Schools & Society

Receiving a free, public K-12 education is the one common experience available to all people in the United States. In this course, students will examine the structure of the U.S. public education system and how the sociocultural beliefs, norms, values, and practices may perpetuate systemic oppression, marginalization, and/or colonialism. The course will explore the history of secondary education in the United States with an emphasis on social inequalities (racial, cultural, linguistic, disability, socioeconomic, sexual preference, etc.). Designed both for BSU students considering a career in education and students who are not, the course will trace how American schools have historically assimilated people into the ways of dominant culture and reinforced inequitable social norms, as well as potentially disenfranchising its students and teachers. BSU students will gain knowledge of the school systems that have shaped their lives prior to their college experience and will be encouraged to deconstruct their schooling experiences and--whatever career path they choose--become an ally for equality in public schools. The course requires students to observe for 10 hours within a public middle or high school to deepen their learning of the ways in which inequalities may impact the daily experiences of students and teachers. At least five of those hours must be in a real live classroom. *This course encourages students to analyze the teaching profession as a career choice and prepares students to apply for admission into Bridgewater’s teaching licensure program. (CDSJ) Offered fall, spring, summer.