Motivation to Teach Social Action:
What draws me to this course development program is the opportunity to intentionally connect teaching, learning, and social action in ways that move beyond theory and into practice. I'm deeply interested in experiential learning and project based assessments that invite students to engage in real-world issues, examine systems of power and inequity, and see themselves as agents of change, not just consumers of content.
This institute aligns with my commitment to designing learning experiences that are meaningful, justice-oriented, and responsive to the communities students are part of and accountable to. I'm especially excited about learning how to thoughtfully integrate social action campaigns into a semester-long course or co-curricular space in ways that are ethically grounded, reflective, and pedagogically sound. I teach courses centered on leadership on the undergraduate and graduate level. I see this program as a chance to strengthen my course design, learn alongside colleagues, and build tools that help students translate critical inquiry into purposeful action.
Course Description:
In this course, participants will engage in conversations related to diversity in schools and explore the critical role of education (and leadership) in a democratic society that is rapidly changing and becoming increasingly complex. Participants will reflect on how culture impacts leadership beliefs and practice and explore strategies for building schools that are equitable environments that support the needs of all stakeholders.
Taught By:
Kristen Brown
Associate Professor
Educational Leadership
Virginia Commonwealth University
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