Time Schedule:
Jennifer De Saxe
B EDUC 220
Bothell Campus
Examines educational problems, policy, and practice from interdisciplinary perspective. Explores the tensions between education values and goals throughout the history of public schooling in the United States and develops critical perspectives through which to evaluate current proposals for school reform. Offered: ASp.
Class description
Before we are able to create a better world, it is critical that we understand the current one. In this course, we will investigate historical, ethical, social, political, and economic forces that impact our schools and society. Students will be given guidance in developing critical thinking and writing skills as they consider the fundamental question, "What should educators in the US do to provide an educational experience that emphasizes both quality and equity for all students in a democratic, pluralistic society?"
Student learning goals
1. Connect educational policies and practices to societal and political influences;
2. Use vocabulary necessary for discussing connections between education and society (including but not limited to culture, whiteness, racism, power, self-identity, group-identity, hegemony, heterosexism, meritocracy, stereotype/generalization, prejudice, equity/equality, multiple perspectives, diversity, pluralism, democracy, and social justice);
3. Sensitively and honestly engage in critical discussion of sensitive issues;
4. Consider multiple perspectives;
5. Discern between opinion and critical analysis
General method of instruction
This course depends on an interactive format. Class activities will focus on critical analysis of (1) course readings, (2) presentations, (3) collaborative work, and (4) personal experiences and beliefs. In addition, participants will spend a minimum of 15-20 hours in a public school setting as part of a community-based learning project.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
