About this Course
The course assumes that higher education is a gateway to the resources of society and that there is a need for institutions to become more socially just for all groups, with emphasis on low-income and minority populations that are traditionally underrepresented. The course includes sessions with institutional leaders about higher education and American society, diversity and inclusion in learning and teaching, professors and students as change agents, socially-just research, and struggles for equity and justice on campus and in communities. Illustrative modules include: What is a university? What is the role or potential role of universities in making societies more socially just? Do present universities contribute to inequalities and injustices and, if so, how? What changes are needed now? Sessions will draw upon initiatives at the University of Michigan for starters, and we also will draw upon other educational leaders nationwide
What You'll Learn
- Understand strategies for socially just teaching and research
- Explore institutional frameworks supporting inclusive change
- Develop skills to apply diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia
Prerequisites
- No deep prior experience required, basic computer and internet skills helpful
- Ability to follow instructions in English and complete activities
Instructors
Barry Checkoway
Arthur Dunham Collegiate Professor Emeritus of Social Work, Professor Emeritus of Social Work, School of Social Work and Professor Emeritus of Urban and Regional Planning, A Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
Rachel
Niemer