01MON FRASER UNIVERSITY

Spring Semester 2001

EDUC 240 - 3

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Dr. Slava Senyshyn

Social Issues in Education

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Office: EDB 8665

Phone: 291-4348

Thursday 10:30-12:20 in EDB 7618

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D01.00 ?

E-mail: senyshyn@sfu.ca

plus tutorial

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.

EVALUATION

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, Streef Kids. University of Toronto (paperback)

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

THIS COURSE MAY BE APPLIED TOWARD THE CERTIFICATE OF LIBERAL ARTS