Course Description
Through an interdisciplinary framework grounded in fields such as sociology, history, political science, psychology, and urban studies, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of urban education in the United States and the implications for research, school reform and policy, teacher preparation, school and district leadership, communities, families, and student outcomes.
Athena Title
Ecological Context of Urban Ed
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
« Students will explore how historical, political, social class, health, housing and other community level variables affect a range of educational opportunities and outcomes in urban schools, classrooms, and communities. « Students will explore how demographic patterns and shifts are shaping the racial, ethnic, linguistic, and social class dynamics of urban education. « Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of urban school districts throughout the U.S. and the promises and challenges that educators and district leaders face in relation to educating their student populations. « Students will examine the ecological context of urban education by understanding urban schools in relation to the communities they serve, and how other institutions such as businesses, places of worship, and housing shape the dynamics of urban life. « Students will become aware of urban students' social and educational experiences. « Students will determine how urban communities and schools have become fertile geographical spaces for recent innovations and reforms in public education. « Students will develop an awareness of the dynamics of urban schooling globally by focusing on the increasing urbanization of populations throughout the world.
Topical Outline
« Key Concepts in Urban Education/Urban Studies « The Ecological Context of Urban Education « The Socio-Historical Context of Urban Education in the United States « Race, Cultural, Geographic, and Social Class Dynamics in Urban Education « The Political-Economy of Urban Education « Urban School Systems, Leaders, Teachers, and Students