EDU 131 - Schools, Cinema, and American Culture

Though the cinema has a long tradition of taking school life and teachers as subjects for its stories, little scholarly attention has been given to film representations of educational themes and problems.  Such is especially surprising given that films have shaped much of how the general public views educational issues, from “ghetto schooling” to “cheating scandals” to “suicide pacts.”  Films have circulated powerful, though often uncomplicated, representations of teachers and influenced our sense of what meaningful educational experiences are supposed to look like and how good teachers create them.  Filmic representations have also shaped our understanding of the dynamics of teacher-student relationships and the roles that teachers play in the lives of students and the larger community.  The course will show how movies have become unlikely authoritative texts on what counts as good education.  Students will write analytical papers and complete a major research project.

Satisfies a minor requirement in Educational Studies

Satisfies a concentration requirement in Education

Students entering 2012 and after: satisfies Liberal Studies distribution requirement

Students entering before 2012: satisfies Social Science distribution requirement