Developed at Barnard College, Reacting to the Past (RTTP) is an exemplary undergraduate curriculum that places students at the center of the classroom by having them represent important figures and factions from particular historical moments in a role-immersion game. Tasked with using persuasive writing and public speaking to accomplish their character and faction goals, students utilize relevant primary sources to understand their roles and formulate successful strategies to win.
In doing so, RTTP is a high-impact, active learning pedagogy with demonstrable, evidence-based, profound learning outcomes. Reacting to the Past has been implemented at over 250 colleges and universities throughout the United States. It has been proven to enhance student motivation, critical thinking, moral reasoning, and consideration of divergent perspectives, as well as profoundly impacting student and faculty growth and independence.
I have long been a supporter of using “Reacting to the Past” materials in the UGA curriculum. Having participated at least once in a “reacting” event, I recognize that it can support cross-disciplinary thinking, which is a critical element of a 21st-century education. “Reacting to the Past” involves students in the skills that we know are essential in the modern economy – critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and of, course, content knowledge. I recommend it highly.
University of Georgia President Jere W. Morehead
UGA to host Reacting to the Past’s Winter Conference
More information is coming soon!