Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Thinking of enrolling?

 

Who is this course for?

This course is for anyone seeking to enrich their understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict beyond headlines or social media narratives. It is designed to offer background context and evidence-based understanding of how we got to the current reality in Israel, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Anyone is welcome to join, especially students, educators, journalists, policy professionals, and engaged community members seeking to expand their understanding of this deeply complex and controversial topic. 

 

Do I need prior academic background?

No. The course is accessible to motivated learners with no formal background, while maintaining university-level rigor. Key concepts and historical foundations are introduced clearly and built progressively.

 

Is the course politically biased?

The course is grounded in peer-reviewed research, historical evidence, and comparative conflict analysis. Multiple perspectives are examined critically. The aim is analytical clarity - not advocacy.

 

How is this different from content online?

Unlike fragmented online commentary, this course provides structured historical context, analytical frameworks used in academia, and evidence-based reasoning. It focuses on how to think, not what to think.

 

What will I gain by the end of the course?

Students finish with a clear framework for understanding the conflict, improved ability to evaluate competing claims, and greater confidence engaging in informed discussion, teaching, or writing.

 

​​How much does the course cost?

Our aim is to allow anyone who wants to further their interest to take part in the course.

The standard tuition is $249.
A discounted rate of $199 is available for a limited time, and a scholarship rate of $149 is offered to ensure broader access.

All pricing options provide full access to the course.

 

 

2. During the 4-Week Course

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How much time does the course require each week?

The course consists of 4 sessions, each is one and a half hours. Beyond that, additional reading material and optional discussion or reflection is available. 

 

Are classes recorded?

Yes, only for internal use but not for distribution.
All slides and additional materials will be shared in dedicated Google Drive folders for lifetime use of all students.

This course is designed to prioritize live engagement, discussion, and shared learning.

 

What if I can’t attend every session live?

 

Because sessions are not recorded for public use, live attendance is strongly encouraged. That said, students who miss a session will still receive the slides, AI Companion summary and will be eligible to request session recording via email to israel.palestine.report@gmail.com in order to stay connected to the material.

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Is discussion encouraged?

Yes. The course promotes respectful, evidence-based discussion. The aim, however, is to share understanding, questions, and raise points of disagreement - not to create a forum for political debate. 

 

Can we address current events as they unfold?

Yes. Weekly content connects foundational concepts to real-time developments, helping students apply theory to current events.

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Will there be homework?

Homework is optional.

After each session, students will receive:

• Recommended readings related to the topic

• One reflective question tied to the session’s core theme

No grading. No pressure. Depth encouraged.

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Are there office hours with Prof. Burstein?

Yes. Students may opt into one-on-one office hours with Prof. Burstein.

• 30-minute private sessions

• $30 per session

• Up to one session per week per student
   

Office hours are ideal for deeper questions, research guidance, or applying course concepts to your own work. Booking details will be shared during the course.

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Do I receive a certificate?

Yes. Students who complete the course receive a certificate of completion, suitable for CVs, professional portfolios, or continuing education documentation.

This will be sent via email upon compilation of course and attending all 4 sessions. 

Certification eligibility for students who miss one or more classes will be determined by staff on a case by case basis. 

 

3. “Still Not Sure?”

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Is this course right for me if I feel overwhelmed or confused by the conflict?

Yes. The course is designed precisely for those seeking clarity amid information overload. It replaces noise with structure and context.

 

Will this course tell me what position to take?

No. It equips you with tools to form your own informed conclusions based on evidence, history, and comparative analysis.

 

Is this course too academic for non-academics?

No. The material is academically rigorous but intentionally accessible. Concepts are explained clearly without jargon or gatekeeping.

 

Can I keep up if I have a full-time job or other commitments?

Yes. The course is designed for busy professionals, with slides, AI summaries and a manageable weekly time commitment.

 

What if I’m still unsure after enrolling?

If the course is not a good fit, you’ll know early. Clear expectations, transparent content, and structured delivery ensure there are no surprises. Refunds are available up to 24 hours after the end of the 1st session.
Anyone requesting such a refund should email Israel.Palestine.Report@gmail.com with the subject “Refund” and their explanation.