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Introduction to Sociology
Syllabus, Spring Quarter, 2015
Emile Durkheim
E. b. DUBOIS
Karl marx
Max Weber
x
Harriet Martineau
Image sources: Emile Durkheim - bhavanajagat.com/2010/11/; E.B. Dubois - americaslibrary.gov/aa/dubois/aa_dubois_subj_e.html
Karl Marx - realsociology.edublogs.org/2010/07/27/karl-marx-key-ideas/; Max Weber - britannica.com/EBchecked/media/32320/Max-Weber
Harriet Martineau - historysheroes.e2bn.org/hero/world/4286
CLASS IDENTIFICATION
TITLE:
PREFIX/SECTION:
CREDIT HOURS:
CLASS BEGINS/ENDS:
MEETING DAYS/TIMES:
WITHDRAWAL DATE:
CLASS LOCATION:
Introduction to Sociology
222838/ SOCI 1010-4B
4.50
March 10, 2015 / May 21, 2015
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2:00pm to 3:50pm
May 07, 2015
FOC, Building 10, Room #237
CONTACT INFORMATION
INSTRUCTOR NAME:
ON-CAMPUS HOURS:
OFFICE TELEPHONE:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
COURSE WEBSITE:
Adam J Maley, MA
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
402-457-7275 EXT 8537
[email protected]
https://faculty.mccneb.edu/ajmaley
A. COURSE INFORMATION
1. Course Description
This course is an introduction to the scientific study of society and human social behavior. It
focuses on the concepts of research methods, research findings, sociological theories, society,
institutions, groups, social structure, culture, social interaction, socialization, social problems,
social inequality, and social change. This course is transferable.
2. Course Prerequisites
There are no official prerequisites for this course, but a general appreciation for public-speaking
and essay-writing will prove invaluable throughout the semester. Reading assessment and
college-level reading skills are recommended for success in this course; respect for MCC
General Education Rationale and Minimum Requirements will ensure success.
i. Minimum technical skills. To succeed in this course, students are expected to use
email with attachments, save files in commonly used word processing program formats,
identify and use a compatible web browser.
3. Required Materials
Brym, Robert J. and John Lie. 2013. Sociology: Pop Culture to Social Structure, 3nd Edition.
Mason, OH: Cengage Learning. ISBN # 9781285113586
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4. Class Structure
Students will attain nine objectives throughout this course through multiple learning methods.
Before each class meeting, students are expected to have completed reading assignments. Class
time is filled with lectures, power-point presentations, discussions, active learning assignments,
brief writing assignments, and a few pop quizzes. Evidence of learning is measured through
multiple choice assessments and essay-writing assignments.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
5. Course Objectives
i. Compare the major sociological perspectives, their sources and applications.
ii. Apply the scientific method to a sample problem and evaluate
the major research methods used in sociology.
iii. Analyze the major components of culture and social structure.
iv. Describe the major forms of inequality in society and compare
the theoretical explanations for each.
v. Demonstrate a working knowledge of major sociological terms and concepts.
vi. Cite theoretical explanations for and treatment options applicable to
selected deviant patterns of behavior.
vii. Identify and correlate the functions of the social institutions on the others.
viii. Appraise the impact of collective behavior, social movements, technology, and
multicultural contacts on social change.
ix. Analyze the inter-relation of social and physical environments.
B. TYPES OF ASSIGNMENTS/ASSESSMENTS
1. Reading Assignments
The majority of reading comes from the required textbook, Sociology: Pop Culture to Social
Structure (Brym and Lie, 2013). If there is material that assigned and not in the textbook, the
instructor will provide handouts in class and through the course website.
2. Lecture and Power-Point Presentations
Power-point presentations merely guide the day’s lecture and, as such, students are expected to
take adequate notes from both. Power-points are available through the course website.
3. Classroom Discussions
All students are encouraged to participate in classroom discussions. When communicating with
others in this course, students must follow the MCC Student Conduct Code, which calls for
responsible and cooperative behavior. Please think critically, ask questions, and challenge ideas,
but also show respect for the opinions of others, respond to them politely, and maintain the
confidentiality of thoughts expressed in the class. To view the MCC Student Conduct Code,
visit:http://mccneb.smartcatalogiq.com/en/current/Course-Catalog/Student-Services/Student-Conduct
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4. Writing Assignments (WA) and Multiple Choice Assignments (MC)
Student learning will be assessed through seven assignments: each WA is worth 75 points; each
MC is worth 50 points. These assignments will be typed or completed on a scantron sheet; handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Assignments will be discussed in class and due within
one class period. See section E.2 for a general overview.
i. WA Formatting. MCC uses Microsoft products as part of its standard software and
encourages students to do the same. Students can save word-processed documents in
Microsoft Word .doc or .docx format.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
ii. Grading rubric. Essays throughout this course consist of two to three, one-sided
pages using double-spaced lines. Grades primarily derive from students’ ability to discuss
the sociological concepts under question. Students are also expected to use clear,
coherent written expression, proper organization, and acceptable punctuation
Grade
Content
“A-B” paper
Respond to 2 tasks;
at least 1 paragraph
per question
“B-C” paper
Respond to 2 tasks;
all questions/tasks
answered
“C-D” paper
Respond to only 1
task; all questions
answered
Grammar
Fewer than 4
grammatical
and/or spelling
errors
Organization
Formatting
Clear introduction &
conclusion; one main theme
per paragraph; logical flow.
Page length of 2 to 3
pages; proper heading
information
4 to 6 grammatical
and/or spelling
errors.
Unclear introduction &
conclusion; one main theme
per paragraph; logical flow.
Page length of 2
pages; proper heading
information.
7 to 9 grammatical
and/or spelling
errors.
No intro or conclusion;
general logical flow but not
very well done, not consistent
on paragraph theme.
Page length of 1 to 2
pages; improper
heading information.
iii. Submission deadlines. Each Writing Assignment (WA) and Multiple Choice (MC)
assignment will be submitted at the start of class on the due date outlined in class. After
submitting assignments, graded assignments will be returned in class within one week.
iv. Late submissions. The deadline to submit is the at the start of class. If not submitted
by this deadline, late assignments will automatically be deducted one letter grade. If not
submitted by the start of class, on following day of class, late assignments will not be
accepted.
5. Team-Based Learning (TBL) Examinations – 100 Points Each
Three multiple-choice exams will be administered throughout the course. Questions stem from
all classroom activities: readings, lectures, on-line activities, and classroom discussions.
i. Ahh man, does this mean I have to work in a group?! The answer is "yes."
ii. TBL breakdown. Examinations are structured in a three-step method. The first step is
the individual assessment where each student completes a multiple choice exam on their
own (between 10 to 15 questions); the second step is the team assessment, where each
team (between 4 to 5 members) completes the exact same exam as the individual
assessment; the third step consists of a feedback-form where each team member assigns
points to all members of their respective teams based on preparation, contributions, etc.
Percent of Total Score
Individual Assessment
Team-Based Assessment
Feedback Form
TOTAL
25%
55%
20%
100%
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Team Based Learning Method
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
iii. Missed tests/make-up. Students who obtain prior permission or who were cleared on
the basis of an emergency will be allowed to take a make-up exam within one week of
the actual exam. Make-up exams will be administered outside of class, in the FOC
Testing Center, Building 10, Room #121. Make-up exams consist of 50 multiple choice
questions and, most importantly, will not be based on the TBL rubric above.
iv. No-shows. If a student simply does not show up on the date of the test (i.e. a noshow), they will not be allowed a make-up.
6. Bonus Pop Quizzes – 5 Points Each
At predetermined times throughout the semester, students are required to demonstrate their
knowledge through various methods of a "pop quiz". Quizzes range from in-class multiplechoice questions and short-answer responses to out-of-class fill-in-the-blank and writing
assignments.
i. Missed pop quiz. Under no circumstance will pop quizzes be given on a make-up
basis: if a student is not present, they will forfeit those points. However, these points are
considered bonus points and will not count against students’ final score.
Assessments/
Evidence of Learning
Number of
Assessments
Total Possible
Points
Percent of
Total Grade
Multiple Choice Assignments
Four
200
28%
Writing Assignments
Three
225
31%
TBL Examinations
Three
300
41%
Bonus Pop Quizzes
Five
25
0%
TOTAL
15
725
100%
TOTAL Points Earned Percentage of total points Final Grade
725 - 667
100% - 92%
A
666 - 587
91% - 81%
B
586 - 522
81% - 72%
C
521 - 471
71% - 65%
D
470 - 0
65% - 0%
F
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7. Grading Policy
Students are required to successfully complete tests and out-of-class assignments. Grades are
determined by the point total on the six assignments and three exams; pop quizzes constitute
bonus points and, as such, will not hurt students’ overall grade. Furthermore, in-class
participation throughout the semester will factor into final grades – a factor that can only affect
grades in a positive manner. Successful completion of the course objectives means that the
student has acquired cognitive knowledge of sociological theory as well as the ability to
synthesize and evaluate structures of social life.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
8. Assessment of Student Learning Program
Metropolitan Community College is committed to continuous improvement of teaching and learning. You
may be asked to help us to accomplish this objective. For example, you may be asked to respond to
surveys or questionnaires. In other cases, tests or assignments you are required to do for this course may
be shared with faculty and used for assessment purposes.
C. INSTRUCTOR’S EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
1. Attendance/Participation Policy
To confirm each student’s eligibility to remain registered for the class, the instructor will officially report
attendance/participation on or before the Census Date, March 19, 2015. Students are expected to attend all
lectures and exams. Absence is discouraged. If absent, it is the student’s responsibility to catch up with
the rest of the class.
i. Lateness and early departure. If a student is having trouble making it to class on-time or
if
they must leave class early, please inform the instructor to make necessary
accommodations. Except for unavoidable emergencies, unexcused early departures will not
be tolerated.
ii. Chatting, online surfing, and other distractions. Please refrain from chatting during lecture.
Direct questions and comments to the instructor or the entire class. Turn off any audible features
on personal electronic devices. If the instructor finds student behavior continuously disruptive to
the class, the student may be asked to leave the room.
2. Study-Buddy System
Early in the quarter-semester, each student will be assigned one study-buddy. The extent to which studybuddies are utilized depends on each student; the purpose of study-buddies is to have at least one
classroom resource to use in case of absences, missed notes, exam reviews, classroom discussions, etc.
Students are permitted to have multiple study-buddies but should maintain relations with their assigned
buddies throughout the semester.
3. Communication Expectations
If there are any issues, students are strongly encouraged to contact the instructor. All students are assigned
an @mail.mccneb.edu email address and are expected to use this address when communicating
electronically. The instructor's job is to support student learning: if any student leaves this course without
full confidence, I have not done my job properly.
i. Response time. Faculty will respond within 48 hours, Monday through Friday, to student
emails concerning course content, learning activities, and private matters appropriate for
discussion within the teacher-student relationship.
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6
4. Recording in the Classroom
Students may not video or audio record class sessions without the instructor’s knowledge and permission.
If recording of class sessions is authorized as a reasonable accommodation under Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), the instructor must have the appropriate documentation from College Disability
Support Services. Permitted recordings are to be used only for the individual's educational review and
may not be reproduced, posted, sold or distributed to others.
5. Student Withdrawal
If a student cannot participate in and complete this course, they are encouraged to officially withdraw
through MyWay or by calling Central Registration at 402-457-5231 or 1-800-228-9553. The last date to
withdraw is May 7, 2015.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
6. Academic Honesty Statement
Students are reminded that materials they use as sources for classwork may be subject to copyright
protection. Additional information about copyright is provided on the library website at
http://www.mccneb.edu/library or by your instructor. In response to incidents of student dishonesty
(cheating, plagiarism, illegal peer-to-peer file sharing, etc.), the College imposes specific actions that may
include receiving a failing grade on a test, failure in the course, suspension from the College, or dismissal
from the College. Disciplinary procedures are available in the Advising/Counseling Centers or at
http://www.mccneb.edu/procedures/V-4_Student_Conduct_and_Discipline.pdf.
i. Plagiarism. Representing another’s work, or any part thereof, be it published or
unpublished, as one’s own. It shall also include presenting or submitting any academic work in
a manner that impairs the instructor’s ability to assess the student’s academic
performance.
D. LEARNING AND TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT
1. Learning and Tutoring Centers
MCC's Learning and Tutoring Centers, Math Centers, and Writing Centers offer friendly, supportive
learning environments that can help students achieve educational success. For detailed information about
the Learning and Tutoring, Math, and Writing Centers, please visit: http://www.mccneb.edu/ltc/.
2. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Metropolitan Community College will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with documented
qualifying disabilities. It is the student’s responsibility to request accommodations from Disability
Support Services (DSS) located in each Student Services Office. After students have arranged for
accommodations with DSS, the student and instructor should privately discuss these accommodations.
For further information, please visit http://www.mccneb.edu/dss/.
3. Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Statement
Metropolitan Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,
religion, sex, marital status, age, disability or sexual orientation in admission or access to its programs
and activities or in its treatment or hiring of employees.
4. Technology Resources
For assistance with student email, passwords, and most other MCC technology, contact the Help Desk at
457-2900 or [email protected].
i. MCC Technology Agreement. By using the information technology systems at MCC (including the
computer systems and phones), students acknowledge and consent to the conditions of use as set forth in
the Metropolitan Community College Procedures Memorandum on Acceptable Use of Information
Technology and Resources. It is each student’s responsibility to be familiar with these procedures. For the
full text, visit: http://www.mccneb.edu/procedures/X-15_Technology_Resources_Use.pdf.
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E. THE QUARTER-SEMESTER
1. Campus-Wide Calendar
Classes begin .................................................................................................................. 06 MAR
Census Date/Tenth Day* date ...................................................................................... 19 MAR
Student Withdrawal Deadline to “drop” a class without receiving a grade ..................... 07 MAY
Spring Break/College Closed ........................................................................................ 4-5 APR
Winter quarter “I” incomplete grades are due ................................................................. 07 MAY
Classes end ..................................................................................................................... 21 MAY
Spring grades due and posted by 7:00 a.m. ..................................................................... 26 MAY
i. Refund policy for credit courses. A student is responsible for withdrawing “dropping” from a course(s) if unable to
attend. Non-attendance or non-payment does not relieve a student from the obligation to pay.
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B
2. Class Calendar
This syllabus sets forth a tentative schedule of class topics, learning activities, and expected
learning outcomes across four units and ten chapters of the assigned text. However, the
instructor reserves the right to modify this schedule to enhance learning for students. Any
modifications will not substantially change the intent or objectives of this course and will
conform to the policies and guidelines of Metropolitan Community College.
Class
#
Day
1
Date
Chapter. Lecture Topic
Learning Activity/Assignments
Tue
10 MAR
1. Introduction
Ice-Breaker & MC1 Assigned
2
Thur
12 MAR
1. Sociology Basics
Sample TBL
3
Tue
17 MAR
1. Social Theorists
MC1 Due
4
Thur
19 MAR
1. Social Theorists
Discuss MC1; WA1 Assigned
5
Tue
24 MAR
1. GRAND Theories
6
Thur
26 MAR
1. GRAND Theories
WA1 Due
7
Tue
31 MAR
Review
Discuss WA1
8
Thur
02 APR
9
Tue
07 APR
2. Culture
10
Thur
09 APR
3. Socialization
MC2 Due; WA2 Assigned
11
Tue
14 APR
4. Groups & Orgs
Discuss MC2
12
Thur
16 APR
4. Groups & Orgs
WA2 Due
13
Tue
21 APR
Review
Discuss WA2
14
Thur
23 APR
15
Tue
28 APR
6. Stratification
16
Thur
30 APR
6. Stratification
MC3 Due; MC4 Assigned
17
Tue
05 MAY
8. Race & Ethnicity
Discuss MC3
18
Thur
07 MAY
8. Race & Ethnicity
MC4 Due; WA3 Assigned
19
Tue
12 MAY
9. Sex and Gender
Discuss MC4
20
Thur
14 MAY
9. Sex and Gender
WA3 Due
21
Tue
19 MAY
Review
Discuss WA3
22
Thur
21 MAY
TBL1 & MC2 Assigned
TBL2 & MC3 Assigned
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TBL3
Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
SOCI 1010-4B