Professor: Fruzzetti Course format: Seminar Number of respondents: 6 Total Enrollment: 25 Class Composition: Froshs: 9 Sophs: 10 Jrs: 2 Srs: 3 Concs: 2 Non-Concs: 3 Don't Know: 1

Instructor Average: 1.69 Course Average: 1.48

"Race, Culture, and Ethnic Politics" is a discussion-based seminar course aimed at providing class members a better understanding of issues dealing with race and ethnicity within the context of American society. An itching curiosity about racial and cultural issues is the only prerequisite for this course.

Many of the students felt Professor Fruzzetti did an ample job of inspiring conversations that explored race, culture, and ethnicity from a variety of perspectives. The professor's enthusiasm and openness to class participation motivated most of the respondents to get involved. However, a lack of focus and a general sense that the readings were unnecessary for discussion discouraged some students. Professor Fruzzetti received reviews that described her as approachable and humorous on one hand, and disorganized yet interesting on the other. Overall, however, the professor made a positive impression on the students.

Class members spent one to four hours per week on coursework, which included weekly reading assignments, a final paper, and a book report that included an oral presentation. Most felt that the final paper and book report were fulfilling activities, advancing their grasp of the course goals. The weekly readings lacked a clear correlation with class discussion; many discovered a discouraging vagueness surrounding their importance. In general, it seemed that effort directed toward the course was minimal if the motivation was not there.

Reading Period was observed, although a make-up class was scheduled for those who needed it. The professor connected with many students, and allowed for an intellectually stimulating atmosphere. Student participation was a major strength of the course.

If you want to gain a better grasp of issues concerning race and ethnicity, this is the course for you. However, be forewarned that the class is not structured to be a source of answers to these issues.

View AN/0106 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.