Collaborative Learning Activity 2.1 - What are some examples of nations and ethnic groups where you live?

Procedures for Completing Activity. You can complete this activity using the following steps. It is recommended that you meet with the members of your local group so you can all work on the activity at the same time.

Step 1 - Using library references and/or the Internet, each local group should find one example of a nation and one example of an ethnic group living in your country. Please choose examples that have not been covered in this lesson. Remember the definitions of nation and ethnic group, and what criteria an ethnic group must meet to qualify as a nation. For each example you find, please answer the following questions:

1. Do the people speak the language of their ancestors? If so, what language?
2. Do the people share similar important beliefs or values? If so, what are they?
3. Do the people share a common history? If so, what are the most important events in its history that relate to nationalism?
4. Do the people have common goals for the future? If so, what are their goals?
5. Do the people want to live independently in the homeland of their ancestors, but currently do not have sovereignty over that territory? If so, where is the homeland?

Step 2 - When finished, go to the Group Discussion Board and find the forum with the title "Lesson 2 - Nations and Ethnic Groups". Each local group should describe the examples of nations and ethnic groups by posting their answers to the questions in Step 1. Your team should use this forum to discuss the following questions. Try to discuss the questions long enough so that each member has a chance to share a view and respond to at least one other member of the team.

(1) What similarities and differences can you find in the examples of nations and ethnic groups in your different countries?

(2) What are the benefits of cultural diversity for your country? Are there any issues linked to cultural diversity or nationalism that have caused or may someday lead to political unrest or conflict?

(3) What steps might your governments take to preserve unity among different ethnic groups and nations?