Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2019 - EDUC 902A G001

Interdisciplinary Seminar in Contemporary Educational Theory A (3)

Class Number: 1247

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 8, 2019: Tue, 4:30–9:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Corequisites:

    EDUC 902B.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Contemporary educational theories and theories from supporting disciplines (e.g., psychology, sociology, philosophy) will be examined and analysed. The relationships among contemporary theories, current practice and educational change will be focal.

COURSE DETAILS:

In this seminar we will explore the contested terrain of contemporary educational theory, considering the perspectives of philosophers of education, curriculum theorists, and social and political theorists, in response to some perennial educational questions including (but not limited to):  

  • What does it mean to say someone is educated?
  • What are the respective roles of the emotions and reason in education?
  • Is there a place for religion in public schooling?
  • What role should education and schooling play in the development of moral identity and citizenship?
  • What are the roles and responsibilities of public schools with regard to questions of equity and social justice?
  • Is open democratic dialogue possible in schools today?
  • What impact have various social movements had on education?
  • What impact has “postmodern” scholarship had on education?
  • What connection ought there to be between educational theory and educational policy and practice?

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Consistent with the draft program goals for students in the eTAP program, this course will focus on developing students’

  • understanding of historical and contemporary educational theories through the application of these ideas in the analysis of social, moral, cultural, ecological, and political environments;
  • understanding of educational ideas from a variety of world traditions and historical periods through research in educational theory and practice;
  • proficiencies in inquiry, analysis, interpretation, and theory-building within research and educational practice;
  • conceptual understanding of the discursive relationships between theory, practice, and reflection in education through disciplined study, dialogue, presentations, and academic writing.

Grading

NOTES:

Details of the course assignments and week-to-week themes will be discussed during the first class.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

All required readings will be available online through the SFU Library.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

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