University of Connecticut
Women's Studies Program
Women & Violence ~ WS 263 01
Class Agreement
It is important that you read the syllabus carefully and understand what is expected of you before beginning this course. Throughout the semester, we will discuss both abstract, theoretical ideas and concrete, practical information about a variety of issues pertaining to violence against women. I hope that these materials will challenge you intellectually and personally. However, when discussing topics of violence and gender, we may at times touch on some issues that are socially and/or personally sensitive. Because of this, any one of us may occasionally feel uncomfortable. To help the diversity of our voices lead to opportunities to learn in such situations I propose the following ground rules together with Guidelines for Class Participation.
1. Acknowledge that private acts of violence are situated within a public culture of violence.
2. Acknowledge that all of us have learned stereotypes about our own group and about members of other groups, whether we belong to an advantaged or disadvantaged group.
3. Agree not to blame ourselves or others for the misinformation we have learned in the past.
4. Accept responsibility for not repeating misinformation after we have learned otherwise.
5. Assume that people--both those we study and those in this class--make, and have made, choices that seemed appropriate to them at the time.
6. Acknowledge that prejudice and discrimination based on gender, race, ethnic and national background, social class, sexual preference, religion, physical appearance, and abilities exist.
7. Never demean, devalue, or in any way "put down" people for their experiences, backgrounds, or statements. This does not mean that you can't disagree, only that you must do so respectfully.
(If you ever feel that I have not held to these ground rules, I would appreciate it greatly if you would come speak with me in my office.)
When you have finished reading this "Class Agreement" please send me an e-mail message stating your response. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask.
Marita McComiskey |
Women & Violence - WS 263
Marita McComiskey
mccomisk@uconnvm.uconn.edu
University of Connecticut
Women's Studies Program
422 Beach Hall, U-Box181
354 Mansfield Road, Storrs, CT 06269
Office - (860) 486-1133 ~~~~ Fax - (860) 486-4789
Last Updated: August, 1997
