Course Information Suite

Course examines multiple perspectives on and pedagogical responses to the historical diversity that has characterized United States education since its beginning. Course places particular emphasis on cultural issues, including the social construction and implication of race in contemporary society. Identity issues play a significant role as students examine the intersections of their biographies with those children in classrooms, especially in relation to classroom practices and the belief systems embodied in them. Developing concepts of racism (personal, cultural, and institutional) as well as of class and gender, are pivotal in response to agendas of privilege, equity, and justice. Culturally relevant practices are examined, as well as those developed in regard to differences in "ability" or in response to language and dialect differences. Prerequisite: CI 448; admission to the Elementary Teacher Education Program.