Exploring Writing and Research in African American and African Studies
Instructor: Milmon Harrison, Department of African American & African Studies, College of Letters & Science
Description: This seminar will enhance student-writing skills by providing an introduction to the writing process and introductory research techniques. It will also increase the student's confidence in their library research skills and their ability to write a well thought out and well written research paper.
Format: Seminar sessions will meet for one hour and 20 minutes each Thursday from 12:10 - 1:30 PM in the Alder Hall study lounge (first floor) and will include topics on: the importance of writing and research in African American and African Studies, an overview of the richness of the field and its interdisciplinary nature, developing and focusing the paper topic, freewriting, developing a prospectus, citing sources, using Harvest Catalog and research data bases, revisions, developing ideas, etc. Peer editing, tutorial assistance, and roundtable discussions are integral components of the seminar. Two to three out of class lectures and/or cultural programs are required. Research paper (5 pages) (5 x 250 or 1250 words) on suggested topics related to the African or African American experience (or those chosen in consultation with coordinators). Students will be expected to narrow their very generalized topics and to use at least two to three sources for their five-page research paper. Grading: Attendance (20%) / 5-page research paper (50%) / in-class assignments (20%) / class discussion (10%).
About the Instructor: Teaching interests are: Ethnicity in the U.S., Black Christian Church, Black Social and Political Thought, and Black Popular Culture. Research interests are: Sociology of religion, The Black Church in America, American race/ethnic relations, Social stratification, and Representation of African Americans in Popular Culture. Recent Publications include: Righteous Riches: The Word of Faith Movement in Contemporary African American Religion. New York: Oxford University Press, 2005. Courses he is teaching in fall 2006: African American Culture and Society; The Black Christian Church.