Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2019 - EDUC 100W D100

Selected Questions and Issues in Education (3)

Class Number: 4890

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 8, 2019: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Surrey

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to a small but representative sample of basic questions and issues in education. Students will examine questions relating to: the concept or idea of education; learning and the learner; teaching and the teacher; and more generally, the broader contexts of education. This course also introduces students to different ways of exploring educational questions and issues from philosophical and critical analysis, to historical and cross-cultural studies, to empirical research. Cannot be taken for credit by students with credit for 300 and 400 level education courses. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

The primary aim of the course is for students to develop knowledgeable and critical perspectives on the value and meaning of education in relation to their own experiences and understandings. Through our classroom activities, readings, viewings, and online discussions, we will create an empowering learning community to explore a small but representative sample of big ideas, questions, and issues of importance to 21st-century learning. Emphasis is placed on fostering students’ ability to reflect creatively, critically, and empathically on their own educational journeys.

Taught in a seminar format, this course is organized around questions and issues that require ethical deliberation concerning the field of education. Learning involves posing questions, solving problems, exercising ingenuity, questioning assumptions, collaborating, debating, and experimenting with diverse ideas, texts, and perspectives. Part of the course will be designed and taught by the students with the goal of developing a culturally relevant curriculum, increasing opportunities for multiple viewpoints, and supporting genuine participation.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course is designed to help students develop a depth of expertise for identifying and interpreting the big ideas and complex issues in contemporary education contexts, as well as their own lives and learning circumstances. In the reflective writing assignments, and throughout the course, an emphasis is placed on connecting personal experience, observation, and belief with an understanding of the broader philosophical, social, and political issues in education. As this is a writing-intensive course, students will have the opportunity to refine their research and writing skills and participate in group writing activities, critiques, and discussions. This approach affords each student the opportunity to focus on an educational issue of personal interest or concern while contributing to the learning of peers.

Grading

  • Group presentation related to an educational issue (selected from the course textbook) 10%
  • Class participation 10%
  • Online discussion of assigned readings and media 25%
  • Draft of your research paper 5%
  • Written review of another student's draft paper 10%
  • Research paper focusing on an educational issue (you may work in pairs to explore a topic jointly) 40%

REQUIREMENTS:

Attendance at all classes is essential and mindful engagement in discussions and activities is expected. The success of this class is dependent upon the preparation and participation of everyone in our learning community. The weekly learning labs will develop throughout the semester in response to class members’ interests and experiences. Students will benefit from creative instructional strategies, interactive lessons, and a variety of technology-supported learning activities and apps.


Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Gereluk, D., Martin, C., Maxwell, B., & Norris, T. (2016). Questioning the classroom: Perspectives on Canadian education. Oxford Press.
ISBN: 9780199010035

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/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