CFR Education simulations invite educators and their students to step into the roles of policymakers in key decision-making moments throughout history, enabling students a first-hand perspective into the pressing political questions and events of these moments. Simulations help students develop critical thinking, persuasive speaking and writing, and collaboration skills while giving students hands-on experience grappling with the challenges of addressing pressing global issues.

In this practicum session, conference participants will receive a brief introduction to CFR Education from the Council on Foreign relations, which provides free, nonpartisan resources on world history and global affairs. Participants will then move into a practical demonstration of a history-themed CFR Education mini simulation, in which attendees will dive into a historic U.S. government administration through a policy decision or crisis. Through the simulation, participants will learn how to help students make connections between historical processes and today’s global challenges. Possible options for the mini simulation include, but are not limited to: “Influenza and War in 1918,” “Opposing Communism in 1947,” and “Response to 9/11.” The practicum will end with a 30-minute debrief, in which participants discuss the use, possible challenges, and merits of incorporating simulations into their own classrooms.