Representative From the EU Presidency Speaks to DU Class

Marcus Oscarsson, a representative of the EU presidency (now held by the government of Sweden), spoke to a DU class yesterday. What made all of this even more interesting was the fact that Mr. Oscarsson was in Stockholm and the students were in the Ricketson Law Building in Denver. The connection between Sweden and Colorado was "provided" thanks to the software called Skype.

To provide a bit more context, Mr. Oscarsson participated (we could see and hear him and vice versa) in a course I teach called "European Union Law & Policy." The course is not directly focused on EU environmental law, but the subject does come into play a fair amount since environmental/energy/climate change issues are front and center in the EU.

In any case, I am calling this class session to your attention for several reasons. First, it illustrates (in a very real way) how technology is used at DU to enhance students' learning experience. While it would be wonderful to have had Mr. Oscarsson in Denver, that was not realistic. What was realistic, however, was to have him "join" us electronically.

Second, Mr. Oscarsson's remarks and responses to questions underscored the EU's determination to forge a global agreement on how to address climate change. There is little doubt that the EU has been disappointed in the Obama Administration's ability to deliver a real U.S. approach to the matter. However, as Mr. Oscarsson pointed out, the EU realizes that President Obama needs Congressional support to realize any sort of legislative deal.

Finally, the 75 minute session pointed out that today's world is tied more closely together than has ever been possible before now. How often have any of us listened to a figure from Europe "come into our classroom" and provide his observations about key issues as seen from the overall perspective of the European continent? That's not to suggest that good ideas only come from Europe, but rather that the Internet is a powerful tool for all of us as the various countries and regions in the world try to better understand the views of others. And there are few more vexing issues facing all of us today than energy generation, environmental protection, and the health of the planet.

Learning takes many forms at DU. You never know when a European (or someone from another continent) will join you in class!

From 6,000 miles (10,000 kilomters) between Denver and Stockholm my students and I say, "Many thanks Marcus Oscarsson for joining us in Denver!"