Fall 2024 Course Syllabus
Course: SOCI-1301 (Section: 72B, CRN: 93294)
Introduction to Sociology 		LSCPA Logo Image
Instructor Information
Instructor Kristi Clark
Email clarkkb@lamarpa.edu
Phone (409) 984-6102
Office Madison Monroe Educational - Room: 119A
Office Hours Office Hours by Appointment Only. Please contact me by clarkkb@lamarpa.edu or call or text me at 409-698-0826.
Additional Contact Information 409-698-0826 (call or text) or by email clarkkb@lamarpa.edu
Course Information
Description The scientific study of human society, including ways in which groups, social institutions, and individuals affect each other. Causes of social stability and social change are explored through the application of various theoretical perspectives, key concepts, and related research methods of sociology. Analysis of social issues in their institutional context may include topics such as social stratification, gender, race/ethnicity, and deviance.
Required Textbooks Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

Sociology Text Required -Free Online

Introduction to Sociology 3e, Open Stax,

Rice University. Published date June 3, 2021.

Download at:  https://openstax.org/details/books/introduction-sociology-3e.                                                    

Hardcover: ISBN-13: 978-1-711493-98-5;  Paperback: ISBN-13: 978-1-711493-97-8

Published June 3, 2021
Additional Materials/Resources

Required Equipment:

Students must have a reliable computer and reliable internet connection. Mobile devices (cell phones and tablets devices) do not adequately support or run course content.

Computer Skills and Digital Information: All students are required to use a computer for this course. The required Browser is Google Chrome for Blackboard navigation.  Do not attempt to use Explorer or Safari for as they will not allow access to all Blackboard course content.  It is your responsibility to make sure that your computer is set up properly to navigate through all aspects of the class. 

All students should be able to use a word processor and its options such as spelling and grammar check and computer tutorials.

Blackboard Collaborate 

Blackboard Collaborate is a webinar platform for use in online virtual teaching. In order to use Bb Collaborate you will need: a built-in or external microphone, a built-in or external webcam, and a secure internet connection
Corequisites/Prerequisites None
Learning Outcomes


Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

  1. Compare and contrast the basic theoretical perspectives of sociology.
  2. Identify the various methodological approaches to the collection and analysis of data in sociology.
  3. Describe the key concepts in sociology.
  4. Describe the empirical findings of various subfields of sociology.
  5. Explain the complex links between individual experiences and broader institutional forces

Core Objectives

PSLO 1) Critical Thinking – Students will demonstrate the ability to think creatively, to innovate, inquire, and analyze, evaluate and synthesize information in the Current Event Assignment were they will identify the three sociological theories and discuss societal implications and consequences as related to current event articles/videos. Outcome will be assessed using the AC Critical Thinking Value Rubric.

(PSLO 2) Communication – Students will demonstrate the ability to effectively develop, interpret and express ideas is the Social Action Assignment where they will write a reflection paper about a social action event/activity/volunteer experience with an organization. Student's will Outcome will be assessed using the AC Written Communication Value Rubric.

(PSLO 3) Empirical and Quantitative Skills – Students will demonstrate their ability to interpret, analyze, and explain data reports and statistical measures from graphs/tables/words as related to sociological Current Event Assignment. Outcomes will be assessed using the Quantitative Literacy Value Rubric.

(PSLO 4) Teamwork – N/A Sociology (PSLO 5) Social Responsibility – Students will gain knowledge of intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility and engage in the global community by participating/volunteering or planning to engage in an event, activity or organization in the regional, national, or global community. In this Social Action Project, students will interpret and express how their volunteer activity or planned activity increased their awareness of their social responsibility to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities. Students are required to write about the mission, history, and population served by the organization/event/activity. Outcomes will be assessed using the Social Responsibility-Civic Engagement Value Rubric

Lecture Topics Outline Week One             Introduction and Overview
Week Two             Introduction to Sociology
Week Three          Sociological Research
Week Four            Culture
Week Five             Society and Social Interaction
Week Six               Socialization
Week Seven         Groups and Organizations
Week Eight           Deviance, Crime, and Social Control
Week Nine            Media Technology
Week Ten              Social Stratification in the United States
Week Eleven        Race and Ethnicity and Gender, Sex, and Sexuality
Week Twelve        Age and Elderly and Relationships, Marriage, and Family
Week Thirteen      Religion, Education, Government, and Politics
Week Fourteen    Work, Economy, Health, and Medicine
Week Fifteen        Environment, Social Movements and Social Change
Week Sixteen       Final Review and Exam
 
 
Major Assignments Schedule
ASSIGNMENT/EXAM   DUE DATE   
       
MODULE ONE       
First Week's Assignments                 Sept 3 and 5  
Chapter 1 CT Assign   10-Sep  
Chapter 2 CT Assign   12-Sep  
Chapter 3 Journal   7-Sep  
Matching Activty 1   19-Sep  
Module 1 Discussion 19-Sep  
Major Exam One    23-Sep  
       
MODULE TWO       
Chapter 4 CT Assign   24-Sep  
Chapter 4 Journal   26-Sep  
Chapter 6 Journal   1-Oct  
Chapter 7 CT Assign   3-Oct  
Chapter 8 Ct Assign   8-Oct  
Module 2 Discussion  10-Oct  
Matching Activity 2   10-Oct  
Major Exam Two   14-Oct  
       
       
MODULE THREE       
Chapter 9 CT Assign   15-Oct  
Chapter 11 CT Assign 17-Oct  
SOCIOLOGICAL STORY 21-Oct  
Chapter 12 CT Assign 22-Oct  
Chapter 13 Journal    22-Oct  
Module 3 Discussion  24-Oct  
Matching Activity 3   24-Oct  
Major Exam Three    28-Oct  
       
MODULE FOUR      
Chapter 14 Journal    29-Oct  
SOCIAL ACTION ASSIGNMENT  4-Nov  
Chapter 15 Journal   5-Nov  
Chapter 16 Journal   12-Nov  
Chapter 17 CT Assign 19-Nov  
Chapter 18 CT Assign 21-Nov  
Chapter 19 CT Assign 26-Nov  
Critical Thinking Overview  3-Dec  
Module 3 Discussion 5-Dec  
Matching Activity 4   5-Dec  
Major Exam Four/Final Exam  9-Dec  
Extra Credit Journals 9-Dec  

Final Exam Date December 12, 2024 - 8:0 AM   Through  December 12, 2024 - 11:59 PM
Grading Scale
 GRADING CRITERIA

A =

900 - 1000  

90 -100 %

B =

800 -  899

80 - 89  %

C =

700 - 799

70 - 79  %

D =

600 - 699

60 - 69  %

F =

500 - 599

50 - 59  %

 

Grade Breakdown
CT Overview (12) 12 x 10 =120 points
Journals (8)   8 x 10 = 80 points
Matching Activities (4)   4 x 20 = 80 points
Discussions (5)   5 x 10 = 50 points
Exams (5)   4 x 100 = 400    1 x 70 = 70
TOTAL 1000 POINTS
   
   
 
 
Determination of
Final Grade


PLAGIARISM/CHEATING

Plagiarism (Intentional or Unintentional), collusion, or cheating (in any form) will result in an “F” in the course.  Each student’s work must be original and his or hers own work.   Cheating will be defined as using unauthorized materials during an exam (notes, books, cell phones, etc.), using, or being in possession of a pirated exam, copying from or “conferencing” with another student during a test, and plagiarizing journals, papers, or other written assignments. 

Any work which requires research requires appropriate documentation.   Sources must be documented completely and accurately.  Failure to accurately and completely cite your research sources will be considered as plagiarism; therefore, resulting in an “F” in the course. 

If a student is directly observed to be cheating or if there is ample evidence of cheating then the student guilty of cheating will result in an “F” for the course.

When a grade of “F” is issued for the above reasons, then the numeric grade will be

recorded as a “0” (Zero) for the semester.

ONLINE CLASS WORK:

Online classes require a greater degree of independence and responsibility than traditional classes.  You must learn to pace yourself, and find time in your schedule to work on the class.  Online classes typically take as much time as traditional classes overall but allow more flexibility with the time.  You still have to put in the time.  If you allow yourself to neglect your studies you will fall quickly behind and end up performing below your expectations.  You should also have a reliable computer or access to a computer.  Computer problems or lack of internet are not a valid reason for not completing work by the due date. If you are dual credit high school student, you must plan around your extra curriculum  and work schedule.  

CORRESPONDENCE WITHIN THE CLASS:

Communication regarding the online class (emails, turning in assignment, etc.) should be done using the Mail/Messages Link within Blackboard .  I will typically respond to e-mails within 24 hours within Blackboard.  I expect the same response time from students.   Do not expect  response on weekends. I am typically unavailable from Friday beginning at 8pm until Monday morning at 6am.  There may be times I check my emails and text on the weekend.  However, you should not wait until the last minute before something is due before trying to contact me.  The due dates for assignments will not be changed and extensions will not be given.  All assignment must be submitted in Blackboard through the ASSIGNMENT SUBMISSION BOX or attached files.   The attachment must be in Microsoft Word or RTF.  Do not send attachments using MS Works.  If I can’t open it, then I can’t grade your assignment.

ACADEMIC FREEDOM

The college experience frequently questions, researches, evaluates and assesses controversial issues.  The classroom may serve as a forum for the presentation of a variety of ideas, none of which are intended injuriously. 

Course Policies
Instructor Policies **Once an assignment or exam due date has passed, you will no longer see that assignment or exam on the CALENDAR.  Once an assignment or exam has passed, no extension will be given be and no late work will be accepted after the two weeks of the course has passed. 
Attendance Policy You are expected to log into Blackboard weekly.

Research has shown a cause and effect relationship between attendance and college success. Students with more than three absences from the course will receive an academic penalty (which is spelled out by the instructor).
Additional Information

This is a fully online course which will take place over Fall 2024 full 16-week semester. 

Introductory Sociology is the scientific study of human society, including ways in which groups, social institutions, and individuals affect each other.  Causes of social stability and social change are explored through the application of various theoretical perspectives, key concepts, and related research methods of sociology. Analysis of social issues in their institutional context may include topics such as social interaction, gender, race/ethnicity, and deviance. Three lecture-interaction hours will be conducted each week.

Blackboard Menu Links You Will Navigate Throughout the Semester Include: 

Your Instructor - This link is located on the left-hand side of the Blackboard Course. With this link, you are able to email your instructor. Office hours include Virtual hours per student request.

Roster - This link is also located on the left-hand side of the Blackboard Course. You can use this link to also to email your instructor or other students in the class.

Announcements - Course updates and reminders of upcoming due dates for assignments and exams will be announced here. Check the course announcements regularly. Also, all announcements will be sent through your MYLAMAR student email.

Messages: This link is located at the top of the page of the Blackboard course. It works similar to email. Click on recipients and find my name (instructor) Kristi Clark and then send me a message. Be sure and state what course and section of the course you are in. For example, Soci 1301 72B. The message will come to my email, and I will respond to your message within 24 hours unless it is on the weekend. 

Syllabus - The sociology syllabus link can be found under the WELCOME START HERE LINK. 

Course Content

  1. FIRST WEEK MANDATORY ASSIGNMENTS: 1) Syllabus/Orientation Test. 2) Two Discussion Posts. These mandatory assignments must be completed and submitted the first week of the semester. See Calendar for Due Date.
  2. MODULE I, II, III, and IV.  Content in Modules include:  1) Instructional Materials such as textbook chapter readings, chapter PowerPoints, and content videos. 2) Assignments such as Critical Thinking Writing Assignments, Journal Writing Assignments, Module discussions, Exam Review, a Matching Activity, and the Exam for that Module.
  3. SOCIOLOGICAL STORY: This assignment is valued at a possible 100 points.
  4. SOCIAL ACTION ASSIGNMENT: This assignment is valued at a possible 100 points
  5. EXTRA CREDIT JOURNALS

Calendar – This link is located at the top of the Blackboard Course page. This link should be the MOST USED link in the course. ALL due dates for assignments and exam can be found on the Calendar. HINT: Be sure your set your view of the Calendar in the MONTH view and not the WEEKLY view. You can click on the assignment or exam on the Calendar, and it will take you to that assignment or exam. HINT: All assignments and exams are available at the beginning of the semester, If you would like to work ahead or have time to complete future assignments, they are available to you. HINT: If you know you have an extra-curricular activity during the week and you know it will be a busy week, please take advantage of the opportunity to complete that assignment ahead of time. 

Gradebook - Routinely check this folder to keep track of graded assignments and exams. A zero (0) will automatically be placed in the gradebook if an assignment is incomplete after the due date.

Required Sociology Ebook - Introduction to Sociology 3e, Open Stax, Rice University. Published date June 3, 2021. Download at: https://openstax.org/details/books/introduction-sociology-3e.   

Hardcover: ISBN-13: 978-1-711493-98-5; Paperback: ISBN-13: 978-1-711493-97-8

Important “To Do” Items the First Week of Semester

  1. First, read and review your syllabus and orientation information (Orientation Notes). 
  2. Next, complete and submit the Mandatory Syllabus / Orientation Test.  
  3. Next, complete the two Mandatory Discussion Posts. Discussion Post 1, Introduction Paragraph. Discussion Post 2, Avoiding Plagiarism.  These two posts are due the first week of class (See Calendar for Due Dates)

Modules (One, Two, Three, Four) All Modules include chapter materials such as a link to the textbook, chapter power points, and chapter videos. Chapter Assignments and Exams are also located in each Module.

  1. Start with MODULE I Overview. Review the Instructional Materials Begin work on the Assignments. Completing the assignments in the order they are listed will prepare you for success on the Major Exams. 


No late work is accepted. If you know you have extra curricular activities or a doctor's appointment or you are out sick, check the course Calendar for your assignments. ALL assignments and exams for the semester are on the Calendar. Therefore, you have access to the assignments ahead of time if needed.

I look forward to working with you this semester!


Your Instructor,

Kristi Clark







 
Institutional Policies
MyLSCPA Be sure to check your campus email and Course Homepage using MyLSCPA campus web portal. You can also access your grades, transcripts, academic advisors, degree progress, and other services through MyLSCPA.
Academic Honesty Academic honesty is expected from all students, and dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Please consult the LSCPA policies (Academic Dishonesty section in the Student Handbook) for consequences of academic dishonesty.
ADA Considerations The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights 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 the Office for Disability Services Coordinator, Room 231, in the Madison Monroe Building. The phone number is (409) 984-6241.
COVID 19 Information The Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA) Student Code of Conduct COVID 19 Policy requires students who have been diagnosed with COVID 19 to report their condition directly to their local health department. Students should also contact their course faculty to report their quarantine status. In addition, this policy requires all students to wear face coverings when directly exposed to COVID 19 in compliance with the criteria included in the policy. For more information please refer to the COVID 19 link on the LSCPA website.
Facility Policies No food or tobacco products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. Use of electronic devices is prohibited.
HB 2504 This syllabus is part of LSCPA's efforts to comply with Texas House Bill 2504.
Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect As per Texas law and LSCPA policy, all LSCPA employees, including faculty, are required to report allegations or disclosures of child abuse or neglect to the designated authorities, which may include a local or state law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. For more information about mandatory reporting requirements, see LSCPA's Policy and Procedure Manual.
Title IX and Sexual Misconduct LSCPA is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that is free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of sexual misconduct. All LSCPA employees, including faculty, have the responsibility to report disclosures of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape and acquaintance rape), domestic violence, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking, to LSCPA's Title IX Coordinator, whose role is to coordinate the college's response to sexual misconduct. For more information about Title IX protections, faculty reporting responsibilities, options for confidential reporting, and the resources available for support visit LSCPA's Title IX website.
Clery Act Crime Reporting For more information about the Clery Act and crime reporting, see the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report and the Campus Security website.
Grievance / Complaint / Concern If you have a grievance, complaint, or concern about this course that has not been resolved through discussion with the Instructor, please consult the Department Chair.
Department Information
General Education and Developmental Studies
Chair:Dr. Steven Zani
Email:zanisj@lamarpa.edu
Phone:(409) 984-6431