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Special Topics in Social Policy (351-0-20)

Topic

Child and Family Policy

Instructors

Lauren Adams Tighe

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall 345: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Child and Family Policy is an introductory course intended for undergraduate students that is designed to help students think systematically about the complex issues families face in American society. This multidisciplinary course is divided into two parts. First, we will study poverty and inequality in the United States, with specific attention towards history, measurement, welfare, and housing. We will then consider one cause and solution of poverty for families—education—from early childhood to adulthood. Throughout the quarter, we will critically evaluate public policy and scientific research through a social justice, anti-racist lens with an eye towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

This course will combine lecture and seminar format. Class discussions will complement the material presented in the lecture by encouraging you to reflect on your own experiences and providing a platform for diverse perspectives to be shared within our classroom community. These materials and discussion may help you to challenge assumptions you may unknowingly hold and gain insight on how it has shaped your perspective and behavior. Assignments include weekly discussion posts, in-class activities, and reflection essays. The final project is to conduct research on a child and family policy that was not covered in this course and communicate your findings to your fellow classmates through any medium of your choosing.