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Who runs these courses?

 

James is the individual who runs these courses under his banner, Discovering the Ancient World. He is an Ancient History graduate from the University of Queensland who has taught History in state and private schools in Queensland. He is no longer a teacher but still has a passion for the ancient world and loves to share it with others. While the sessions are held at Go Greek Kafe, James is not employed there.

How will these courses be taught?

 

These courses will not be lectures. Student participation will be planned and encouraged (although not forced!). There will be activities for you to complete. Of course, there will be extensive teacher input, supported by visual resources. You will recieve a workbook in a binder which will be updated every week with course material.

Do I have to attend all of the evenings?

 

The course has been designed so that you get the best value by coming to all of the sessions. You are strongly encouraged to plan to attend the whole course. If you think you only want to attend one or two evenings, casual attendance can be arranged at $30/evening.

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Why study history?

 

Because it's fun! You wouldn't have read this far in the web site if you were not at all interested. History allows us to visit other times and cultures from ours which we will never reach by travel. Ancient cultures are exotic and alien: understanding them gives us perspective on ourselves and our culture. People rarely learn useful tips from history (being condemned, therefore, to repeat it!). But we come to a deeper understanding of how we got to where we are now.

Can I drink and eat during the course?

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Yes please! Go Greek Kafe has graciously allowed us to use their upstairs Symposium Room and coffee, drink and food purchased there can be enjoyed during the course. Sometimes you might even want to meet beforehand for dinner there.

Why learn as a group?

 

There are lots of ways that we can learn about history: internet, books, TV documentaries, etc, etc. BUT - you can't effectively interact with these. Educators talk about the value of "communities of learning", where people come together to learn. You will learn from the course teacher, but you will also learn as you operate in the group: from asking your own questions, from the questions and observations of others, and from your own answers and observations. If you so choose, there is also a social element to every group. But we also cater to the introverts!

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What is the university visit?

 

The University of Queensland is the hub of ancient history in Queensland, and has a fine public museum of ancient artifacts at its St Lucia campus. A week after the last session of each course we have an opportunity to visit the museum to see and handle some ancient objects. The museum staff will assist us. This visit is optional and the cost is additional to your registration. It should be a fascinating end to each course!

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Who are these courses aimed at?

 

Anyone interested in the ancient world! You don't have to be academic, although you will need to prepare yourself for a bit of learning. The courses are especially designed for those who have not studied ancient history (since school) and who want an introduction to make sense of it all. The aim of the course is not to make you an expert but to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to go further if you choose: reading, investigation, or even formal study!

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Will I need to buy a textbook?

 

No. The course will make sense without a textbook, and I will supply any essential readings for each week. But you will get more out of your learning experience if you do some reading alongside the course.

 

For Discovering Ancient Greece, there are two recent books that would make excellent companion reading as you progress through the sessions. Purchase from your favourite book seller in paper or as an e-book.

 

 

This lively paperback is worth reading before the course:

 

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