|
Course Description:
Deviance is a widely
seen social phenomenon, and society counters it with systems of social control.
This course focuses on ways in which deviance is defined and controlled.
Consideration will be given to the various theories of deviance in addition
to examining several forms of behavior society considers deviant. The class
will discuss how deviance may be created and perpetuated, and how people
react to this social construction of deviance. The emphasis will be on
deviance of all types we encounter in society and not just the limited
field of criminal deviance and social control.
|
|
|
|
Course Objectives:
The specific course objectives are: 1) Understand the nature of
deviance; 2) Learn how deviance may be socially constructed; and 3)
Comprehend the functional values of deviance.
|
|
|
|
Books and other materials required:
|
|
Two books, a text and a reader, will be used
in the course. Additional materials include reserve readings and handouts.
|
|
|
|
Student Performance Expectations and Evaluation:
1. Regular attendance and participation in class
activities (15% of the course grade):
Classes consist of lecture and discussion. Students are required to
actively participate in class discussions based on the assignments for the
day. Bring up issues that intrigue, excite, and motivate you. There may be
many, who share your ideas and many who have never heard such ideas before,
or you may want to refine what you know already in a group context. The
discussions can be successful only with your diligent preparation and
active participation.
|
|
|
|
2. Exams (50% total): There will be two exams, which will test your
overall understanding of the subject. Exams cover the text, other readings,
in-class activities, presentations, and lectures.
|
|
|
|
3. Term paper (30%):
You are required to write a discussion paper, 8-10 pages in length
(excluding bibliography), with at least five references listed in ASA
format.
|
|
|
|
Grading:
|
|
Attendance and class participation (20% of the course
grade)
Exams (50% of the course grade)
Exam 1
(25%)
Exam 2
(25%)
Paper (30%)
|
|
Numerical translation of grade levels:
|
|
A
= 90-100
B =
80-89
C =
70-79
D = 60
- 69
|
|
Suggestions for success:
|
|
a) Read carefully and keep handy this syllabus. You are
responsible for following it through
|
|
b) Attend all regularly scheduled classes. If one must
be absent, it is your responsibility to get all the materials/information
covered. Assignments are made during class and the student is responsible
for all information conveyed during class.
|
|
c) Come to class on time. Arriving late or leaving early
is very distracting to all. However it is better to come late than
completely missing the class
|
|
d) Don't procrastinate. Putting off assignments for
later is unwise as something will come up begging your attention, leaving
you with no time. Be prepared for each class. Take class notes, and make
sure to review them. Be prepared to spend adequate amount of time for
reading and homework assignments.
|
|
e) Submit all written assignments on time, following the
directions. Use the library resources for assistance with writing problems
|
|
f) Above all, approach the subject with a pragmatic
outlook. Think of it as something very helpful in leading a resourceful
life.
|
|
|
