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Karen Monique Gregg
Conditions and distribution of ethnic minorities and race; socio-psychological and cultural factors in the race and ethnic relations; the pattern of relations in the United States with emphasis on the Southwest and on social services.
Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:
Identify sociological ideas, concepts, terms, and theories regarding ethnic minorities and race.
Read more
Conditions and distribution of ethnic minorities and race; socio-psychological and cultural factors in the race and ethnic relations; the pattern of relations in the United States with emphasis on the Southwest and on social services.
Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:
Identify sociological ideas, concepts, terms, and theories regarding ethnic minorities and race.
Read more
Conditions and distribution of ethnic minorities and race; socio-psychological and cultural factors in the race and ethnic relations; the pattern of relations in the United States with emphasis on the Southwest and on social services.
Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:
Identify sociological ideas, concepts, terms, and theories regarding ethnic minorities and race.
The learner taking this course would be interested in gaining the ability to have informed conversations about race and ethnicity in American society. Learning about the current empirical patterns and trends will equip learners to have informed conversations instead of conversations based on opinion alone.
To succeed in this course, you should have a background in studying society and an interest in improving race relations.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/qfy2rs/ethnic
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What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: The Social Construction of Race and Ethnicity in the U.S.
Dr. Gregg made two videos for Module 1 for you to watch as she discusses John Iceland’s current book, Race and Ethnicity in America. To go along with this MOOC, she recommends that you buy this book, but you do not need this book to be successful in this MOOC. "The citations in these videos are to the indicated pages of this optional coursebook, Iceland, J. (2017). Race and Ethnicity in America (1st ed.). University of California Press”
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1: The Social Construction of Race and Ethnicity in the U.S.
Dr. Gregg made two videos for Module 1 for you to watch as she discusses John Iceland’s current book, Race and Ethnicity in America. To go along with this MOOC, she recommends that you buy this book, but you do not need this book to be successful in this MOOC. "The citations in these videos are to the indicated pages of this optional coursebook, Iceland, J. (2017). Race and Ethnicity in America (1st ed.). University of California Press”
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines racial and ethnic factors in American society, making it relevant to learners studying the U.S. and its diverse population
Provides a strong foundation for understanding race and ethnicity in the U.S., which may be beneficial for learners with little to no background in the topic
Somewhat accessible to beginners, making it a good starting point for learners interested in race and ethnicity studies
Taught by an instructor with extensive experience in the field, ensuring the content is up-to-date and well-informed
Course materials include videos, discussions, and readings, offering a variety of learning formats
Optional textbook is recommended but not required, making it more accessible to learners on a budget
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Create your own learning path.
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Reviews summary
Sociological foundations of race and ethnicity
According to students, this course provides a strong empirical foundation for understanding ethnic minorities and race in the U.S., particularly for those seeking informed conversations. Learners appreciate the clear structure across modules, with Dr. Gregg's insightful videos guiding them through complex sociological theories. While many find the content highly relevant for careers in social services or related fields, some note that a prior background in sociology is beneficial for keeping pace. The course emphasizes academic rigor and is ideal for those seeking to move beyond opinion-based discussions.
Recommended textbook enhances learning but is not required.
"Dr. Gregg recommends buying the book, but I found I could succeed without it."
"The citations in the videos to the optional book were useful for deeper dives if I chose to."
"It's good that the book is optional; it kept costs down while still offering a resource."
Emphasizes patterns of relations in the United States, especially the Southwest.
"As someone living in the Southwest, the emphasis on this region was particularly relevant to my work."
"The course provides a good overview of U.S. race relations, which was my primary interest."
"The specificity to the U.S. and Southwest made the content feel more grounded and applicable."
Equips learners with the ability to have meaningful discussions on race.
"The course genuinely helped me gain the ability to have informed conversations about race and ethnicity in American society."
"It equipped me to base my understanding on facts, not just opinions, which is so valuable today."
"I feel much more confident discussing these sensitive topics after taking this course."
Dr. Gregg's video lectures are clear, insightful, and well-researched.
"Dr. Gregg's lectures were insightful and made complex theories accessible and engaging."
"I found the video discussions of John Iceland's book incredibly helpful and well-presented."
"The instructor clearly knows her subject matter, which made the learning experience very credible."
Provides a strong foundation in sociological theories and empirical data.
"The course truly delivered an empirical foundation for understanding race and ethnicity, moving beyond just opinions."
"I appreciated learning about the current empirical patterns and trends; it's essential for informed discussions."
"It helped me identify sociological ideas and theories, which was exactly what I needed."
Benefits those with some prior knowledge of society studies.
"I would recommend having some background in studying society to fully grasp all the concepts."
"While valuable, I sometimes felt the course assumed a bit more sociological understanding than I had."
"If you're entirely new to sociology, be prepared for a steep learning curve."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Ethnic Minorities and Race with these
activities:
Book: Race and Ethnicity in America
Show steps
Enrich understanding of race and ethnicity in the United States
View
Race and Ethnicity in America
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase and read the textbook
Review Sociological Concepts
Show steps
Review foundational sociological concepts to ensure a strong base
Browse courses on
Sociology
Show steps
-
Review your notes from Intro to Sociology or a similar course
-
Read introductory chapters of the textbook
Guided Tutorials: Statistical Analysis for Racial Disparities
Show steps
Enhance your statistical capabilities to analyze data on race and ethnicity
Browse courses on
Statistical Analysis
Show steps
-
Identify online tutorials or resources on statistical analysis for racial disparities
-
Follow the step-by-step instructions to conduct statistical analysis
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Concept Map: Sociological Theories
Show steps
Create a visual summary to connect and differentiate sociological theories
Show steps
-
Brainstorm and list key sociological theories covered in the course
-
Identify key concepts and ideas associated with each theory
-
Use a tool like Coggle, Miro, or Google Jamboard to create a visual concept map
Workshop: Qualitative Research Methods in Race and Ethnic Studies
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience with qualitative research approaches
Browse courses on
Qualitative Research Methods
Show steps
-
Identify a relevant workshop or conference
-
Register and attend the workshop
-
Practice conducting qualitative interviews or focus groups
Book: Race and Ethnicity in America
Show steps
Enrich understanding of race and ethnicity in the United States
View
Race and Ethnicity in America
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase and read the textbook
Review Sociological Concepts
Show steps
Review foundational sociological concepts to ensure a strong base
Browse courses on
Sociology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from Intro to Sociology or a similar course
- Read introductory chapters of the textbook
Guided Tutorials: Statistical Analysis for Racial Disparities
Show steps
Enhance your statistical capabilities to analyze data on race and ethnicity
Browse courses on
Statistical Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online tutorials or resources on statistical analysis for racial disparities
- Follow the step-by-step instructions to conduct statistical analysis
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Concept Map: Sociological Theories
Show steps
Create a visual summary to connect and differentiate sociological theories
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm and list key sociological theories covered in the course
- Identify key concepts and ideas associated with each theory
- Use a tool like Coggle, Miro, or Google Jamboard to create a visual concept map
Workshop: Qualitative Research Methods in Race and Ethnic Studies
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience with qualitative research approaches
Browse courses on
Qualitative Research Methods
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a relevant workshop or conference
- Register and attend the workshop
- Practice conducting qualitative interviews or focus groups
Career center
Learners who complete Ethnic Minorities and Race will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Managers plan, implement, and evaluate programs and services for nonprofit organizations. They use their management skills to ensure that programs are effective and meet the needs of the community. This course may be useful for aspiring Nonprofit Program Managers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Nonprofit Program Managers understand the impact of race and ethnicity on the communities they serve and the programs they manage.
Civil Rights Lawyer
Civil Rights Lawyer
Civil Rights Lawyers advocate for the rights of individuals and groups who have been discriminated against based on race, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics. They use their knowledge of the law and legal procedures to fight for justice and equality. This course may be useful for aspiring Civil Rights Lawyers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Civil Rights Lawyers understand the impact of race and ethnicity on the legal system and the lives of their clients.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Managers develop and implement programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They work to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all employees. This course may be useful for aspiring Diversity and Inclusion Managers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Diversity and Inclusion Managers understand the challenges and opportunities of promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Public Policy Advocate
Public Policy Advocate
Public Policy Advocates work to influence public policy decisions on behalf of their clients. They use research, advocacy, and lobbying to promote policies that benefit their clients and the public interest. This course may be useful for aspiring Public Policy Advocates because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Public Policy Advocates understand the impact of race and ethnicity on public policy and the lives of their clients.
Community Organizer
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work to build and mobilize communities to address social and economic problems. They use their organizing skills to bring people together, develop leadership, and advocate for change. This course may be useful for aspiring Community Organizers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Community Organizers understand the impact of race and ethnicity on community development and organizing.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the development and use of land in urban areas. They work to create livable, sustainable, and equitable communities for all residents. This course may be useful for aspiring Urban Planners because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Urban Planners understand the impact of race and ethnicity on urban development and planning.
Educator
Educator
Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool to college. They use their knowledge of subject matter and teaching methods to help students learn and grow. This course may be useful for aspiring Educators because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Educators understand the impact of race and ethnicity on education and the lives of their students.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
Market Researchers study consumer behavior and trends. They use research methods to collect and analyze data on consumer preferences, attitudes, and behaviors. This course may be useful for aspiring Market Researchers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Market Researchers understand the impact of race and ethnicity on consumer behavior and trends.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the cultures of different societies. They use research methods to collect and analyze data on social customs, beliefs, and practices. This course may be useful for aspiring Cultural Anthropologists because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Cultural Anthropologists understand the impact of race and ethnicity on the cultures of different societies.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They use research methods to collect and analyze data on social institutions, social processes, and social change. This course may be useful for aspiring Sociologists because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people cope with personal and social problems. They provide counseling, support, and resources to individuals, families, and groups. This course may be useful for aspiring Social Workers because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Social Workers understand the impact of race and ethnicity on the lives of their clients.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists write, edit, and report news stories for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. They use their research and writing skills to inform the public about important issues and events. This course may be useful for aspiring Journalists because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Journalists understand the impact of race and ethnicity on news and media coverage.
Historian
Historian
Historians study the past to understand the present. They use research methods to collect and analyze historical documents and artifacts. This course may be useful for aspiring Historians because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Historians understand the impact of race and ethnicity on historical events and the lives of past societies.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts study business processes and systems to identify areas for improvement. They use their analytical skills to develop solutions that improve efficiency and effectiveness. This course may be useful for aspiring Business Analysts because it provides a strong foundation in the sociological study of race and ethnicity, including the social construction of race and ethnicity, sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Business Analysts understand the impact of race and ethnicity on business processes and systems.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research, analyze, and interpret social and economic issues and policies. They use their findings to inform policy decisions and make recommendations for change. This course may be useful for aspiring Policy Analysts because it provides a strong foundation in sociological theories of race and ethnicity, the social construction of race and ethnicity in the U.S., and sociological perspectives on Black experiences. This knowledge can help Policy Analysts understand the impact of race and ethnicity on social policies and programs.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qfy2rs/ethnic
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Ethnic Minorities and Race.
Is recommended by the course instructor and covers the social construction of race and ethnicity in the U.S., sociological theories of race and ethnicity, and sociological perspectives on Black experiences.
Save
Provides a theoretical framework for understanding race and ethnicity in the United States, and it explores the ways in which race is used to justify social inequality.
Save
Explores the ways in which white people often react defensively to discussions about race, and it offers suggestions for how to have more productive conversations about race.
Save
Powerful and personal account of what it means to be black in America today.
Classic work of American literature that explores the history of race and racism in the United States.
Seminal work of African American literature that explores the experiences of black people in the United States.
Examines the ways in which government policies have created and maintained racial segregation in the United States.
Examines the ways in which the criminal justice system is used to maintain racial inequality in the United States.
Collection of essays by Audre Lorde that explore the experiences of black women in the United States.
Classic work of educational theory that explores the ways in which education can be used to empower oppressed people.
Save
Classic work of postcolonial theory that explores the psychology of colonialism and its effects on colonized people.
Classic work of postcolonial theory that explores the ways in which the West has constructed and represented the East.
This essay provides a concise and accessible overview of the concept of white privilege.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qfy2rs/ethnic
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Effort
4wks, 2 hours week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of North Texas
Instructor
Karen Monique Gregg
Language
English
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