S. Kawaguchi (Associate Dean of Community Life)
4 SS, W-INT
Full Course -- 4 Credits
Fall Semester FYSP 076-01 TR 11:00-12:15
This seminar will examine the American college experience in the context of history and culture. We will be particularly interested in investigating the gap between privilege and marginalization. In the history of American colleges and universities, divisiveness and stratification between the privileged and the marginalized have continued to this day. Considerable and sometimes valiant efforts have been made to reach equal access and opportunity for all students. However, this goal has not been realized. We will begin with reading and discussion on the overall history of American higher education, including actual college experiences of people whose backgrounds varied significantly. We will then pose a fundamental question: Why has the divide not been eliminated? We will also view privilege and marginalization through different lenses, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, religion, and disability. Based on reading, discussion, and writing assignments, students will have the opportunity to issue policy recommendations on specific topics for future directions of the American higher education system.