HOLYOKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Holyoke, MA 01040
SYLLABUS
CRJ 117: Criminology/DL
NOTE: Events and assignments subject to change as deemed necessary by the instructor.
INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION
Professor Monica H. Perez, J.D.
E-mail: use private e-mail set up for course Office: FR 166
Office Hours: e-mail with questions/issues Phone: 413-552-2413
Meeting Day(s)/Times(s): This is an online course. All information, assignments,
interaction, and communication is facilitated online
through WebCT. Be advised that this format requires
that students work exclusively in an independent manner.
Therefore, self-discipline and self-pacing of work are
critical factors in successfully completing this class.
Course Description: Origin and development of crime, the relationship between
law and crime, theories of social and psychological factors
in criminal and delinquent behavior, current programs for treatment
and prevention.
Prerequisite(s): SOC 110 or PSY 110
Students completing this course should be able to:
ü develop familiarity with sociological perspectives and understand the mutual relevance of sociology and criminology;
ü review and develop knowledge of the historical development of explanations of crime and deviance from theology to science;
ü become familiar with major social patterns of criminal behavior including the influence of gender, class, race, and age;
ü appreciate how victims are defined and develop familiarity with the study and analysis of victimization;
ü develop and utilize quantitative and analytical reasoning skills;
ü understand the relationship between public opinion and public policy;
ü and develop an understanding of the sociological prescription for crime reduction.
Criminology: The Core, 2nd Ed., Larry J. Siegel
Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning, 2005
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY
The specified textbook is required for this class. In addition, students must have access to a computer that can interface appropriately with the WebCT format. It is strongly suggested that students utilize the class calendar provided with the syllabus to make any adjustments that may be announced as well as to pace their work for timely submission. All assignments are submitted online and are due as specified in the syllabus. EXAMS ARE ALSO ADMINISTERED ONLINE AND MUST BE TAKEN AS SCHEDULED. NO MAKE-UP EXAMS WILL BE GIVEN UNLESS APPROVED PRIOR TO THE TEST DATE AND ONLY UNDER EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES.
ASSIGNMENT GUIDELINES
To be successful professionally, individuals must write well and meet deadlines. Success is based, in large part, on accountability and responsibility. Therefore, all assignments are due online on designated days.Please plan ahead so that you can navigate around “techno-emergencies.” NOTE: Assignments must be saved as specified, attached to e-mail, and submitted via the e-mail system set up for this class. Take time to navigate the system so that you understand how to submit assignments. All writing assignments will be typed or word-processed in proper format. If students require assistance with writing or format, they may access resources through the Learning Center. These services are available on campus; therefore, students will have to make the necessary arrangements. Students should familiarize themselves with the HCC Student Handbook and take advantage of resources offered at the Learning Center, Library, media lab, and computer labs if needed. LATE ASSIGNMENTS: there is a 24-hour grace period and a 10-point deduction from the final score for that assignment will be assessed. Assignments will not be accepted after the grace period expires.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
Readings in the text provided the foundation for “lecture.” Students will be directed to websites or other information that will provide contemporary and current information to supplement learning. Findings will be posted for purposes of class discussion. Analytical and interactive assignments that will emphasize concepts/techniques/skills that students are learning. Participation in the form of active and productive discussion, writing assignments, and practical application of techniques will be required to reinforce text material and skills involved in the field of work.
A total of 250 points can be earned for completing course requirements. Please see individual assignments for point totals and instructions. Assignments include but are not limited to research and writing assignments, application exercises, a mid-term exam, and a final exam.
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
HCC is committed to the full inclusion of all students. Students who, by nature of a documenteddisability, require equipment or testing/assignment accommodation, should contact the instructor as soon as possible after class begins for the semester. Students may also speak to staff in the Office for Students with Disabilities at 413-552-2417 to request accommodations. Your immediate attention to these arrangements is necessary to support a positive learning experience.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Although the classroom is a “virtual” one, attendance is an integral part of this course. Attendance for this distance learning course involves being “present” in an asynchronous way. This means that the course has been set up so that students can do their work at whatever time they wish while remaining focused on meeting established deadlines. There are no specific times that all participants must meet to chat or have discussions.
However, it does require spending time online researching specific topics and posting responses to issues presented by the instructor. Students should be “present” by way of posting comments for ongoing discussion at least three times per week. The more “visible” you are, the better. In this online format dismissal with a grade of “AW” will occur if:,
ü an enrolled student fails to log in by the designated day/time (see important dates icon).
ü an enrolled student does not post responses, comments, or questions for purposes
of the discussion format for two weeks. If you participate one week and disappear the next then return the week after and disappear again for another week, you have missed two weeks of posting/discussion.
ü an enrolled student fails to turn in two assignments as specified.
If the instructor dismisses a student from class, the grade of “AW” will issue. In cases of extended illness or serious accident, the instructor will decide whether or not it will be possible for the student to successful complete course requirements. Documentation is required to request consideration in such a case. Attendance, active and productive participation, and adherence to deadlines can positively impact your grade.
This format requires that students have access to a computer that is appropriate for the type of technology used. Any questions regarding technological problems should be referred to the Distance Learning Help Desk.
All HCC policies are in effect regarding academic honesty. Please be sure to review these in your Student Handbook. Your work is to be done by you unless a collaborative effort is assigned and approved. DO NOT use someone else’s words as your own. This is plagiarism and will result in a most negative consequence. If you are unsure as to what constitutes plagiarism, you can access the rules or original writing at
www.owl.english.purdue.edu or obtain resources at the Learning Center. If you are considering using plagiarism tools available to you online, DON’T.
STUDENT CONDUCT
It is expected that the learning environment will be positive and productive. Therefore, inappropriate and/or disruptive conduct will not be tolerated. Appropriate conduct includes but is not limited to being prepared, participating productively, observing deadlines, and being respectful of others at all times. This conduct reflects the professionalism and ethical standards required in this career field. Respect, tolerance, and inclusion will be encouraged. Please review the Communications Policy.
FINAL EXAM
The final exam, if scheduled for this class, will be given during finals week which is scheduled as noted on the calendar attached. MARK THIS IN YOUR CALENDARS NOW. THE FINAL MUST BE TAKEN WHEN SCHEDULED.