Justice and Civil Society

This required course, LDST 205, "Justice and Civil Society," explores the meaning and practice of justice in contemporary society. Students read about theories of justice and study a variety of socio-economic problems that raise questions about the justness of society. The course also includes a service-learning component accompanied by critical reflection on community service to populations in need.

Forms and Information
Course Guidelines
Informed Consent for Off-Campus Experiences
Suggested Sites for 2009-2010
Prospective Service-Learning Site Application
Service-Learning Contract
Volunteer Service Log
Student Evaluation of Service-Learning Site
Police Precinct Addresses and Phone Numbers
Police Ride-Along Application
Driving Directions to Juvenile Court

Syllabi
Faculty members approach the class in different ways. Recent course outlines and readings and requirements are posted each semester. Faculty teaching Justice and Civil Society for fall, 2009 are Drs. Kaufman and Williamson.

Readings and Resources
Background on civic engagement, resources for research and data on issues discussed in classes and other selected resources are updated regularly.

Resources for Jepson Students
Others important forms and documents for Jepson students, including the student handbook and advising guide for the current term, are located in the current students section of the Web.

For Students Seeking Admission
Students who plan to apply to the Jepson School after completing this course will find useful information here.   

About Service Learning
Service learning is a form of experiential education. It is defined by the Commission on National and Community Service as "a method under which students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service experiences that meet actual community needs and that are coordinated in collaboration with the school and the community."

The service-learning component of the "Justice and Civil Society" course provides students with the opportunity to interact with a population which has demonstrated a clear and significant social need―for example, at-risk children and youth, the homeless, recent immigrants, and the mentally or physically disabled―through direct service. In so doing, students will be able to observe and test the validity of the social justice theories they have discussed in class and will be encouraged to reflect upon the leadership lessons of service.
 
In addition to service learning, professors teaching the "Justice and Civil Society" course may ask students to participate in other types of experiential education, such as group research projects conducted in a community-learning setting, field trips, police ride-alongs, poverty simulations, or observation of juvenile court sessions.