-001 LEC, 04:45 P.M. - 07:45 P.M., Tu (09/02/2008 - 12/10/2008) PetH 5, STPAUL

-002 LEC, 04:45 P.M. - 07:45 P.M., Tu (09/02/2008 - 12/10/2008) PetH 80, STPAUL

Grading basis/credits: A-F only, 4 credit(s)

Liberal Educ. Reqs: Meets CLE req of Citizenship/Publ Ethics Theme; meets CLE req of Social Science Core; meets CLE req of Writing Intensive

Description: This course is the first of three required courses that are part of the new interdisciplinary, cross-college undergraduate minor in Social Justice. In this course, we will focus on the meanings of social justice by looking at three key socio-political areas of study: globalization, criminal justice and social welfare. We will also look at how various activists from these arenas work for social change, and finally we will engage in community-based education (service learning) where we will volunteer in social justice organizations locally. Given the dilemmas we face on this planet regarding our survival as culturally diverse people, social justice is a fitting subject for us to explore. As we become more proficient analytical thinkers and writers, perhaps we will also become more knowledgeable citizens, more competent communicators, and people who can make the world a better place for all human beings. Living in a democracy means that we, as citizens, have a great deal of responsibility. By looking at the meanings of social justice and at how different people and organizations work for social justice, we will explore how activism is deeply connected to citizenship and democracy. Another major goal of this course is to create a community of learners in our classroom. In forming this environment, students should be prepared to be active in class. Since this is not a lecture class, we will spend most of our classroom time together talking with each other . Listening to each other, and learning to give constructive feedback will allow our community to flourish, and will give each of us individually new perspectives on our own writing and thinking processes. The course is planned carefully, especially the community based learning experiences. Please don't fall behind; the sequence of readings and activities are meant to be done in the order assigned.

Class Time: 25% Discussion, 25% Small Group Activities, 25% Student Presentation, 25% Service Learning.

Work Load: 100 pages reading per week, 30 pages writing per term, 3 exams, 4 papers, 2 presentations. Take-home exams.

Grade: 15% mid exam, 15% final exam, 20% special projects, 20% reflection paper, 15% class participation. 15% Service Learning.