BC's Indigenous Public Post-Secondary Institute

FNWS-202 - Comparative Gender Studies - 3.00 Credits

FNWS-202 - Comparative Gender Studies - 3.00 Credits

Course Details
An inter-disciplinary examination of the various meanings and values ascribed to gender and sexuality, historically and cross-culturally. This course, using cross-cultural comparisons, will critically examine the concept of gender and identity in First Nations cultures. The central theme of this class will focus on the significance and perception of gender as a concept and as a means of manipulating identity and organizing social life. Further, this course will examine, assess and interpret agents of change that impacted on gender and sexuality of First Nations women and First Nations cultures.
Part of the:
  • UNIVERSITY TRANSFER Department
  • Prerequisites : ENGL 060, or English 12 and/or English 12 First Peoples or permission of instructor. Recommended prerequisite FNWS 100.
    Course Outline
    Instructors Qualifications: Relevant Master's Degree.
    Office Hours: 1.5 Per week.
    Contact Hours: 45
    Student Evaluation
    Procedure:
    Assignments 50 - 70%, Final 30 - 50%, Total 100 %. Grading procedures follow NVIT policy.
    Learning Outcomes:
  • Comprehend the social implications of traditional gender roles from a cross-cultural perspective;

  • Through class discussions and presentations, describe the various meanings and values ascribed to gender and sexuality in First Nations cultures;

  • Ability to discuss factors that impacted traditional gender roles e.g. residential schools;

  • Analyze the significance and perception of gender as a concept and as a means for manipulating identity and organizing social life;

  • Describe how patriarchal familial structures changed First Nations gender systems and gender roles;

  • Discuss the impact of gender role disruptions in First Nations communities;

  • Identify strategies that address a return to healthy sexuality and healthy gender roles;

  • Ability to undertake directed research;
  • Gain greater writing skills;

  • Develop greater critical analytical skills; and

  • Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a group setting.
  • Text and Materials:
  • Roscoe, W. (1998). Changing Ones: Third And Fourth Genders In Native North America. New York: St. Martin's Press.
  • Jacobs, Sue E. (1997). Two-Spirit People: Native American Gender Identity, Sexuality and Spirituality. Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press.

  • Manfred, Frederick Feikema. (1985). The Manly-Hearted Woman. University of Nebraska Press.

  • Sommer, Doris. (1992). De-Colonizing the Subject: The Politics of Gender in Women Autobiography. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.

  • A reading package will be available for purchase or may be placed on reserve in the library.

  • Other Resources: Other material may be drawn from the program bibliography as determined by instructor.
    Transfer Credits: For more information visit: www.bctransferguide.ca
    Other Information: Late Assignments: All assignments are to be handed in at the beginning of class on the date they are due. Late assignments will be assessed a 5 % per day penalty. Assignments not submitted within one week of the due date will not be accepted.
    Every effort should be made to have assignments in on the due date. Assignments will not be graded after the due date without a written agreement negotiated between student and instructor. If you know that you will be unable to hand your assignment in on time, you should discuss it with your instructor at least one week in advance of the due date. Extensions are only given in compelling medical or personal circumstances; documentation may be required.
    Papers: Papers should be typewritten if possible but hand-written papers may be accepted. Papers with illegible writing will not be graded. Students should make every effort to acquaint themselves with a computer and a writing program; watch for workshop offered by Student Services which will equip you with the tools you need for researching and writing on a computer. Papers should be completed on 8½ x 11 inch white or recycled paper and secured with a single staple in the upper left hand corner. Papers should carry the date the paper was submitted rather than the date it was due. Students should keep a hard copy of their paper or a photocopy of their paper before you hand it in.
    Attendance: Attendance at lectures is critical because much information on the various topical areas, as well as, the assignments is disseminated in class. Lack of attendance will definitely be reflected in your overall grade. Students are expected to excuse their absences, in advance of the class, through other students or the instructor. Students with three ( 3) or more documented absences may be required to withdrawn from the class and/or face disciplinary action.