Social Problems - American Sociological Association

Syllabus—Kaelber Lyndon State College
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Lutz Kaelber Lyndon State College
Social Problems: SOC201 Fall 1999
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Welcome to SOC 201, the sociological study of social problems. This course provides a survey of social problems
as they occur in American and other societies. From a comparative and cross-cultural perspective, we will look at
issues such as world population growth, threats to the environment, racial, ethnic, and gender inequalities,
demographic changes in the U.S., and trends in the economy. The prerequisite for this course is SOC101 or
sophomore standing.
COURSE OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES
After taking this course, students should be able to
• demonstrate understanding of major social problems concerning the U.S.;
• place local, regional, and national social problems in global context;
• identify, and distinguish between, causes and consequences of social problems;
• analyze social problems using sociological approaches and concepts;
• find and interpret qualitative and quantitative information about social problems; and
• identify and evaluate policies that address social problems and assess the policies’ impact on society.
READING MATERIALS
D. Stanley Eitzen and Maxine Baca Zinn, Social Problems (8 th ed.; Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 1999). The book is
available for purchase at the LSC bookstore (ISBN 0-205-29456-1). Note: Earlier editions cannot be used.
Additional reading materials are on reserve for this course in the LSC Library.
COURSE POLICIES
Attendance, Participation, Lateness: Students are expected to come to class and participate in it. In the past,
students have found it impossible to obtain a satisfactory grade without regular attendance. I reserve the right to
implement LSC's academic policy regarding absences: more than four absences can result in dismissal from the
course with a failing grade (see the LSC Undergraduate Catalog). Every instance in which a student misses a class
completely, or a part thereof (for example, because a student arrives late or leaves early), is counted as an absence.
Absences will be excused only if you provide me with a legitimate reason for your absence in written, verifiable
form within 24 hours after your absence, or as soon as possible if this limit is not applicable. Legitimate excuses
include severe illness or jury service. At the least, each absence beyond four will result in the deduction of 50 points
from a student's total score.
Classes will consist of lecture, discussion, in-class writings, student presentations, and other activities. If students
miss a class, they should contact their classmates to obtain notes. I will not make my lecture/discussion notes
available, but I will be glad to give you materials handed out in class, or go over your notes with you. One of the
easiest ways to increase the likelihood of doing well in class is to come see me in my office and go over class
materials.
Active participation consists of reflecting thoughtfully on course or related materials and voicing these thoughts in
class at the appropriate time. Even if you are somewhat shy or hesitant to speak up, please express your thoughts,
questions, and concerns. In order to make this easier for all of us, we shall be courteous and respectful of each
other's views and opinions. Some of the discussions will take part in small groups, which will give all students an
opportunity to participate. Participation, including the discussion of homework and in-class assignments, is a graded
part of this course.
Late arrivals and early departures disturb me and other students. Please let me know in advance if you have to
arrive late or leave early. In those cases, sit next to the door, and arrive or leave quietly.
Office Hours: I will make every effort to be available to you outside of class. My regular office hours are on the
first page of this syllabus. If you wish to come at a different time, please contact me first by telephone at my office
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