Exploring Preventive Priorities

Learning Objectives

Students will evaluate thirty ongoing or potential conflicts based on how likely they are to escalate or occur in the next year, and their possible impact on U.S. interests.
Students will analyze a conflict chosen by the class in greater detail and consider to what extent the United States could influence its outcome.

Grade Level

College

High School

Have students read the "About the Preventive Priorities Survey" and "Methodology" sections of the Preventive Priorities Survey page. Alternatively, briefly explain the survey and its purpose.
Using the attached handout, have students rate the conflicts based on their own knowledge of them. Be sure to note that there is a "don't know" option for each as well and encourage students to check that box as necessary.
After students have completed their own ratings, have them explore the survey results and observe where their judgments differ from the experts. Have them consider: How different were your responses? Why do you think you differed?
Let students vote on a simulation related to one of the PPS topics that they would like to conduct. A list is below.
Lead students through the simulation. Refer to the instructions and how-to video linked at the top of the simulations page for guidance.
During your debrief of the simulation, ask students to reflect on the conflict, and whether after the simulation they think there is an opportunity for prevention or resolution.

CFR Education Simulations that Align to Conflicts from the 2026 Preventive Priorities Survey

Mini Simulations

Extended Simulations