Foundations of Stereotypes: Systems Thinking
Description
Using introductory psychology and critical Indigenous Studies, this course introduces learners to the foundations of stereotypes about Indigenous peoples in North America. Stereotypes are not simply offensive insults, they also reveal crucial information about how Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples experience our society differently, both historically and today.
Outlining how the brain develops and perpetuates stereotypes within North America’s settler colonial context, learners will be provided with basic steps to interrupt those stereotypes when they arise in diverse situations.
Instructors
Dr. Tasha Hubbard
Academic Lead
- Molly Swain
- Sara Howdle
- Dr. Savage Bear
Course Certification
Microcredential Details
Course Cost
$349 + GST (per course)
Delivery Format
Online (asynchronous)
Record of Completion
Printable certificate; non-credit transcript; digital badge
Next Offering
April 7-June 26
Level
Beginner
Completion Requirements
20 hours (1.5 hours/week)
Textbooks
All material is available online and no textbooks are required.
Transferable Course Credit
TBD
Learning Outcomes
- Learn the definition of a stereotype.
- Understand the process by which stereotypes are created and perpetuated.
- Understand stereotypes in the context of North American settler colonialism.
- Identify the relationships of power within stereotypes.
- Create a foundation of knowledge with concepts and terminology to recognize and begin thinking critically about stereotypes found in images, media, and settler worldviews.
- Learn about the stereotype of “Canadian benevolence” and its supporting role in colonial expansion and racism.
- Describe the central ideas fueling European/North American sense of entitlement to Indigenous lives and lands.
- Investigate how Indigenous industriousness was countered with policies that negatively impacted their wealth and livelihoods.
Course / Module Outline
- Stereotypes: An Introduction
- Who is Invested in Stereotypes about Indigenous peoples?
- The Myth of Canadian Benevolence
- Why do “Indians” get everything for free? Colonialism and Political Economies
Contact Us
Email nsonline@ualberta.ca with any questions.