Tuesday February 7, 2011
Overview: The oppression matrix provides a tool for analyzing social oppression and considering the formation of our identities as consumers/citizens and the relationship between youth, democracy, and the entertainment industries. Through parent interview journal notes and the writing of two stories, we’ll reflect on the interplay of socioeconomic class and consumerism in our lives.
Readings
1. Adams, M., Bell, L. A. & Griffin, P. (1997). Oppression Matrix. Teaching for Diversity and Social Justice. Routledge: New York & London.
Reading questions: As you reflect on the shaping of your experience and attitudes as a consumer/citizen, how would you apply the 3 levels of the social oppression matrix?
Be clear on the provided definition of hegemony and discourses as the way in way in which dominant ideas are reinforced. Can you think of circulating discourses that reinforce hegemony? E.g. what cultural values and institutions are maintained through the phrase “be a man.” What impact does such a discourse have on the individual?
Projects: life stories on socioeconomic class and consumerism
1. Parent Interview Journal Notes (5 pts)
Write journal notes from a conversation with your parents or other adults on their memories & perspectives dealing with socioeconomic class and consumerism.
- What are their understandings of social class and how it impacted their lives? E.g. lessons learned from their parents, work & school experiences, etc.
- What messages about socioeconomic class did your parents communicate to their kids?
- What are their perspectives on ways in which socioeconomic class and consumerism may interact. How did it impact the family? Any concerns or challenges?
- Take notes on the conversation.
- Include some direct quotes that capture heightened moments of meaning.
- Write journal notes (three paragraphs) recounting this conversation and any insights you may have gained.
- Include a particular story that somehow highlights the family dynamics around this issue.
2. Personal Stories (5 pts)
Reflect on ways in which you personally experienced socioeconomic class from two perspectives: 1. situations observed; 2. how you have internalized a particular class perspective. This may include issues of consumerism, peer culture, family conflicts, etc.
Do this by telling a story of a particular experience, memories, thoughts, and feelings. This may be from the past or present. Be sure to include your own reflections on meanings your make of these experiences.
3. Peer Review (3 pts)
You’ll share this writing with another person in class for her comments on writing style, grammar, and reflections. Guidelines for such review will be discussed in class.
IMPORTANT: BE SURE TO PROOFREAD FOR SPELLING AND GRAMMAR.
Writing formatting guidelines: Written assignments should be single-spaced in Times New Roman or Arial (size 12 font) with 1-inch margins all around. First page should have a heading (single-spaced) at top of page that includes name, date, and title of assignment.