World Politics Learning Community
Are you interested in international issues like war and peace, economic globalization, and efforts to address climate change and promote human rights? Would you like to make some new friends who share these interests and find out about academic and extracurricular opportunities to learn more? If so, this new learning community might be just what you're looking for!
Launching in the fall of 2026, the World Politics Learning Community will be housed on the third floor of Old Rafuse in the Dickinson Community. The community is open to all first-year students willing to enroll in the Introduction to World Politics (PLSC 117) in the fall. A common discussion section of the course set aside for them. They will also enroll in a 2-credit course with Professor Ben Fordham that will introduce them to resources and opportunities for studying world politics at 91社区. This course will also give students credit for participating in the activities of the learning community. In the spring semester, students in the learning community will have the option to enroll in a 300-level political science course with Professor Fordham on a topic related to world politics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What activities will the learning community involve?
The learning community will do a range of things together. Some will introduce students to resources and opportunities for studying world politics on campus. We will hear from academic centers like the Institute for Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention (IGMAP), student groups like the Model United Nations team, and campus resources like subject librarians who can help with your research. We'll learn about opportunities like study abroad and internships in the public and non-profit sector. We will also do some fun things to supplement what you're learning in the Introduction to World Politics class during the fall, including watching and discussing some of the movies that are mentioned in class. - Will I get academic credit for learning community activities?
Students in the learning community will be able to sign up for a special 2-credit course (HARP 180) centered on the community's activities. The course will involve some writing about community discussions and other activities but exists mainly to give you credit for your
participation. - How large will the learning community be?
In its inaugural year, the learning community will enroll 20-25 first-year students. - How can I join the learning community?
To apply, you should fill out the . Professor Fordham will contact you when members are selected. - Can I pick my roommate if I join the learning community?
One purpose of the learning community is to give its members a chance to get to know each other. For this reason, everyone in the learning community will be assigned a roommate from among its members. Unless you have identified a prospective roommate on the application form, and that person joins the community, we will assign you a roommate. - Where will I live if I join the learning community?
All students in the learning community will live on a wing of the third floor of Old Rafuse, within the Dickinson community. - Can I continue to live in the learning community after my first year?
At present, the learning community is aimed at first-year students. However, students who wish to remain in the Dickinson community after their first year will have preference for living space elsewhere in Dickinson. You're free to participate in learning community activities later, and, of course, the friends you've made in the community are yours to keep! - Who can I contact if I have other questions?
You should email Professor Ben Fordham at bfordham@binghamton.edu.