Div, Soc Just & Schooling

This course will provide an in depth exploration of the theory and practice of teaching diverse and heterogeneous populations, and will provide opportunities for candidates to explore the ways in which educational and socio-cultural practices and ideologies have worked to undermine learning opportunities for some students. As a foundation for building an understanding of contemporary issues of diversity, candidates will explore the ways in which culture and experience influence the construction and deconstruction of knowledge. Throughout the course, candidates will discuss issues related to social justice, and investigate the ideologies and discourses that create inequity in schools and society and result in several forms of social oppression including but not limited to: racism; classism; sexism; heterosexism; and ableism. They will also be introduced to a variety of conceptual frameworks that support effective teaching and learning of diverse populations, including students with disabilities; and best practices for instruction, classroom management, curriculum development, student assessment; the use of technology; and the involvement of families and communities in the education of their children.