Intersession Course | Spring 2022
New Intersession Course for Spring 2022: Introduction to Critical Race Theory
We are excited to announce that Professor Darrell Jackson, Professor of Law at the University of Wyoming College of Law, will offer Introduction to Critical Race Theory at Memphis Law in Spring 2022.
Course Description: This course will explore the foundation and central tenets of Critical Race Theory, from its origins in Critical Legal Studies, to current applications, debates, and evolutions. We will read, digest, critique, apply, and understand pro and anti CRT scholarship and statements. We will also consider CRT “offshoots,” such as LatCrit, TribalCrit, and DisCrit. Grounded in the late Professor Derrick Bell’s teaching and analysis, CRT posits that racism is endemic to society, but that we must also remain committed to social justice and praxis. How do we navigate these tensions, use CRT to provide a toolkit for practice and scholarship, and work toward positive social change in the face of race and racism?
Course Credits & Structure: This is a 2-credit course structured as an intensive intersession course, meaning that most class meetings will occur before spring classes begin. Class will meet in person from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on January 4-8, 10-11, and 15. Students will be active participants in the class discussion; during most days, student pairs will guide a part of the class discussion. Given the intensive nature of the course, students should expect to spend 3-4 hours in preparation for each day of class. For classes in which the student is a discussion leader, class preparation may require additional time.
Course Grade: The course is graded. Final grades will be based on attendance and participation (20%); a 1-2 page C/NC reflection paper (10%); a quiz assessing student understanding of the tenets and major themes connected to CRT (30%); and a 10-15 page final paper that dives more deeply into the tenets and themes connected to CRT and applies them to an issue selected by the student (40%). The quiz will be closed-book during the in-person class sessions, likely during the January 10 class session. The final paper will be developed throughout the class; students will submit stages of outlines during the time classes meet, but the final paper will be due after the conclusion of the class meetings. The specific due date for the final paper is to be determined.
Questions? Please contact Prof. Darrell Jackson or Dean Wilson.
