This multi-disciplinary course serves to introduce students to three broad and related themes: 1) the intriguing and diverse social, historical and cultural worlds of Latin America, the Caribbean and of “Latinos” in the U.S. 2) the exciting general field of research and knowledge that goes by the name of “Latin American Studies” 3) the vibrant resources—human, education, cultural—at Stony Brook University and its larger region for the study of Latin American, Caribbean and Latino peoples. This course is designed for beginning LACC “Minors”, but other students (or still wavering minors) may also profit from the experience.

This is an intimate course, an intensive and personalized learning experience, much like an introductory “Seminar” (max: 25 students). Thus, a good part of the course will consist of your active participation and discussion. Do not let shyness get in your way—students will get to know one another and the professor as well. Full commitment and attendance, of course, will be critical to your overall course success.

Classes will consist of a good mix of introductions to broad topics by the professor; discussions of required readings (usually Thursdays); films (documentary and others) and visits by other professors from different disciplines in the LACS (Latin American and Caribbean Studies) program. You are also expected to attend several or more of the scheduled LAC Center events, such as visiting speakers, art shows or symposiums. Two excellent and interesting texts make up required reading for the course: Peter Winn, AMERICAS: The Changing Face of Latin American and the Caribbean (University of California Press) and Alma Guillermoprieto, THE HEART THAT BLEEDS (Vintage Press). Both books—you will want to have your own copies—are available for purchase, but only at STONY BOOKS (near the rail station). They are also available on reserve in the Library.

Grades will be based on the following (on time) assignments and criteria:
A map quiz (seriously) (10%)
Four 2-3 page written class Reports (with indicated due-dates) (40%)
One on your “interests”/background in LA
One on a Stony Brook resource (Library, film collection, electronic, etc.)
Two reports on LACS events attended
A final take-home essay (6-8 pages, due Tuesday, May 8) (30%)
Class participation (including attendance) (20%)

Extra credit work may be available. Please take advantage of the Professor’s Office Hours (T.,Th. 12-12:45) to discuss any assignment, special enthusiasm or challenges with the class.

And welcome (Bienvenidos) to Latin American and Caribbean Studies!

NEW!!! at Stony Brook MANHATTAN - SPRING 2004
LAC 200: Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Societies
Thursdays
5:20 — 8:20 PM
Professor P. Gootenberg

This multi-disciplinary introductory Seminar focuses on three themes:
(1) the diverse social, historical and cultural worlds of Latin America, the Caribbean and Latinos in the U.S. (2) the exciting general field of knowledge that goes by the name of "Latin American Studies" and (3) the vibrant resources-- human, educational, cultural-- at Stony Brook University and the New York region for study of Latin American, Caribbean and Latino people. This course is designed for beginning LACS Minors but other students (or prospective minors) will also profit from the experience.

Fulfill your DEC requirement in MANHATTAN!!