Class Assignments and Grading

Class Assessment; will be based on class attendance, (20%) and participation (20%) as well as from a variety of assignments. Short responses on readings and video viewings, intended for in-class discussion, and a final project will each comprise part of course evaluation. Attendance and active participation in all class meetings is required. Absence/not attending zoom meetings will have the potential to negatively impact a student's grade.

Attendence and Class Participation;(40% of your grade) 
The community we build within the classroom is an integral part of the subject we are studying. Given this fact, I strongly encourage you to ask questions, offer your own perspectives/opinions, and engage in dialogue that seeks to build the knowledge base and discourse for all of us. Recognize that class participation will be not just a part of your grade but equally important, is its capacity for representation and finding your voice we are attempting to build as you grow in your work to become someone bringing the arts and community together within social change work. 


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I. Assignment I, (20% of your grade)

Based on course readings students will Engage in class discussions and communicate ideas, demonstrating course preparation and understanding of key concepts developed through class readings.
1. What is Social Change? What is art for social change? How do/Can the arts forward social change? Do you agree/disagree with the perspective of Howard Zinn on the role of the Artist? Support your perspective by using some significant historical example and analyze how your chosen artivist/artists is “transcending” boundaries and becoming a change makers.

2. Final Creative  Project ;(40%) of your grade.

All students/groups will meet with me before finalizing on their topic/event.

Frame a key “Social Change” event/movement/ and ideas in which you as an “ARTIVIST,” (artist+activist) would like to use your artistic talents/strategies to fight and struggle against injustice and oppression – through nonviolent  persuasion in a contemporary and globally diverse context. Students will Research using a variety of sources to begin developing specific techniques with the purpose of Affecting social change through the arts. They will undertake writing, digital stories, theater exercises, dance and music, video, photographs, posters and art projects, and short performance pieces for an informal showing of these on campus.
This project aims to bring together students with an interest in investigating and investing in social change work through the arts.   
What skills are useful in shaping social change through the arts?
Students will explore strategies for building skills and have the opportunity to begin developing some specific techniques with the purpose of Affecting social change.

Students will discuss social issues of interest, and brainstorm about ways they may be addressed through various art forms and media. During the last three weeks, we will have an informal showing of these on campus.

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