Women’s Studies transforms the study of women within disciplines into a process by which women’s own experiences become the referent for examining and analyzing the world as well as questioning what we learn.  Consequently, this introduction to Women’s Studies takes as its starting point the history and development of feminist thought in the context of women’s actual lives.  The course introduces you to the central texts and debates in academic and “real life” feminism to provide a theoretical framework for further courses in Women’s Studies curriculum and to courses in a wide variety of disciplines. 

We begin by examining our own experiences with sex-role socialization along with a
historical look at first-wave feminism.  In the second part of the course, we will analyze the major strands of feminist thought: liberal, socialist/Marxist, radical, and cultural / women of color feminism.  The third section of the course applies these feminist traditions to issues that are crucial to women’s lives and experiences: motherhood, work, health/mental health, sexuality (violence against women), religion and education (academic, college life).  In the conclusion of the course, we will apply what we have learned to our own history and future, third-wave feminism.  Throughout the course, we will hear/read women’s voices in history, theory, sociology/psychology, literature, etc. 

Course Format: 

The basic format of this course is as follows.  We meet Tuesday and Thursday from
9:30-10:45.  Classes will be varied: lecture, discussion, guest speakers, and films that focus on different aspects of women’s studies.      It is noteworthy that although this course will include some lectures and guest speakers, the primary emphasis will be on class discussion. The success of the course depends heavily on quality contributions from each and every student. Therefore adequate preparation by all students is critical. Come to each class prepared to offer a comment and/or question the examination of which you think will make class discussion more personally interesting for you and your classmates. Your prepared question and/or comment (see below) should be included in your ~1-page reading summary. To facilitate your participation, please bring your reading notes, and whatever text(s) we are reading to every class meeting. 

Grading:

Grades for the course will be based on the following assignments and exams: 

• Class participation: 5% 
• Weekly Reading Summary/Reaction Paper (1-page): 5% 
• Group oral report and written analysis of participation: 10% 
• Take Home Midterm: 20%                                                                                      
• 2 Essays (4 pgs.): 35%                                                                                           
• Final Research Project/Paper, 12-14 pgs. (proposal due 3/21,  Due 5/4): 25%