Skip to main content

Special Topics in Social Policy (351-0-21)

Topic

Social Opportunity and Educational Policy

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall G22: Mon, Wed 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This course critically examines how educational systems and students' social contexts contribute to the perpetuation or reduction of social inequalities across the educational pipeline, from kindergarten through higher education. We will explore the ways in which schools, families, and communities influence student outcomes, focusing on the interaction between these environments and broader social inequalities, including race, class, and gender.

Teaching Method

Lecture and small group exercises

Evaluation Method

Participation, short video blog essays, reflective midterm assignment, and final group policy project on educational opportunity

Class Materials (Required)

Despite the Best Intentions: How Racial Inequality Thrives in Good School by Amanda E. Lewis and John Diamond; In the Shadow of the Ivory Tower: How Universities Are Plundering Our Cities by Darvarian Baldwin

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-Registration -- Reserved for SESP Students until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites, if applicable.