CHDV 277 - Working with Children in Diverse Communities

This is a praxis based course that requires active engagement with a community agency in the L.A. area. These agencies provide care and services to racial ethnic minority children and their families. Students will work as interns in programs that range from preschools for low-income children, family education/support or tutorial centers. The purpose of the course is for students to gain an experiential perspective concerning the influence of context and culture on the development of children. In addition to fieldwork, students will explore through class readings and assignments child development in terms of poverty, culture in contemporary society, the construction of race, ethnicity and culture and one’s own identity in relation to these terms, the meaning of active participation within this cultural context, as well as an examination of the function of social service agencies in poor racial ethnic minority communities. Students interested in children and families, social policy, education, sociology, psychology and related fields will find the course beneficial. Students must show proof of a TB clearance at the first class meeting.

0 to 4 credits