Curriculum Guide · Courses

Professors John Hirsh and Richard Roe

J.D. Seminar 315 | 2 credit hours

This seminar explores the relationships between literacy and law. The course will explore learning theories and practices regarding emergent literacy and examine their legal and social implications. Readings will be drawn from three areas: educational theory and practice, law, and children’s literature. The course will focus upon whole language and other approaches which now inform literacy instruction in America. Legal implications to be considered may include restrictions on literacy due to slavery and educational disadvantage, statutory interpretation, equal protection and diversity, freedom of speech, school finance, discipline, and English as a second language. In order to provide practical experience in emergent literacy, students are required to participate in a practicum of at least one hour per week in which they work with a student in emergent literacy. The practicum may be a tutorial or literacy program sponsored by the Law Center (normally, the beginning reading program at Sursum Corda community near the Law Center) or some other arrangement approved by the instructors. Writing requirements include both a journal and short paper. The seminar is also open to graduate students in the Department of English.