Taught by: Dr Amy Ramirez
Content (Structure/Organization): 5
The syllabus is organised but the prof leaves some lesson content TBC for us to propose what we want to read/discuss based on our interest/queries. During the class, what we cover is both a mixture of question-led discussions and the freedom to guide the discussion based on where the discussions go.
Manageability of Workload: 3
It is very manageable. The readings are not particularly too abstract and the prof assigns documentaries to watch as well. To be honest, the readings are so interesting that they are not a hassle or bore to read.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:
It is entirely achievable to get an A in this course. I think as long as you are interested in it, you will want to work hard for it and write something interesting. The prof is not particularly harsh but anyways, she emphasises a lot on how you should not be writing for a grade and highly encourages us to write WHATEVER we want (does not even have to write to meet the assessment criterias).
Learning Value/Recommendation: 5
[The course is] SO incredibly insightful. I have an entirely different perspective of the world now as compared to before I took the course. You will discover and question your own prejudices and assumptions and its so mind-bogglingly mind-bending and terrifying in the absolute best way.
About the Instructor:
Prof Amy is the truly the best. She is one of the best profs I have ever come across in NUSC. She is so honest about how she herself is still learning about this ever evolving subject of race and holds her own unconscious prejudice as well. This frankness and openness to learn alongside us really creates a safe and productive environment where the prof is not there to dictate and teach but rather create a safe and guide discussions while learning from the discussions created by the students.
Additional Comments:
I do not think anyone will be taking over this course but I really hope another prof with the same calibre as Prof Amy will take it over because it is so incredibly important for this course to be made available for future students to take.
Content (Structure/Organization): 5
The course was quite well organised as there was a clear list of what readings would be done in which week, as well as how many assessments there would be. Additionally, the prof was still flexible enough to ask us if we preferred one of the sessions to be going through another reading or if we wanted it to be for peer feedback.
Manageability of Workload: 2
The workload was quite heavy, though this might be because it was the first time it was offered and the prof was still adjusting. It was equivalent to NTW with readings for every lesson, and the readings tend to be quite long, so a significant amount of time would be spent on readings. Assignment wise, there [were] just a midterm paper and a final paper, both of which you [were] given sufficient time to think through and write.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:
I feel that the prof has higher standards for an A, but she always gives very detailed feedback (even for the final paper) so it's clear where improvement [need] to be made.
Learning Value/Recommendation: 5
I think the course had a lot of learning value, especially since race is something so [intertwined with] everyday life. It offered new perspectives about how people think about race, and every lesson offered something new to mull over.
About the Instructor:
I think that prof is extremely knowledgeable about the topic of race, and she keeps up to date with recent events/ literature [related] to the topic, even bringing [them] up in class for us to discuss. I also feel that she is able to explain the concepts extremely well, and can respond [to] and bounce off student ideas very eloquently as well.