Higher Education: Social Justice/Inclusion in HE

Explores cultural pluralism philosophies, racial identity development, racial incidences, and educational practices related to racism and diversity for implementation in higher education.

Open to Graduate and PACE students only

This is a graduate-level seminar focused on theoretical, methodological, policy, and praxis matters related to social justice and inclusion of and for persons with marginalized identities in higher education. Guided by a strengths-based perspective, students will critically evaluate scholarly literature from interdisciplinary sources to better understand 1) social stratification in higher education; 2) historical, institutional/organizational and social psychological barriers that have systematically shaped achievement outcomes; and 3) strengths-based strategies to eliminate barriers for students at both macro- and micro-levels and at policy, institutional, and individual levels. Throughout the course, discussion will explore efforts to mitigate inequities, enhance understanding, and to advance change toward justice and inclusion in postsecondary education.

This is a seminar style course centering dialogue about course readings and relevant application to personal and professional experiences. Assignments include written reflections, research paper, usage of multi-media, and leading class discussion.

Grades are based on class participation, a praxis paper, a research paper, and a digital storytelling project