Contemporary Literature & Writing is a course that develops the discussion and exploration of modern-day topics such as critical race theory and gender study. The curriculum is centered around two novels, several short stories and a collection of films.
Senior Nathan Lee, who is currently taking the class, says that the literature and films shown in the curriculum are insightful and interesting, but the class style doesn’t fit his personal learning methods, as he prefers a more engaging discussion-style.
“I think my least favorite part from the teaching side would be the kind of homework that we get, but I don't really have an alternative so I don't really feel like I'm in a place to critique it,” Lee said. “My favorite is the books that we’re reading. ‘The White Boy Shuffle’ is really good. ‘The Year of the Flood’ is also really good and I'm excited to see what the film unit has.”
According to Lee, students should be interested and relatively knowledgeable about contemporary issues going into the class, as those topics are heavily discussed.
“Really be aware of social issues and be informed about what's going on around you, because the class does talk a lot about nuance of race and gender and class and stuff like that,” Lee said. “From the beginning, you're kind of met with, ‘Oh, I have to think about identity and stuff like that,’ And if you don't have a background in that, it might be difficult.”