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Cuyahoga Community College

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Sociology Department
Summer 2024

Professor Michael Flatt, Ph.D.

Office B-235
Phone 216.987.5528
Please be sure to leave your name, phone number, course name, and issue
in your message. Please note a time that is convenient to return your call.
Email michael.flatt@tri-c.edu
Office Hours Monday: 9:00am – 11:00am
Tuesday: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Wednesday: 10:00am -1:00pm (virtual)
Thursday: 9:00am – 11:00am (virtual)
Online “office”: https://tri-c.webex.com/meet/s00621349

Course Number SOC 1010

Course Title Introductory Sociology
CRN 50534/50610
Meeting Times N/A
Meeting Location N/A
Modality Asynchronous, online (No set meeting times)
Part of Term 8-week

Course Catalog Description

SOC-1010 Introductory Sociology (3 Credits)

Scientific study of human society and social interaction. Includes an overview of the principles,
perspectives, concepts, and research methods used in the sociological field with more intensive
study in the following areas: culture, socialization, formal organizations, social structure, and
social stratification. Additional emphasis is placed on the application of sociological concepts to
current events.
Lecture: 3 hours
Prerequisite(s): ENG-0995 Applied College Literacies, or appropriate score on English
Placement Test; or departmental approval. Note: ENG-0990 Language Fundamentals II taken
prior to Fall 2021 will also meet prerequisite requirements.
OAN Approved: Ohio Transfer 36 TMSBS and Transfer Assurance Guide OSS021.
Course Descriptions < Cuyahoga Community College (tri-c.edu)]

Required Text and Supplies

Giddens, A., Duneier, M., Appelbaum, R. P., & Carr, D. (2021). Essentials of Sociology, 8th
Edition. New York: Norton.
Additional readings, videos, and audio clips as posted to Blackboard.
Video on accessing e-book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAK7z0ef5Nk
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Learning Outcomes

I. Demonstrate an understanding of major sociological themes.

a. Differentiate sociology from the other social sciences.
b. Distinguish between major sociological theories, including structural
functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
c. Evaluate the effectiveness of the sociological imagination to describe the
link between personal troubles and public issues.
II. Evaluate sociological research.
a. Explain the data collection process.
b. Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative research.
c. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of survey research, participant
observation, experiments, and secondary analysis.
d. Explain sociological research concepts, including variables, correlation,
reliability, and validity.
III. Explain the importance of culture, social structure, and socialization in the
development of the self.
a. Evaluate the importance of social statuses and their corresponding roles.
b. Apply theories of socialization to the development of the self.
c. Explain the role of socialization agents such as the family, the schools,
peer groups, and the mass media.
d. Discuss the manner in which values and norms act as a means of social
control.
e. Distinguish between ethnocentrism and cultural relativity as methods of
examining cultures.
IV. Explain how personal achievements can be impacted by statuses such as race,
ethnicity, gender, and age.
a. Explain the relationship between gender socialization and gender
inequality.
b. Distinguish between prejudice and discrimination.
c. Examine minority/dominant group relations, including segregation,
assimilation, and cultural pluralism.
d. Explain the relationship between the social construction of age and the
effects of aging.
V. Evaluate the role of social stratification in determining life chances.
a. Describe global stratification systems and their role in creating worldwide
social problems such as poverty and oppression.
b. Explain the role of social class in the lives of individuals.
c. Identify the barriers to social mobility.

[Full Official Course Outline here:

https://forms.tri-c.edu/OfficialCourseOutlines/Sociology/SOC-1010.pdf

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CLASS EXPECTATIONS:
Introductory Note: I realize that this asynchronous web format is not ideal for many of
us and may be a new learning experience for some of us. I would ask everyone to keep
this in mind as we navigate this new format, giving all of our colleagues the benefit of
the doubt and exercising patience as we all adapt. If you find yourself without internet
access or dealing with any other issues this summer that make it difficult for you to keep
up with class assignments, please reach out early so that we can find a solution. Clear,
consistent communication is the key for success in this class. Please let me know if you
have any additional questions, concerns, or face unexpected difficulties during the
semester so we can address them before it is too late. I also realize there is a lot of
information on the syllabus. It outlines state guidelines, and it is important that
you understand your shared responsibility in the successful completion of the
semester.

Academic Honesty and Original Work: Your submitted work must meet the following
criteria (A through C). Academic dishonesty is a serious matter that affects eligibility for
privileges including academic merits, student visas, and scholarships. The penalty for
plagiarism or other cases of academic dishonesty can range from zero credit for the
assignment of each student involved to reprimand and dismissal from the College itself.
For any case of academic dishonesty, I will report the incident to the Dean of Students
and issue zero credit for the assignment.

A) Submit your own original work: Any assignment you submit must be your own
original work for that assignment. You may not resubmit an old paper of your own
or someone else's writing. You may not have someone write it for you, even in
part.
B) Use proper attribution of any sources with Works Cited, when applicable.
C) Send writing that is free of computer-generated text: I will verify the
authenticity of any writing with anti-plagiarism software, AI-detectors, Internet
searching, and any other available means. Note that AI-detectors will flag the
following kinds of text (#1-3) as computer-generated.

1. You may not use a homework site (Course Hero, Chegg, etc.), an app
(ChatGPT, Perplexity, etc.), or a virtual assistant (Bing, Bard, Microsoft
365 Copilot, etc.) to generate answers to reading responses, class
discussion messages, or any aspect of writing assignments.
2. You may not use paraphrasing tools (Quill Bot, Word Tune, and others) to
generate writing for you.
3. You may not use translation tools (Google Translate or any others) to
generate your writing.

Many students who cheat do so because of too little time or too much stress. The
proper thing to do is to participate in class, keep up with workload, and ask me or
reputable campus services for help (Writing Center or Tutoring Center). If you are in
difficult circumstances, I also strongly encourage you to ask for an extension. Do not
regret a poor decision. Once lost, trust cannot be regained.
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Effective Communication: Because this is a web course and our only face-to-face
communication is likely to be via webcam, it is imperative that you express yourself
professionally and respectfully in all forms of communication (including email). This is a
college class, and it is expected that you will behave in the same manner that you would
during an in-person class. Use your Tri-C email and include your name as well as your
CRN/Section number on any communication with me. I will respond to e-mails within 48
hours. My expectations of appropriate emails are the same expectations you should
have when sending a professional e-mail (job application, etc.). Especially given the
circumstances of this virtual world in which we all find ourselves right now, it is
imperative that we communicate professionally online.

Respectful Participation: I encourage a free exchange of ideas and perspectives

through an open dialogue. While all viewpoints are welcome, first and foremost is the
need for the respect of everyone’s right to their position. Above all, you are expected to
remain respectful towards your colleagues. This course will cover some sensitive topics,
including race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, class, politics, and religion. Terms
that some students may find personally offensive may come up during our discussion,
which often centers on current social issues. It is important that you understand that
any discussion remain respectful and fact-based to have a meaningful exchange
of ideas. One of the key components of using your sociological imagination is to
apply critical thought to social issues and move beyond opinion-based
arguments to use logic, theory and data to back your arguments. It is not sufficient
to make claims because you think something is true or it has been your personal
experience. Informed opinions are based in logic, reason, theory, and empirical
evidence. If you cannot behave appropriately or feel you may not be able to handle
controversial topics professionally, you should reconsider taking this course.

WEEKLY COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Blackboard
All grades will be recorded in the Blackboard gradebook. You can view your grades
anytime by clicking on the My Grades tab in the menu on the Blackboard course site. I
will make every attempt to enter all grades for forums and assignments within three
days after the assignment folder has closed. Please be sure to check your grades on a
regular basis, and contact Prof. Flatt if you think a grade has been recorded incorrectly.

Quizzes: (20 points each) There will be a 20-point quiz for chapters assigned (total of
15 quizzes). Chapter quizzes are due Saturday by midnight. You will only have one
opportunity to take each quiz, so it is suggested that you take the quiz after you have
read the chapter. If you miss a quiz, you will receive 0 points. Quizzes will cover
chapter material as well as any assigned videos, articles, or web links. There are no
make-ups for missed quizzes.

Test Error: There have been occasional problems with quiz submissions. I will reset
your quiz if you have an error when you submit it, but it is up to you to notify me if this
happens. However, because you are given a week-long window to take the quiz, I
WILL NOT reset any quizzes the final day the quiz is due (Saturday).

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Writing Assignments: (50 points each) There are two (2) writing assignments this
semester. These writing assignments will be in the weekly assignment folder. If there
is no writing assignment in the chapter folder, then there is no writing assignment for
that chapter. You must complete both of these writing assignments. You will receive a
0/50 for any assignments that are missed. PLEASE NOTE: These writing assignments
are not designated on the syllabus, so be aware of what is in the folder each week. It is
your responsibility to submit the writing assignment on time. Papers can be submitted
via Blackboard using .docx, .doc, .rtf, or .pdf formatting. Do not upload .pages
documents or submit using an online service (ex. Google Drive) as they cannot be
opened on Blackboard. All writing assignments should be 2-3 pages in length, double-
spaced, with one-inch margins. When assigned, writing assignments are due that week
on Saturday by midnight.

Discussion Board Forums: (20 points each) You must participate in ten (10) of these
discussions throughout the semester. Your submission will be evaluated based on the
quantity and quality of your answers. In addition to the depth of your response, points
and half-points will be deducted for poor grammar, spelling, and capitalization. You are
required to make an original posting to each chapter’s topic, and at least one
critical response to a classmate’s posting each chapter. The posts are a primary
form of interaction we have in this course and are meant to give you the opportunity to
demonstrate your comprehension of the material. You should spend some time
synthesizing the assigned readings in your posts, providing analyses and arguments to
support your perspectives. You should be referencing specific concepts and theory from
your readings in your posts. You are required to submit your original post before you will
have access to your classmates’ posts. Your discussion board posts and
responses are due no later than Saturday at midnight.

Your discussion board posts should be written in full sentences and paragraphs. You
should think of them as mini-essay responses. Your posts should go beyond a summary
or review of the readings and offer a critical analysis of the content as it relates to
concepts and theories in your textbook or current events. You should expect to write
approximately three to four paragraphs (think: one double-spaced page in Word) for
each original post. Your response post should be at least three paragraphs ( ¾ to one
page in Word).

Responses to classmates’ posts should not be something like "Great answer,

Margaret!" or “I agree, Jace” and nothing else (although feel free to praise a great
posting). Rather, your response postings should be critical--evaluating each other's
postings based on elements such as use of evidence to support general statements or
the use of proper logic in building an argument. Being critical however, does not mean
being mean-spirited. Think in terms of positive and negative feedback that is meant to
elucidate the topic in question and generate dialogue. You should be building on your
colleagues’ posts to help advance the conversation. Points will be considered for
interactions that go beyond the minimum effort. Discussion board posts cannot be
made up.

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Grading Standards
A: Demonstrates Superiority: Student fully understands the question and addresses
the issues with appropriate illustrations. Well-written and well-argued.
B: Demonstrates Competence: Shows an understanding of the question but deals
unevenly with it.
C: Suggests Competence: Comprehends questions but fails to develop it well with
adequate information.
D: Suggests Incompetence: Suggests inadequate understanding of the question
and makes only a minimal or confused effort to deal with it.
F: Demonstrates Incompetence: Fails to comprehend questions and deals only
slightly with the issues in an irrelevant way.

Grading Scale
Quizzes (15): 300 points total
Forums (10): 200 points total
Writing Assignments (2): 100 points total

Total Points Possible: 600

Grades will be assigned as follows:

90-100% A (540 or greater total points earned)
80-89% B (480-539 total points earned)
70-79% C (420-479 total points earned)
60-69% D (360-419 total points earned)
Below 60% F (359 or fewer total points earned)

If at any time during the semester you are concerned with your grade, please do not
hesitate to approach me with that concern. I will be able to help you better in the
first few weeks of class, whereas there will be little I can do for you at the end of
the summer semester. At the end of the semester when you are tallying your grade,
DO NOT contact me to make up assignments that you may have missed to improve
your score. Also, DO NOT ask for extra credit assignments individually assigned to
you. If any extra credit opportunities are available, they will be available for the entire
class.

This is Me: Identifiers such as name, gender and personal pronouns are core factors in
many individuals’ sense of self. In alignment with the College’s goals and values as an
inclusive institution, the newest update to the employee and student information forms
includes fields to indicate personal pronouns, prefixes and gender identity. Instructors,
advisors and administrators will see these values on class rosters, advising rosters and
other administrative pages. Students can update their preferred name, personal
pronouns, and gender identity following the instructions using this link: https://www.tri-
c.edu/administrative-departments/human-resources/diversity-and-inclusion/this-is-
me.html

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Student Conduct: No disrespect of fellow students or the instructor will be tolerated. If

behavior inconsistent with the Student Conduct and academic Honor Code (including
threats, cheating, plagiarism, and disrespect) is observed, you will be dismissed from
the class at the Instructor’s discretion. Refer to College Policies 40.040.045 and
40.040.046 for further information.

Academic Credit: Academic Credit According to the Ohio Department of Higher

Education, one (1) semester hour of college credit will be awarded for each lecture
hour. Students will be expected to work on out-of-class assignments on a regular basis
which, over the length of the course, would normally average two hours of out-of-class
study for each hour of formal class activity. The number of credit hours for lecture, lab
and other hours are listed at the beginning of the syllabus.

Make sure you can prioritize your time accordingly. Proper planning, prioritization and
dedication will enhance your success in this course. The standard expectation for an
online course is that you will spend 3 hours per week for each credit hour.
Courses offered in other part of terms (e.g. 14-week, 8-week, flexibly scheduled, etc.)
ensure equivalent workloads. This means for this 8-week summer class, the Ohio
Department of Education expects 6 hours of work per week. Students should
prioritize their time accordingly, particularly when taking part of term courses.

Accessibility Statement: If you need any special course adaptations or

accommodations because of a documented disability, please notify your instructor
within a reasonable length of time, preferably the first week of the term with formal
notice of that need (i.e. an official letter from the Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
office).

Extra Credit: There is no guaranteed extra credit offered in this course. If opportunities
arise for any (for example, guest lectures or webinars) extra credit will be offered to the
entire class. Please do not request individual extra credit assignments to make up for
missed work; offering individual extra credit is not fair to your colleagues.

Withdrawal: June 24, 2024: Last Day to Withdraw from with NO RECORD.
Julyl 19, 2024: Last Day to Withdraw with a "W" Grade

Incompletes: Incompletes are only assigned under extenuating circumstances with

approved documentation. If you feel you cannot complete the course successfully, then
you must withdraw in accordance with college policy. Refer to your Student Handbook
for details.

College Credit Plus (CCP): As college students, you are expected to adhere to the
policies, procedures and academic calendar of Cuyahoga Community College. In cases
in which your high school schedule is different than that of Tri-C (for example, spring
break, summer vacation), you are expected to complete any and all assignments given
with adherence to the Tri-C course schedule.

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Attendance Tracking: Regular class attendance is expected. For online courses,

students are required to login at least two times per week and submit one assignment
per week for the first two weeks of the semester, or equivalent to the 15th day of the
term. Students who have not met all attendance requirements for online courses, as
described herein, within the first two weeks or equivalent, will be considered not
attending.

Learning Outcomes Assessment: Occasionally, in addition to submitting assignments

to their instructors for evaluation and a grade, students will also be asked to submit
completed assignments, called ‘artifacts,’ for assessment of course and program
outcomes and the College’s Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs). The artifacts will be
submitted in Blackboard or a similar technology. The level of mastery of the outcome
demonstrated by the artifact DOES NOT affect the student’s grade or academic record
in any way.

You can review all detailed institutional policies using this link

Other Helpful Resources

Tri-C Student Handbook

Tri-C Academic Calendar

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SCHEDULE

* THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE SYLLABUS CHANGES AS

NECESSARY *

Weekly assignments will be posted to Blackboard and you are responsible to check
Blackboard regularly for any changes or updates to weekly assignments.

All assignments are due before Saturday at midnight.

Please be sure to note the assignments every week to plan enough time to complete
them to avoid missing deadlines.
Note the Academic Credit section above that states the Ohio Board of Education
expects a minimum of 6 hours of time each week for an 8-week class.
Please contact Prof. Flatt in advance if you think you may need an extension..

Week 1 (2/12-2/18): The Sociological Imagination and Critical Thinking Materials

Chapter 1-Sociology Theory and Method
Chapter 2-Culture and Society

Week 2 (2/19-2/25): Chapter 3-Socialization, the Life Course, and Aging

Chapter 4-Socialization & Everyday Life in the Age of the
Internet

Week 3 (2/26-3/3): Chapter 5-Groups, Networks, and Organizations

Chapter 6-Deviance, Crime, and Punishment

Week 4 (3/4-3/10): Chapter 7-Stratification, Class, and Inequality

Chapter 8-Global Inequality

Week 5 (3/18-3/24): Chapter 9-Gender Inequality

Chapter 10-Race, Ethnicity, and Racism

Week 6 (3/25-3/31): Chapter 11-Families and Intimate Relationships

Chapter 12-Education and Religion

Week 7 (4/1-4/7): Chapter 13-Politics and Economic Life

Chapter 14-The Sociology of the Body: Health, Illness &
Sexuality

Week 8 (4/8-4/14): Chapter 15-Urbanization, Population, and the Environment

Chapter 16-Globalization in a Changing World