Diversity, Pedagogy and Social Change

Catalog description

Consistent with the School of Education conceptual framework “Educators for Diverse Cultural Contexts” this course includes an overview of the major historical, philosophical, sociological and structural forces and diverse influences that have shaped American education. Emphasis is given to current reform movements in education and to the changing needs of society. The major problems and issues surrounding the context of teaching, particularly the role of economic class, ethnicity, race, gender, physical conditions, and linguistic diversity and their correlation with educational achievement are stressed. A major focus will be on each candidate developing a conceptual framework on his or her personal cultural identity, character, and the impact of diversity issues on his or her life, so that in understanding oneself, the candidate develops a greater understanding of and positive impact on others. This course requires 20 hours of field experience.