Time Schedule:
Dian L. Million
AIS 340
Seattle Campus
Cross-cultural survey of Indian child rearing, family structure, and related social issues. Includes historical changes in family structure, value orientation and adaptation to a bicultural environment, education, child welfare, health problems, and aging.
Class description
In this class we seek insight into the experiences of North American Indian families from several different perspectives, foremost, those of American Indian families themselves. The instructor takes a socio-historical approach in presenting the traditional and future strengths of tribal families to protect and nourish their children. The class focuses on their challenges but is also focused on the solutions that American Indian peoples have sought. Topics include: 20th-21st century American Indian family demographics, studies of traditional family structures, western nation-state interventions such as boarding school and social science and social welfare management. It also discusses in particular Indian Child Welfare practices in the United States and some comparison of programs and issues in Canada.
This class is by its nature interdisciplinary and will lend itself to an opportunity for readings across a gamut of history, anthropology, sociology, women’s studies, social issues, health, political and economic concerns. Class texts, films, and music will be supplemented with speakers.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lecture, discussion and development of personal and academic reflection based on a multimedia curriculum.
Recommended preparation
Some prior background in American Indian history and social/political issues would be helpful but are not absolutely necessary. Attentive reading, listening, and participation/discussion skills will be appreciated.
Class assignments and grading
Group discussions, in-class writing, and several short papers.
Engaged and informed articipation in class and in discussion groups Completion of all written assignments with evidence of effort and thought.
