Social Sciences Southwest College Soci 1301-Introduction to Sociology CRN (15038) Semester Spring 2017 3 hr lecture course/ 48 contact hrs / 16 weeks Class Time: (Friday/6-9pm) Location: (West Loop Center) Instructor: Belinda Simples, M.A. Instructor Contact Information: belinda.simples@hccs.edu Sociology office phone number- 713-718-7529 Office location and hours (Please email me Mon-Thurs. 8-12pm and include your name and Soci 1301 in the subject line. I will make every attempt to respond to you prior to our schedule class meeting.) Please feel free to contact me concerning any problems that you are experiencing in this course. You do not need to wait until you have received a poor grade before asking for my assistance. Your performance in this class is very important to me. I am available to hear your concerns or to discuss course topics. Course Description Soci 1301 is a survey course which focuses on the nature of human groups in American and world societies, their social and cultural adaptations, and the impact which various social processes may have on their social organization and social change. Course Prerequisites: Must be placed into college-level reading (or take INRW 0420 as a corequisite) and be placed into college-level writing (or take ESOL 0360 as a co-requisite). If you are enrolled in this course without satisfying the required prerequisites, you are at risk of failing or experiencing difficulties during the course of the class. Core Curriculum Statement: Sociology 1301 is a core curriculum course. It may be used to satisfy the requirements for a core Social and Behavioral Science or Cross/Multicultural Studies course. This course transfers as a three (3) credit hour to most colleges and universities. Course Goals: (1) Apply sociological imagination, concepts, theories, and perspectives to social issues. (2) Detach self as far as possible from preconceived ideas in an objective manner. Student Learning Outcomes: The student will be able to: Understand the theoretical, historical, and applied nature of the discipline.
Understand the fundamental quantitative and qualitative techniques in the study of human group behavior. Apply sociological and theoretical perspectives to the study of human group behavior. Appreciate our socially and culturally diverse society and world. Learning Objectives Students will: 1.1 Acquire a broad familiarity with the names of sociologists and theorists. 1.2 Learn key concepts and terms relevant to theories and theorists 2.1 Cultivate reading comprehension of theories relevant to society and cultivation of groups. 2.2 Distinguish between personal troubles and social (public) issues. 3.1 Articulate the relevance of sociology and everyday life. 3.2 Consider how sociology may or may not apply to differing ways of thinking and cultural influences. 4.1 Inventory, Summarize, and Assess correlative questions, concepts, and theories found in the history of sociology, both personal and professional. 5.1 Create and cultivate alternative sociological perspectives on presented course content. 5.2 Develop coherent arguments for chosen positions, bringing to bear the rules of sociology, written expression and disciplined thinking. 5.3 Critique chosen positions and adequately Defend against possible objections, both theoretical and applied. Core Curriculum: Credit: 3 (3 lecture) A survey course which focuses on the nature of human groups in American and world societies, their social and cultural adaptations, and the impact which various social processes may have on their social organization and social change. (Course Curriculum Course). Reading: Ability to analyze and interpret the textbook and other assigned reading materials. Writing: Proficiently produce and complete all written assignments, book, and movie reviews. Listening: Listening objectively to the instructor and classmates. Speaking: Ability to confidently participate and contribute in daily classroom participation and required oral group presentation. Critical thinking: Engaging and inciting the instructor and classmates in relevant sociological discussions. Computer literacy: Utilize technology in communicating and research 2
Discrimination Students should be aware that discrimination and/or other harassment based on race, sex, gender identity and gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, color or veteran status is prohibited by HCC Policy G.1 Discrimination and Harassment and D.1.1 Equal Educational Opportunities. Any student who feels they have been discriminated against or harassed on the basis of race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, color or veteran status including sexual harassment, has the opportunity to seek informal or formal resolution of the matter. All complaints/concerns should be directed to the Office of Institutional Equity, 713 718-8271 or oie@hccs.edu. Additional information may be obtained online. Visit http://www.hccs.edu/district/departments/institutionalequity/ Complaints involving sexual misconduct to include but not limited to: sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, sexual harassment or domestic violence should be directed to the HCC Title IX Coordinator, Renée Mack at 713 718-8272 or renee.mack@hccs.edu 16 WEEK CALENDAR Friday, January 20, 2017 Course Introduction and Overview Chapter 1: An Introduction to Sociology Friday, January 27, 2017 Chapter 1: The Sociological Perspective/Class Discussion Friday, February 3, 2017 Chapter 2: Culture/Class Discussion Friday, February 10, 2017 Test 1- Chapter (s) 1 and 2 (No make-ups) Friday, February 17, 2017 Chapter 3: Socialization/Class Discussion Friday, February 24, 2017 Chapter 4: Social Structures/Class Discussion Friday, March 3, 2017 Chapter 5: The Social Construction of Reality/Class Discussion Friday, March 10, 2017 Test 2: Chapter (s) 3, 4, and 5( No make-ups) Friday, March 17, 2017- Spring Break Holiday 3
Friday, March 24, 2017 Chapter 6: Deviance/ Class Deviance Friday, March 31, 2017 Chapter 7: Social Inequalities/ Class Discussion Chapter 8: Race and Ethnicity/ Class Discussion Friday, April 7, 2017 Chapter 9: Gender and Sexualities/ Class Discussion Friday, April 14, 2017- Good Friday Friday, April 21, 2017 Test 3: Chapter (s) 6, 7, 8, and 9 ( No make-ups) Friday, April 28, 2017 Chapter 10: Economics and Politics/ Class Discussion Chapter 11: Families/ Class Discussion Chapter 12: Education and Religion/ Class Discussion Friday, May 5, 2017 Review for comprehensive final exam Friday, May 12, 2017 Comprehensive final exam ( No Make-ups) Soci 1301 4
NOTE: Please be advised the professor has the professional and academic discretion to revise and amend the class syllabus at any given time during the current semester. The professor will notify the class via electronic communication (HCC student email only) and/or in class meetings. Instructional Methods A variety of instructional methods are used throughout the semester. Examples may include class discussions, lectures, readings, group projects, research, assessments, video/dvd, internet searches, and presentations. As an instructor, I want my students to be successful. I feel that it is my responsibility to provide you with knowledge and opportunities for critical thinking and applications as appropriate. As a student wanting to succeed at your academic and career endeavors, it is your responsibility to do the assigned readings, submit assignments on time, participate in discussions and other activities, attend class (face-to-face), and enjoy this sociological experience. Student Assignments Assignments have been developed that will enhance your learning. You will be required to successfully complete the below assignments as well as others determined by your professor. 5
Final Exams: Each student is required to take a departmental final exam. The exam will be a comprehensive exam covering all materials, lectures, and discussions over the 12 week class meetings there will be no final exam study guide provided by the instructor; therefore it is the sole responsibility of each student to attend, participate, and prepare for every class meeting. You will have 2 hours to take the final exam. Exam dates are posted in the course calendar. Regular Quizzes/Tests: To ensure that each student is mastering the materials assigned for reading and discussion in class, quizzes/tests will be administered following select chapters. Projects and Exercises: During the course of the semester, each student will be asked to complete a variety of projects that support lecture and reading materials. Projects/Exercises may include: library orientation, online assignments, critical thinking exercises, collaborative work/presentations, movie review, journaling, oral presentations, and other projects assigned by your professor. Classroom Participation: Students are expected to participate in class discussions and/or exercises when called upon in class. Students are expected to arrive on time, be fully prepared for class, actively participate, and to remain in class for the entire period every class meeting. Each student is responsible for any material that you missed as a result of leaving early, arriving late, or being absent. Zero tolerance on late/missed assignments, tests, exams. No extra credit will allowed as a substitution or bonus for tests, exams, or assignments. The professor will not email any assignments or tests to students without approval or discussion. Student Assessments Knowledge checks may occur in the format of quizzes, projects, assignments, papers, or exams. Instructor Requirements As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to: Inform students of HCC and classroom policies Facilitate an effective learning environment through class activities, discussions, and lectures Description of any special projects or assignments Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness and make up Provide the course outline and class calendar which will include a description of any special projects or assignments Provide a detailed grading formula explaining how student grades will be derived Maintain an open line of communication To be successful in this class, it is the student s responsibility to: Attend class and participate in class discussions and activities Read and comprehend the textbook Complete the required assignments and exams: Ask for help when there is a question or problem Keep copies of all paperwork, including this syllabus, handouts and all assignments Engage in your own learning; take responsibility for your own learning Comply with all policies and expectations It is your responsibility to actively engage in the process of learning and thinking. The next 12 weeks, we will engage and navigate our sociological imagination. We will see society from an aerial view. You will see how society shapes our being and what we contribute and perceive it. I am excited to have the opportunity to take a sociological journey with each of you. 6
Program/Discipline Requirements Per the HCC Sociology program requirements, we must cover the following topics: Research Methods, Culture, Socialization, Society, Social Interaction, Deviance, Groups, and Class Stratification. Additionally, we must cover two additional form of stratification (e.g. Race, Gender, and Aging) and three social institutions (e.g. Government, Religion, Economy, Education, Family, and Health). Lastly, we must cover at least topic related to social change (e.g. Urbanization, Social Change, and Social Movement). The HCC Sociology program requirements also dictate that at least 40% of your grade must come from writing. This can be done in a variety of formats including in-class writing assignments, written homework, assigned essays, or essay exams. HCC Grading Scale A = 100 90: 4 points per semester hour B = 89 80:.3 points per semester hour C = 79 70:.2 points per semester hour D = 69 60:.1 point per semester hour 59 and below = F..0 points per semester hour FX is given if a student stopped attending class and fails to withdraw prior to the last official day for withdrawals for the semester. Instructor will note last day student attended the class for record. The grade of FX cannot be changed once assigned. Grading Criteria Your instructor will conduct quizzes, exams, and assessments that you can use to determine how successful you are at achieving the course learning outcomes (mastery of course content and skills) outlined in the syllabus. If you find you are not mastering the material and skills, you are encouraged to reflect on how you study and prepare for each class. Your instructor welcomes a dialogue on what you discover and may be able to assist you in finding resources on campus that will improve your performance. Grading Percentages 10% Class Attendance 10% Class Participation 10% Class assignments and exercises 45% Tests 25% Final Exam TOTAL: 100% Instructional Materials Textbook: Ferrante, Joan. (2016, 2015, 2013). Seeing Sociology, An Introduction 3 rd edition (Available at HCC campus Bookstores) HCC Policy Statements: Access Student Services Policies on their Web site: 6
http://digital.turn-page.com/title/7027 American Disability Act (ADA)- Any student with a documented disability (e.g. physical, learning, psychiatric, vision, hearing, etc.) who needs to arrange reasonable accommodations must contact the Disability Services Office at the respective college at the beginning of each semester. Faculty are authorized to provide only the accommodations requested by the Disability Support Services Office. For more information, go to the HCC ADA website. ACADEMIC HONESTY: Students are responsible for conducting themselves with honor and integrity in fulfilling course requirements. Penalties and/or disciplinary proceedings may be initiated by College System officials against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion. Cheating on a test includes: Copying from another student s test paper; Using materials during a test that are not authorized by the person giving the test; Collaborating with another student during a test without authority; Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or part the contents of an un-administered test; Bribing another person to obtain a test that is to be administered. Plagiarism means the appropriation of anther s work and the unacknowledged incorporation of that work in one s own written work offered for credit. Collusion means the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work offered for credit. Because an important part of being a college student is academic honesty, it is the expectation in this course that you will complete all academic work without cheating, plagiarism, lying and/or bribery, and collusion. Penalties for academic dishonesty (as outlined in the student handbook) could include receiving a failing grade for this course and/or being suspended from school. ATTENDANCE: You are expected to attend all lecture classes regularly and are responsible for materials covered during your absence. Instructors may be willing to consult with you about the assignment; however, it is your responsibility to contact the instructor. If you must be absent from class, I recommend making professional associations with your peers to recover any missed notes or assignments. If possible, schedule all personal appointments before or after class. If an emergency arise, please provide valid documents (e.g. hospitalization admittance/release papers, arrest/bond documents, printed obituaries with student s name and relationship to the deceased) Attendance is required and checked daily. Students who have no record of attendance before the Census Date (the Official Date of Record) will be automatically dropped from the course by the Registrar s department. Students who are dropped for nonattendance will not be reinstated. The instructor has the authority to drop you from the class for excessive absences. You may be dropped from a course after accumulating absences in excess of 12.5 percent of the total hours of instruction (lecture and lab). For example: For a three credit-hour lecture class meeting three hours per week (48 hours of instruction), you can be dropped after six hours of absence. Departments and programs governed by accreditation or certification standards may have different attendance policies. Administrative drops are at the discretion of the instructor. Failure to withdraw officially by the deadline may result in a grade of F or FX in the course. 7
WITHDRAWALS: Students may withdraw from courses prior to the deadline established by the institution. Before withdrawing from a course, students should meet with the instructor to discuss the decision. Be sure you adhere to the rules and deadlines in order to receive a W otherwise a grade of F will be given in the course by the instructor. CLASSROOM CONDUCT: You are in college. You will be treated and respected as an adult. Because of the nature of discussion involved in this class, it is imperative that we respect each other s opinions and values. Discipline problems are not tolerated. Any student failing to abide by appropriate standards of conduct during scheduled College activities may be asked to leave that day s class or activity by the instructor or another College official. (The student has the right to return to the next class/activity.) If a student refuses a request to voluntarily leave the classroom, security may be summoned to remove the student so that the scheduled activity may resume without further disruption. In cases of serious problems, the faculty member will document and report the incident to his/her supervisor. Further disciplinary action may be pursued according to System guidelines, presented in the HCCS Student Handbook. Get handouts and returned work before class begins or after the class ends. DO NOT walk up to the instructor s desk during the class. Turn off cell phones and other electronic devices prior to entering class (unless approved by instructor). No calls, text messages, photographs, or any other electronic communication should be sent or received during class. If your phone rings, you make calls in class or you send text messages, 1 st occurrence - you will get a verbal warning. 2 ND occurrence - you will be dismissed from the class for the rest of the day. 3 rd occurrence - you will be dropped from the class. Obtain the instructor s approval before using a laptop or other electronic device during class. Please be advised that students are prohibited from recording any lectures or presentations from this class for the purpose of entertainment, financial compensation, or personal gain. Failure to comply can and will result in an F grade, notification to the Dean of Students, and punitive actions. If you sleep in class, 1 ST occurrence - you will receive a verbal warning. 2 ND occurrence - you will be dismissed from the class for the rest of the day. 3 rd occurrence - you will be dropped from the class. Access DE Policies on their Web site: All students are responsible for reading and understanding the DE Student Handbook, which contains policies, information about conduct, and other important information. For the DE Student Handbook click on the link below or go to the DE page on the HCC website. The Distance Education Student Handbook contains policies and procedures unique to the DE student. Students should have reviewed the handbook as part of the mandatory orientation. It is the student's responsibility to be familiar with the handbook's contents. The handbook contains valuable information, answers, and resources, such as DE contacts, policies and procedures (how to drop, attendance requirements, etc.), student services (ADA, financial aid, degree planning, etc.), course information, testing procedures, technical support, and academic calendars. Refer to the DE Student Handbook by visiting this link: http://de.hccs.edu/de/de-student-handbook Access CE Policies on their Web site http://hccs.edu/ce-student-guidelines 8
EGLS3 (Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System): At Houston Community College, professors believe that thoughtful student feedback is necessary to improve teaching and learning. During a designated time near the end of the term, you will be asked to answer a short online survey of research-based questions related to instruction. The anonymous results of the survey will be made available to your professors and department chairs for continual improvement of instruction. Go to www.hccs.edu/egls3 for more information. Southwest College Writing Centers: The Southwest College Writing Centers provide a student-centered environment where professional tutors support student success for all HCC students. The primary goal of the Writing Centers is to offer convenient, personalized assistance to help students improve their writing at any stage of the writing process required in any courses at HCC. Tutors will also assist students with their job application letters, resumes, and scholarship/transfer essays. In one-on-one consultations lasting about thirty minutes, tutors collaborate with students in understanding a writing assignment, developing ideas, shaping content, writing a thesis, drafting, revising, selfediting, and learning to proofread. Tutors will also assist students with learning about research and using sources. Furthermore, the Writing Centers offer access to computers and interactive websites for improving grammar skills. At the Southwest College Writing Centers, each tutoring session becomes a learning experience. Useful Web Resources: Information: www.hccs.edu ; http://learning.hccs.edu Eagle Online 2: https://eo2.hccs.edu 9