SOCL 127: Social Analysis and Social  Action

This course is optional for students participating in a spring break domestic immersion.

What do we mean by the concepts “social analysis and social action”? How do these relate to theories of social justice that provide frameworks for addressing compelling issues in contemporary society? What does it mean to ‘practice’ social analysis and social action? This course will address these and
other questions through readings, discussion, experiential learning activities, and direct/indirect service. Students enrolled in this class must participate in either a Spring Break ABI or some other 10-week service/community work agreed upon with the instructor.

Students participating in the Freedom Ride ABI are required to enroll in and pass a one-credit seminar course during the spring semester.

Offered in partnership between Campus Ministry and the Department of Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs (SDMA), the ‘Freedom Ride ABI’ offers students an opportunity to explore parallels and connections between the civil rights movement of the 1960s and current-day social justice movements. Students will learn about key events and themes of the civil rights movement, study the evolution of immigration rights, LGBTQ equity, and racial justice struggles, and, examine the role of identity and community in social change. This exploration will culminate in a seven-day road trip inspired by the 1961 Freedom Rides.

This spring semester course is recommended for students participating in the international immersion program.  

This introductory course to Latin America and the Caribbean, focuses on the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries of the region.  It draws from various disciplines to examine the political, socio-economic, and cultural forces that have shaped the region.  The class is designed to introduce students to both Latin America, as a cultural and geographic region, and to Latin American Studies, as a field of knowledge.   The class’s course materials will draw from history, anthropology, political science, film, music, art and literature.  It will also cover a broad range of countries, with particular focus on: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Central America, and Mexico.  Among the topics that will be covered are: the history and legacy of colonialism, the trans-Atlantic slave trade, nationalism and ethnic identity, neocolonialism, the Cuban revolution, military dictatorship, and Latin American social movements. MWF, 2:45-3:35