Feminism and Social Justice Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to feminism and its vital role in advancing social justice. Through historical case studies, film analysis, and discussions of contemporary movements, learners will explore the evolution and impact of feminist thought and activism. The course is structured into five thematic modules and a final project, requiring approximately 7 hours to complete. Flexible scheduling allows learners to progress at their own pace, with lifetime access to all materials. Engaging multimedia content, including video lectures and a feature film, enhances understanding and encourages critical reflection on key issues.
Module 1: What is Feminism?
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Introduction to feminism as a social and philosophical movement
- Professor Bettina Aptheker’s working definition of feminism
- Developing a personal interpretation of feminism
- Feminism as a driver of social change
Module 2: Salt of the Earth
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Historical context of the 1951 Empire Zinc strike
- Feminist dimensions of labor activism
- Viewing and analysis of the 1954 film "Salt of the Earth"
- Discussion of gender, race, and class in labor movements
Module 3: Free Angela!
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Overview of Angela Davis’s 1971–1972 trial
- Intersection of feminism, race, and political activism
- Impact of the Free Angela movement on feminist history
Module 4: The #MeToo Movement
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Origins and development of the #MeToo movement
- Role of digital media in amplifying feminist voices
- Analysis of #MeToo’s impact on contemporary social justice
Module 5: Additional Materials (Optional)
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Supplementary video lectures on feminist theory
- Optional readings for deeper engagement
- Exploration of intersectionality in feminist activism
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Reflective essay on personal understanding of feminism
- Analysis of a feminist social justice case study
- Participation in peer discussion and feedback
Prerequisites
- No prior knowledge required
- Openness to diverse perspectives and critical thinking
- Basic English reading and comprehension skills
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Define feminism using both scholarly and personal frameworks
- Analyze historical feminist movements and their social impact
- Discuss the role of protest in advancing feminist and social justice causes
- Evaluate the relevance of feminism in modern contexts like the #MeToo movement
- Engage thoughtfully in conversations about gender, race, and equity