Course Description

Model United Nations

About The Course

Model United Nations (Model UN) is a course designed to teach students about diplomacy, international relations, and the workings of the United Nations (UN). It combines academic lectures with practical simulations, where students take on the roles of delegates representing countries in the UN committees. In class, students study the history of the UN, recent global issues, their assigned country's policies and stances on specific topics, and UN protocols. Students also participate in weekly simulations that model real UN committee sessions where students engage in debates, draft resolutions, and collaborate with other delegates to find solutions to real world problems. The course provides students with opportunities to develop and improve skills in public speaking, technical writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving while also fostering a deep understanding of global issues.

Course Description

"A study of the role of the UN in the world today. Students will obtain experience in practicing diplomatic skills in a mock setting. Prepares students to represent accurately a Member State of the UN in regional competition. The course may be taken three times for credit." (2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog, Valdosta State University, 429).

Students can take both Model UN I (POLS4440) and Model UN II (POLS4442) three times each for a total of six course credits. Model UN I (POLS4440) is only offered in the Fall semester and focuses on primarily the history of the UN. Whereas, Model UN II (POLS4442) is only offered in the Spring semester and focuses primarily on negotiation and diplomacy skills, theories, and strategies.

Experiential Learning Course

Model UN I and II are interactive, certified experiential learning (EL) courses. EL is the application of theory, skills, practices, and/or techniques in a context that focuses on real world applications outside of  the traditional classroom that may come from a course assignment or projects. Experiential learning activities can help students develop their workforce-ready "soft" skills through the combination of academic learning and hands on experience that is applicable to the real world. 

Students participate in in-class weekly simulations that give students the hands-on opportunity to develop public speaking, presenting, negotiating, and problem-solving skills through debates and resolution writing. Along with simulations, throughout the semester students prepare and present on various topics pertaining to the UN Member State VSU will be representing that semester at the National Model UN Conference. 

Class AND Club Aspect

The Valdosta State University Model UN (VMUN) is both a course and a student organization in order to fully prepare our students for the National Model UN Conference held each semester. VMUN Officers/student leaders are responsible for hosting team meetings outside of class time (usually between 30-60 mins), editing position paper for conference, organizing fundraising efforts, and assisting the Faculty Adviser in the administration of the program. Team meetings typically consist of activities and games to engage students with global issues and the Model UN rules and procedures, as well as provide any necessary support for the class or conference. 

Model UN Faculty Adviser: