Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This course examines contemporary issues affecting Chicano and Latino communities in the United States. Through readings, memoirs, novels, films, and current research, we will explore topics such as immigration, education, health, criminalization, politics, economic inequality, and community activism. Rather than focusing primarily on historical events, this course emphasizes the social, political, and cultural issues shaping Chicano and Latino communities today.

The required textbooks for this course are listed below. All other required readings, videos, and course materials will be available through Brightspace (D2L).

• Rodriguez, R. (1981). Hunger of Memory: The Education of Richard Rodriguez. Boston, MA: D.R. Godine.
• Tobar, H. (1998). The Tattooed Soldier. New York: Penguin Books.

Any edition or format of these textbooks is acceptable, including new or used copies, paperback or hardcover, e-book, or audiobook when available. I encourage you to choose whichever option best fits your learning style and budget.

This course is fully online and asynchronous, which means we do not meet at scheduled class times. You can complete the weekly coursework at the times that work best with your schedule, as long as you meet the assignment deadlines.

You must log into the course on the first day of the term and complete the required Introduction discussion by the first Wednesday of the course. After the first week, you should plan to log into Brightspace (D2L) several times each week to stay on track.

Discussion posts are an important part of this course. They help you engage with the readings, videos, and other course materials, practice analyzing course concepts, and learn from your classmates by sharing ideas and providing thoughtful feedback.

To be successful in this course, you should:

• Log into Brightspace (D2L) several times each week.
• Complete the assigned readings, videos, and other course materials before participating in the weekly discussion.
• Submit your discussion posts and replies by the posted deadlines.
• Complete all assignments, quizzes, and other coursework by their posted due dates.
• Check Brightspace (D2L) regularly for announcements, feedback, and updates.

No special technology is required.