Critical and Reflective Inquiry: Journeys

In this section we will explore the different kinds of journeys Americans have been taking over the centuries, and how they make sense of those life travels, through texts, films and through class discussion.  In addition, we will embark on an intellectual journey, which will include developing and honing the skills, tools and knowledge to be a strong student and a productive, responsible member of the larger community.  For each class member, this part of the journey will include identifying and analyzing one’s voice and the privileges and burdens built into that voice, identifying and analyzing others’ voices and building respect for those diverse perspectives, and to critically assess all forms of information (oral, written and visual). To help us we will be reading articles and book chapters including (but not limited to) “On Going Home,” by Deborah McDowell, “Treaty Time, 1855,” by Harriette Shelton Dover, “Equiano’s Travels,” by Olaudah Equiano,” OutWest, by Dayton Duncan, and “Drug Tourism or Spiritual Healing? Ayahuasca Seekers in Amazonia,” by Michael Winkelman.

The main skill emphasized in this class will be writing.  During the quarter you will sharpen and hone your writing skills.  You will learn to construct an argument, gather evidence, shape your thesis to fit the audience, and organize your thoughts.  In addition, you will also learn to seminar, and critically analyze materials.  Finally, you will learn to research and write a 6-8 page research paper with a minimum of 4 sources, proper citations and a bibliography. This course is “graded” with a narrative evaluation.