Content Update: World History Project - Origins (beta)

Hi everyone,

We're excited to introduce the World History Project on Khan Academy! The World History Project (WHP), which launched in November 2019, is a course created by the OER Project (OER = open educational resources). Like its big sister, the Big History Project (BHP), WHP is a free, online, and cohesive curriculum, that goes beyond just being a content repository. In addition to the materials we provide on Khan Academy, you will find access to scaffolded materials, teacher resources, and a supportive online community on our website (whp.oerproject.com).

What you see now is a “beta release” of WHP on Khan Academy. What do we mean by “beta”? Simply that we are actively reviewing and implementing feedback, so look for continued additions and improvements. Right now, you will find WHP articles and videos—all accompanied by our “Three Close Reads” approach—and practice questions. When you have gone through the course, we really want to hear from you. Let us know what you think here. 

WHP was designed for classrooms run by teachers, but we recognize that there are times—such as now—when we must find ways to accommodate learners in increasingly diverse environments. We had always planned to host a version of the course, geared towards solo learners, on Khan Academy. However, when it became clear that the majority of learning would become virtual —for an unknown period of time—due to the impact of COVID-19, we accelerated our efforts to move our materials to Khan Academy’s platform.  

During this beta phase, if you would like additional WHP materials, please head over to whp.oerproject.com and create a free account. There you will be able to find our full courses, both the Origins and 1750 versions (look for the 1750 version on Khan Academy in the coming months!).

If you are a teacher and you would like additional guidance, here are some great places to start:

• WHP Course Guide
• Origins Course Overview
• 1750 Course Overview
• WHP Teacher Community

If you are a parent, and are looking for some tips, check out the following:

• WHP Parent Quick Start Guide
• WHP Homeschoolers Online Community