*MON FRASER UNIVERSITY

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Fall Semester 1999

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EDUC 240 - 3

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Dr. S. Senyshyn

Social Issues in Education ?

Office: MPX 8665

Tel: 291-4348

D01.00 ?

E-mail: senyshyn@sfu.ca

PREREQUISITE

None.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is designed for all students who are interested in society's interaction with teachers,

schools and students and the various philosophical and ideological perspectives on education.

These interactions and perspectives constitute a complex phenomenon which is based on

numerous influences that tend to defy simplistic solutions. An understanding of cultural

influences in the broadest sense will shape our understanding and the various practices of

education. Of greatest importance is the hope that a heightened awareness for complexity in

society will enhance the sensitivity of teachers and give them a deeper understanding and feeling

for the special needs of their students. Most of all, students as prospective teachers, will focus on

the inequalities of education and the need to question their own beliefs and values in order to

cope with an increasingly insensitive society which tends to level and chip away at the individual.

PURPOSE

It is hoped that students will become fully aware of the complexity of society and education and

develop a deeper sensitivity for their particular role as sensitive, informed and compassionate

teachers.

Grading will be based on written assignments and class participation

REQUIRED READINGS

Gatto, John T., Dumbing Us Down. Philadelphia: New Society Publisher

Postman, Neil, The Disappearance of Childhood. Vintage (Random House)

Webber, Marlene, Street Kids. University of Toronto (paperback)

Selma, Wassermann, Getting Down to Cases. New York: Teachers College Press (paperback)