This is an International Relations course taught by Professor Sangbum Shin in the Fall
semester of 2025. In this course, the instructor delivers lectures on major theories and
approaches in International Relations, the historical development of the field, and several
contemporary issues such as the U.S.–China trade war, the Russia–Ukraine war, and the
Palestinian refugee crisis for approximately one month.

After completing the lecture sessions, students are required to complete two group projects.
The first project involves designing a board game based on IR theories, concepts, or
approaches, or on any topics, issues, or historical events in world politics that interest them.
The second project asks students to create an online game scenario using similar IR
foundations or themes of their choice.

According to student feedback, the greatest strength of this class lies in its emphasis on self-
directed learning, peer instruction, and inquiry-based discussion. When students become
interested in an issue — for example, the South China Sea dispute — they independently
explore relevant literature and news sources to understand diverse perspectives. Based on
students’ inquiries, the instructor also provides supplementary lectures. Students reported
that this mode of learning was far more engaging and effective than traditional lecture-based
teaching.