Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - HIST 130 D100

Introduction to Global History (3)

Class Number: 3288

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A survey of the history of the world, with a focus on global historical phenomena of the last six centuries. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

A survey of the history of the world, from the beginning to the end, especially the period from 1405 to 2025.  Focusing on the political, economic, and cultural aspects of globalization, we will explore religious and scientific revolutions, industrialization, nationalism, decolonization, the changing environment, and the evolution of modernity.  Can solutions from the past inspire us to new ways of (dis)solving today's problems?

In addition to lectures and online content, each week you will attend a real-time 50-minute tutorial.  There, you will work with primary sources, in a variety of media, to connect them with other aspects of the class and your own lives.  The course introduces issues of historical interpretation and research, and provides a foundation for further study in the arts and social sciences.  There will be a weekly online tutorial for students unable to attend in person.

There are no quizzes or examinations.  This course uses a "positive assessment" grading model, by which you get credit for the work you do.  Students will have a wide range of assignments to choose from, which can involve short written pieces or more creative projects.  The number and types of assignments you complete determines your final grade,  modified by points earned through participation and attendance.  Details will be made available so students can see in advance precisely what is required for each course grade.  A traditional (each assignment assessed with a letter grade) grading system will be available if you prefer it.  Grading will be on a curve that can only benefit students:  If necessary, final grades will be increased to coincide with departmental averages. 

Past students have praised HIST 130 as a "relevant" and "entertaining" course, and as a useful stepping stone to advanced courses in History and other disciplines.

Grading

  • Short assignments, attendance, and participation 100%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made available online.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Learn more about studying History at SFU:

History areas of study


Why study History?

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.