The Tragedy of Non-Ness

Explore and develop an understanding of people and groups affected by marginalizing language and representation. Learn the prevalent forms of exclusionary language and representation and discuss appropriate, compassionate personal and professional responses to its use.

Program Overview

We will look closely at how language and other forms of representation can be used to marginalize people and groups. Exclusionary descriptors are embedded in language and undermine our ability to create inclusive and equitable relationships, organizations, and communities. An example of exclusionary language, we describe someone as not being something (ex. “non-White"), which results in the excluded listener feeling “othered,” “less than,” “inadequate” and "unseen." We will learn the prevalent forms of exclusionary language and representation and discuss appropriate, compassionate personal and professional responses to its use.

Duration

Approximately 30 hours

Up to 6 months to complete coursework

Estimated Tuition

$400

Ways to Learn

Online

Credit

2 PDUs

Graduate Level Professional Development Credit

Key Features

Online and self-paced   |   Dedicated mentor    |    Interactive assignments

Real-world case studies   |   Create an action plan    |    Earn graduate level professional development credits

Upon successful mastery of this course, you will be able to: 

  • Describe how language can be used to marginalize people and groups
  • Recognize the relationship between Whiteness and Non-ness and explore examples of Non-ness within our spaces
  • Practice using the RIR protocol to decenter Whiteness
     

Course Topics:

  • Recognize How Exclusionary Descriptors are Embedded in Language
  • Understanding People and Groups Affected By Marginalizing Language and Representation
  • Who Is Affected By Marginalizing Language and Representation
  • Concept of Whiteness as a Socially-Constructed Race
  • Explain How Whiteness is Centered in Society
  • White Privilege and its Implication and Impact on Marginalized Groups
  • Overview of RIR: Focusing on Interrupt and Repair
     

Earn your credit in 3 simple steps

Step 1
Register online.

Step 2
Complete the course.

Step 3
Receive credits and obtain an official transcript.


Resources

Syllabus

Refund Policy

This course is offered through University of Massachusetts Global’s School of Extended Education in partnership with Epoch Education

Epoch Education

Ways to Get Started

Related Information

Further your education with a few questions

  • About You
Student Type
Please enter your zip code to proceed.
Please enter a valid zip code to proceed.
Please select a degree type
Please select your area of interest
Please select a program type
Please enter your name
Please enter your last name
Please enter your email to proceed
Please enter a valid email address
Please enter your phone number to proceed.
Please enter a valid phone number.

About UMass Global

Earn your bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or certificate at UMass Global, a regionally accredited university.

We value your privacy

By submitting this form, I agree that UMass Global and/or Kaplan North America, LLC may contact me about educational services by voice, pre-recorded message and/or text message using automated technology, at the phone number provided, including wireless numbers. I understand that my consent is not required to attend University of Massachusetts Global. Privacy Policy