Course Overview:
This introductory workshop will focus on Islam and the needs of Muslim students. The object of this course is threefold. The first objective is for the participant to explore their own view of Islam and identify any biases they may have resulting from media exposure and how these biases may effect their every day interaction with individuals of Muslim background. The second objective is to become familiar with Islam as a religion and the social, economic and political factors that have made it a complete way of life. The third objective is for the participant to apply this newfound knowledge in their own workplace and in dealing with the needs of Muslim students on campus.
Course Outline:
In the first module of the course participants will explore stereotypical images of Islam as portrayed in such popular mediums as television, movies, magazines and newspapers. The second module will cover the basic tenets and history of Islam, gender roles and socio-economic contexts that have contributed to the growth and development of Islam as a way of life through selected readings, other materials and asynchronous online discussions. The difference between Islam as a theory and Islam in practice will also be addressed. In the final module, needs of Muslim students in the college setting will be addressed through benchmarking and case studies. Participants will also be asked to create an action plan for their own respective campuses.
Learning Outcomes:
At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to do the following:
- Identify the source of their own biases regarding Islam and followers of Islam, if any.
- Distinguish between the theory and practice of Islam.
- Have a basic working knowledge of the value and belief system of Islam and how it can be translated into a socio-cultural context.
- Acquire a basic understanding of gender roles in Islam
- Address, comprehend and accommodate the needs of Muslim students and the needs of Muslims in the community at large.
Participant Expectations:
Participants will be expected to come to this course with an open mind, a willingness to learn and a respect for each other's opinions and beliefs. This workshop will be an open forum to discuss any and all questions regarding Islam, no matter how sensitive the inquiry. Participants are also expected to complete required readings and contribute to discussions actively. This course will entail approximately five to seven hours of work per week.
Individuals registering for CEUs will receive 1.0 CEU upon successful completion of the course.
Instructor Bio:
Usama M. Shaikh is currently an Assistant Director of Residence Life at Fairleigh Dickinson University - Metropolitan Campus. Usama has been an active educator teaching others about Islam. He has been an advisor for Muslim Student Association at Pratt Institute, featured speaker at post 9/11 interfaith services at Pratt Institute, has been solicited to speak at a synagogue and a church to educate regarding Islam. He has also presented at ACPA and NEACUHO on the Needs of Muslim Students on College Campuses. He received his Master's in College Student Personnel from The Pennsylvania State University and has a Bachelors of Arts in History with a focus on The Middle East and North Africa and Comparative Religions from Binghamton University.
