacting with people who do not share the student’s cultural assumptions and native language.

5. Know the differences and similarities between different cultures.

6. Acquire the ability to conduct an independent research project that significantly deepens the student’s understanding of international, transnational, or global issues.

Student Learning Outcomes for the IS Minor:

1. Know more and in greater depth about international, transnational, and global issues.

2. Acquire the ability to analyze, critique, and explain new international, transnational, and global issues.

3. Know about a wide range of cultures, societies, and countries outside of the student’s home country.

4. Learn strategies for interacting with people who do not share the student’s cultural assumptions and native language.

5. Know the differences and similarities between different cultures.

Programs

Major

International Studies, B.A.

Minor