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Introducing feminism to members – Course outline

Language: English

Kind of delivery: Fully Online

Number of hours:
10 hours

Course duration:
1 month

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COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course invites you to begin with an exploration of your personal relationship with the concept and the varying ways it influences those around you. We will then trace the historical evolution of feminism and its manifestations across different contexts. Through a structured approach, you’ll engage with key feminist concepts and the language of feminism, examining their origins, significance, and application.

Central to our study is the understanding of power dynamics, which we will explore in the fourth module, focusing on societal power relationships and your own position within them. The course culminates in practical strategies for feminist action, enabling you to apply your insights in both private and public spheres.

Throughout, you will reflect on your own feminist practices and the theoretical frameworks that support them. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to introduce feminist perspectives in community organizations and trade unions, develop your unique feminist viewpoint, and take informed action as a feminist.

WHO THIS COURSE IS FOR?

The course is designed for anyone who is a social justice activist and has some familiarity with feminism. You might not call yourself a feminist but you are interested in exploring what feminism could mean for you as a person and as a social justice activist.

PRE-REQUISITES: WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED CRITERIA FOR ATTENDING THIS COURSE?

  • Educational Background: No formal requirements are needed but it is important that you come with an open mind, ready to ask questions, engage respectfully and share your experiences.
  • Computer and Internet Access: As many courses nowadays are offered online or utilize digital resources, participants should have access to a computer with a stable internet connection. Basic computer literacy skills, including the ability to navigate websites, access online materials, and participate in virtual discussions or activities, may also be necessary.
  • Commitment to Learning: Attending the course requires a commitment of time and effort. Participants should be prepared to actively engage with course materials, complete assignments or assessments, and participate in interactive sessions or discussions.

COURSE DURATION, NUMBER OF SESSIONS AND MODE OF DELIVERY

Course dates: 20 September- 01 November 2024

Course duration: This course will run over 5 weeks and will include a weekly online workshop and practical exercises that encourage active participation and interaction of participants so that they can learn from each other’s experiences 

Mode of delivery:  Online

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

At the end of the course, you will be able to:

  1. Have a deeper understanding of power relations as well as feminist theory, history and concepts.
  2. Feel excited to use a feminist lens in their private and public lives.
  3. Identify feminist actions they would like to take in their private and public lives.

 

SESSION OVERVIEW

Session 1: An introduction the course

ONLINE LEARNING MODE: Live Zoom session & Self-learning activities on the IFWEA Online Labour Academy

DESCRIPTION AND TOPICS:

  • Identity flower: An introductory exercise
  • Perceptions about feminism: 
  • My Story- What brought me to this course on feminism?
DURATION (minutes): 2-hour session

Session 2: Looking back to understand what feminism looks like today

ONLINE LEARNING MODE: Live Zoom session &  Self-learning activities on the IFWEA Online Labour Academy

DESCRIPTION AND TOPICS:

  • The notion of feminist waves: An introduction to how feminism is described historically
  • First wave of feminism
  • Second Wave of feminism
  • Third Wave of feminism
  • Fourth Wave of feminism
DURATION (minutes): 4-hour session

Session 3: Why use feminist concepts  “The way we conceptualize the world is the way we want to live in the world’’

ONLINE LEARNING MODE: Live Zoom session & Self-learning activities on the IFWEA Online Labour Academy

DESCRIPTION AND TOPICS:

  • What is in a name? 
  • Concept of gender equality
  • Concepts of Care
  • Concept of choice
  • Concept of time
  • Concept of patriarchal binaries
DURATION (minutes): 4-hour session

Session 4: Working with a power analysis

ONLINE LEARNING MODE: Live Zoom session & Self-learning activities on the IFWEA Online Labour Academy
DESCRIPTION AND TOPICS:

  • Power Matrix: A tool to understand power
  • Power Flower

DURATION (minutes): 2-hour session 

Session 5: Taking action as a feminist

ONLINE LEARNING MODE: Live Zoom session

DESCRIPTION AND TOPICS:

  • Using Head/Heart and Feet 
  • Planning to take action

DURATION (minutes): 2-hour session