SOCL 410 - Contemporary Urban Education

Credit(s): 6
6 hours lecture, 6 hours contact
Prerequisite(s): BHSC 125 Urban Community
This seminar introduces students to the structures, organizations, and agencies that affect urban education, both public and private. The functions of city, state and federal governmental agencies in shaping urban education are explored, with particular emphasis placed on the pivotal role of the state government and departments of education. The political, economic, legal, historical and administrative contexts of contemporary urban education are examined. Special attention is given to the contending forces and interest groups that shape the decision-making process. Various proposals for educational reform, particularly those revolving around equality of opportunity issues, are assessed. In becoming conversant with the data and literature pertaining to urban education, students will be able to better understand their own experiences in the educational system, as parent and/or professional. A Life Arts Project is required. Only open to students in the B.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences program.