Winter 2012 Sophomore Inquiry
Family Studies
In the course syllabus, Professor Leah Brookner describes this Family Studies course as, "...an exploration of family issues from diverse perspectives [that] provides a foundation for study of human development from varied academic disciplines, including history, sociology, psychology, education and social work. The class will explore a variety of family issues, emphasizing current social, cultural and political forces affecting families. A foundation of theory and paradigm awareness will form a basis for exploration of issues. Specific topics will include: marriage and intimacy; gender-roles; parenting; divorce; diversity of family forms; work and family; mental health and development; and the influence of ethnicity, culture and class on the family experience. A focus will be on the multiple perspectives, challenges, strengths and adaptations of modern families."
Students are asked to actively participate in engaging discussions and activities, as well as absorb brief informational, yet humorous, lectures. Students participate in group activities on several occasions, and individuals share a media presentation with the class. In addition, students are asked to write reflections and essays on the topics covered over the course of the term.
Mentor sessions begin with a check in for all students to share a high and low of their past week. They are asked to participate in an engaging activity or a lively debate regarding a topic covered in the class. As part of the mentor's development (see Technology in Mentoring pages), students are also asked to engage in communicating with one another via Twitter. Through Twitter, they are asked to provide an "exit ticket" (feedback to the mentor) before they leave each session. They may also obtain information Portland State's activities and programs, as well as announcements regarding the class.
Students are asked to actively participate in engaging discussions and activities, as well as absorb brief informational, yet humorous, lectures. Students participate in group activities on several occasions, and individuals share a media presentation with the class. In addition, students are asked to write reflections and essays on the topics covered over the course of the term.
Mentor sessions begin with a check in for all students to share a high and low of their past week. They are asked to participate in an engaging activity or a lively debate regarding a topic covered in the class. As part of the mentor's development (see Technology in Mentoring pages), students are also asked to engage in communicating with one another via Twitter. Through Twitter, they are asked to provide an "exit ticket" (feedback to the mentor) before they leave each session. They may also obtain information Portland State's activities and programs, as well as announcements regarding the class.