COMM 255 - Queer Cultures: Knowledge and Literacy

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-D1-2; Social Justice
Examination of queer life through creative expression in the mainstream and as a form of self-representation. We begin with terms that communities use to express themselves. Inquiries are grounded in queer theory and critical cultural studies.

Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F grading only.
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-D1-2 - Lower Division Social Sciences, Overlay - Social Justice
Course Typically Offered: Variable Intermittently

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Analyze mainstream media and literature to explain the power dynamics embedded in representation of queer communities;
Discuss the potential of alternative and DIY expressions of culture by people in various queer communities and creative spheres;
Explain the influence of media/cultural industries on dominant representations of gender and sexuality;
Apply knowledge of diversity and multicultural competencies to promote equity and social justice in our communities.

D1-2. Lower-division Social Science Electives Learning Outcomes

specify how social, political, economic, and environmental systems and/or behavior are interwoven;
explain how humans individually and collectively relate to relevant sociocultural, political, economic, and/or environmental systems-how they produce, resist, and transform them;
discuss and debate issues from the course’s disciplinary perspective in a variety of cultural, historical, contemporary, and/or potential future contexts; and
explore principles, methodologies, value systems, and ethics employed in social scientific inquiry.

Social Justice Overlay Learning Outcomes

use a disciplinary perspective to analyze issues of social justice and equity;
describe the challenges to achieving social justice; and
identify ways in which individuals and/or groups can contribute to social justice within local communities, nations, or the world.