Appendix A4.4 · The Philosophy of Composition- Poe . Reasoning in Aesthetics Part Four Art,...

Appendix A4.4.9

Philosophy and Religion

Name of DEPARTMENT: ________Philosophy & Religion

QUESTION RESPONSEA. What studies has your university done

in the last three years to ensure your graduates are meeting the needs of employers?

Response: The philosophy and religion unit lacks the resources to conduct such surveys. There is also no specific philosophy and religion industry (other than academic employment) that would provide industry representatives for advisory boards.

B. Do you have measurable goals to meet employers’ current needs? If so, please provide them. How often are these goals updated?

Response: The potential employers for philosophy and religion graduates are vast, ranging from any number of jobs requiring a BA to positions as professors, lawyers and so on (assuming the majors pursue professional degrees). As such, defining measurable goals for all these possible jobs is beyond the scope of what could be considered reasonable. The program, does, however, aim at providing the basic foundation needed to pursue a professional career in philosophy and religion by progressing to graduate school.

COLLEGE of ARTS and SCIENCESFLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY

Questions from Governor Rick ScottResponse Document for Academic Deans

Note: The listing of questions A through Q has gaps in the lettering because they correspond to the Governor’s request, and the deans are not being asked

QUESTION RESPONSEC. Do you have measurable goals for

each graduate in the areas of writing proficiency and critical thinking? If so, please send them to me with the goals and include the results for the last five to ten years.

Response: Yes. Students will:1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation will be via written papers and evaluation will be via appropriate rubrics.2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. Students will receive training in argumentation and philosophical reasoning. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics.3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via appropriate rubrics.4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to a diversity of philosophical views. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics.5. Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics.Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and philosophical reasoning.

Documentation regarding these results is provided for 2005-2010 in separate files.

E. Are professors required to integrate writing proficiency and critical thinking into all courses? If so, what oversight is provided to ensure that these skills are being taught? How are these skills integrated into course assessments?

Response: The Academic Learning Compact for philosophy and religion specifies that both critical thinking and writing proficiency be integrated into all courses. As noted above, these are assessed and the documentation of this assessment has been provided in separate files. Also most philosophy and religion classes are Gordon Rule classes and thus require writing on the part of the students.

In addition, critical thinking is a subcategory of logic, which is a branch of philosophy. Critical thinking methodology is also subset of philosophical reasoning and, as such, critical thinking methods (such as argument creation and assessment) are inherent to the study of philosophy. Religion also employs such critical thinking as an integral part of its intellectual methodology and, as such, critical thinking is to be found in these classes as well. In short, critical thinking is automatically integrated into such classes, much in the same way that mathematics is integrated into engineering.

In regards to oversight, faculty are required to provide syllabi for review and there is also the yearly assessment of results.

QUESTION RESPONSE

M. M. What programs do you have to educate students regarding job opportunities? What are your measureable goals for each program? Do you use information similar to the data available from the Florida education and Training Placement Information Program (FETPIP) to prepare students prior to admission and prior to selection of major? Please provide me the results for the last five to ten years .

Response: As part of the advising process, students are informed of these opportunities. Given the nature of the program, the main post graduation “employment” in the fields would, in fact, be graduate school. Students interested in graduate school are provided with information about the application process as well as guidance in said process. Many philosophy and religion majors are also interested in law school and they are also advised regarding this process.

In regards to immediate employment students are provided with general information as well as support from the faculty in terms of suggestions. However, there is no specific mechanism in place by which faculty formally introduces students to employment opportunities in business and industry.

Q. Q. Please provide me with any additional information you think way be helpful, including your thought process to make sure we are headed in the right direction .

It would be useful to consider information regarding students who go to graduate and professional school rather than immediately becoming workers. After all, society also needs doctors, lawyers, professors, and other professionals who possess advanced degrees.

Do you have measurable goals for student success after graduation? If so, please send me the goals and the results for the last five to ten years.

Response: The program has two primary goals regarding success. The first is students successfully completing graduate degrees in the fields or related fields (such as law). Tommy Shelby (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommie_Shelby) is perhaps the best known graduate in this category of success. The second is that students who not pursue graduate degrees are able to secure employment at or exceeding the national average for degrees.

F.

Florida A&M University COURSE NO. AND TITLE: PHI-4800 Aesthetics COURSE CREDIT: 3 Credit Hours COURSE LEVEL: Advanced PRE-REQUISITES: None Semester: Spring 2011 Instructor: Dr. Michael C. LaBossiere By remaining enrolled in this class you indicate you have read, understood and accepted this syllabus. There are no exceptions to the policies set in this syllabus. Course description: Aesthetics is designed to introduce students to aesthetic theories, specifically contemporary and historic aesthetic theories, critical terminology, and the practical application of philosophical techniques and critical approaches. Specifically, students familiarize themselves with a diverse collection of approaches to aesthetics, including historical, feminist, and non-western approaches. Through examination of the theories through both print and technological means, students study critically various approaches to aesthetics and present written critical analyses of primary sources.

Required Text : Students are required to have the course readings and paper information. These are available in electronic format at www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html Alternatively, a student can bring a blank CD-R/CD-RW or a USB disk key in during my office hours. Content Objectives (subject to revision) Part One: Introduction What is Poetry?- Mill Introduction The Ion-Plato Writing Philosophy Papers The Philosophy of Composition- Poe Reasoning in Aesthetics Part Four Art, Society, and Morality Part Two: Defining and Judging Art On Education- Bernstein The Arts And Fine Arts- D'alembert The Republic- Plato On the Standard of Taste- Hume Lights, Camera, Blood-LaBossiere What is Art?- Tolstoy Virtual Violence and Moral Purpose-LaBossiere The New Aesthetics- Wilde Preface from the Picture of Dorian Gray-Wilde Part Three: Genres, The Creation of Art Introduction The Poetics- Aristotle Generic teaching competencies and skills addressed Tests and written assignments in which the students develop and exercise the relevant skills and knowledge; provides exposure to diverse points, to present concepts and principles at different levels of complexity so they are meaningful to all students; represents concepts through a variety of methods, such as analogies, metaphors, models, and concrete materials; utilizes appropriate learning media, computer applications, and other technology to address learning objectives; selects activities that support the critical thinking processes; demonstrates knowledge of applications of computer technology to the teaching of ethics; demonstrates knowledge of methods, concepts and vocabulary; and develops critical philosophic skills. Specific behavioral objectives: The students read the text, prepare written assignments, take exams and quizzes; react to class discussion, and learn critical philosophic skills. Teaching Methods: The class combines elements of traditional lecture with active class participation. Traditional teaching methods are supplemented with email support and web based course material. Methods of Evaluation: Students are evaluated on the basis of the following- Category Counted/Total Points Each % of Grade Paper 1/1 100 30% Exams 3/4 32 40% Weekly Quizzes 10/15+ 5 30% Paper: There is no make-up for the paper. The paper is governed by additional polices (see below). Exams: The best three count. Make-ups are permitted with the obvious exception of the final. Quizzes: There will be approximately fifteen quizzes. The best ten count. The others are used as “make up” or “extra” quizzes. There are no additional make-ups for quizzes. Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59 Office: 203 Tucker Hall Phone: (850) 561-2839

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Email: [email protected], [email protected] Office Hours: - Tuesday: 3:25-5:35 Wednesday: 11:00-3:45 Thursday: 3:25-4:30 Additional Course Material: Notes and supplementary materials are available at http://www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html General Polices (see www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/ faq.html for additional information). Academic Honor Policy: This class complies with the university academic honor policy. After the Semester: When the semester is over, it is over. No extra credit, retakes of exams, turning in of late papers or any other such things are allowed. This does not apply to incompletes. Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Students are fully responsible for any work, notes, announcements, or other information from missed classes. Behavior: Behavior that disrupts the class or interferes with the learning process will not be tolerated. Cancelled Classes: If a class is cancelled (for any reason) any scheduled exam or any work due will be rescheduled for the next class. If classes are cancelled for an extended period of time, then special arrangements will be made. Changed Class Room or Time: If the class room or time is changed by the Registrar or another FAMU official, it is your responsibility to learn the new location. First, look for a sign listing the new room or, if there is another class there, ask the instructor. Second, check my office door or the web site for the new room. Third, call me during my office hours or email me. If you missed a test/quiz/assignment or did not turn in a paper “because” of the room change, the following policy applies: For quizzes and assignments the "make-ups" are built in -hence there is no special make-up for them. If the test date was the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to make it up. If a paper was due in the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to turn the paper in without a late penalty. Otherwise the normal rules apply. Cheating: Cheating, in any form, will not be tolerated. Anyone caught cheating will be treated accordingly. Children in the Class: I have been informed that it is against state law for students to bring children to class. Students are required to comply with this law. Compliance: The University’s Americans with Disabilities ACT Policy Statement and the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement can be viewed at www.famu.edu. This class is taught in compliance with these policies. Email: Be sure that your email address is up to date on iRattler. Important information about the class will be provided via email. Enrollment: Students who are not enrolled in the class will not receive a grade. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she is properly enrolled in the class. If you expect to be reinstated do not simply stop attending class-contact me as soon as possible Excuses: I only accept legitimate, official excuses, such as those from coaches and Deans’ offices. Unofficial excuses (such as doctor’s notes, letters from relatives or employers) and photocopies are not acceptable. You only need an excuse if you miss a test or have extensive absences (see below). Students are required to provide any excuse within ten (10) days of the last day of the absence. In any case, any excuse must be provided prior to the end of the semester. Extensive absences: A student who has an extensive number of excused absences and elects to not withdraw from the class must meet with me to discuss the situation within one week of the student’s return to class. Failure to do so results in a non-negotiable “O” on all missed work. Any extensive makeup work takes place entirely at my discretion. Five Point Bonus: Each student will receive a +5 point bonus on his/her final paper grade. Grade Discussion: I will not discuss individual grades during class time. Such discussions take place during my office hours. A grade discussion can never result in a lowered grade (unless the discussion reveals that cheating or plagiarism has taken place). Grade Information: Grades cannot be given by phone or posted in public. Grade reports can be sent via SASE, email, or given in person. Grades are also posted on a secure web site. Use the “check your grades” link on the class web site. You will need to get your ID and password from me. You are expected to check your grades regularly online. You are required to check your grades on the website or during my office hours at least twice-once during the midterm week and once in the last week of classes prior to my last office hours. You are required to report any discrepancies immediately and supply the relevant evidence. If you fail to inform me of a discrepancy and fail to provide the supporting evidence by the end of the final exam, the grade(s) will not be changed. Grade Averages: The averages shown on the grade reports are not accurate until all the grades have been entered. This is because I have set the software to drop the lowest scores (see above) and this will result in an inaccurate average until all the grades are entered. For example, if three tests have been given, but you only took two and scored 70% on both, then your average would be listed as 70%. However, your real average would be 46.7%, since the 0 would be dropped when the average was calculated. Be sure that you know your correct average before making decisions relating to the course (such as deciding not to take a test). Near the end of the semester I will “zero out” the remaining grades so as to provide a possible “worst case” grade scenario. Incompletes: Requirements: 1) At least half the course work has been completed. 2) The minimum requirements have not been completed. 3) The student has at least a “C” average for the completed work. 4) The failure to complete the work is not the student’s fault. 5) Valid, signed excuses from his/her dean’s office must be provided. 6) The student must make the request no later than one week prior to my last office hours. 7)The student must complete the incomplete form and have it approved by me no later than the end of my last officer hours. You must meet all these requirements to qualify for an incomplete. Make-ups: Requirements: 1) A valid excuse covering the relevant date must be provided when the make up is taken. 2) The make up for a test must be completed by the date of the next test. 3) The make up must be taken during my office hours. Failure to meet the

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conditions will result in a non-negotiable grade of “0” for the work. There are no make ups for quizzes or assignments. Papers are either late or on time. In no case will make up work be permitted after the end of the semester. Mercy: Each student has one nontransferable “Mercy.” The mercy can be used once and only once. One use is as an excused absence to make up one test that was missed. Simply tell me you are using your mercy when you arrive to take the make up. The second use is to allow a paper to be turned in on the appropriate mercy deadline date. If you do not use your Mercy, it automatically becomes the “extra” 100% grade on the mercy quiz-there is no need to tell me to count it as this quiz. If you use the mercy, you do not get that bonus. Mobile Phones & Other Devices: Please put your mobile phone and other communication devices on silent ring. If you must take a call during class, please leave the room quietly and go far enough away that your conversation does not distract others. You can use a PDA or laptop during normal class (not during exams), provided that your activity is not distracting or annoying. Paper: There are additional polices covering the paper. These are specified in the files for the paper. Students are required to be familiar with this information. Ignorance of these polices is no excuse. Returned Work: You are expected to pick up your work when it is returned. Quizzes that are not picked up when they are returned will be discarded. Unclaimed exams and papers will be kept in my office for one year. If you wish to dispute a grade, you are required to present the work in question. Test Policy: During exams you must clear your desktop of all items except your pen or pencil. Mobile phones and other communication devices are to be turned off unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact (for example, you are a police officer). If you use a mobile phone or other communication device during an exam, then this will be considered cheating and you will receive a grade of zero (0) on the exam (unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact, the call is one you are legitimately obligated to take and you have supplied legitimate documentation prior to the exam). The Last Day: All class related business (except the final) must be completed by the end of my office hours on the last day I hold my regular office hours. This will be in the last week of classes, not finals week. I do not hold office hours during finals week. Unusual/Special Circumstances: Reasonable accommodations will be made for all legitimate circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to make me aware of such relevant circumstances as soon as possible. Do not wait until the end of the semester! A form is provided with this syllabus for requesting special accommodations for special circumstances. Academic Learning Compact for Aesthetics Students will refer to the ALC page for additional information. http://www.famu.edu/assessment/ In accord with the ALC students enrolled Aesthetics will: 1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation will be via written papers and evaluation will be via appropriate rubrics. 2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. Students will receive training in argumentation and philosophical reasoning. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via appropriate rubrics. 4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to a diversity of philosophical views. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 5. Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and aesthetic reasoning. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and philosophical reasoning. Schedule (subject to revision) Exam #1: January 25 Deadline to Make Up Exam 2: March 29 Draft Due: February 1 Exam #3: March 29 Deadline to Make Up Exam 1: February 22 50% Grade Paper Deadline: April 19 Exam #2: February 22 Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline: April 21 Extension Request Deadline: March 10 Last Class: April 21 Draft Deadline: March 3 Last Office Hours: April 21 Paper Deadline: March 15 Final Exam: Friday, April 29 7:30-9:30 AM Mercy Paper Deadline: March 16

Paper Due Dates, Deadlines and Extensions Due Dates and Deadlines

There are various due dates and deadlines for the paper. Each is specified below. Draft Due Date: This is the day the paper draft is due. The drafts will be collected, commented on and graded. The draft grade will be entered as a “temporary” grade. This grade will be replaced by the rewrite grade, assuming the grade on the final version of the paper is better (and assuming that plagiarism does not occur). Paper drafts can be turned in before this due date. Draft Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a draft. Papers turned in after this date will be considered final revisions and will be graded as such. Any number of drafts can be turned in prior to this date and these will be commented on and graded. The draft deadline cannot be extended. Before the deadline drafts can be turned in during my office hours or class. On the deadline date drafts must be turned in before the end of my last office hours that day and will be reviewed until the end of those office hours. Drafts that have not been reviewed by that point will be treated as final drafts. Paper Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a paper and receive full credit. This deadline can be extended by receiving an extension (or special extension) or by expending your mercy. “Normal” excuses DO NOT extend the deadline and will not be accepted. See below for the details on extensions. I must receive the paper by the end of class or the end of my office hours that day, whichever is later. Mercy Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive full credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: This is the last date to turn in a paper and receive 50% credit. The only way to extend this deadline is to expend your mercy (see below). Papers turned in after this date will receive a 0. If you have a draft paper grade and it is higher than the 50% grade on the final version, than the draft paper grade will score as your paper grade (except in cases involving plagiarism). I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive 50% credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. I’m So Confused!: Here is the simple version: 1) Turn in your draft on or before the draft deadline if you want comments on your paper so you can rewrite it. 2) Turn in the paper on or before the paper deadline if you want full credit. 4) Turn in the paper on or before the 50% paper deadline if you want half credit. 5) Turn in the paper after the 50% paper deadline if you want a zero. Paper Extensions & Excuses

Simply providing an excuse will not change the deadlines for you. The following details the policies for requesting an extension. There are no exceptions to these rules. Please do not ask. If you are in special circumstances that affect more than the paper, you will also need to complete the special circumstances form.

Extension: A student who faces circumstances that seriously impede his/her ability to complete the paper can request an extension. To qualify for an extension a student must be in a situation that is 1) unavoidable by reasonable means and 2) such that it prevents working on the paper for a significant amount of time. An extension must be requested by the extension request deadline, which is specified on the syllabus. A student must also provide legitimate documentation from the university and complete the extension request form. Failure to meet these conditions will result in an automatic refusal of an extension request. Extensions are entirely at my discretion.

Examples of qualifying situations would include military service and debilitating medical conditions that prevent a student from being able to write (such as broken hands). Situations that can be reasonably avoided or do not prevent a student from working on the paper for a significant amount of time do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include having a court date, having car problems, having a minor illness for a short duration, and so on.

An extension will extend the deadline for the paper by a specified amount. This will vary depending on the conditions but will typically match the duration of the impeding situation. In no case will an extension extend the paper deadline beyond my last office hours. Special Extension: A student who faces dire and unexpected circumstances that arise after the extension request deadline but before the paper deadline can make an appeal for a special extension. To qualify for a special extension a student must be in a dire situation that is 1) unavoidable by reasonable means and 2) such that it prevents the student from completing and turning in the paper by the paper deadline. A student must also provide legitimate documentation from the university and complete the extension request form. Failure to meet these conditions will result in an automatic refusal of a special extension request. Special Extensions are at my discretion.

Examples of qualifying situations would include a sudden serious injury or illness requiring an extensive hospital stay or being suddenly called up for National Guard service due to a natural disaster or war. Situations that can reasonable be avoided or that do not prevent a student from completing or turning in the paper do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include minor illnesses, automobile problems or a scheduled court date.

A special extension will extend the deadline for the paper by a specified amount. This will vary depending on the conditions but will typically match the duration of the impeding situation. In no case will a special extension extend the paper deadline beyond the end of the class final.

Paper Extension Request Form Name: Email: Class (for which the extension is requested): Brief Description of Situation (Attach supporting documentation from the university): Relevant Dates of the Situation: Date to which the extension is requested: Signature: Date:

Dr. LaBossiere’s Special Circumstances Form Contact Information Name

Phone

Email

Student ID

Classes (With Dr. LaBossiere)

Description of Circumstances: Please clearly and concisely describe the relevant circumstances. For example: “I will miss at least two tests and one paper in ethics due to being called up by the National Guard.” Do you have documentation for these circumstances? Yes No If “yes”, please provide the documentation. Request: Please specify the request you are making in regards to your special circumstances. Be sure to specify dates where relevant. For example: “I will mail you the paper by the deadline and take the tests by March 15.” Signature/Date

Dr. LaBossiere’ Reply Signature/Date Revised: 12/24/2010

Page 1 of 4

Florida A&M University Course and Number: PHI-1100-001 Critical Inquiry Course Credit: 3 Credit Hours Course Level: Lower Division Prerequisites: None Semester: Fall 2011 Instructor: Dr. Michael C. LaBossiere By remaining enrolled in this class you indicate you have read, understood and accepted this syllabus. There are no exceptions to the policies set in this syllabus. Course Description : Critical Inquiry is designed to introduce students to methods of reasoning, including causal reasoning, fallacy avoidance, and the practical application of critical thinking methods in their personal and private lives. Specifically, students familiarize themselves with a variety of methods of reasoning, including causal reasoning, general inductive reasoning, deductive logic, and methods and principles of explanation. Required Text: 10th (2011) edition of Critical Thinking by Brooke Noel Moore and Richard Parker. Generic teaching competencies and skills addressed: Tests and written assignments in which the students develop and exercise the relevant skills and knowledge; provides exposure to diverse points, to present concepts and principles at different levels of complexity so they are meaningful to all students; represents concepts through a variety of methods, such as analogies, metaphors, models, and concrete materials; utilizes appropriate learning media, computer applications, and other technology to address learning objectives; selects activities that support the critical thinking processes; demonstrates knowledge of applications of computer technology to the teaching of critical inquiry; demonstrates knowledge of methods, concepts and vocabulary; and develops critical philosophic skills. Specific behavioral objectives: The student will define terms, read the text; prepare written assignments, take exams and quizzes; react to class discussion, and learn critical philosophic skills. Teaching Methods: The class combines elements of traditional lecture with active class participation. Traditional teaching methods are supplemented with email support and web based course material as well as interactive, computer based tutorials. Content Objectives Part 1 Part III 1: Critical Thinking Basics 2: Two Kinds of Reasoning 3: Clear Thinking, Critical Thinking, and Clear Writing 10: Thinking Critically About Inductive

Reasoning 4: Credibility 11: Causal Explanation Part II Part IV 5: Persuasion through Rhetoric 8: Categorical Logic 6: More Rhetorical Devices 9: Truth-Functional Logic (partial) 7: More Fallacies Methods of Evaluation: Students are evaluated on the basis of the following- Category Counted/Total Points Each % of Grade Exams 3/4 32 (88-final) 40% (Equal weight) Weekly Quizzes 10/15+ 5 30% (Equal weight) Weekly Assignments 10/25+ 5 30% (equal weight) Exams: The best three count. Make-ups are permitted with the obvious exception of the final. The exams are weighted equally. Quizzes: There will be approximately fifteen quizzes. The best ten count. The others are used as “make up” or “extra” quizzes. Except in the case of extensive absences there are no additional make-ups for quizzes. Each quiz weighs equally. Assignments: There will be approximately twenty five assignments. The best ten count. The other assignments are used as “make up” or “extra” assignments. There are no additional make-ups for assignments. An assignment is due by the end of the class in which it is due. Assignments are NOT accepted via email. The assignments have equal weight. Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59 Office: 203 Tucker Hall Phone: (850) 561-2839 Email: [email protected], [email protected] Office Hours: Monday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Wednesday: 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20, 4:25-5:35 Friday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Additional Course Material: Notes and supplementary materials are available at General Polices (see www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/ faq.html for additional information).


Page 2 of 4 Academic Honor Policy: This class complies with the university academic honor policy. After the Semester: When the semester is over, it is over. No extra credit, retakes of exams, turning in of late papers or any other such things are allowed. This does not apply to incompletes. Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Students are fully responsible for any work, notes, announcements, or other information from missed classes. Behavior: Behavior that disrupts the class or interferes with the learning process will not be tolerated. Cancelled Classes: If a class is cancelled (for any reason) any scheduled exam or any work due will be rescheduled for the next class. If classes are cancelled for an extended period of time, then special arrangements will be made. Changed Class Room or Time: If the class room or time is changed by the Registrar or another FAMU official, it is your responsibility to learn the new location. First, look for a sign listing the new room or, if there is another class there, ask the instructor. Second, check my office door or the web site for the new room. Third, call me during my office hours or email me. If you missed a test/quiz/assignment or did not turn in a paper “because” of the room change, the following policy applies: For quizzes and assignments the "make-ups" are built in -hence there is no special make-up for them. If the test date was the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to make it up. If a paper was due in the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to turn the paper in without a late penalty. Otherwise the normal rules apply. Cheating: Cheating, in any form, will not be tolerated. Anyone caught cheating will be treated accordingly. Children in the Class: I have been informed that it is against state law for students to bring children to class. Students are required to comply with this law. Compliance: The University’s Americans with Disabilities ACT Policy Statement and the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement can be viewed at www.famu.edu. This class is taught in compliance with these policies. Enrollment: Students who are not enrolled in the class will not receive a grade. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she is properly enrolled in the class. If you expect to be reinstated do not simply stop attending class-contact me as soon as possible Excuses: I only accept legitimate, official excuses, such as those from coaches and Deans’ offices. Unofficial excuses (such as doctor’s notes, letters from relatives or employers) and photocopies are not acceptable. You only need an excuse if you miss a test or have extensive absences (see below). Students are required to provide any excuse within ten (10) days of the last day of the absence. In any case, any excuse must be provided prior to the end of the semester. Extensive absences: A student who has an extensive number of excused absences and elects to not withdraw from the class must meet with me to discuss the situation within one week of the student’s return to class. Failure to do so results in a non-negotiable “O” on all missed work. Any extensive makeup work takes place entirely at my discretion. Email: Be sure that your email address is up to date on iRattler. Important information about the class will be provided via email. Grade Discussion: I will not discuss individual grades during class time. Such discussions take place during my office hours. A grade discussion can never result in a lowered grade (unless the discussion reveals that cheating or plagiarism has taken place). Grade Information: Grades cannot be given by phone or posted in public. Grade reports can be sent via SASE, email, or given in person. Grades are also posted on a secure web site. Use the “check your grades” link on the class web site. You will need to get your ID and password from me. You are expected to check your grades regularly online. You are required to check your grades on the website or during my office hours at least twice-once during the midterm week and once in the last week of classes prior to my last office hours. You are required to report any discrepancies immediately and supply the relevant evidence. If you fail to inform me of a discrepancy and provide the supporting evidence by the time I turn in my grades for the semester, the grade(s) will not be changed. Grade Averages: The averages shown on the grade reports are not accurate until all the grades have been entered. This is because I have set the software to drop the lowest scores (see above) and this will result in an inaccurate average until all the grades are entered. For example, if three tests have been given, but you only took two and scored 70% on both, then your average would be listed as 70%. However, your real average would be 46.7%, since the 0 would be dropped when the average was calculated.. Be sure that you know your correct average before making decisions relating to the course (such as deciding not to take a test). Incompletes: Requirements: 1) At least half the course work has been completed. 2) The minimum requirements have not been completed. 3) The student has at least a “C” average for the completed work. 4) The failure to complete the work is not the student’s fault. 5) Valid, signed excuses from his/her dean’s office must be provided. 6) The student must make the request no later than one week prior to my last office hours. 7)The student must complete the incomplete form and have it approved by me no later than the end of my last officer hours. You must meet all these requirements to qualify for an incomplete. Make-ups: Requirements: 1) A valid excuse covering the relevant date must be provided when the make up is taken. 2) The make up for a test must be completed by the date of the next test. 3) The make up must be taken during my office hours. Failure to meet the conditions will result in a non-negotiable grade of “0” for the work. There are no make ups for quizzes or assignments. In no case will make up work be permitted after the end of the semester. Mercy: Each student has one nontransferable “Mercy.” The mercy can be used once and only once, but may be used in one of three ways: an excuse, the Mercy Quiz, or the Mercy Assignment. To use your “Mercy” as an excuse simply tell me you are doing so when


Page 3 of 4 you arrive to make up the exam. If you do not use the Mercy, it is automatically scored as either a quiz or assignment (but not both) based on whichever gives you the better grade. Mobile Phones & Other Devices: Please put your mobile phone and other communication devices on silent ring. If you must take a call during class, please leave the room quietly and go far enough away that your conversation does not distract others. You can use a PDA or laptop during normal class (not during exams), provided that your activity is not distracting or annoying. Returned Work: You are expected to pick up your work when it is returned. Quizzes and assignments that are not picked up when they are returned will be discarded. Unclaimed exams will be kept in my office for one year. If you wish to dispute a grade, you are required to present the work in question. Test Policy: During exams you must clear your desktop of all items except your pen or pencil. Mobile phones and other communication devices are to be turned off unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact (for example, you are a police officer). If you use a mobile phone or other communication device during an exam, then this will be considered cheating and you will receive a grade of zero (0) on the exam (unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact, the call is one you are legitimately obligated to take and you have supplied legitimate documentation prior to the exam). The Last Day: All class related business (except the final) must be completed by the end of my office hours on the last day I hold my regular office hours. This will be in the last week of classes, not finals week. I do not hold office hours during finals week. Two Point Adjustment: Each student enrolled in Critical Thinking will receive an adjustment of +1 to one scoring quiz and +1 to one scoring assignment as a minor means of compensating for the lack of +/- on the grading scale (yes, it can actually make a difference). Unusual/Special Circumstances: Reasonable accommodations will be made for all legitimate circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to make me aware of such relevant circumstances as soon as possible. Do not wait until the end of the semester! A form is provided with this syllabus for requesting special accommodations for special circumstances. Schedule (Subject to Revision) Exam #1: September 21 Exam #3: November 16 Deadline to Make Up Exam 1: October 19 Last Class: December 9 Exam #2: October 19 Last Office Hours: December 9 Deadline to Make Up Exam 2: November 16 Final Exam: Thursday December 15 3:00-5:00 Academic Learning Compact Students will refer to the ALC page for additional information. http://www.famu.edu/assessment/ In accord with the ALC students enrolled in critical inquiry will: 1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation and evaluation will be via the written assignments. 2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. The entire course focuses on critical thinking. Evaluation will take place via assignments, tests and quizzes. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via assignments, tests and quizzes. 4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to role of diversity in critical thinking and assessed via tests and quizzes. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking. In fact, the entire class is about critical thinking. Really.

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Phone

Email

Student ID




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Florida A&M University

COURSE NO. AND TITLE: PHI-3601 Ethics COURSE CREDIT: 3 Credit Hours COURSE LEVEL: Advanced PRE-REQUISITES: None Semester: Fall 2011 Instructor: Dr. Michael C. LaBossiere By remaining enrolled in this class you indicate you have read, understood and accepted this syllabus. There are no exceptions to the policies set in this syllabus. Course description: Ethics is designed to introduce students to ethical theories, specifically contemporary and historic ethical theories, critical terminology, and the practical application of philosophical techniques and critical approaches. Specifically, students familiarize themselves with a diverse collection of approaches to ethics, including historical, feminist, and non-western approaches. Through examination of the theories through both print and technological means, students study critically various approaches to ethics and present written critical analyses of primary sources. Required Text : Students are required to have the course readings and paper information. These are available in electronic format at http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com. Alternatively, a student can bring a blank CD-R/CD-RW or a USB disk key in during my office hours. Content Objectives (subject to revision) I Ethical Reasoning Excepts from The Bible Being & Becoming Good Duties Towards Animals, Kant Introduction Euthyphro, Plato The Ring of Gyges, Plato IV Rights & Liberty Ethical Reasoning Consequentialism Moral Education Aristotle Rights II Ethical Theory Ethical Egoism, Hobbes Emile, Rousseau Of the State of Men without Civil

Society, Hobbes Introduction Utilitarianism, Mill Equality Two Treatises of Government, Locke Virtue Theory Deontology The Rights of Women,

Wollstonecraft Obedience & Liberty

Analects & Doctrine of the Mean, Confucius

Categorical Imperative, Kant

I have a Dream, King Crito, Plato

Virtue, Aristotle Ethical Relativism Animals On the Duty of Civil Disobedience, Thoreau

Ethics & Religion Custom is King, Herodotus Killing, Aquinas Fascism, Mussolini Summa Theologica, Aquinas

III Goodness & Equality The Automatism of Animals, Descartes

Liberty, Mill

Generic teaching competencies and skills addressed Tests and written assignments in which the students develop and exercise the relevant skills and knowledge; provides exposure to diverse points, to present concepts and principles at different levels of complexity so they are meaningful to all students; represents concepts through a variety of methods, such as analogies, metaphors, models, and concrete materials; utilizes appropriate learning media, computer applications, and other technology to address learning objectives; selects activities that support the critical thinking processes; demonstrates knowledge of applications of computer technology to the teaching of ethics; demonstrates knowledge of methods, concepts and vocabulary; and develops critical philosophic skills. Specific behavioral objectives: The students read the text, prepare written assignments, take exams and quizzes; react to class discussion, and learn critical philosophic skills. Teaching Methods: The class combines elements of traditional lecture with active class participation. Traditional teaching methods are supplemented with email support and web based course material. Methods of Evaluation: Students are evaluated on the basis of the following- Category Counted/Total Points Each % of Grade Paper 1/1 100 30% Exams 3/4 32 40% Weekly Quizzes 10/15+ 5 30% Paper: There is no make-up for the paper. The paper is governed by additional polices (see below). Exams: The best three count. Make-ups are permitted with the obvious exception of the final. Quizzes: There will be approximately fifteen quizzes. The best ten count. The others are used as “make up” or “extra” quizzes. There are no additional make-ups for quizzes. Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59

http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com/�

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Office: 203 Tucker Hall Phone: (850) 561-2839 Email: [email protected], [email protected] Office Hours: Monday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Wednesday: 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20, 4:25-5:35 Friday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Additional Course Material: Notes and supplementary materials are available at http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com General Polices (see http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com for additional information). Academic Honor Policy: This class complies with the university academic honor policy. After the Semester: When the semester is over, it is over. No extra credit, retakes of exams, turning in of late papers or any other such things are allowed. This does not apply to incompletes. Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Students are fully responsible for any work, notes, announcements, or other information from missed classes. Behavior: Behavior that disrupts the class or interferes with the learning process will not be tolerated. Cancelled Classes: If a class is cancelled (for any reason) any scheduled exam or any work due will be rescheduled for the next class. If classes are cancelled for an extended period of time, then special arrangements will be made. Changed Class Room or Time: If the class room or time is changed by the Registrar or another FAMU official, it is your responsibility to learn the new location. First, look for a sign listing the new room or, if there is another class there, ask the instructor. Second, check my office door or the web site for the new room. Third, call me during my office hours or email me. If you missed a test/quiz/assignment or did not turn in a paper “because” of the room change, the following policy applies: For quizzes and assignments the "make-ups" are built in -hence there is no special make-up for them. If the test date was the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to make it up. If a paper was due in the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to turn the paper in without a late penalty. Otherwise the normal rules apply. Cheating: Cheating, in any form, will not be tolerated. Anyone caught cheating will be treated accordingly. Children in the Class: I have been informed that it is against state law for students to bring children to class. Students are required to comply with this law. Compliance: The University’s Americans with Disabilities ACT Policy Statement and the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement can be viewed at www.famu.edu. This class is taught in compliance with these policies. Email: Be sure that your email address is up to date on iRattler. Important information about the class will be provided via email. Enrollment: Students who are not enrolled in the class will not receive a grade. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she is properly enrolled in the class. If you expect to be reinstated do not simply stop attending class-contact me as soon as possible Excuses: I only accept legitimate, official excuses, such as those from coaches and Deans’ offices. Unofficial excuses (such as doctor’s notes, letters from relatives or employers) and photocopies are not acceptable. You only need an excuse if you miss a test or have extensive absences (see below). Students are required to provide any excuse within ten (10) days of the last day of the absence. In any case, any excuse must be provided prior to the end of the semester. Extensive absences: A student who has an extensive number of excused absences and elects to not withdraw from the class must meet with me to discuss the situation within one week of the student’s return to class. Failure to do so results in a non-negotiable “O” on all missed work. Any extensive makeup work takes place entirely at my discretion. Five Point Bonus: Each student will receive a +5 point bonus on his/her final paper grade. Grade Discussion: I will not discuss individual grades during class time. Such discussions take place during my office hours. A grade discussion can never result in a lowered grade (unless the discussion reveals that cheating or plagiarism has taken place). Grade Information: Grades cannot be given by phone or posted in public. Grade reports can be sent via SASE, email, or given in person. Grades are also posted on a secure web site. Use the “check your grades” link on the class web site. You will need to get your ID and password from me. You are expected to check your grades regularly online. You are required to check your grades on the website or during my office hours at least twice-once during the midterm week and once in the last week of classes prior to my last office hours. You are required to report any discrepancies immediately and supply the relevant evidence. If you fail to inform me of a discrepancy and fail to provide the supporting evidence by the end of the final exam, the grade(s) will not be changed. Grade Averages: The averages shown on the grade reports are not accurate until all the grades have been entered. This is because I have set the software to drop the lowest scores (see above) and this will result in an inaccurate average until all the grades are entered. For example, if three tests have been given, but you only took two and scored 70% on both, then your average would be listed as 70%. However, your real average would be 46.7%, since the 0 would be dropped when the average was calculated. Be sure that you know your correct average before making decisions relating to the course (such as deciding not to take a test). Near the end of the semester I will “zero out” the remaining grades so as to provide a possible “worst case” grade scenario.





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Incompletes: Requirements: 1) At least half the course work has been completed. 2) The minimum requirements have not been completed. 3) The student has at least a “C” average for the completed work. 4) The failure to complete the work is not the student’s fault. 5) Valid, signed excuses from his/her dean’s office must be provided. 6) The student must make the request no later than one week prior to my last office hours. 7)The student must complete the incomplete form and have it approved by me no later than the end of my last officer hours. You must meet all these requirements to qualify for an incomplete. Make-ups: Requirements: 1) A valid excuse covering the relevant date must be provided when the make up is taken. 2) The make up for a test must be completed by the date of the next test. 3) The make up must be taken during my office hours. Failure to meet the conditions will result in a non-negotiable grade of “0” for the work. There are no make ups for quizzes or assignments. Papers are either late or on time. In no case will make up work be permitted after the end of the semester. Mercy: Each student has one nontransferable “Mercy.” The mercy can be used once and only once. One use is as an excused absence to make up one test that was missed. Simply tell me you are using your mercy when you arrive to take the make up. The second use is to allow a paper to be turned in on the appropriate mercy deadline date. If you do not use your Mercy, it automatically becomes the “extra” 100% grade on the mercy quiz-there is no need to tell me to count it as this quiz. If you use the mercy, you do not get that bonus. Mobile Phones & Other Devices: Please put your mobile phone and other communication devices on silent ring. If you must take a call during class, please leave the room quietly and go far enough away that your conversation does not distract others. You can use a PDA or laptop during normal class (not during exams), provided that your activity is not distracting or annoying. Paper: There are additional polices covering the paper. These are specified in the files for the paper. Students are required to be familiar with this information. Ignorance of these polices is no excuse. Returned Work: You are expected to pick up your work when it is returned. Quizzes that are not picked up when they are returned will be discarded. Unclaimed exams and papers will be kept in my office for one year. If you wish to dispute a grade, you are required to present the work in question. Test Policy: During exams you must clear your desktop of all items except your pen or pencil. Mobile phones and other communication devices are to be turned off unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact (for example, you are a police officer). If you use a mobile phone or other communication device during an exam, then this will be considered cheating and you will receive a grade of zero (0) on the exam (unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact, the call is one you are legitimately obligated to take and you have supplied legitimate documentation prior to the exam). The Last Day: All class related business (except the final) must be completed by the end of my office hours on the last day I hold my regular office hours. This will be in the last week of classes, not finals week. I do not hold office hours during finals week. Unusual/Special Circumstances: Reasonable accommodations will be made for all legitimate circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to make me aware of such relevant circumstances as soon as possible. Do not wait until the end of the semester! A form is provided with this syllabus for requesting special accommodations for special circumstances. Academic Learning Compact for Ethics : Students will refer to the ALC page for additional information. http://www.famu.edu/assessment/ In accord with the ALC students enrolled Ethics will: 1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation will be via written papers and evaluation will be via appropriate rubrics. 2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. Students will receive training in argumentation and philosophical reasoning. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via appropriate rubrics. 4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to a diversity of philosophical views. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 5. Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and ethical reasoning.

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Schedule (subject to revision) Exam #1: September 21 Paper Deadline: November 16 Draft Due: October 5 Mercy Paper Deadline: November 18 Deadline to Make Up Exam 1: October 19 50% Grade Paper Deadline: December 5 Exam #2: October 19 Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline: December 7 Extension Request Deadline: November 9 Last Class: December 9 Draft Deadline: November 14 Last Office Hours: December 9 Deadline to Make Up Exam 2: November 16 Final Exam MWF Class: Friday December 16, 10:00-12:00 Exam #3: November 16 Final Exam W Night Class: Wednesday December 14, 5:45-7:45


There are various due dates and deadlines for the paper. Each is specified below. Draft Due Date: This is the day the paper draft is due. The drafts will be collected, commented on and graded. The draft grade will be entered as a “temporary” grade. This grade will be replaced by the rewrite grade, assuming the grade on the final version of the paper is better (and assuming that plagiarism does not occur). Paper drafts can be turned in before this due date. Draft Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a draft. Papers turned in after this date will be considered final revisions and will be graded as such. Any number of drafts can be turned in prior to this date and these will be commented on and graded. The draft deadline cannot be extended. Before the deadline drafts can be turned in during my office hours or class. On the deadline date drafts must be turned in before the end of my last office hours that day and will be reviewed until the end of those office hours. Drafts that have not been reviewed by that point will be treated as final drafts. Paper Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a paper and receive full credit. This deadline can be extended by receiving an extension (or special extension) or by expending your mercy. “Normal” excuses DO NOT extend the deadline and will not be accepted. See below for the details on extensions. I must receive the paper by the end of class or the end of my office hours that day, whichever is later. Mercy Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive full credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: This is the last date to turn in a paper and receive 50% credit. The only way to extend this deadline is to expend your mercy (see below). Papers turned in after this date will receive a 0. If you have a draft paper grade and it is higher than the 50% grade on the final version, than the draft paper grade will score as your paper grade (except in cases involving plagiarism). I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive 50% credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. I’m So Confused!: Here is the simple version: 1) Turn in your draft on or before the draft deadline if you want comments on your paper so you can rewrite it. 2) Turn in the paper on or before the paper deadline if you want full credit. 4) Turn in the paper on or before the 50% paper deadline if you want half credit. 5) Turn in the paper after the 50% paper deadline if you want a zero. Paper Extensions & Excuses



Examples of qualifying situations would include military service and debilitating medical conditions that prevent a student from being able to write (such as broken hands). Situations that can be reasonably avoided or do not prevent a student from working on

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the paper for a significant amount of time do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include having a court date, having car problems, having a minor illness for a short duration, and so on.




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Dr. LaBossiere’s Special Circumstances Form

Contact Information Name

Phone

Email

Student ID




College/School : College of Arts & Sciences

Major : Philosophy & Religion

Degree Program: B.A.

Academic Year: Fall 2008 - Spring 2009

University Goal

Goal #3 Academic Improvement - To provide distinction quality undergraduate and graduate educational experience based on challenging academic standards and exposure to new technologies.

Program Mission/Goals

Graduates with a major in Philosophy and Religion will: 1.Demonstrate proficiency in written communication 2.Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. 3.Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophyand/or Religion. (Choice depends on track). This includes ethical values, of course. 4.Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views.

Outcome # 1

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate competence in critical thinking.

Ascertain Criteria for Success Direct

Direct Measure 80% of the students will pass the analytic section of the CLAST.

Indirect

Direct Measure 80% of the students will pass the analytic section of the CLAST.

Measure Performance Direct

Direct Measure The analytic section of the CLAST.

Indirect

Indirect Measure Assessment of papers, exercises and other written and oral work in classes.

Observe and Summarize Results Direct

Over 80% of the students passed the analytic section of the CLAST or were exempt from the class (taken as passing). This only includes the students who took the CLAST.

Indirect

The results of the indirect measures proved to be comparable with the general findings of the university in regards to critical thinking. While many students showed average of bettercompetence in critical thinking skills, there is clearly considerable room for improvement. However, there was an overall improvement from last year, indicating that the emphasis oncritical thinking has had an impact. The QEP focus on Critical Thinking should also provide improvements in this area.

Use Results for Improvement While students have reported success on the analytic section of the CLAST, the indirect measures show a clear need for improvement in student abilities and skills. The informationprovided in the context of the QEP has also provided very useful information. These results have been used to improve the program by providing clear evidence of a need to focuseven more on critical thinking skills and developing more effective means of educating students in critical thinking. Some specific examples include developing online tutorials to provideadditional assistance in critical thinking skills (especially logic) and enhancing assignments and course material in order to greater enhance the students’ knowledge and skills.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) While the development of improved methods of teaching critical thinking continue, one concrete focus of the program is to assist the English and History departments in their centralrole in the QEP critical thinking enhancement. Within the program itself, there is the ongoing enhancement of assignments, teaching methodologies and the application of technologicalmeans (especially the internet).

Outcome # 2

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate proficiency in written communication


Direct Measure 80% of the students will pass the writing section of the CLAST.

Indirect

Indirect Measure 80% of students will be able to produce competent research papers for an academic audience.


Direct Measure The writing section of the CLAST.

Indirect

Indirect Measure 80% of students produced competent research papers for an academic audience.


Based on student reports, the desired results have been achieved. The majority of the students report either passing the class, being exempt from the clast or that they have not yettaken the CLAST.

Indirect

While the majority of students produced papers of average competence in regards to written communication, there is still room for improvement.

Use Results for Improvement As noted above, while the majority of the students have written communication skills of average or above, there is still room for improvement. In order to improve these skills,assignments and teaching methods are undergoing regular revision and enhancement in order to facilitate an improvement in these skills.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The plan is strengthened by continuing to enhance and revise existing writing assignments, by creating new ones, and by improving teaching methodology and assessment. Forexample, writing assignments have been revised in accord with a carefully developed rubric that provides both an optimal means of assessment as well as a clear set of goals for thestudent when writing.

Outcome # 3

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate understanding of ethical values.


80% of the students will demonstrate their understanding of ethical values via a survey.

Indirect

80% of the students will demonstrate an understanding of ethical values in the relevant class work (papers, etc.)


Course work relating to ethical values.

Indirect

Use of an exit survey.


As measured by papers and assignments relating to ethics, the majority of the students showed average or better competence in ethical reasoning. This assessment is based on anethics rubric that is undergoing additional revision in the light of the current results. Further, the number of cases of plagiarism and other ethical violations in the academic context hasdecreased from previous years, thus showing positive results.

Indirect

The majority of the students surveyed claimed that they had avaerage or better understanding of ethical value.

Use Results for Improvement The general success in regards to ethical values shows that additional progress will be more challenging. However, there is still room to improve the program. First, assignments relatingto ethics will be further refined by developing and enhancing rubrics so as to be able to better assess the results and to provide the students with an even clearer understanding of theobjectives in regards to this goal. Further, education about and enforcement of the standards of academic conduct will continue.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The action plan will be enhanced by continuing to refine and enhance the methods of education and assessment as it relates to ethical values. Specifically, the emphasis on developingand enhancing rubrics will continue as will research into new methodologies of education and assessment. The emphasis on student education in regards to ethical academic conduct willalso continue.

College/School : College of Arts & Sciences

Major : Philosophy & Religion

Degree Program: B.A.

Academic Year: Fall 2009 - Spring 2010

University Goal


Program Mission/Goals

The goals are to achieve the expected outcomes.

Outcome # 1

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate proficiency in written communication


80% of students will be able to produce competent research papers for an academic audience.

Indirect

80% of students will demonstrate competence indirectly.


Direct assessment of coursework.

Indirect

Indirect assessment via an online survey


At least 80% of students produced competent research papers for an academic audience.

Indirect

91% of students surveyed reported that their competence in written communication was average or better. 78% of students surveyed reported that their philosophy/religion class(es)improved their competence in written communication.

Use Results for Improvement Increased emphasis has been placed on proper writing and research techniques.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The plan is to continue to assist the students in their written communication skills.

Outcome # 2

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate competence in critical thinking.


80% of students can create and evaluate arguments.

Indirect

80% of Students will indirectly show competence in critical thinking as indirectly measured by an online survey.


Direct assessment of coursework.

Indirect

Online survey.


At least 80% of students can create and evaluate arguments.

Indirect

94% of students surveyed reported that their competence in critical thinking was at the average level or better. 81% of students surveyed reported that their competence in criticalthinking improved because of their philosophy/religion class(es).

Use Results for Improvement More emphasis was placed on critical thinking methods in classes, including adding formals sections on the relevant critical thinking skills (for example, moral reasoning).

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The critical thinking content in unit classes will continue to be revised and enhanced, thus strengthening the program.

Outcome # 3

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. (Choice depends on track)


80 % of students will successful identify, explain, and apply theoretical systems and the works of associated thinkers in the fields of philosophy and/or religion on written exams

Indirect

Students will be able to discuss and evaluate theorists and theoretical systems.


The students written and oral work will be examined.

Indirect

The students class discussion will be evaluated. Online surveys will also be used.


At least 80 % of students were able to successful identify, explain, and apply theoretical systems and the works of associated thinkers in the fields of philosophy and/or religion onwritten exams

Indirect

87% of the students surveyed reported a competence level of average or better in this area. 92% of the students surveyed reported that their philosophy/religion class(es) improvedtheir competence in this area. At least 80% of the students showed competence levels of average or above via evaluation.

Use Results for Improvement More emphasis was placed on critical thinking methods in classes, including adding formal sections on the relevant critical thinking skills (for example, moral reasoning).

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The critical thinking content in unit classes will continue to be revised and enhanced, thus strengthening the program.

Outcome # 4

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views


80% percent of students will demonstrate the ability to answer questions on written exams which ask them to imagine that they assume world views other than their own.

Indirect

80% percent of students will be able to discuss questions by imagining that they hold view other their own. At least 80% of students surveyed will have an average or greater level ofcompetence in this area.


Written exams.

Indirect

Class discussion and online surveys.


At least 80% percent of students demonstrated the ability to answer questions on written exams which ask them to imagine that they assume world views other than their own.

Indirect

At least 80% percent of students were able to discuss questions by imagining that they hold view other their own 96% of students surveyed reported that they have a competence levelof average or better in this area. 85% of students surveyed reported that their philosophy/religion class(es) improved their competence in this area.

Use Results for Improvement More emphasis was placed on diversity in classes, including adding special focus on world views.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The relevant content in unit classes will continue to be revised and enhanced, thus strengthening the program.

Outcome # 5

Formulate Outcome Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion.


At least 80% of students will demonstrate the ability to use primary and secondary material in compiling original research papers.

Indirect

At least 80% of students will be able to orally defend their research. At least 80% of students surveyed will report a competence level of average or better.


Research papers.

Indirect

Verbal defense of research and online surveys.


At least 80% of students demonstrated the ability to use primary and secondary material in compiling original research papers.

Indirect

At least 80% of students were able to orally defend their research. 89% of the students surveyed reported a competence level of average or above 73% of the students reported thatthe competence in this area increased due to their philosophy/religion class(es).

Use Results for Improvement Additional emphasis has been placed in training students in proper research techniques as well as the ability to engage in original writing in the field.

Strengthen Program (Action Plan) The classes in the unit will continue to be improved to assist the students in achieving this goal.

IP = Instructional Program UO/Aug 2004

1

FAMU ASSESSMENT PLANNING FORM _ IP

SECTION I _ GENERAL INFORMATION

Degree Program Philosophy and Religion (includes Philosophy track and Religion track)

College/School Arts and Sciences

Contact Person Dr. David Felder

Date Submitted, Columns 1-3 October 21, 2004

Date Submitted, Columns 4-5

Date Submitted, Columns 6

SECTION II_ INSTITUTIONAL MISSION/GOALS CONNECTION

Column 1

Excerpt(s) Citing Linkage to University Mission Statement:

Excerpt(s) Citing Linkage to University Goal (s)

Statements:


Program Mission /Goals/Outcomes

Graduates with a major in Philosophy and Religion will: 1.Demonstrate proficiency in written communication 2.Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. 3.Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. (Choice depends on track) 4.Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. 5.Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion.


2

EXPECTED EDUCATIONAL OUTCOME #1

Column 2 Outcome: Demonstrate proficiency in written communication

Column 3 Criteria for Success & Methods

of Assessment

Quantitative Measure 80% of the students will pass the writing section of the CLAST. Qualitative Measure 80% of students will be able to produce competent research papers for an academic audience.

Column 4 Summary of Results

Column 5 Use of Results (Implemented)

Column 6 Strengthening Program Action Plan


Column 2 Outcome: Demonstrate competence in critical thinking.

Column 3 Criteria for Success & Methods of Assessment

Quantitative Measure Quantitative Measure 80% of the students will pass the analytic section of the CLAST. Qualitative Measure Students can create and evaluate arguments.


Quantitative Measure Qualitative Measure

Column 5 Use of Results (Implemented



3


Column 2 Outcome Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. (Choice depends on track)


Quantitative Measure 80 % of students will successful identify, explain,,and apply theoretical systems and the works of associated thinkers in the fields of philosophy and/or religion on written exams Qualitative Measure Students will be able to discuss and evaluate theorists and theoretical systems.



Column 5 Use of Results (Implemented



4


Column 2 Outcome Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views


Quantitative Measure 80% percent of students will demonstrate the ability to answer questions on written exams which ask them to imagine that they assume world views other than their own. Qualitative Measure 80% percent of students will be able to discuss questions by imagining that they hold view other their own.






5


Column 2 Outcome Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion.


Quantitative Measure 80% of students will demonstrate the ability to use primary and secondary material in compiling original research papers. Qualitative Measure 80% of students will be able to orally defend their research.





Page 1 of 6

Florida A&M University COURSE NO. AND TITLE: PHI-2010 Intro to Philosophy COURSE CREDIT: 3 Credit Hours COURSE LEVEL: Introductory PRE-REQUISITES: None Semester: Fall 2011 Instructor: Dr. Michael C. LaBossiere By remaining enrolled in this class you indicate you have read, understood and accepted this syllabus. Course description: Introduction to philosophy is designed to introduce students to philosophical theories, specifically contemporary and historic theories, critical terminology, and the practical application of philosophical techniques and critical approaches. Specifically, students familiarize themselves with a diverse collection of approaches to philosophy. Through examination of the theories through both print and technological means, students study critically various approaches to philosophy and present written critical analyses of primary sources. Required Text : Students are required to have the course readings and paper information. These are available in electronic format at http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com. Alternatively, a student can bring a blank CD-R/CD-RW or a USB disk key in during my office hours. Content Objectives (subject to revision) Part I Introduction The Wager, Pascal Part IV Value Introduction Part III Epistemology & Metaphysics Introduction-Ethics Writing Philosophy Papers Introduction-Epistemology Utilitarianism, Mill Origin of Western Philosophy The Analogy of the Cave, Plato The Categorical Imperative, Kant The Apology, Plato First Meditation, Descartes Introduction-Aesthetics Part II Philosophy & Religion Introduction-Metaphysics The New Aesthetics, Wilde Introduction Personal Identity, Locke Political & Social Philosophy The Ontological Argument, St. Anselm

Personal Identity, Hume Fascism, Mussolini

The Five Ways, St. Aquinas No Self Doctrine, Buddha On Liberty, Mill Arguments for God’s Existence, Leibniz Ghosts & Minds, LaBossiere Anarchism, Goldman God and Evil, Hume Meeting Yourself, LaBossiere Immortality, Hume Taoist Metaphysics, Lao Tzu Refutation of the Ontological Argument, Kant

Generic teaching competencies and skills addressed Tests and written assignments in which the students develop and exercise the relevant skills and knowledge; provides exposure to diverse points, to present concepts and principles at different levels of complexity so they are meaningful to all students; represents concepts through a variety of methods, such as analogies, metaphors, models, and concrete materials; utilizes appropriate learning media, computer applications, and other technology to address learning objectives; selects activities that support the critical thinking processes; demonstrates knowledge of applications of computer technology to the teaching of ethics; demonstrates knowledge of methods, concepts and vocabulary; and develops critical philosophic skills. Specific behavioral objectives: The students read the text, prepare written assignments, take exams and quizzes; react to class discussion, and learn critical philosophic skills. Teaching Methods: The class combines elements of traditional lecture with active class participation. Traditional teaching methods are supplemented with email support and web based course material. Methods of Evaluation: Students are evaluated on the basis of the following- Category Counted/Total Points Each % of Grade Papers 1/1 100 30% Exams 3/4 32 40% Weekly Quizzes 10/15+ 5 30% Paper: There is no make-up for the paper. The paper is governed by additional polices (see below). Exams: The best three count. Make-ups are permitted with the obvious exception of the final. Quizzes: There will be approximately fifteen quizzes. The best ten count. The others are used as “make up” or “extra” quizzes. There are no additional make-ups for quizzes.


Page 2 of 6 Grade Scale Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59 References, Supplemental Materials and Student Support Available Office: 203 Tucker Hall Phone: (850) 561-2839 Email: [email protected], [email protected] Office Hours: Monday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Wednesday: 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20, 4:25-5:35 Friday 11:00-12:15, 1:15-2:20 Additional Course Material: Notes and supplementary materials are available at http://www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html General Polices (see http://mclphilosophy.wordpress.com for additional information). Academic Honor Policy: This class complies with the university academic honor policy. After the Semester: When the semester is over, it is over. No extra credit, retakes of exams, turning in of late papers or any other such things are allowed. This does not apply to incompletes. Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Students are fully responsible for any work, notes, announcements, or other information from missed classes. Behavior: Behavior that disrupts the class or interferes with the learning process will not be tolerated. Cancelled Classes: If a class is cancelled (for any reason) any scheduled exam or any work due will be rescheduled for the next class. If classes are cancelled for an extended period of time, then special arrangements will be made. Changed Class Room or Time: If the class room or time is changed by the Registrar or another FAMU official, it is your responsibility to learn the new location. First, look for a sign listing the new room or, if there is another class there, ask the instructor. Second, check my office door or the web site for the new room. Third, call me during my office hours or email me. If you missed a test/quiz/assignment or did not turn in a paper “because” of the room change, the following policy applies: For quizzes and assignments the "make-ups" are built in -hence there is no special make-up for them. If the test date was the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to make it up. If a paper was due in the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to turn the paper in without a late penalty. Otherwise the normal rules apply. Cheating: Cheating, in any form, will not be tolerated. Anyone caught cheating will be treated accordingly. Children in the Class: I have been informed that it is against state law for students to bring children to class. Students are required to comply with this law. Compliance: The University’s Americans with Disabilities ACT Policy Statement and the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement can be viewed at www.famu.edu. This class is taught in compliance with these policies. Email: Be sure that your email address is up to date on iRattler. Important information about the class will be provided via email. Enrollment: Students who are not enrolled in the class will not receive a grade. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she is properly enrolled in the class. If you expect to be reinstated do not simply stop attending class-contact me as soon as possible Excuses: I only accept legitimate, official excuses, such as those from coaches and Deans’ offices. Unofficial excuses (such as doctor’s notes, letters from relatives or employers) and photocopies are not acceptable. You only need an excuse if you miss a test or have extensive absences (see below). Students are required to provide any excuse within ten (10) days of the last day of the absence. In any case, any excuse must be provided prior to the end of the semester. Extensive absences: A student who has an extensive number of excused absences and elects to not withdraw from the class must meet with me to discuss the situation within one week of the student’s return to class. Failure to do so results in a non-negotiable “O” on all missed work. Any extensive makeup work takes place entirely at my discretion. Five Point Bonus: Each student will receive a +5 point bonus on his/her final paper grade. Grade Discussion: I will not discuss individual grades during class time. Such discussions take place during my office hours. A grade discussion can never result in a lowered grade (unless the discussion reveals that cheating or plagiarism has taken place). Grade Information: Grades cannot be given by phone or posted in public. Grade reports can be sent via SASE, email, or given in person. Grades are also posted on a secure web site. Use the “check your grades” link on the class web site. You will need to get your ID and password from me. You are expected to check your grades regularly online. You are required to check your grades on the website or during my office hours at least twice-once during the midterm week and once in the last week of classes prior to my last office hours. You are required to report any discrepancies immediately and supply the relevant evidence. If you fail to inform me of a discrepancy and fail to provide the supporting evidence by the end of the final exam, the grade(s) will not be changed.




Page 3 of 6 Grade Averages: The averages shown on the grade reports are not accurate until all the grades have been entered. This is because I have set the software to drop the lowest scores (see above) and this will result in an inaccurate average until all the grades are entered. For example, if three tests have been given, but you only took two and scored 70% on both, then your average would be listed as 70%. However, your real average would be 46.7%, since the 0 would be dropped when the average was calculated. Be sure that you know your correct average before making decisions relating to the course (such as deciding not to take a test). Near the end of the semester I will “zero out” the remaining grades so as to provide a possible “worst case” grade scenario. Incompletes: Requirements: 1) At least half the course work has been completed. 2) The minimum requirements have not been completed. 3) The student has at least a “C” average for the completed work. 4) The failure to complete the work is not the student’s fault. 5) Valid, signed excuses from his/her dean’s office must be provided. 6) The student must make the request no later than one week prior to my last office hours. 7)The student must complete the incomplete form and have it approved by me no later than the end of my last officer hours. You must meet all these requirements to qualify for an incomplete. Make-ups: Requirements: 1) A valid excuse covering the relevant date must be provided when the make up is taken. 2) The make up for a test must be completed by the date of the next test. 3) The make up must be taken during my office hours. Failure to meet the conditions will result in a non-negotiable grade of “0” for the work. There are no make ups for quizzes or assignments. Papers are either late or on time. In no case will make up work be permitted after the end of the semester. Mercy: Each student has one nontransferable “Mercy.” The mercy can be used once and only once. One use is as an excused absence to make up one test that was missed. Simply tell me you are using your mercy when you arrive to take the make up. The second use is to allow a paper to be turned in on the appropriate mercy deadline date. If you do not use your Mercy, it automatically becomes the “extra” 100% grade on the mercy quiz-there is no need to tell me to count it as this quiz. If you use the mercy, you do not get that bonus. Mobile Phones & Other Devices: Please put your mobile phone and other communication devices on silent ring. If you must take a call during class, please leave the room quietly and go far enough away that your conversation does not distract others. You can use a PDA or laptop during normal class (not during exams), provided that your activity is not distracting or annoying. Paper: There are additional polices covering the paper. These are specified in the files for the paper. Students are required to be familiar with this information. Ignorance of these polices is no excuse. Returned Work: You are expected to pick up your work when it is returned. Quizzes that are not picked up when they are returned will be discarded. Unclaimed exams and papers will be kept in my office for one year. If you wish to dispute a grade, you are required to present the work in question. Test Policy: During exams you must clear your desktop of all items except your pen or pencil. Mobile phones and other communication devices are to be turned off unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact (for example, you are a police officer). If you use a mobile phone or other communication device during an exam, then this will be considered cheating and you will receive a grade of zero (0) on the exam (unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact, the call is one you are legitimately obligated to take and you have supplied legitimate documentation prior to the exam). The Last Day: All class related business (except the final) must be completed by the end of my office hours on the last day I hold my regular office hours. This will be in the last week of classes, not finals week. I do not hold office hours during finals week. Unusual/Special Circumstances: Reasonable accommodations will be made for all legitimate circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to make me aware of such relevant circumstances as soon as possible. Do not wait until the end of the semester! A form is provided with this syllabus for requesting special accommodations for special circumstances. Academic Learning Compact for Introduction to Philosophy Students will refer to the ALC page for additional information. http://www.famu.edu/assessment/ In accord with the ALC students enrolled in this class will: 1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation will be via written papers and evaluation will be via appropriate rubrics. 2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. Students will receive training in argumentation and philosophical reasoning. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via appropriate rubrics. 4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to a diversity of philosophical views. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 5. Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking. Specifically, the class covers basic logic, argumentative writing and philosophical reasoning.

Page 4 of 6 Schedule (subject to revision) Exam #1: September 21 Deadline to Make Up Exam 2: November 16 Draft Due: September 28 Exam #3: November 16 Deadline to Make Up Exam 1: October 19 50% Grade Paper Deadline: December 5 Exam #2: October 19 Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline: December 7 Extension Request Deadline: November 2 Last Class: December 9 Draft Deadline: November 7 Last Office Hours: December 9 Paper Deadline: November 9 Final Exam: Thursday, December 15, 7:30-9:30am Mercy Paper Deadline: November 14


There are various due dates and deadlines for the paper. Each is specified below. Draft Due Date: This is the day the paper draft is due. The drafts will be collected, commented on and graded. The draft grade will be entered as a “temporary” grade. This grade will be replaced by the rewrite grade, assuming the grade on the final version of the paper is better (and assuming that plagiarism does not occur). Paper drafts can be turned in before this due date. Draft Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a draft. Papers turned in after this date will be considered final revisions and will be graded as such. Any number of drafts can be turned in prior to this date and these will be commented on and graded. The draft deadline cannot be extended. Paper Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a paper and receive full credit. This deadline can be extended by receiving an extension (or special extension) or by expending your mercy. “Normal” excuses DO NOT extend the deadline and will not be accepted. See below for the details on extensions. Mercy Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive full credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: This is the last date to turn in a paper and receive 50% credit. The only way to extend this deadline is to expend your mercy (see below). Papers turned in after this date will receive a 0. If you have a draft paper grade and it is higher than the 50% grade on the final version, than the draft paper grade will score as your paper grade (except in cases involving plagiarism). Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive 50% credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I’m So Confused!: Here is the simple version: 1) Turn in your draft on or before the draft deadline if you want comments on your paper so you can rewrite it. 2) Turn in the paper on or before the paper deadline if you want full credit. 4) Turn in the paper on or before the 50% paper deadline if you want half credit. 5) Turn in the paper after the 50% paper deadline if you want a zero. Paper Extensions & Excuses

Simply providing an excuse will not change the deadlines for you. The following details the policies for requesting an extension. There are no exceptions to these rules. Please do not ask.


Examples of qualifying situations would include military service and debilitating medical conditions that prevent a student from being able to write (such as broken hands). Situations that can be reasonably avoided or do not prevent a student from working on

Page 5 of 6 the paper for a significant amount of time do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include having a court date, having car problems, having a minor illness for a short duration, and so on.

An extension will extend the deadline for the paper by a specified amount. This will vary depending on the conditions but will typically match the duration of the impeding situation.. In no case will an extension extend the paper deadline beyond my last office hours. Special Extension: A student who faces dire circumstances that arise after the extension request deadline but before the paper deadline can make an appeal for a special extension. To qualify for a special extension a student must be in a situation that is 1) unavoidable by reasonable means and 2) such that it prevents the student from completing and turning in the paper by the paper deadline. A student must also provide legitimate documentation from the university and complete the extension request form. Failure to meet these conditions will result in an automatic refusal of a special extension request. Special Extensions are at my discretion.

Examples of qualifying situations would include a sudden serious injury or illness requiring an extensive hospital stay or being suddenly called up for National Guard service due to a natural disaster. Situations that can reasonable be avoided or that do not prevent a student from completing or turning in the paper do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include minor illnesses, automobile problems or a scheduled court date.


Page 6 of 6 Paper Extension Request Form Name: Email: Class (for which the extension is requested): Brief Description of Situation (Attach supporting documentation from the university): Relevant Dates of the Situation: Date to which the extension is requested: Signature: Date:

Florida A&M University COURSE NO. AND TITLE: PHI-3400 Modern Philosophy COURSE CREDIT: 3 Credit Hours COURSE LEVEL: Advanced PRE-REQUISITES: None Semester: Spring 2011 Instructor: Dr. Michael C. LaBossiere By remaining enrolled in this class you indicate you have read, understood and accepted this syllabus. There are no exceptions to the policies set in this syllabus.

Course description: Modern Philosophy is designed to introduce students to the thinkers of the modern era, specifically historic theories, critical terminology, and the practical application of philosophical techniques and critical approaches. Specifically, students familiarize themselves with a diverse collection of approaches to modern thought, including historical and feminist approaches. Through examination of the theories through both print and technological means, students study critically various approaches to modern thought and present written critical analyses of primary sources. Required Text : Students are required to have the course readings and paper information. These are available in electronic format at www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html Alternatively, a student can bring a blank CD-R/CD-RW or a USB disk key in during my office hours. Content Objectives (subject to revision) Part 1 Introduction, Hobbes & Descartes Locke, Excerpts from Two Treatises of Government Introduction Berkeley, Excerpts from A Treatise Concerning the Principles of

Human Knowledge Hobbes-Excerpts from Leviathan Part IV Hume and Kant Descartes-Medications I,II, III Hume, Excerpts from A Treatise of Human Nature Part II Spinoza & Leibniz Hume, Of the Immortality of the Soul Spinoza-Excerpts from Ethics Kant, excerpts from Prolegomena to Any Future Metaphysics Leibniz-Excerpts from The Monadology & Theodicy Kant, excerpts from Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysics

of Morals

Part III Locke and Berkeley Locke Excerpts from An Essay Concerning Human Understanding Generic teaching competencies and skills addressed Tests and written assignments in which the students develop and exercise the relevant skills and knowledge; provides exposure to diverse points, to present concepts and principles at different levels of complexity so they are meaningful to all students; represents concepts through a variety of methods, such as analogies, metaphors, models, and concrete materials; utilizes appropriate learning media, computer applications, and other technology to address learning objectives; selects activities that support the critical thinking processes; demonstrates knowledge of applications of computer technology to the teaching of ethics; demonstrates knowledge of methods, concepts and vocabulary; and develops critical philosophic skills. Specific behavioral objectives: The students read the text, prepare written assignments, take exams and quizzes; react to class discussion, and learn critical philosophic skills. Teaching Methods: The class combines elements of traditional lecture with active class participation. Traditional teaching methods are supplemented with email support and web based course material. Methods of Evaluation: Students are evaluated on the basis of the following- Category Counted/Total Points Each % of Grade Paper 1/1 100 30% Exams 3/4 32 40% Weekly Quizzes 10/15+ 5 30% Paper: There is no make-up for the paper. The paper is governed by additional polices (see below). Exams: The best three count. Make-ups are permitted with the obvious exception of the final. Quizzes: There will be approximately fifteen quizzes. The best ten count. The others are used as “make up” or “extra” quizzes. There are no additional make-ups for quizzes. Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % Grade % A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59 Office: 203 Tucker Hall Phone: (850) 561-2839 Email: [email protected], [email protected] Office Hours: - Tuesday: 3:25-5:35 Wednesday: 11:00-3:45 Thursday: 3:25-4:30 Additional Course Material: Notes and supplementary materials are available at http://www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html

http://www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/index.html�


General Polices (see www.opifexphoenix.com/phil/ faq.html for additional information). Academic Honor Policy: This class complies with the university academic honor policy. After the Semester: When the semester is over, it is over. No extra credit, retakes of exams, turning in of late papers or any other such things are allowed. This does not apply to incompletes. Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Students are fully responsible for any work, notes, announcements, or other information from missed classes. Behavior: Behavior that disrupts the class or interferes with the learning process will not be tolerated. Cancelled Classes: If a class is cancelled (for any reason) any scheduled exam or any work due will be rescheduled for the next class. If classes are cancelled for an extended period of time, then special arrangements will be made. Changed Class Room or Time: If the class room or time is changed by the Registrar or another FAMU official, it is your responsibility to learn the new location. First, look for a sign listing the new room or, if there is another class there, ask the instructor. Second, check my office door or the web site for the new room. Third, call me during my office hours or email me. If you missed a test/quiz/assignment or did not turn in a paper “because” of the room change, the following policy applies: For quizzes and assignments the "make-ups" are built in -hence there is no special make-up for them. If the test date was the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to make it up. If a paper was due in the first class in the new room, you have until my next office hours to turn the paper in without a late penalty. Otherwise the normal rules apply. Cheating: Cheating, in any form, will not be tolerated. Anyone caught cheating will be treated accordingly. Children in the Class: I have been informed that it is against state law for students to bring children to class. Students are required to comply with this law. Compliance: The University’s Americans with Disabilities ACT Policy Statement and the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy Statement can be viewed at www.famu.edu. This class is taught in compliance with these policies. Email: Be sure that your email address is up to date on iRattler. Important information about the class will be provided via email. Enrollment: Students who are not enrolled in the class will not receive a grade. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she is properly enrolled in the class. If you expect to be reinstated do not simply stop attending class-contact me as soon as possible Excuses: I only accept legitimate, official excuses, such as those from coaches and Deans’ offices. Unofficial excuses (such as doctor’s notes, letters from relatives or employers) and photocopies are not acceptable. You only need an excuse if you miss a test or have extensive absences (see below). Students are required to provide any excuse within ten (10) days of the last day of the absence. In any case, any excuse must be provided prior to the end of the semester. Extensive absences: A student who has an extensive number of excused absences and elects to not withdraw from the class must meet with me to discuss the situation within one week of the student’s return to class. Failure to do so results in a non-negotiable “O” on all missed work. Any extensive makeup work takes place entirely at my discretion. Five Point Bonus: Each student will receive a +5 point bonus on his/her final paper grade. Grade Discussion: I will not discuss individual grades during class time. Such discussions take place during my office hours. A grade discussion can never result in a lowered grade (unless the discussion reveals that cheating or plagiarism has taken place). Grade Information: Grades cannot be given by phone or posted in public. Grade reports can be sent via SASE, email, or given in person. Grades are also posted on a secure web site. Use the “check your grades” link on the class web site. You will need to get your ID and password from me. You are expected to check your grades regularly online. You are required to check your grades on the website or during my office hours at least twice-once during the midterm week and once in the last week of classes prior to my last office hours. You are required to report any discrepancies immediately and supply the relevant evidence. If you fail to inform me of a discrepancy and fail to provide the supporting evidence by the end of the final exam, the grade(s) will not be changed. Grade Averages: The averages shown on the grade reports are not accurate until all the grades have been entered. This is because I have set the software to drop the lowest scores (see above) and this will result in an inaccurate average until all the grades are entered. For example, if three tests have been given, but you only took two and scored 70% on both, then your average would be listed as 70%. However, your real average would be 46.7%, since the 0 would be dropped when the average was calculated. Be sure that you know your correct average before making decisions relating to the course (such as deciding not to take a test). Near the end of the semester I will “zero out” the remaining grades so as to provide a possible “worst case” grade scenario. Incompletes: Requirements: 1) At least half the course work has been completed. 2) The minimum requirements have not been completed. 3) The student has at least a “C” average for the completed work. 4) The failure to complete the work is not the student’s fault. 5) Valid, signed excuses from his/her dean’s office must be provided. 6) The student must make the request no later than one week prior to my last office hours. 7)The student must complete the incomplete form and have it approved by me no later than the end of my last officer hours. You must meet all these requirements to qualify for an incomplete. Make-ups: Requirements: 1) A valid excuse covering the relevant date must be provided when the make up is taken. 2) The make up for a test must be completed by the date of the next test. 3) The make up must be taken during my office hours. Failure to meet the conditions will result in a non-negotiable grade of “0” for the work. There are no make ups for quizzes or assignments. Papers are either late or on time. In no case will make up work be permitted after the end of the semester.


Mercy: Each student has one nontransferable “Mercy.” The mercy can be used once and only once. One use is as an excused absence to make up one test that was missed. Simply tell me you are using your mercy when you arrive to take the make up. The second use is to allow a paper to be turned in on the appropriate mercy deadline date. If you do not use your Mercy, it automatically becomes the “extra” 100% grade on the mercy quiz-there is no need to tell me to count it as this quiz. If you use the mercy, you do not get that bonus. Mobile Phones & Other Devices: Please put your mobile phone and other communication devices on silent ring. If you must take a call during class, please leave the room quietly and go far enough away that your conversation does not distract others. You can use a PDA or laptop during normal class (not during exams), provided that your activity is not distracting or annoying. Paper: There are additional polices covering the paper. These are specified in the files for the paper. Students are required to be familiar with this information. Ignorance of these polices is no excuse. Returned Work: You are expected to pick up your work when it is returned. Quizzes that are not picked up when they are returned will be discarded. Unclaimed exams and papers will be kept in my office for one year. If you wish to dispute a grade, you are required to present the work in question. Test Policy: During exams you must clear your desktop of all items except your pen or pencil. Mobile phones and other communication devices are to be turned off unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact (for example, you are a police officer). If you use a mobile phone or other communication device during an exam, then this will be considered cheating and you will receive a grade of zero (0) on the exam (unless you are legitimately required to be in constant contact, the call is one you are legitimately obligated to take and you have supplied legitimate documentation prior to the exam). The Last Day: All class related business (except the final) must be completed by the end of my office hours on the last day I hold my regular office hours. This will be in the last week of classes, not finals week. I do not hold office hours during finals week. Unusual/Special Circumstances: Reasonable accommodations will be made for all legitimate circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to make me aware of such relevant circumstances as soon as possible. Do not wait until the end of the semester! A form is provided with this syllabus for requesting special accommodations for special circumstances. Academic Learning Compact Students will refer to the ALC page for additional information. http://www.famu.edu/assessment/ In accord with the ALC students enrolled in Modern Philosophy will: 1. Demonstrate proficiency in written communication. Implementation will be via written papers and evaluation will be via appropriate rubrics. 2. Demonstrate competence in critical thinking. Students will receive training in argumentation and philosophical reasoning. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with the critical concepts and methods of Philosophy and/or Religion. Students will be exposed to these concepts via instruction and will be assessed via appropriate rubrics. 4. Demonstrate understanding of diverse cultures and/or world views. Students will be exposed to a diversity of philosophical views. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. 5. Demonstrate ability to do research and to generate original written contributions to Philosophy and/or Religion. Assessment will be via appropriate rubrics. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and philosophical reasoning. Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP): “Enhancing Performance in Critical Thinking”. This class enhances quality by including extensive material on critical thinking in the form of general and philosophical reasoning. Schedule (subject to revision) Exam #1: January 25 Deadline to Make Up Exam 2: March 29 Draft Due: February 1 Exam #3: March 29 Deadline to Make Up Exam 1: February 22 50% Grade Paper Deadline: April 19 Exam #2: February 22 Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline: April 21 Extension Request Deadline: March 10 Last Class: April 21 Draft Deadline: March 24 Last Office Hours: April 21 Paper Deadline: March 29 Final Exam: Thursday April 28 10:00-12:00 Mercy Paper Deadline: March 30


There are various due dates and deadlines for the paper. Each is specified below.

Draft Due Date: This is the day the paper draft is due. The drafts will be collected, commented on and graded. The draft grade will be entered as a “temporary” grade. This grade will be replaced by the rewrite grade, assuming the grade on the final version of the paper is better (and assuming that plagiarism does not occur). Paper drafts can be turned in before this due date. Draft Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a draft. Papers turned in after this date will be considered final revisions and will be graded as such. Any number of drafts can be turned in prior to this date and these will be commented on and graded. The draft deadline cannot be extended. Before the deadline drafts can be turned in during my office hours or class. On the deadline date drafts must be turned in before the end of my last office hours that day and will be reviewed until the end of those office hours. Drafts that have not been reviewed by that point will be treated as final drafts. Paper Deadline Date: This is the last day to turn in a paper and receive full credit. This deadline can be extended by receiving an extension (or special extension) or by expending your mercy. “Normal” excuses DO NOT extend the deadline and will not be accepted. See below for the details on extensions. I must receive the paper by the end of class or the end of my office hours that day, whichever is later. Mercy Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive full credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: This is the last date to turn in a paper and receive 50% credit. The only way to extend this deadline is to expend your mercy (see below). Papers turned in after this date will receive a 0. If you have a draft paper grade and it is higher than the 50% grade on the final version, than the draft paper grade will score as your paper grade (except in cases involving plagiarism). I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. Mercy 50% Grade Paper Deadline Date: If you expend your mercy, this is the last day to turn in the paper and receive 50% credit. All other deadline conditions still apply-the mercy merely changes the deadline date. I must receive the paper by the end of my office hours on this date. I’m So Confused!: Here is the simple version: 1) Turn in your draft on or before the draft deadline if you want comments on your paper so you can rewrite it. 2) Turn in the paper on or before the paper deadline if you want full credit. 4) Turn in the paper on or before the 50% paper deadline if you want half credit. 5) Turn in the paper after the 50% paper deadline if you want a zero. Paper Extensions & Excuses



Examples of qualifying situations would include military service and debilitating medical conditions that prevent a student from being able to write (such as broken hands). Situations that can be reasonably avoided or do not prevent a student from working on the paper for a significant amount of time do not qualify. Examples of situations that would NOT qualify include having a court date, having car problems, having a minor illness for a short duration, and so on.






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Appendix A4.4 · The Philosophy of Composition- Poe . Reasoning in Aesthetics Part Four Art,...

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