Conference on Education for Social Justice Brings Together Scholars, Engaged Citizens and Activists!

BERKELEY, Calif. - Jan. 29, 2014 - PRLog -- <via USNewsBureau.com> The Western Institute for Social Research (http://www.wisr.edu/) (WISR.edu) is celebrating its 5th All School Gathering on February 6, 7 and 8, 2014.  The Conference marks a milestone for the learner-centered school that has offered BA, MA and Doctorate degree programs combining action-inquiry with community involvement and social change since the mid-70s.  This is reflected in this year’s theme: Personal, Academic and Professional Participation for Social Justice: Are we at a Crossroads?

The two-day conference continues a tradition for pioneering action-oriented social research.  Many of WISR’s graduates, now working on vital social issues throughout the world, are presenting at the Conference.  "I'm thrilled that so many of our graduates and current students are continuing to use what they learn while attending WISR," said WISR President and Co-founder, John Bilorusky.  "And the range of people coming back to discuss their recent and planned efforts gives me enormous delight and confidence in the future of our education and contributions to the community."  The Annual Conference also provides a foundation for the development of WISR’s plans for 2014 and beyond.

The Western Institute of Social Research sponsors a variety of continuing education and other programs—meetings, workshops, teleseminars.  These events bring together students, community service professionals, activists and college educators from a wide variety of institutions, disciplines, and cultural perspectives.  Bilorusky added, “WISR nurtures the talent and creativity of a wide range of leaders in local communities and beyond.”

Attendees of recent WISR Annual Conferences have described these events as powerful and transformative.  Students at the school use the innovative ideas and practices presented at the conferences to inform the direction of their studies and support their individualized learning (http://www.wisr.edu/academics/sample-page/)andresearch efforts.

Many members of the public attend these conferences to gain a deeper understanding of current research and action-inquiry, social trends of interest, and to discuss innovative approaches within professions and social movements.  For example, on Saturday, February 8, new WISR board member, Dr. John Bear, author of the widely acclaimed Bears' Guide to Earning Degrees by Distance Learning, will discuss the history of non-traditional higher education.

The Conference starts on Thursday evening (February 6) with a moderated discussion of film clips designed to “generate dialog on social change.”  It continues for two full days on Friday and Saturday (February 7 & 8) beginning at 9:30 am (see full schedule attached).  The conference will be held at the Western Institute for Social Research’s new space and community learning center at 2930 Shattuck Ave., Suite 300, Berkeley (two blocks from the South Berkeley/Ashby BART).

For over 38 years, the Western Institute for Social Research (www.wisr.edu) has provided community-involved adults with high-quality learning opportunities that combine academic theory and research with experience-based knowledge and insights to help people develop satisfying personal careers while providing leadership toward educational innovation, community improvement and constructive social change.

Please email johnb@wisr.edu to register, get an electronic schedule of the Conference or for more information.

Although not required, advance registration is requested.   All interested are strongly encouraged to RSVP early so we can plan for the number of expected participants.

Attendance is free of charge but modest donations for food and refreshments are requested.

Phone: 510.655.2830  Email: mail@wisr.edu