CFP: Rethinking the Theory Course (9/15/06; NEMLA; 3/1-4/07 in Baltimore)

The Northeast Modern Language Association's 38th annual convention will be
held in Baltimore, Maryland from March 1-4, 2007.

This panel will explore innovative ways to teach critical theory at the
undergraduate level. How can instructors present difficult theory in a way
that is accessible to students? What supplementary texts can instructors
use to complement the theory? What writing assignments can help students
practice applying theory without encouraging them to think formulaically?
How can theory courses be reinforced in other areas of the English
curriculum? What is the relationship of the theory course to the changing
field of "English," including to new media and cultural studies? Should the
way we deliver our theory courses shift to accommodate new ways of thinking
about English as a discipline? And finally, what should the curriculum of a
good theory course include?

Given that the purpose of much contemporary theory has been to open texts to
multiple readings and question both canonical readings and univocal
methodologies, this panel seeks to explore alternative and innovative ways
to teach the standard undergraduate course in theory. This panel is
designed for instructors and curriculum planners who want to rethink the
perameters and possibilities of this ubiquitous course. Papers that blend a
discussion of the philosophical issues involved with "teaching theory" with
practical ideas for revisioning the "formula" are especially welcomed.

Abstracts should be sent electronically to Robin DeRosa at
rderosa_at_plymouth.edu. Deadline for abstracts: September 15, 2006. Please
include with your abstract: Name and Affiliation; Email address; Postal
address; Telephone number; A/V requirements (if any).

All panelists must be or become NEMLA members. Visit
http://www.nemla.org/index.html for more information on NEMLA.

Dr. Robin DeRosa
Assistant Professor of English
Department of English - MSC 40
Plymouth State University
Plymouth, NH 03264
(603) 535-3147

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Received on Mon Jun 26 2006 - 18:27:02 EDT