Course Description
Examination of the various methods used to study Native American cultures and religious traditions, including history, anthropology, literature, and history of religions.
Athena Title
Study of Native Amer Culture
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The study of Native American cultures and religious traditions has been undertaken from a variety of academic disciplines. In order to get a complete picture of these diverse cultures and religious traditions, an interdisciplinary approach must be used. It is therefore necessary for students to become familiar with the methods and tools of a number of different fields. This course is designed to give students a broad familiarity with different approaches in the study of Native America. Communicate Effectively through Speech To strengthen skills in oral expression, analysis, style, and interaction by means such as class reports, class discussion, and oral examinations. Computer Literacy To enhance and facilitate computer literacy by the use of word processing, the web, email, and OASIS through research, preparation, and presentation of work such as oral class reports and completion of written assignments. Critical Thinking To foster critical thinking by engaging in activities such as classroom discussion and debate, essay examinations, and oral presentations. Moral Reasoning (Ethics) To assist in the continued development of moral and ethical reasoning and reflection by encouraging creative thinking regarding individual and community concerns and needs, the challenging of prejudices and stereotypes, and examining rational and ethical bases of constructive social interactions.
Topical Outline
Week 1: Introduction Week 2: Problems in the Study of Native American Cultures and Religious Traditions Week 3: History Week 4: Anthropology Week 5: Archaeology and Material Culture Week 6: Law Week 7: History of Religions Week 8: Representations Week 9: Popular Culture Week 10: Intellectual History Week 11: Literature I Week 12: Literature II Week 12: Journalism and Contemporary History Week 13: Current Issues in the Study of Native American Cultures and Religious Traditions Week 14: The Problem of Cultural Appropriation Week 15: Interdisciplinary and Cultural Studies The course syllabus is a general plan for the course; deviations announced to the class by the instructor may be necessary.
Syllabus