I have to admit that I am quite excited for this quarter. Engineering writing course, IS 501 and Arabic grammar should be fun, if not a lot of work.

I am little overwhelmed by this class, considering the fact that I want to absorb as much information as possible, while not ignoring my other classes. I guess it was a good idea to drop the history course.
I am also hopeful that we will be able to discuss controversial topics in a semi-respectful manner. I also wonder how much discussion will occur in class in comparison with the blogs.

I really enjoyed reading about the struggles and issues that both the Israeli and Palestinian research group went through. I used to go to the international festival in Houston, but I'm not sure it involved as much research and trouble. Then again, I saw performers from specific countries and very traditional food and crafts. I'm glad all that research is being put to good use, and that the cancellation of the festival does not prevent or discourage us from engaging in dialogue.

Link to Suad's "Researching Jerusalem"

Link to Suad's "Representing Jerusalem"

Link to Hasan-Rokem's “Dialogue as Ethical Conduct: The Folk Festival That Was Not”

Link to Horowitz's “Living Jerusalem: Cultures and Communities in Conflict”