SOCIOLOGY 4322

FAMILY VIOLENCE

Spring 2002

Saturday 1-5, TrackB

AM 216

GRADES: Research Paper/Presentation 15%

Resource Data Folder on Violence 15%

Weekly Quizes and/or Assignments (5) 15%

Discussion (in class and online) 15%

Tests (Midterm and Final) 40%

Final grades will be based on the following scale - A=90-100, B=80-89, C=70-79, D=60-69, F=59 and below. A final grade of A signifies that the student has excelled in this course, going beyond the expected requirements. A final grade of B signifies that the student has mastered all the concepts, has a working knowledge of the sociological material as demonstrated in discussion, quizes, and research paper and presentation. A final grade of C signifies that the student’s understanding of the subject matter is acceptable. A final grade of D signifies that the student is familiar with the subject matter, but may not understand or recall some important ideas. A final grade of F signifies that the student has not mastered the material of this course.

Students with a question about grades are always welcome to come and discuss it at any time. While fairness is always the goal, please note that a portion of the final grade rests on the subjective judgment of the instructor. Begging and arguing about grades will not be tolerated. However, if you believe that the Instructor has graded you unfairly, please make an appointment to let her know how you feel and why. If Instructor and student cannot successfully resolve the discrepancy, there are University procedures the student may follow to pursue the issue at the administration level.

CLASS WORK

Research Presentation: Each student will research one area of Family Violence. Approval of the Instructor is required. Information collected will be written in note form, minimum of four pages, including sources. At least 3 sociological sources are required, and most research will include information from several non-sociological sources. A one page summary (verbal description, with chart if needed) will accompany the notes. The notes and summary will be sent via email to each of the other students by a specified date. In the class period following the specified date, the student will answer questions on the subject from other students. Some suggested topics include: Freud’s Misinterpretation of Sexual Abuse; Counseling Programs for Violent Offenders; Abuse of Men;The Effect of Violence on Children; Women in Prison; Success and History of Shelters for Battered Women. Presentations will begin after one month, and be in the second half of the class period each Wednesday thereafter. Students are responsible to schedule their specified dates with the Instructor.

Data Folder: Each student will prepare a Data Folder. This is a compilation of the data covered in this class, and accumulated outside of class on the topic of family violence. The purpose for the folder is to have an easy reference later in the student’s professional life. Charts, notes, sources of information, addresses of shelters, articles and papers, and any other pertinent information will be included in the Data Folder. Students will work together to compile a list of important contacts in the Metroplex area. Each student's research notes and summary will also be included. The Folder is due on the last day of class. No late Folders will be accepted.

Quizes and Assignments: In order for students to get the maximum benefit from the course, they must read the assignments and be prepared at the beginning of each class period. As an encouragement to do that, a quiz may are be given at the beginning of the class period, or at any time during the class session. Make-up quizes will be given only for officially excused absences (i.e. a signed excuse by a doctor or campus official). It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements for an approved make-up quiz. Other assignments will be given on an ad hoc basis. Additional readings and research on specified topics are likely for each session.

Discussion: Discussion grade will be based on attendance and on class participation. Student contribution to the discussion is expected to reflect the reading and be a thoughtful comment on the subject at hand. During the class period the instructor may ask a student to summarize the main points of the reading for that day. Inability to do so will be reflected in the student’s discussion grade for that day. There will also be a discussion in WebCT. Students will be expected to participate as explained in class.

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