Foucault in Education

Catalog description

Reading major works in Michel Foucault and applications of his work in the field of Education. CI 529 Foucault in Education (3) The purposes of this course are twofold: 1) to read and discuss in depth the work of Michel Foucault and 2) to consider how Foucault's ideas may inform and be informed by theories and practices in education. Foucault is arguably one of the pre-eminent Western social theorists of the 20th century. Researchers and theorists working from post-structural, critical and socio-cultural perspectives frequently turn to Foucault's concepts of power, discipline, and subjectivity as powerful analytic lenses for analyzing the daily lives and practices of students and teachers in classrooms as well as more generally the field of Education, educational politics and policies, and educational institutions. Additionally, given the tremendous impact of Foucault's work in multiple disciplines throughout the academe, the ability to read and apply the theories of Foucault can facilitate broader reading and discussion across a variety of disciplines. In the class, students will devote approximately 2/3 of the time to reading original works by Foucault and brief commentaries on these works, and 1/3 of the time reading applications of Foucault's work by education researchers and theorists. The primary work load of the class is reading. Reading Foucault is not an easy task. Students can expect careful scaffolding of their learning through classroom discussions, a required on-line discussion forum, and frequent feedback from the instructor. Preparation for and participation in class discussions and in the building of a vibrant learning environment are required components of the class.