Introductory Sociology

Course Details

Course Number: 1133  Section Number: 105

Fall 2010

Location: Prothro-Yeager Hall

Classroom Number: PY100

Days & Times:

TR 11:00-12:00

Course Attachments

Introductory Sociology  syl_fall2010.doc

Textbooks
MSU Faculty Member
Dr. Beverly L. Stiles   
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Course Objectives

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

  1. Introduce you to sociological concepts and theories
  2. Help you to use these concepts and theories to better understand your own social experiences and events in the larger social world
  3. Provide you with an understanding of how sociologists conduct research
  4. This course will allow you to begin to “think” like a sociologist:

 The student should acquire an understanding of the “sociological perspective.”  This is an important term because it points to the fact that the discipline of sociology is more than just the facts that have been accumulated.  Rather, it is a way of thinking about and viewing human behavior.  The “common sense” knowledge of human behavior that we all acquire through living in society often contains a great deal of accurate information—it must if we are to survive in society.  However, it also contains much that is erroneous—under rigorous investigation it simply turns out to be false.  The sociological perspective goes beyond the level of common sense knowledge by using scientifically sound procedures to understand human social behavior and human group life.  This perspective involves an understanding of both how a sociologist does his or her work—the scientific method as it is utilized in sociology—as well as the knowledge that sociologists have acquired concerning the organization of groups and society.


Submission Format PolicyNote: You may not submit a paper for a grade in this class that already has been (or will be) submitted for a grade in another course, unless you obtain the explicit written permission of me and the other instructor involved in advance.

Plagiarism Policy Plagiarism is the use of someone else's thoughts, words, ideas, or lines of argument in your own work without appropriate documentation (a parenthetical citation at the end and a listing in "Works Cited")-whether you use that material in a quote, paraphrase, or summary. It is a theft of intellectual property and will not be tolerated, whether intentional or not.

Student Honor Creed

As an MSU Student, I pledge not to lie, cheat, steal, or help anyone else do so."

As students at MSU, we recognize that any great society must be composed of empowered, responsible citizens. We also recognize universities play an important role in helping mold these responsible citizens. We believe students themselves play an important part in developing responsible citizenship by maintaining a community where integrity and honorable character are the norm, not the exception. Thus, We, the Students of Midwestern State University, resolve to uphold the honor of the University by affirming our commitment to complete academic honesty. We resolve not only to be honest but also to hold our peers accountable for complete honesty in all university matters. We consider it dishonest to ask for, give, or receive help in examinations or quizzes, to use any unauthorized material in examinations, or to present, as one's own, work or ideas which are not entirely one's own. We recognize that any instructor has the right to expect that all student work is honest, original work. We accept and acknowledge that responsibility for lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty fundamentally rests within each individual student. We expect of ourselves academic integrity, personal professionalism, and ethical character. We appreciate steps taken by University officials to protect the honor of the University against any who would disgrace the MSU student body by violating the spirit of this creed. Written and adopted by the 2002-2003 MSU Student Senate.

Students with Disabilities The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Disability Support Services in Room 168 of the Clark Student Center, 397-4140.

Safe Zones Statement The professor considers this classroom to be a place where you will be treated with respect as a human being - regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, political beliefs, age, or ability. Additionally, diversity of thought is appreciated and encouraged, provided you can agree to disagree. It is the professor's expectation that ALL students consider the classroom a safe environment.

Contacting your Instructor All instructors in the Department have voicemail in their offices and MWSU e-mail addresses. Make sure you add your instructor's phone number and e-mail address to both email and cell phone lists of contacts.

Writing Proficiency Requirement All students seeking a Bachelor's degree from Midwestern State University must satisfy a writing proficiency requirement once they've 1) passed English 1113 and English 1123 and 2) earned 60 hours. You may meet this requirement by passing either the Writing Proficiency Exam or English 2113. Please keep in mind that, once you've earned over 90 hours, you lose the opportunity to take the $25 exam and have no option but to enroll in the three-credit hour course. If you have any questions about the exam, visit the Writing Proficiency Office website at http://academics.mwsu.edu/wpr, or call 397-4131.