EDUC - 275. The Multilingual Learner: Language, Culture, and Identity

This course explores the experiences of multilingual learners through the interconnected lenses of language, culture, and identity. Drawing on perspectives from linguistics, education, cultural studies, and the social sciences, students examine how language shapes individual and collective identities, intercultural relationships, belonging, and participation in educational and social communities. Particular attention is given to the experiences of immigrant, refugee, and newcomer communities and to the ways language intersects with culture, race, ethnicity, power, and social opportunity. Students also examine how individuals and institutions respond to linguistic and cultural diversity and consider questions of equity, inclusion, and social justice in multilingual societies. Coursework includes readings, films and other media, discussions, presentations, interviews, and experiential learning in educational settings serving multilingual and newcomer populations. Through these experiences, students connect academic perspectives with the lived experiences of multilingual individuals and communities and develop a deeper understanding of linguistic and cultural diversity in an increasingly interconnected world. At least one course assignment will require observation and/or participation in a school setting, in order to apply course concepts in authentic contexts. (Transportation is the responsibility of each student).

Attribute: CFJ, LAS, WEHE