By Avia Stoller —
What is education? What outside forces impact education? How does education perpetuate
inequality? These are just some of the questions Professor Shackson asks students to consider
in EDL 204: Sociocultural Studies in Education, otherwise known as EDL 204. This is a
seminar-style class that covers the social, cultural, philosophical, sociological, historical, and
political aspects of education. It aims to address this fundamental question: “What does it mean
to educate students to live in a pluralistic democratic society?” It’s also part of the Global Miami
Plan Foundation, and fulfills humanities and intercultural perspectives requirements, allowing
students from all different majors to take it and gain necessary credits to graduate.
All of the topics listed above may seem like a great deal to cover, but this may be what sets the
course apart from others, as it seeks to create a foundation so students begin to look at
education, communities, and societies through a critical thinking lens. They are encouraged to
connect a whole web of information that empowers them to look beyond the obvious. Professor
Shackson aims to create an engaging and welcoming environment, where students can connect
their experiences and perspective related to these topics, and many more.
As a current student of this class, I would like to take a deep dive into some of the components
of this course that have made my semester so enjoyable and fascinating.
The style of the course, based on many group discussions both small and large, makes the
class informative and relatable. By using both small and large discussion formats, Prof.
Shackson’s goal is to create a welcoming environment so that every student, whether they be
shy or talkative, feels comfortable enough to chime in on various topics the class is examining.
Lecture also accompanies the numerous discussions that are held, and the instructor points out
that “students need the language … to frame new concepts and ideas.”
Professor Shackson indicated that one of the best parts about the class is that everyone has
experience of being a student. In this way, everyone brings into the discussions his or her
unique knowledge, and that in turn creates a unique learning experience. “Students learn from
each other.” The combination of multiple perspectives, alongside the discussion-based dynamic
of the class, has made me excited to go to class. I’m always eager to see what we will talk
about on any specific day.
Another aspect about this class that I personally enjoy is the many different mediums from
which we learn. For example, we read from many different peer-reviewed articles and books,
listen to podcasts, and watch various documentary excerpts. These activities and assignments,
among others, help to keep the class interesting. Furthermore, Dr. Shackson states that she
adds new readings from current events. So, for those who appreciate what they’re learning about to have relevance in what they learn, they would likely enjoy the readings from this class.
One goal Professor Shackson has is to help students develop a sense of self-awareness and
identity, including the ability to recognize their own biases and prejudices. Thus, she
incorporates curriculum from many different backgrounds, and—as the instructor herself
states—“not just the white guys.” The course readings include many different views and experiences from scholars who are women, Black, Hispanic, and Native American. Ultimately,
Professor Shackson wants students to question what is “normal” and what is “right” and come
up with their own answers, or at least dive deeply into possible answers.
In EDL 204, Professor Shackson prioritizes the connection between schools and society, both
historically and contemporarily. This connection is established through the different fields we
examine and the variety of concepts that we learn about in the class. What’s unique about the
broad concepts of the course is that they all tie into each other. History, philosophy, sociology,
etc.–they all connect and build off each other. As previously mentioned, students can create an entire
interconnected web of information through this class. They also aren’t just provided the
information alone, with nothing to do with it. Instead, students are assigned a group
presentation that allows them to make their own connections and apply new knowledge to
attempt solutions to issues within the educational system. Since there are no standardized tests
or exams in the class, the approach to applying the knowledge gained in the course is more
interactive. Consequently, I believe that this allows students to truly understand and connect
issues and concepts in meaningful ways, both on a large and small scale.
Professor Shackson has taught this course for twenty years and says she loves everything
about it. From my experience in the classroom, her passion for teaching is clearly evident, and
is one part of the class I really enjoy. In every class, she brings a fun energy and a new
perspective. She seems to have the ability to ignite the interest of students in various topics,
which I attribute to her own passion for the class. In fact, one of her favorite topics in EDL 204 is
poverty and social class within education. I knew nothing about this topic before I took this
class, but have now found a similar fascination with the link between poverty and education.
In reassurance, Dr. Shackson has mentioned on more than one occasion this semester to her students that it is “okay being more confused at first when reading theoretical texts or new ideas.” She states that the “world is complicated and messy,” and confusion is a part of the learning curve in this course. As a result, I have found that my perspective on life and society has changed as a result of this class. Although the class is designed to address topics related to education, I have taken away much more than that; I have gained a deeper understanding concerning a whole host of issues as they relate to inequality. I’ve also learned about myself, and how my school experience was impacted by various factors.
If you would like to take this course, EDL 204 is a class offered at Regionals during the spring
and fall semesters. Oxford also offers the class, including during the summer semester. The
class is offered online, but in-person is the modality recommended by Professor Shackson.
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