Sociology of Urban Education

Abstract

In this course, we will use disciplinary perspective of sociology—both its theoretical orientations and empirical approaches—to analyze urban education in the United States. We will begin by examining the social context surrounding urban education: the economic forces, demographic movements, and politics that have shaped both cities and urban schools...

Download this resource to see full details. Download this resource to see full details.

Details

Subject Area(s):

Education

Resource Type(s):

Syllabus

Class Level(s):

Graduate

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

I typically begin each class by presenting some context on the topic, relevant data, and an overview of major themes in the reading. During this presentation, I pause frequently for questions and spontaneous class discussion. Then, small groups of students each facilitate more discussion on the reading with a particular focus (theoretical perspectives,...

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Promote a deeper understanding of the social, local, and micro contexts of urban education and reform; Foster critical engagement with theoretical and empirical perspectives in sociology;
2. Enhance students’ research and writing skills;
3. Inspire commitment and contribution to urban educational change

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Facilitate and contribute to class discussions; Conduct research on local urban educational systems; Presentations of learning in class and through academic writing.
2. Conduct original, empirical research on local urban educational systems and present analysis in class and through academic writing; Incorporate feedback from instructor and peers, and revise research process and products accordingly;
3. Informal pre-post survey of students’ optimism about the possibility and feasibility of urban educational reform; class discussions that encourage the application of course content to students’ current or future careers.