Professor: James Course format: Seminar Number of respondents: 5 Total Enrollment: 8 Class Composition: Froshs: 1 Sophs: 0 Jrs: 2 Srs: 5 Concs: 1 Non-Concs: 3 Don't Know: 0

Instructor Average: 1.45 Course Average: 1.25

"Women, the State, and Violence" explores the role of black women in the political arena in the United States through the examination of issues pertaining to sexism, racism, and radicalism. Students strongly recommended prior study of the civil rights movement as well as African American history to provide context for this course.

Professor James was very responsive and took into account the needs and goals of individual students. She was described as a very engaging and caring teacher who gave "brilliant" lectures. While some admitted they were initially a little intimidated, they found that if they took initiative, the professor was very accommodating.

Class members found most of the readings to be very interesting and pertinent to the class. Particularly helpful were the memoirs and videos. Work for the course consisted of weekly journal entries, a presentation, and 2 papers, each around 10 pages. While most students spent around 4-5 hours studying every week, some dedicated 10 hours per week to this class, which definitely surpassed their initial expectations.

Students recommended taking the class if you have an interest in the topic and related issues of social justice and politics. Survey respondents commented on the demanding nature of the course, and also mentioned that you should be ready to have your political views challenged and debated. If you are particularly motivated by the subject matter, then this is your class. However, you should come prepared for a challenge.

View AF/0114 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.