Enrique C. Bonus
Survey of the cultures of Chicano, African-American, Asian-American, and American-Indian communities of the United States. Each group's culture is examined in its isolation and in its interaction with mainstream culture.
This course provides an introduction to the major theories, debates, and issues concerning the study of social structures and cultures of American ethnic groups. Using social science/cultural studies frameworks, it examines concepts of identity, culture, group formation, and social/political structure to broaden one's understanding of the patterns of relations of power between and among groups in the U.S.
Student learning goals
Students will learn how to understand issues and theories of identity, difference, and power from the perspectives of American Ethnic Studies.
Students will learn how to apply critical thinking skills to societal issues and debates.
Students will gain a better appreciation of the histories and contemporary realities of different American ethnic groups.
General method of instruction
Lecture, discussion, group activities, and quiz/discussion sections.
Students must be ready to do a lot of readings and must enter the class with an open and critical mind. In the course, students are expected to attend all lecture classes, read assigned materials on time, and participate in class discussions.
Class assignments and grading
Most of the assignments will ask the students to become familiar with the readings and issues raised in lecture, and to demonstrate abilities in comprehending and analyzing them.
A midterm (35%) and a final exam (25%) will comprise 60% of the overall course grade. In addition, there will be short quizzes in lecture (20%) and a grade for participation in discussion section (20%).