Understanding the dynamics of the Middle East: Türkiye, Iran and Saudi Arabia
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
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What is the course about?
Examine the political, social, and economic dynamics of Turkey, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, exploring their roles in shaping the modern Middle East.
The class is taught live on Zoom.
To access the live class you will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook). Please note a tablet or smart phone is not suitable for this class. The screen size is too small. It will limit your ability to lipread and participate fully in class.
We will contact you by email with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
- Historical foundations of each country
- Political systems and governance
- Economic policies and development
- Religious and cultural influences
- Regional conflicts and alliances
- Contemporary foreign policies.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Understand the historical and political contexts of Turkey, Iran, and Saudi Arabia
- Analyse the economic and social dynamics within each country
- Evaluate their roles and interactions in regional politics
- Discuss current issues and challenges facing these nations.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Everyone is welcome and no specific skills are required, but please note this is an intermediate-level course and a grasp of modern history, politics and current affairs will add to your enjoyment of the course.
An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will also increase what you get out of the course.
And, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and willingness to learn from others.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course includes lectures, discussions, and case study analyses. Expect readings, essays, and informal research projects based on case studies to be completed outside of class, but these are not compulsory. The most important issue is interactive lessons with in-class participation and you will be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas during the course.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No additional costs but you may wish to bring pen and paper or digital equivalent for note taking.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Your tutor will share related courses with you, but please also explore our history and politics sections for additional courses on the Middle East and North Africa.