Time Schedule:
Holly M. Barker
BIS 445
Bothell Campus
A socioeconomic investigation into the meanings and realities of inequality using a variety of theoretical frameworks and empirical research. Focuses on the determinants of economic mobility and social status. Addresses discrimination, poverty, welfare, and education.
Class description
A socioeconomic investigation into the meanings and realities of inequality using a variety of theoretical frameworks and empirical research. Focuses on the determinants of economic mobility and social status. Addresses discrimination, poverty, welfare, and education.
This class will examine inequality through the eyes of recent immigrants who come to the United States. Why do immigrants come to the United States (what global systems cause people to leave their countries)? What are new immigrants seeking and what are they leaving behind? What is the lived experience of immigrants in the U.S. (what does it mean to be an immigrant)? What can be done to empower immigrants and increase their success in the U.S.? What challenges and successes do immigrants experience in the U.S. health and education sectors? Do our public policies adequately respond to the socioeconomic needs of contemporary immigrants? How can students support immigrant efforts to improve their social status in the U.S.?
The class will include an in-depth look at the educational experiences of new immigrants to our area.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Short lectures, but primarily large and small group discussions. Some use of film and music.
Recommended preparation
None suggessted.
Class assignments and grading
Short papers, interviews with immigrants, a group project, and class participation.
Class readings: - The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down (Fadiman 1998). - Children of Immigration (Suarez-Orozco and Suarez Orozco 2002).
