On August 13, 2019, the Jean Monnet Center hosted the EU Summer Workshop Policy Forum for Educators, “Crisis, Challenge and Change in the European Union” at the University of Washington. Marking the 30th anniversary of Jean Monnet activities, this year’s teacher workshop was co-sponsored by Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, the European Union Center of Excellence, the Center for European Studies and the Ellison Center, and operated in partnership with the World Affairs Council (WAC) of Seattle.
Phil Shekleton leads discussion on the benefits and challenges of the euro
The EU Summer Workshop Policy Forum brought middle school, high school and community college educators together from different schools across Washington State. Participants discussed and enriched their knowledge of contemporary issues in the European Union, including E.U. adaptations to climate change, the recent E.U. elections, and Brexit. The workshop curriculum sessions were facilitated by Ryan Hauck, Director of the WAC Global Classroom and teacher at Glacier Peak High School in Snohomish County.
Ryan Hauck facilitating the workshop curriculum session
Participants heard from four different speakers throughout the day. Visiting DAAD political science Professor Niko Switek, discussed important issues regarding the EU after the elections in 2019, including the representation of different party groups in the European Parliament and the set-up of the new Commission. Next, political science Ph.D. candidate Beatrice Magistro of Italy helped explain the rise of populism and nationalism in an age of globalization and migration. After lunch, UW Scandinavian Studies Professor Christine Ingebritsen discussed how and why Europeans lead in addressing climate change. The last speaker of the day was Phil Shekleton, lecturer in the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington. In his presentation, he highlighted the benefits and challenges of the euro and also helped participants analyze and better understand the issues surrounding Brexit.
Workshop attendees participate in curriculum exercise
After the presentations, Ryan Hauck distributed a curriculum resource guide based on the teacher workshop lectures to the participants and led them in a series of curriculum exercises. Participants then discussed how they would apply ideas from the workshop in their classroom and how the workshop enhanced their understanding of the topics presented.
Following the Teacher Workshop Policy Forum, the Jean Monnet Center held a separate information session to promote the upcoming Euro Challenge competition for high school students, which also receives co-funding from Erasmus+.
More photos from the workshop:
Christine Ingebritsen discussing the EU and climate change
Workshop attendees listening to presentations
Niko Switek discussing the EU politics
Participants listening to presentations
Attendees engaging in curriculum activities
Beatrice Magistro discussing populism and migration
