Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2017 - FNST 433 D100

Indigenous Environmental Justice and Activism (4)

Class Number: 4728

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines contemporary writings regarding Indigenous environmental logic and environmental concerns of contemporary times. Studies effects of resource extraction upon Indigenous nations, globalization, genetic modifications, health, intellectual property, spiritual beliefs, culture and society, art and language and compares these with specific Indigenous logic at the time of contact.

COURSE DETAILS:

Students will gain knowledge of Indigenous people struggle for environmental justice in a nation with a history of ecological imperialism and environmental racism and confront the modern environmental catastrophes that threaten their lives and communities. They will learn about the myth and history of the ecological Indian and discuss its modern incarnations in popular culture. In class discussions will revolve around the impact of technology in altering cultural landscapes that hold sacred meaning in the ritual lives of Indigenous peoples. Using guest speakers, lectures, reading, semi-structured discussions and community contacts students will explore the spiritual and intellectual conditions leading to environmental activism. Assignments and exams will build on the materials and ideas introduced in class discussions and readings.

Registration in this course is your commitment to attend all classes and perform all work to your highest standards.

Grading

  • Reading Reviews (5 at 5% each) 25%
  • Discussions (5 at 5% each) 25%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Research Essay 20%
  • Research Report 10%
  • Completion of all course work including attendance is required to receive a course grade.
  • Allow upto 12 hours of outside class time (for your weekly readings, homework; and/or activities.)

NOTES:

  1. Completion of all course requirements including attendance is required to recieve a course grade.
  2. Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.  
  3. CSD: Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Students with Disabilities at 778-782-3112 or csdo@sfu.ca.  
  4. Enrollment: Enrollment is prioritized. Some seats are reserved for FNST program-declared students. Non-FNST program-declared students with completed prerequisites may request Manual Waitlist Placement. Email request to the FNS Academic Advisor at first_nations@sfu.ca from your SFU Connect @sfu.ca and include your SFU Student ID number in your request.    
  5. All students are expected to read and understand SFU policies with regard to academic honesty and student conduct (S10). These policies are available at: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html


This page updated:  August 22, 2017 (12:15 hrs.).  (Previous update: August 16, 2017)

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Material list to be confirmed on the first day of classes of this course. 

REQUIRED READING:

A reading list will be provided on the first day of classes and posted on the SFU CANVAS webpage.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

  1. Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability. 
  2. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Students with Disabilities at 778-782-3112 or csdo@sfu.ca.
  3. Remember to check the Student Information System (SIS) at the start of the term to reconfirm your classroom location(s).
  4. All students are expected to read and understand SFU policies with regard to academic honesty and student conduct (S10).
    These policies are available at: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html
  5. On occasion, announcements will be sent from first_nations@sfu.ca to your SFU Connect email.


Department of First Nations Studies- Contact Info:
Webpage: www.sfu.ca/fns.
Phone: 778-782-4774
General Office: Saywell Hall (SWH) Room 9091. Burnaby Campus. (M-F, 09:00-16:30 Hrs.)
Academic Advisor's Office: SWH 9089.


For general information, program information, academic advising (appointment or program check-up; enrollment assistance*): Please email first_nations@sfu.ca.

* Students: When submitting a request or an inquiry, please email from your SFU  Connect (@sfu.ca) email and remember to include your SFU Student ID number in your email. Thank you.


Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS