AIE 345 examines how contemporary experiences of American Indians in higher education relate to their historic past in the colonial, federal and self-determination periods. It probes the impact of their beliefs, cultural values and dual citizenship on their social and political status. It also teaches strategies for academic success, not only for American Indians, but also for other diverse populations.
“This is an interesting and culturally appropriate course that analyzes the factors that are known to influence academic persistence and non-persistence in public, private and tribal colleges and universities throughout the United States,” according to Burcell. It is a three-unit, upper division online course that starts with a comprehensive history of American Indian higher education. The historical context is then linked to the social and political standing of today’s American Indians.
“We are hoping to have a number of community-based professionals participating in this ‘open university’ course this fall, resulting in a very rich, reality-based learning environment,” Burcell adds, noting that non-matriculating students can enroll through the University’s Extended Education program at http://www.humboldt.edu/~extended.
Other HSU online classes this fall include Critical Thinking with Computers, Nutrition Athletic Performance, Sound Mind-Sound Body and a senior seminar in psychology.
The complete list of online courses is posted at http://www.humboldt.edu/~oaa/class_schd/fall08/wonline.html.