Child & Family Policy: Poverty and Education Policy in Sociohistorical Context (338-0-20)

Instructors

Lauren Tighe

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall G02: Mon, Wed 9:30AM - 10:50AM

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 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 those findings to your fellow classmates
through any creative medium of your choosing.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the dynamics of child and family poverty in a sociohistorical context
2. Evaluate historical and current poverty research and policy
3. Analyze the role of education systems across the lifespan in perpetuating or
reducing inequalities
4. Demonstrate critical thinking regarding the intricate relation between poverty and
education and what it means for equity in the United States

Class Materials (Required)

There is no required textbook - all readings will be posted on Canvas.

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: ANTIREQ: Students may not enroll if they have completed or are currently enrolled in SOC_POL 351-0 "Child & Family Policy."