My academic experience in Ireland has been very different from the traditional classroom setting back at home. The classes I took while in Kearney all ranged from fifty, to sixty, to seventy-five minutes. As a political science major with a philosophy minor my classes were all very discussion based. The other big part of these courses was writing more papers than I could possibly recall.
There are essentially two different styles of learning that we are using while here. The first is of spending time in the classroom, and the second is the more hands-on approach which includes us going to different historical sites and engaging in the culture there as well as going to museums and art exhibits which enables us to better understand the intricacies of Irish culture.
In the classroom we have been reading history, literature, learning about personal development, as well as some of the traditional Irish language.
In our history class we have been learning about Ireland, starting around the time that Saint Patrick introduced Christianity to the people of Ireland. We have now reached the point where we are discussing British involvement throughout Ireland’s history and the difference of perception of Oliver Cromwell in Ireland as opposed to in Britain. Ireland largely despises Cromwell as he was responsible for massive amounts of lives being lost throughout the country while Britain reveres him for establishing a parliamentary system over the original kingship.
In our literature class we read an Irish play called “Playboy of the Western World” and are currently reading several short stories by Irish authors. We also went to a play as part of this class called “Lieutenant of Inishmore” which showcased how incredibly dark the humor of the Irish can be. Nevertheless, it was a very well-done show. I am very excited to continue learning more about the fascinating and unique culture of Ireland!
Ramblin' Dan 