EDUC 512 Cultural Literacy
The course examines literacy as a cultural, social, and political practice that extends beyond reading and writing to include the interpretation and creation of meaning within diverse communities. Students explore how language, identity, and power intersect in educational contexts, and how educators can cultivate culturally responsive and sustaining classrooms. Through critical analysis of texts, media, and curriculum, candidates investigate the ways literacy shapes and reflects culture while developing strategies to affirm and expand students’ voices and perspectives. The purpose of this course is to prepare graduate students to understand literacy as a dynamic and culturally situated practice. Candidates will examine how meaning is constructed through language, media, and social interaction, and how systems of power influence whose voices are heard, valued, and legitimized in educational spaces. Emphasis is placed on developing the capacity to critically analyze texts and curricula while designing learning experiences that affirm students’ identities and expand their opportunities for expression. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to cultivate classrooms that are culturally responsive, intellectually rigorous, and grounded in equity. Course meets online. Offered in Spring.
Prerequisite
Matriculation in the Master of Education degree program.