Program Manual - Dawson College · Congratulations on becoming a Social Science student! You are...

Program Manual

300.A0

Revised: June 2015

Welcome to Dawson College! Congratulations on becoming a Social Science student! You are now part of the largest program at Dawson College, and you are setting yourself up for a wide variety of career opportunities. While you are here, take advantage of all the courses, services, clubs and activities that Dawson offers. This handbook was created to help you navigate your CEGEP experience by answering all the questions you wished you had asked at Open House. Among the many useful sections in this handbook, you will find a guide to CEGEP jargon, and answers to questions you might have been afraid to ask. We’ve also provided you with information about how CEGEP differs from high school, which could come in handy when you are trying to organize the work for your courses. In Social Science, we get to look at how events in the world affect us and how our actions affect what happens in the world. Social scientists help us better understand social issues and work towards developing new ways of living, working and interacting.

Aim of the Program ........................................................................................................................ 1 Goals of the Program ...................................................................................................................... 1 General Education ........................................................................................................................... 2 Specific Education Program Objectives ......................................................................................... 2

Objectives Common to All Social Science Students ................................................................... 2 Objectives to be Chosen According to Profile (optional) ............................................................ 3

Program Structure ........................................................................................................................... 4 Social Science Disciplines .............................................................................................................. 6 Sequence of Social Science Disciplines Courses............................................................................ 9 Social Science Courses (300.EA) ................................................................................................. 10 Methods Courses ........................................................................................................................... 13 General Education Courses in your Social Science Program ....................................................... 14

English ....................................................................................................................................... 14 French ........................................................................................................................................ 15 Humanities What are they? Why am I taking these courses?.................................................... 16 Physical Education What? What for? ........................................................................................ 17

Complementary Courses ........................................................................................................... 17 Comprehensive Examination ........................................................................................................ 18 300.EA General Studies in Social Science ................................................................................... 19 300.EB Commerce Profile ............................................................................................................ 20 300.EE Child Studies Profile ........................................................................................................ 21 300.EG Environmental Studies Profile ......................................................................................... 22 300.EH International Business Studies Profile ............................................................................. 23 300.EK Law, Society & Justice Profile ........................................................................................ 24 300.EM North South Studies Profile ............................................................................................ 25 300.EP Psychology Profile ........................................................................................................... 26 300.ET Travel & Tourism Profile ................................................................................................. 27 How is CEGEP different from High School? ............................................................................... 28 The CRC and You ......................................................................................................................... 30 Academic Standing and Advancement Policy .............................................................................. 31 Questions you might have been afraid to ask?.............................................................................. 32 General Guidelines for your Social Science Essays ..................................................................... 34 Guide to CEGEP Jargon... ............................................................................................................ 35

Table of Contents

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Aim of the Program The Social Science Program is an exciting broad-based two-year pre-university program that prepares students for university studies in the broad areas of the social sciences, law, journalism, education and business. Goals of the Program The general goals of the Program are to help students:

• distinguish the main facts, notions and concepts related to the object of study, i.e., the human phenomena, from a disciplinary and trans-disciplinary perspective;

• explain theories, laws, models and schools of thought in relation to their authors and

concrete situations; • situate various issues related to citizenship in a world-wide context; • demonstrate the qualities associated with scientific intellect and critical thinking as

well as the skills required to apply the qualitative and quantitative methods used in the field of Social Science;

• use the necessary methods in order to conduct research; • use appropriate information technologies;

• convey their ideas clearly and correctly in English; • read and understand basic Social Science documents conveyed in French; • integrate the learning acquired throughout the Program.

The general goals have been adopted by Dawson College and are expressed using the vocabulary and logic of the disciplines. Each course contributes to the attainment of one or more of these goals. The Diploma of College Studies (Diplôme d'études collégiales) in Social Science attests to the achievement of these goals. The General and Specific Education components are designed to contribute to students’ education in an integrative fashion. In other words, the knowledge and skills transmitted in one component are reinforced and, whenever possible, reapplied in the others.

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1 Where the Ministry has assigned a specific discipline to an objective is indicated in italic type. 2 Roman type indicates that the decision as to the designated discipline was made by the College.

General Education General Education goals are an integral part of every Program. The goals of General Education are to provide students with a common cultural core, to help them learn and develop generic skills, foster desirable attitudes and to prepare them for their role as responsible members of society. It includes English, French, Humanities, Physical Education and Complementary courses. Specific Education Program Objectives The Ministry has assigned statements of competency for the Specific Education objectives of the Program. These are listed below. The disciplines1 noted are the only ones the Ministry allows to meet each competency. In some cases the course title decided by the College is indicated.2

Objectives Common to All Social Science Students 022K To explain the foundation of human behaviour and mental processes. Discipline: Psychology Course: General Psychology 022L To recognize, from a historical perspective, the fundamental characteristics of Western civilization. Discipline: History Course: Western Civilization 022M To explain the economic foundations of society. Discipline: Economics Course: Introduction to Economics 022N To identify the contribution of knowledge related to Social Science disciplines to the understanding of the human phenomena. Disciplines: Administration, Anthropology, Classics, Geography, Philosophy, Political Science, Religion and Sociology. The disciplines Mathematics and Biology may contribute to the partial achievement of this objective. See objectives 022X and 022V listed below. 022P To apply statistical tools to the interpretation of data related to contexts of study in the field of Social Science. Course: Quantitative Methods 022Q To apply the scientific approach used in the field of Social Science to empirical research. Course: Research Methods

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022R To thoroughly analyze a human phenomenon. Disciplines: Administration, Anthropology, Classics, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion and Sociology. The disciplines Mathematics and Biology may contribute to the partial achievement of this objective. See objectives 022Z and 022V listed below. In order to take courses addressing this competency, students must have passed an introductory course in the same discipline. 022S To apply concepts related to Social Science disciplines to the understanding of the human phenomena in concrete situations. Disciplines: Administration, Anthropology, Classics, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion and Sociology. The disciplines Mathematics and Biology may contribute to the partial achievement of this objective. See objectives 022Y and 022V listed below. In order to take courses addressing this competency, students must have taken an introductory course in the same discipline. 022T To demonstrate, on an individual basis, that the learning achieved during the program has been integrated. Course: Integrative Seminar

Objectives to be Chosen According to Profile (optional) 022U To produce a product that contributes to the enrichment of their knowledge in Social Science. Disciplines: Administration, Anthropology, Classics, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion and Sociology. In order to take the course addressing this competency, students must have taken an applied or analysis course in the same discipline. 022V To explain the cellular and systematic regulation and the reproductive system of the human organism. Discipline: Biology Course: Human Biology This objective may be used as partial achievement for objective 022N. 022W To apply advanced statistical tools, based on probability theory, to decision making in contexts of study in the field of Social Science. Discipline: Mathematics Course: Statistics for Social Science 022X To apply methods of differential calculus to the study of functional models in the field of Social Science. Discipline: Mathematics Course: Calculus I This objective may be used as partial achievement for objective 022N.

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022Y To apply methods of integral calculus to the study of functional models in the field of Social Science. Discipline: Mathematics Course: Calculus II (prerequisite Calculus I) This objective may be used as partial achievement for objective 022S. 022Z To apply methods of linear algebra and vector geometry to the study of various phenomena of human activity. Discipline: Mathematics Course: Linear Algebra This objective may be used as partial achievement for objective 022R. Program Structure The following rules apply to the Social Science Program at Dawson College: • Objective 022N is met by taking 3 courses for a total of 6 credits (or 6 credits if objective

022X, Calculus I, is included) and 135 hours (or 165 hours if objective 022X, Calculus I, is included).

• Objective 022R is met by taking 3 courses for a total of 6 credits (or 6 credits if objective

022Z, Linear Algebra, is included) and 135 hours (or 165 hours if objective 022Z, Linear Algebra, is included).

• Objective 022S is met by taking 2 courses for a total of 4 credits (or 4 credits if objective

022Y, Calculus II, is included) and 90 hours (or 120 hours if objective 022Y, Calculus II, is included).

• Students must take six Introductory (100-level) courses. • Students are not permitted to take more than four courses (in total) in any one discipline

from the Introductory (100-level), Analysis (200-level), Application (300-level) and Advanced (400) levels.

• Students should only take the Integrative Seminar in the semester in which they are

expected to graduate.

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Graduation Requirements

Discipline Courses (12) 6 Introductory courses (100-level) 3 Mandatory: General Psychology, Intro to Economics & Western Civilization (History) 3 from: Anthropology, Business Administration, Classics, Geography, Human Biology, Mathematics, Philosophy, Political Science, Religion, or Sociology. 3 Analysis courses (200-level) Pre-requisite: Introductory (100 level) course in the same discipline 2 Application courses (300-level) Pre-requisite: Introductory (100 level) course in the same discipline 1 Advanced course (400-level) Pre-requisite: either a 200 level or a 300 level course in the same discipline. NOTES • If you’re taking 2 or 3 math courses, you don’t take an Advanced course • Students are not permitted to take more than four courses (in total) in any one discipline from

the Introductory (100-level), Analysis (200-level), Application (300-level) and Advanced (400) levels.

Methods Courses (3) Research Methods course Quantitative Methods course Pre-requisite: Research Methods Integrative Seminar & Comprehensive Examination (taken in the semester in which student

graduates) Pre-requisite: Research Methods and Quantitative Methods.

General Education (14) 4 English courses 1 each from: Introductory, Literary Genres, Literary Themes, Applied Themes (adapted to your

program) 2 French courses 1 determined by placement test, 1 adapted to your program 3 Humanities courses 1 each from: Knowledge, World Views and Ethics (adapted to your program) 3 Physical Education courses 1 each from: Health & Physical Education, Physical Activity, Active Living 2 Complementary courses (outside Social Science) From Computer Science, Arts & Aesthetics, Modern Languages, Science & Technology

You will need to pass the English Exit Test

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Social Science Disciplines As a Social Science student you will have to take your concentration courses in six (6) different Social Science disciplines. There are 13 disciplines that are considered part of the Social Science realm. A brief description of these disciplines is presented below. Anthropology: is the study of humanity in all of its diversity around

the world, from its prehistoric origins to the present. Anthropologists use the perspectives of both biology and culture to investigate every aspect of what it is to be human. This means we study cultures by living with people; we study prehistory by digging up pottery; we study how people use language by interviewing speakers; and we study human bones to see how mankind has evolved.

Biology: The Great Chain of Being is a medieval metaphor that has greatly influenced western thought. Its central concept is that the relationship among all living organisms gives order and meaning to the universe. By examining the structure, function, evolution, genetics and ecological distribution of living organisms, Social Science Biology courses help students understand how the interactions among molecules, cells, organ systems, organisms, and their environment shape all life, including that of human beings.

Business Administration: The Business Administration Department offers courses that place particular emphasis on the practical application of business concepts and theories. The overall objective is to develop and foster skills in critical thinking, analysis and problem solving. Upon successful completion of these courses the student will effectively integrate financial, marketing, and general business information in the decision-making process, and employ the tools and knowledge necessary to respond to the challenges of today's competitive and dynamic business environment.

Classics: Since the Renaissance, six centuries ago, people have felt that there was much to be learned from studying the great or "classic" achievements of Greco-Roman civilization. The classicists believes that by studying the rise and fall of entire civilizations in antiquity, students are better equipped to take a long view of contemporary civilization, to evaluate its achievements and to assess its prospects for the future.

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Economics: Economics studies the allocation of scarce resources to meet various needs. The study of economics is divided into two branches: macroeconomics and microeconomics. Macroeconomics deals with the economy at large while microeconomics studies the behaviour of individuals and companies in different markets. Students learn concepts, theories, and models that will help them understand how the economy functions and how the different markets operate. Students will also acquire a set of analytical skills that will enable them to critically evaluate the economic decisions of households, businesses, and governments.

Geography: The Geography Department introduces students to the idea that location is important. Students work with maps, atlases, diagrams, and computers in order to better understand the world. In addition, as much as possible, geography courses emphasize real world examples through field trips and field work.

History: The Department of History aims to provide students with a broad range of courses reflecting the growing diversity of this discipline. Some courses survey specific areas of the world, some focus on particular issues or time periods. All courses are designed both for students who will pursue this discipline at the university level and those for whom the study of history will simply be useful as a way of understanding the contemporary world.

Mathematics: Mathematics in its simplest form is the study of numbers. The beauty of mathematics lies in its various abstract concepts and structures and in its ability to model and describe real world phenomena.

Philosophy: Philosophy is the study of all aspects of human being and reality. Philosophers address the origin and nature of the universe, the nature of human knowledge and the nature of morality. Some typical questions in philosophy are: was the universe designed by some intelligence or is existence the result of a series of unplanned "accidental" circumstances? What is human freedom? How can it be defined and protected? Do we have the moral right to impose our way of life on others?

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Political Science: Political Science is the study of politics, in all its various dimensions: governance, leadership, ideological conflict, social evolution and revolution, protest and all the elements of social behaviour which determine the authoritative allocation of values and resources for society.

Psychology: Psychology is the study of behaviour and mental processes. Thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and behaviour both normal and abnormal are examined from a number of different angles.

Religion: Religion courses are designed to convey knowledge about, and understanding of, the various religions that make up the cultural mosaic in which we live. The courses also provide methods and theories from the humanities and the social sciences that explain the various functions of religion in individual lives and society at large.

Sociology: All of us belong to many groups, including the family, friendship groups, social class, ethnic, religious, political and occupational groups. Sociologists study the groups of which society is composed and the impact these groups have upon human behaviour.

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Sequence of Social Science Disciplines Courses Three Social Science disciplines are chosen for you:

• History Western Civilization • Psychology General Psychology • Economics Introduction to Economics

These three courses are mandatory for the completion of the Social Science DEC for all Social Science students. You will also have to choose courses in three other disciplines from the remaining Social Sciences disciplines.

In addition to selecting a number of disciplines, you also must take a certain number of courses at different levels:

• You must take 6 different introductory level courses (courses with 101 in their number), three 200-level courses, two 300-level courses and one advanced (400-level) course.

• In order to take a 200 or 300-level course, you must take and pass the introductory course.

• In order to take a 400-level course, you must have taken an introductory and a 200 or a 300-level course.

400-level – Advanced topic courses. Reading skills: specialized advanced level texts. Writing skills: a final project of 1500 to 2500 words relevant to the topic and discipline.

200/300 levels – Analysis/Application Reading skills: reading more pages and intermediate level texts. Writing skills: writing an essay of 750-1000 words, analyzing an article or writing a 1500-2000 word essay on an aspect of the course.

100-level – Introductory courses. Reading skills: reading introductory texts or articles. Study skills: taking notes from a textbook or article, lectures and films.

NOTE: REGARDING MATHEMATICS Students may take 1, 2 or 3 mathematics courses (Calculus I (100 level), Calculus II (300 level) and Linear Algebra (200 level)). Students who take 2 or 3 math courses will not take an advanced (i.e. 400 level) course.

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Social Science Courses NOTE: This is a full list of approved courses for the program, and not all will be offered at any given time. For course descriptions, visit the webpage and select the discipline among those listed on the right-hand side. Course #

Course Title

Compulsory Introductory Courses (STUDENTS MUST TAKE ALL 3) 350-101-DW General Psychology 330-101-DW Western Civilization 383-101-DW Introduction to Economics Other Introductory Courses (STUDENTS CHOOSE 3)

320-102-DW Introduction to Geography & the Environment

332-101-DW Intro. to the Classical World 340-101-DW Introduction to Philosophy 370-111-DW Intro. to World Religions 381-101-DW Introduction to Anthropology 385-101-DW Introduction to Politics 387-101-DW Individual and Society 401-101-DW Introduction to Business 101-921-DW Human Biology 201-103-DW OR 201-104-DW

Calculus I Calculus I (Enriched)

Compulsory Methodology Courses (STUDENTS MUST TAKE ALL 3) 300-300-DW Research Methods 360-300-DW Quantitative Methods

300-303-DW OR 300-308-DW

Integrative Seminar (for students who take Cal I, Cal II and Linear Algebra) Integrative Seminar (for students not taking 3 math courses)

Analysis Courses (STUDENTS CHOOSE 3 FROM SUBJECTS PASSED AT THE 100 LEVEL.) 201-105-DW OR 201-106-DW

Linear Algebra Linear Algebra (Enriched)

320-201-DW Economic Geography 320-205-DW Geography of Montreal 320-212-DW Tourism

320-215-DW Dynamic Human Environments 320-216-DW Natural Environment 320-219-DW Topics in Geography 330-201-DW Canadian History 330-206-DW U.S. History 330-210-DW Quebec History 330-214-DW 20th Century History 330-221-DW Third World History 330-225-DW Social and Economic History 330-219-DW Analysis of History 332-201-DW The Medieval World 332-204-DW Rebels and Outcasts 332-209-DW Greek Civilization 332-213-DW Roman Culture and Society 332-216-DW Aegean Civilizations 332-221-DW Egyptian Legacy 332-227-DW Ancient World 332-219-DW Analysis of Classics 340-212-DW Philosophy of the Mind 340-217-DW Communication & Meaning 340-219-DW Topics in Philosophy 350-201-DW Developmental Psychology 350-211-DW Abnormal Psychology 350-214-DW Psychology and the Law 350-218-DW Analysis of Psychology 370-201-DW Religions of the East 370-207-DW Judaism, Christianity & Islam 370-217-DW Health, Healing and Religion 370-221-DW Religion, Gender & Sexuality 370-224-DW Religion and Literature 370-219-DW Topics in Religion 381-201-DW Human Evolution 381-204-DW Development of Civilization 381-207-DW Peoples of the World 381-210-DW Anthropology of Parenthood 381-213-DW Anthropology of War 381-214-DW Anthropology of Law 381-218-DW Anthropology of Sexuality 381-219-DW Topics in Anthropology 383-201-DW Microeconomics

http://www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca/programs/alphabetical-listing-of-programs-profiles-and-disciplines

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383-206-DW Economic Development 383-210-DW Money and Banking 383-213-DW Economics & Environment 383-219-DW Canadian Economic Policy 383-224-DW Quebec Economy 383-230-DW Economics of World Issues 383-218-DW Economic Analysis 385-201-DW Comparing Countries 385-203-DW Community Politics 385-208-DW U.S. Politics & Government 385-219-DW Analysis in Political Science 387-201-DW Social Problems 387-205-DW Social Change 387-212-DW The Family 387-216-DW Education 387-219-DW Sociology of Law 387-223-DW Urban Sociology 387-229-DW Work and Society 387-218-DW Analysis in Sociology 401-201-DW Basics of Marketing 401-205-DW International Business 401-210-DW Business Law 401-220-DW Cross Cultural Management 401-225-DW Sustainability and Business 401-219-DW Topics in Business Applied Courses (STUDENTS CHOOSE 2 FROM SUBJECTS PASSED AT THE 100 LEVEL) 201-203-DW OR 201-204-DW

Calculus II (For students who completed 201-103-DW) Calculus II (Enriched) (For students who completed 201-104-DW)

320-302-DW Applied Geography 320-303-DW Environmental Issues 320-309-DW Urban Geography 320-315-DW Geography of International Relations 320-319-DW Applications of Geography 330-302-DW Applied Canadian History 330-306-DW Applied U.S. History 330-310-DW Applied Quebec History 330-314-DW Applied 20th Century History 330-321-DW Applied Third World History 330-325-DW Applied Social and Economic History 330-319-DW Applications of History 332-302-DW Myths in Classical Society 332-305-DW Conflict in the Ancient World

332-311-DW Ancient World Archaeology 332-314-DW Ancient Trade and Commerce 332-319-DW Applications of Classics 340-302-DW Social Philosophy 340-305-DW Philosophy of Law 340-319-DW Problems in Philosophy 350-302-DW Interaction and Communication 350-306-DW Human Sexual Behaviour 350-313-DW Cognitive Development 350-318-DW Psychology in Business 350-323-DW Applications of Psychology 360-320-DW Preparing for Field Trip

360-321-DW Field Experience in a Developing World

370-302-DW Religious Cults and Sects 370-306-DW Life, Death and Beyond 370-318-DW Exploring Religions 381-302-DW Race and Racism 381-307-DW Medical Anthropology 381-305-DW Indigenous America 381-310-DW Multi-ethnic Quebec 381-313-DW Contemporary Anthropology 381-318-DW Archaeology 381-320-DW Culture, Exchange and Globalization 381-319-DW Perspectives in Anthropology 383-302-DW Macroeconomics 383-307-DW Current Economic Issues 383-311-DW Economics and Employment 383-315-DW Law and Economics 383-319-DW Companies and Markets 383-324-DW The Stock Market 383-327-DW Economics of Technology 383-330-DW International Economics 383-318-DW Applied Economics 385-302-DW Politics in Quebec 385-306-DW Canadian Democracy 385-311-DW Global Politics 385-319-DW Applications of Political Science 387-302-DW Culture and Media 387-307-DW Society, Health and Illness 387-311-DW Social Deviance 387-314-DW Sexuality and Society 387-319-DW Race and Ethnic Relations 387-320-DW Global Sociology 387-318-DW Applications of Sociology 401-301-DW Basic Financial Management 401-310-DW Management Skills 401-315-DW Global Marketing

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401-320-DW Managing International Organizations 401-319-DW Business Applications Advanced Courses (STUDENTS CHOOSE 1 FROM SUBJECTS PASSED AT THE 200/300 LEVEL) 320-401-DW Advanced Studies in Geography 330-401-DW Advanced Studies in History 332-401-DW Advanced Studies in Classics 340-401-DW Adv. Studies in Philosophy 350-401-DW Adv. Studies in Psychology 360-401-DW Adv. Environmental Studies 370-401-DW Advanced Studies in Religion 381-401-DW Adv. Studies in Anthropology 383-401-DW Advanced Studies in Economics

385-401-DW Advanced Studies in Politics 387-401-DW Advanced Studies in Sociology 401-401-DW Advanced Studies in Business OR 201-401-DW Statistics for Social Science NOTE: REGARDING MATHEMATICS Students may take 1, 2 or 3 mathematics courses (Calculus I (100 level), Calculus II (300 level) and Linear Algebra (200 level)). Students who take 2 or 3 math courses will not take an advanced 400 level course. Students who take 0, 1 or 2 math courses will take 300-308-DW as their Integrative Seminar. Students who take 3 math courses will take 300-303-DW as their Integrative Seminar course.

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The Methods Courses There are three Methods courses which all Social Science students are required to take: Research Methods (RM), Quantitative Methods (QM), and Integrative Seminar (IS). RM, QM and IS courses teach students about the methods used to conduct social science research. Students conduct an actual, hands-on research project in RM, learn ways to analyze data in QM, and write a research paper in IS. But why all this emphasis on research? Students planning to continue to university will be reading and writing many research papers. Some students will even be conducting their own research. Upon arrival at university, students are expected to have a basic understanding of research, and those who can critically evaluate research will have an advantage.

Whether or not students plan to go to university, leaving school having learned how to critically evaluate information using the scientific method is an asset. The methods courses teach students skills that will allow them to make better decisions in their personal and professional lives.

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General Education Courses In order to graduate from Social Science program you will have to successfully complete 14 General Education courses, a requirement that is common to all CEGEP students enrolled in a College Studies Diploma program (Diplôme d’études collégiales- DEC). These courses are in the areas of:

• English (4 courses), • French (2 courses), • Humanities (3 courses), • Physical Education (3 courses), • Complementary fields (2 courses), outside the Social Science realm.

General Education courses provide a common cultural core, help you learn and develop generic skills, foster desirable attitudes and prepare you for your role as a responsible member of society.

English

The English component of General Education is intended to help you learn to communicate effectively as readers, writers, listeners and speakers, while at the same time acquainting you with significant literary and cultural works from a variety of literary genres and periods. The objectives and standards in English, Language of Instruction and Literature, pursue two general goals:

• mastery of the language of instruction and at a college level of preference

• exploration of the riches of the literary heritage Building on the skills you developed upon completion of secondary school, the English courses puts an emphasis on writing and reading while consolidating listening and speaking skills. You will achieve the mastery of language skills through regular and ongoing observance of the rules of correct writing and speaking and the production of assignments supported by reading and the study of literature. You will also be encouraged to develop an appreciation of literature by becoming acquainted with a number of significant literary works representing various genres, periods and literary themes. Both the aesthetic and cultural values of these texts will be the objects of study.

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French The acquisition of French as a second language will allow you to participate more fully in the social and professional life of Quebec. In general, when leaving high school you have a good grasp of oral French. Instruction of French as a second language at the college level will help you to further develop the four aspects of language acquisition – speaking, listening, reading and writing – with a focus on reading and writing. The language laboratory is an integral part of all French courses. You can also benefit from individual assistance, and use tools and media resources at the CLÉO (Centre de langue écrite et orale), where language tutors are available to help your progress. You will be placed at an appropriate level (100, 101, 102, 103) based on your placement test result. If you have not reached the required level of French to register in one of the credited courses, you will be directed to non-credited course(s) in order to reach the language standard set by the Ministère de l’Éducation, de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche (MEESR). In the first French course (BLOCK A), you will consolidate your linguistic and cultural knowledge, while in the second French course (BLOCK B), you will acquire the language skills that will allow you to better integrate into a professional environment. As a Social Science Program student you will be attending your French classes with students from the Business Administration, Community Recreational Leadership Training, and Social Service programs.

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Humanities What are they? Why am I taking these courses? The humanities involve the study of human beings and their cultural productions in an interdisciplinary manner. The fields of study include anthropology, history, language and literature, philosophy and political science to name just a few. Each Humanities category has a particular set of skills (competencies) taught by means of the course content. Despite the diverse expertise that our teachers bring to the course content, the skills acquired are the same in every program, no matter what the subject matter is. Drawing on a wide variety of teaching materials, for example: scientific, literary and philosophical texts, cultural artefacts, films, theatre or music; your three Humanities courses will teach you: • To understand what knowledge is, how knowledge is constructed and how to reason

and critically assess various kinds of knowledge In the Knowledge class (103) you will learn to recognize a field of knowledge, to hear

the human voice behind the knowledge, to understand the construction of the knowledge and to critically assess knowledge claims. You will also learn to analyze the arguments of others and to construct your own thoughtful arguments in response.

• To understand, interpret and reconstruct a worldview

In the World Views class (102) class, you will learn that a human interpretation of the world and the many things that contribute to that interpretation, such as tradition, education, religion, political structure, economics, gender and historical context, define a world view. Moreover, you will learn that a world view is a human creation and that we are therefore not hapless victims of the world we find ourselves in, rather that we give shape to our world.

• To discover and reflect upon moral issues

In the Ethics class (BXH), you will bring your critical argumentative skills and an understanding of their power to create your world through an exploration of your responsibilities to do so. You will study ethical theories, identify conflicts in values, analyze ethical issues pertinent to your Social Science program and formulate solutions to ethical problems. Here the humanistic values of thoughtful reasoning, tolerance and open-mindedness are applied to practical issues and problems.

Humanities courses do more than result in understanding, they actually empower and provoke you to think independently and critically about the status quo and to make positive changes in your communities and in the world. You will leave your encounter with the humanities and forge your path in the world with a broad cultural education as well as practical skills that will serve in both your professional and personal life.

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Physical Education What? What for? The Dawson College physical education curriculum is comprised of three courses:

• 103 – Health and Physical Education • 104 – Physical Activity • 105 – Active Living.

The 103 is a knowledge-based course on health and fitness. The curriculum focuses on fitness components, wellness concepts, stress management, nutrition and changing negative lifestyle behaviours. The 104 is a skills-based course where you will define goals for yourself and learn how to evaluate your skill development in general, as well as your progress in the specific activity. The 103 and 104 courses must be passed in order for you to take the 105 course. You will apply the fitness knowledge and goal-setting skills acquired in the first two courses to design, carry out and evaluate a minimum twelve-hour personal fitness/activity program outside of the College. One of the themes throughout the curriculum is for you to develop a sense of personal responsibility for learning. The goal of the curriculum is to give you the knowledge, experience and confidence in your activity choices so that you can continue to engage in lifelong activities. And now for something completely different…

Complementary Courses In order to complete your requirements as a Social Science student, you will be allowed to choose two complementary courses from the following areas of study:

• Computer Science • Art & Aesthetics • Modern Languages • Science & Technology

The choice is yours; look up the options in the timetable.

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T he Comprehensive Examination in ocial cience Every student in a CEGEP program has to write a Comprehensive Examination in order to graduate. A Comprehensive Examination determines whether or not a student has acquired all the competencies and knowledge needed to receive a DEC. In Social Science, students do their Comprehensive Examination within the Integrative Seminar course they take in their graduating semester. Students apply some of the key Social Science concepts and theories in their Integrative Seminar course by carrying out an integrative research project that is focused around a theme. The research project uses contributions from different Social Science disciplines, makes links between those disciplines, and shows how using them together (their integration) can lead to a deeper understanding of the selected theme. Students also use the competencies and knowledge from their General Education courses for the project. It also includes a component that demonstrates their second language skills. Passing: In order to pass the Comprehensive Examination in Social Science, students must pass the research project done in the Integrative Seminar course. The Integrative Seminar is a regular course with a grade but the Comprehensive Examination is indicated by a pass/fail notation. Appealing: Students can appeal a failure in the Comprehensive Examination by following the normal College grade appeal procedures. See: Institutional Student Evaluation Policy (ISEP) for further information.

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300.FA General Studies in Social Science General Studies is designed for students interested in exploring a wide variety of social science fields. Students who enrol in this general program of study explore six Social Science disciplines to meet their specialized needs in preparation for university studies. The choice of courses must be made following the Social Science program structure. Students must follow the specific sequence of levels within each discipline in order to establish pre-requisites for upper level courses.

TERM 1 Mandatory courses (take 2 of 3)

• General Psychology • Introduction to Economics • Western Civilization • *100-level Option

• English • Humanities • Physical Education • French

TERM 2 Take the remaining course of the list of Mandatory courses (from Term 1)

• *100-level option • **200-level option • Research Methods

• English • Humanities • Physical Education • Complementary

TERM 3

• Quantitative Methods • *100-level option • **200-level option • **300-level option

• English • French • Complementary

TERM 4

• Integrative Seminar • **200-level option • **300-level option • **400-level option

• English • Humanities • Physical Education

*Choose your remaining 100-level courses from:

Anthropology, Biology, Business Administration, Classics, Geography, Mathematics, Philosophy, Political Science, Religion, or Sociology

**Choose the 200 and 300-level options from the disciplines of the 100-level disciplines that you passed, and the 400-level option from the 200 or 300-level disciplines that you passed. NOTE: REGARDING MATHEMATICS Students who have the necessary prerequisite(s) may take 1, 2 or 3 mathematics courses (Calculus I (100 level), Calculus II (300 level) and Linear Algebra (200 level)). Students who take 2 or 3 math courses will not take an advanced (i.e. 400 level) course. Students who take 0, 1 or 2 maths will take 300-308-DW as their Integrative Seminar. Students who take 3 Math courses will take 300-303-DW as their Integrative Seminar course.

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300.FB Commerce Profile The Commerce profile is designed for students interested in studying commerce, management or any social science field at university. Commerce is structured so that students take courses in Economics, Business and Mathematics while also exploring the diversity of the social sciences. These courses are central to the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for future studies and careers. Most students who graduate from Commerce continue their studies in commerce and related fields at university. Other graduates have entered fields as diverse as law, journalism, economics and psychology. Advantages:

• Competitive, yet friendly environment • Three math courses • Many possible university programs • Course pre-registration • Great student life.

TERM 1

• Calculus 1 • General Psychology • Introduction to Business • Introduction to Economics


TERM 2

• Calculus II • Basics of Marketing • Western Civilization • Research Methods

• English • French • Physical Education

TERM 3

• Linear Algebra • 100-level Option • 200-level Option • Quantitative Methods • English • Humanities • Complementary

TERM 4

• 300-level Option • Integrative Seminar

• English • Humanities • French • Physical Education • Complementary

Careers: Graduates can pursue university studies that lead to careers in a number of areas including:

Accounting Advertising Banking Computer Science Finance Human Resource Management Information Systems Marketing

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Careers: Graduates can pursue university studies that lead to careers in a number of areas including: Education Social Work Psychology Sociology Anthropology Law Early Childhood education

300.FE Child Studies Profile The Child Studies profile is designed for students who want to pursue university studies leading to careers that involve working with children, such as counselling, teaching and social work. The profile focuses on children and

their role in the family and in society. The profile offers:

• Courses in Anthropology, History, Psychology and Sociology after the first term, which are related to child or family behaviour, institutions, culture, and history;

• An option for four Psychology courses in addition to biology for those interested in psychology;

• Courses that are relevant for university study in Education, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology to name a few of many areas;

• An opportunity to complete two volunteer placements (fieldwork) such as: elementary schools, after-school programs, Girl Guides, sports teams, the Montreal Children’s Hospital, and Covered Garden;

• Several courses in the profile taught by a core group of instructors. These instructors follow the students’ progress and offer additional encouragement and guidance;

• The opportunity to get to know a group of like-minded students.

TERM 1

• General Psychology • Individual and Society • Western Civilization

• English • French • Humanities • Physical Education

TERM 2

• Introduction to Economics • Introduction to Anthropology • Cognitive Development (Fieldwork) • Research Methods


TERM 3

• 100-level option or Biology

• Developmental Psychology • Sociology of Education • Quantitative Methods


TERM 4

• Anthropology of Parenthood • Social & Economic History: The Family • Advanced Studies in Psychology: Developmental

Psychopathology or Advanced Studies in Sociology

• Integrative Seminar


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TERM 1

• Introduction to Geography and the Environment

• Introduction to Economics • Western Civilization

• English • French • Humanities • Physical Education

TERM 2

• General Psychology • Natural Environment • Research Methods • Calculus I (with Math)*

or group choice between 100-level course in Anthropology, Business Administration, Religion or Sociology


TERM 3

• Environmental Issues • Economics and the Environment • Quantitative Methods • Calculus II (with Math)*

or 100-level option


TERM 4

No math or 1 Math options: • Advanced Environmental Studies • Integrative Seminar • 200-level option unless

Business Administration or Sociology were retained in term 2 • 300-level option unless

Anthropology or Religion were retained in term 2 3 math option:

• Linear Algebra • Integrative Seminar • 100-level option


300.FG Environmental Studies Profile The Environmental Studies Profile provides students with the opportunity to learn about the dynamic relationship between society and the environment, and to address and discuss issues relating to an environmentally sustainable world. The profile blends both theory and practice through a problem solving approach that encourages students to reflect on the adage: “Think globally, act locally”. The selection of courses

facilitates access to university-level programs in environmental study. The Environmental Studies Profile addresses a number of preoccupations including the presence of a natural environment education, the possibility of mathematics courses, a strong focus on environmental issues and the development of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) abilities. To this end the profile will offer a number of compulsory concentration courses and structured choices of Social Science disciplines. A multidisciplinary Advanced Environmental Studies course will be offered to all students.

The main objectives of the profile are to: • Contribute an awareness of environmental issues among students; • Prepare students to pursue university studies in environmental issues; • Increase students’ awareness about their Environmental Footprint.

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300.FH International Business Studies Profile The International Business Studies Profile (IBS) is designed for students interested in business, trade and investment on an international scale. IBS courses examine issues related to trade between countries, fluctuations in exchange rates, and short and

long-term capital flows across borders. In IBS, students will be able to explore issues such as global marketing, the geography of international relations, global politics and business psychology as well as the consequences of globalization and free trade agreements on international economics. Students will also acquire skills that will allow them to understand and service the business needs of different cultures and societies world-wide. Profile courses prepare students to pursue post-secondary studies not only in the fields of management, marketing, administration and international business, but also in any other Social Science discipline. Students take two math courses in IBS (with an optional third) thus improving their chances of acceptance into a Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Business Administration program. Students in this profile will meet the broader requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree at university as well.

TERM 1

• Western Civilization • Introduction to Economics • Introduction to Business • Calculus I

• English • French • Physical Education

TERM 2

• General Psychology • Linear Algebra or Linear Algebra Enriched • International Business • Research Methods


TERM 3

• Introduction to Geography or Introduction to Political Science

• 300-level option • Quantitative Methods

• English • Humanities • French • Complementary

TERM 4

• Microeconomics or Economic Geography

• 300-level option • Integrative Seminar


300 Level Options: Calculus II 201-203-DW or 201-204-DW, Geography of International Relations 320-315-DW, Psychology in Business and Industry 350-318-DW, International Economics 383-3XX-DW, Global Politics 385-311-DW, or Global Marketing 401-315-DW

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The Law, Society and Justice Profile is suited to students wishing to pursue further education in fields such as: Law Education Journalism Political Science History Law enforcement Criminology Social Work Communication Public Administration

300.FK Law, Society & Justice Profile The Law, Society and Justice Profile offers a coordinated group of courses that examines the various issues related to

the role of law in society. The topics and issues are taken from the Social Science disciplines of history, psychology, sociology, economics and political science.

While meeting the general Social Science

program objectives, the Law, Society and Justice Profile also has the following specific objectives:

• To provide students with a broad Social Science background, while at the same time focusing on law-related issues;

• To develop an understanding of the impact of law on society and of society on the law, from a multi-disciplinary perspective;

• To help students develop and work towards academic and career goals in law-related areas of interest.

TERM 1

• General Psychology • Western Civilization • Individual and Society

• English • Humanities • French • Physical Education

TERM 2

• Introduction to Economics • Introduction to Political Science • Sociology of Law • Research Methods


TERM 3

• Canadian History: Crime and Society • Psychology and the Law • 100-level option • Quantitative Methods • Canadian Democracy

• English • French

TERM 4

• 300-level option • 400-level option • Integrative Seminar

• Complementary • English • Humanities • Physical Education

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300.FM North-South Studies Profile The North-South Studies Profile explores the living and working conditions of the developing world through specialized courses in History, Economics, Political Science and Anthropology. Students in the profile can choose to participate in a month-long fieldtrip to a developing country, usually in Central America. Through courses, extracurricular activities and the field trip in particular, they develop a strong sense of community and co-operation. During the trip, students live

with a host family, attend conferences, and participate in community projects. Before leaving for the trip, they take two Spanish courses so they are able to communicate with their host family.

The profile has two major objectives: The first is to prepare students for university studies in the social sciences, and especially in International Studies, should they so desire. This could lead to further studies and careers in law, various fields of international co-operation, international business, anthropology, environmental studies, and others. The second objective is to develop practical experience and a sense of solidarity with the peoples and cultures of the South.

TERM 1

• Western Civilization • Introduction to Economics • 100-level course*

• English • Humanities • French • Physical Education

TERM 2

• Introduction to Political Science • Research Methods • Third World History • 100-level option**

• English • Humanities • Physical Education • Complementary (Spanish I for field trip students)

TERM 3

• General Psychology • 200-level course* • Preparation for the Field Trip

or 300-level course* (for non-fieldtrip students)

• Quantitative Methods

• English • French • Complementary (Spanish II for field trip students)

TERM 4

• 200-level option • 300-level option

or Field Trip Experience

• 400-level option • Integrative Seminar


* To be chosen in advance by profile teachers ** Recommended: Introduction to Anthropology

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300.FP Psychology Profile The Psychology Profile provides Social Science students with a grouping of courses that permits them to sample areas of interest within Psychology. At the same time, students in the Psychology Profile meet the admission requirements of a university Bachelor of Arts program in Psychology or any other Social Science field.

The Psychology Profile offers:

• Tailored courses in Psychology, methodology and biology after the first level;

• Four Psychology courses to choose from plus other Social Science discipline courses at the second level and the option of a statistics course or another Psychology course at the third level;

• Courses taught in the profile by a group of instructors who monitor the students’ progress and offer guidance and encouragement.

TERM 1

• General Psychology • Introduction to Economics • 100-level option


TERM 2

• Western Civilization • Individual & Society • Developmental Psychology

or Abnormal Psychology

• Research Methods


TERM 3

• Human Biology • Human Sexual Behaviour

or Applications of Psychology



TERM 4

• 200-level option • 300-level option • Advanced Studies in Psychology

or Statistics for Social Science

• Integrative Seminar


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300.FT Travel & Tourism Profile Travel for discovery, trade, adventure and leisure is not a recent phenomenon. From the fantastic voyages of Ulysses to the trade explorations of Marco Polo and the search for the extraordinary by Jules Verne, travel and tourism have been an integral part of cultures and the ongoing process of globalization. Travel has grown consistently in the last 200 years despite wars, epidemics and occasionally unstable political conditions. This profile aims to give students a better understanding of the economic, social and cultural impact of the contemporary travel and tourism industry. Courses in the Tourism Studies Profile without Math will prepare students to understand the contemporary phenomenon of travel and pursue further studies in transportation, hospitality and tourism related industries. The Travel and Tourism Profile with 3 mathematics courses will prepare students to pursue further studies in transportation, hospitality and tourism related industries in business and management. The 3-math stream will enable application to management, business and commerce programs at the university level.

TERM 1

• General Psychology • Introduction to Geography • Introduction to Economics


TERM 2

• Geography of Tourism • Western Civilization • Calculus I (with Math)*

or Introduction to Anthropology

• Research Methods


TERM 3

• Introduction to Business • Applied Geography • Calculus II (with Math)*

or 200-level Option



TERM 4

• Integrative Seminar • Global Management

Linear Algebra (with Math)* or Advanced Studies in Geography


* These courses must be taken by students pursuing the 3-math option

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How is CEGEP different from High School?

The college environment is very different from that of high school. As a student in CEGEP, you are given more freedom, which means you also have more responsibilities. If you miss a class, it is up to you to find out what has happened. If you don’t hand-in an assignment, it is up to you to talk to your teacher about the consequences. In order to succeed, you should attend every class and be clear about each teacher's expectations. If you have several exams scheduled or assignments due on the same day, it is up to you to get organized to get all your work done on time. Reading Teachers may assign readings that are not discussed in class. You may think you’ve “caught a break” if you didn’t read an article or a chapter in a textbook and the teacher never mentioned it in class. Keep in mind that the teacher will, in all likelihood, ask you questions about these readings in an exam, even if they weren’t discussed in class. It is up to you to make sure you get all your readings done. The teacher will not always check up on you. You must buy your textbooks or reading manuals at the Dawson College bookstore. There are alternatives if you cannot afford to buy the books: often books can be purchased second-hand at used-book sales and many textbooks are placed ‘On Reserve’ in the library – this means the books can be borrowed for a limited amount of time and can only be used in the library. See your teachers Use all the resources that are available to you in the College to make sure that you succeed. Your teachers see you for only 2 to 5 hours per week. If you are having trouble, you need to seek help from your teacher during their office hours. Your schedule Your schedule will not be as full as the one you had in high school. You may have breaks between classes. This is a good time to see your teachers, go to the library or the computer lab to get some work done. You may also find that you have classes during lunch time. Some teachers will allow you to eat in class and some will not. [If you do eat in class please clean up after yourself.] It will be very tempting to just hang-out with your friends during your breaks. Doing this occasionally is not a bad idea; one thing you should be doing in CEGEP is meeting new people and making friends. However, your school work should come first and if you keep up with your work, you will be much more successful.

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Computer labs As a Dawson College student, you have access to computer labs where you can work on and print out assignments. We anticipate that you will already know how to use a word processing program; teachers will likely require that assignments be word-processed. Also, many other aspects of your college life can be dealt with by using a computer. You can register online, check your schedule, access your grades online through the Omnivox system and many of your teachers will use Moodle or Lea. Having a computer or having access to a computer will make keeping track of your work and progress much easier. CEGEP success is up to you As a CEGEP student, you are treated as an adult. We do not communicate with your parents. This means that you must take charge of your education. You must keep yourself informed. You must take responsibility for your learning. Getting through In order to graduate from CEGEP, you are expected to fulfill certain requirements. This handbook, as well as other documents you receive from the College will explain what needs to be done in order to complete your program. It is up to you to make sure that you take all the required courses to be able to graduate. To make sure you are on the right track, please consult an Academic Adviser. Student Services It may happen that personal or academic/learning difficulties impair your academic success. Do not hesitate to take advantage of the wide range of services offered at Dawson. To learn more about the many services offered to students please visit: the Student Services webpage:

http://www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca/?A2EECAF2-F13A-4170-850F-6B7374A573EA

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The CRC and You Cote de rendement au collégial (R-score)

What is the CRC? The CRC is a score calculated by the Ministère de l’Éducation, de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche (MEESR) to compare your grades with those of other students. Although this may sound simple, it is not… What does a CRC look like? CRCs can vary from 1 to 50 but most students have CRCs of 15 to 35. A CRC of 25 is about average. Very strong students in Social Science have CRCs in the 30s. Can you calculate your own CRC? No. No one at the College can either. Why is the CRC important? The CRC is important because it is how universities in Quebec (and some outside of Quebec) evaluate students for admission to programs. Although there are some Quebec university programs that ask for interviews, letters, portfolios, etc., the CRC is the main factor used. Other factors, such as minimum scores in English, Mathematics and Science, may also be considered by the universities. More questions? If you have questions about your CRC score, please see the College’s very helpful Academic Advisers in Room 2D.4. The College also offers many useful services to help students improve their grades and ultimately their CRCs. The most important thing to remember is that higher grades result in higher CRCs. If you want to raise your CRC, work as hard as you can to achieve higher grades.

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Academic Standing and Advancement Policy

To be in good standing and to register unconditionally, students must meet the requirements of the College Academic Standing and Advancement Policy as well as the Social Science program requirements. COLLEGE POLICY To be in good standing and to register unconditionally: • Students must have passed more than 50% of their courses for the year (not including

summer school);

• Students admitted in January must pass more than 50% of their courses in that semester;

• Students must also meet the standards of their particular program. If that policy is more stringent than the College Policy, the Program policy (DEC or AEC) takes precedence;

• Students who do not fulfill the above conditions may register only with the permission of the College Academic Standing Appeals Committee.

Students denied permission to register have the right to appeal to the College Academic Standing Appeals Committee.

PROGRAM POLICY

To remain in the Program for a second semester, students who enter the program in January must have passed at least two Specific Education (concentration) courses in their first semester. To remain in the Program for a third semester, students must have passed at least three Specific Education (concentration) courses (any combination of Introductory level courses and Research Methods) and must have passed at least two General Education courses in their first two semesters. Students in the Commerce (300.FB) profile must have also passed Calculus I to remain in the profile. To remain in the Program for a fourth semester, students must have passed at least five Specific Education (concentration) courses (any combination of Introductory level courses and Research/Quantitative Methods) and at least four General Education courses in the first three semesters.

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To remain in the Program for a fifth semester, students must have passed at least seven Specific Education (concentration) courses (including five introductory level courses and Research Methods) and at least seven General Education courses in the first four semesters. Students will have their status reviewed at the end of the Winter semester. Students who fail to meet the criteria set by this Standing and Advancement Policy will be expelled from the Program and the College. Expelled students retain the right to appeal the expulsion decision to the College Academic Standing Appeals Committee.

To remain in the Program, students who are readmitted on appeal must pass a minimum of four Specific Education (concentration) courses in the two semesters following their readmission. In addition, students must meet the requirements set by the College on readmission.

Questions you might have been afraid to ask…

What if I miss a class? If you miss a class, it is up to you to make sure you get the information you missed. Always start by asking a classmate for notes. Once you have looked over the notes, if you still feel lost, go ask your teacher. What if I’m late submitting an assignment? Each teacher has their own policy for dealing with late assignments. For some teachers, late submissions result in an automatic 0 unless you have a medical note. Other teachers will take a certain percentage off for each day the assignment is late. This should be explained in the course outline. If you can’t get to class to hand in an assignment, ask a friend or classmate to bring it in for you. TIP: You can always hand-in work early if you know you won’t be there on the day that the assignment is due… What if I am overwhelmed and can’t keep up with all my classes? If you have so much work that you can’t keep up, you should consider dropping a course. It is better to officially drop a course than it is to fail it. If you have to work to pay for your education, food or rent, you are better off taking more time to finish CEGEP and doing well in all your classes than to end up failing.

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What if I think a teacher has it in for me and isn’t treating me fairly? The first person you should talk to is your teacher. Ask questions. Sometimes, when you raise your concern to your teachers’ attention they can explain more clearly their expectations. If they have made an error, they will correct it at that time. If you are still not satisfied, the next person you should talk to is the department chairperson. Always explain things calmly and politely; people will be more willing to listen to you. If the issue remains unresolved you can see the Sector Dean. At any point in this process called an Academic Grievance (that you can initiate) you can be accompanied by the Ombudsperson. At the end of the semester, after you have received your final grade, if you are still unsatisfied with your grade, you can request a Grade Review. See the Institutional Student Evaluation Policy (ISEP) for more detail. What if I decide to spend my time hanging out with my friends instead of going to class? The short answer is that you will likely do poorly. Going to class is the most important marker for success in your courses. If you do not attend class, even if you do all the readings and show up for exams, you will probably not pass. TIP: Try not to miss a class. Once you skip once, it is easier to skip again, and again, and again… What if I or a family member gets diagnosed with a serious illness and I must miss school for an extended period of time? It is possible to get a medical dispensation, known as an authorized absence, from the Registrar. This will allow you to withdraw from your class(es) without penalty. This is only granted in very serious cases. It is always best to talk to your teacher about alternative ways to finish a course, but if you really cannot handle school for a well-documented reason, the authorized absence is an option. TIP: Life doesn’t always go the way we plan it. If something significant occurs, talk to your teachers and/or to the school counsellors; they can help you. What are learning skills? You may hear your teachers refer to learning skills and you may see information about learning skills (competencies) in your course outlines. What is that all about? As you are preparing for university, there are certain skills that you must need to acquire. Some are specific to your program and others are developed in each course. For example you need to be able to read a text, understand it and critically assess its information. It is important that you develop the habit of keeping up with your reading assignments. Teachers may test you, either through pop quizzes, assignments or exams, on the material you have been assigned to read. Essay writing will also be a big part of your university experience so it is vital that you refine your style.

http://www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca/public/72b18975-8251-444e-8af8-224b7df11fb7/programs/smse/science/isep.pdf

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General Guidelines for your Social Science Essays During your time at Dawson, you will have many opportunities to write essays. In fact, writing essays is an essential skill. Here are a few general guidelines. Keep in mind, that your teacher’s guidelines will always take precedence over what is suggested here. Each teacher has his/her own preferences; these tips should be helpful as general guidelines.

• Plan ahead! Schedule time to explore and chose a topic, research the topic and write and proofread your paper.

• An essay needs a cover page which includes, at the very least, the title, your name, your teacher’s name, the course title, your student number, Dawson College and the date.

• All pages should be stapled together. Part of your responsibility as a student is to

hand in a completed paper. This means there should not be any hand written corrections...

• Double spacing is always a good choice. If you are not sure what kind of spacing your teacher prefers, use double spacing. Why? When marking your paper, your teacher needs room to write comments and make corrections. Also, your teacher will be reading anywhere from 100 to 160 essays and double spacing is easier to read. It is always a good idea to hand in a paper that is clear, clean and easy to read.

• Include page numbers; it helps teachers keep track of their reading.

• Don’t look up information on Wikipedia the night before the paper is due. Wikipedia is not a valid source for Social Science work and many of your teachers will not accept it as a source. Do not expect to do well on a paper that you wrote at the last minute with questionable sources.

• Citations and referencing are extremely important. Without proper use of citations and referencing, you can be accused of plagiarism (see CEGEP jargon on next page). Universities are very concerned about the use of citations and referencing, but will not have time to teach it to you. In your Methods courses, you will be taught proper MLA and APA referencing styles, and it is essential that you use them.

When you hand in your paper, make sure that it is clear, clean, well-written and conforms to the specific requests of your teacher.

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Guide to CEGEP Jargon... How to understand the terms used by your teachers, advisors and the registrar Academic Advisers: Academic advisers are professionals who are there to help you make informed decisions about your educational path. They can answer questions about course selection, university options, etc. Academic Calendar: The academic calendar indicates all important dates during a given semester such as class start and end dates; course change and course drop deadlines and holidays. It is available on the Dawson College web site and at the beginning of the Timetable. Academic Grievance: During the semester, you may have a disagreement with a teacher. It could be about a grade on a specific assignment, an accusation of cheating or plagiarism; or about other serious issues. If, after speaking to the teacher and/or the chairperson of the department, you don't feel you have received a satisfactory answer, you may submit an academic grievance to the Dean (the procedure for this is outlined in Appendix VII of the Institutional Student Evaluation Policy (ISEP)). Cheating: At Dawson, cheating is taken very seriously. Cheating includes falsifying a doctor’s note, copying off a classmate's paper during an exam, letting a classmate copy off your paper during an exam, texting answers to a friend, writing information on your hand, under your shoes, inside your pencil case. If you are caught doing any of these things, or other similar activities, you will be penalized from a 0 on the particular assignment to a failure in the course. You will also be reported to the Dean. Competency: A competency includes knowledge, skills and attitudes that you need to acquire and master in order to succeed in your field in university. Complementary Courses: You must take two courses outside of your field of studies such as languages, science, arts and computers. Comprehensive Examination: This is a tool that the College uses to make sure you have acquired the competencies necessary to obtain your DEC. In Social Science, this is tied to the Integrative Seminar course. There is no grade on a Comprehensive Examination; it is pass/fail. Course change: In the first week of the semester, you can make changes to your schedule, space permitting. Course drop: By a specific date each semester, you can drop a course. This means you are no longer registered in that course and you will not receive a grade. If you aren’t attending a class, you are better off dropping it. If you do not drop and don’t attend, you will receive a mark of 0 which will seriously affect your CRC.

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CRC: This is a number that the Ministère de l’Éducation, de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche (MEESR) calculates in order to rank you against all other students. (See detailed explanation on page 29.) DEC: Diplôme d’Études Collégiales. This is the diploma you receive once you have successfully completed your program. Department: Disciplines belong to departments which are coordinated by a chairperson – the person you should consult if you are having trouble with a teacher. A department can be made up of more than one discipline. Discipline: Social Science is comprised of several disciplines: Anthropology, Business Administration, Classics, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion and Sociology. In addition, students can take courses in the disciplines of Mathematics and Biology. English Exit Test: One of the things you have to do before you can graduate from CEGEP is write (and pass…) the English Exit test. This test serves to ensure that you have attained the requisite level of English. . General Education: In order to get a DEC in any program, there is a General Education component that every student must complete. In addition to your social science courses, you will take 4 English, 2 French, 3 Humanities, 3 Physical Education and 2 Complementary courses. Grade review: At the end of the term, if you feel you have not been fairly graded by your teacher, you can request a grade review. The Dean will determine if your claim is valid. In the case where it is, a committee made up of 3 teachers including your teacher will meet to review the work handed in and consider whether or not a grade change is warranted. Institutional Student Evaluation Policy (ISEP): This is a document that states the rules, roles and responsibilities of students and teachers for an equitable and effective evaluation of student’s learning. It is available online, in the College calendar and at the college library. MEESR: This is an acronym for Ministère de l’Éducation, de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche. This is the government department responsible for matters concerning education. Methods Courses: A requirement in the Social Science program, the Methods courses help prepare you for doing social science research and are very useful for the work you will be doing in university. You must take and pass the three following Methods courses to obtain your DEC in Social Science: Research Methods, Quantitative Methods and Integrative Seminar. Mid-Term Assessment: Around the eighth week of the semester, your teacher will evaluate your performance. You will receive one of four comments. Passing means that you are, up to mid-term, doing fine and the teacher anticipates that you will pass the course. At risk means that you may fail the course unless improvements are made. This does not mean that you will fail, but it is a warning. Failing means that based on the quality of the work submitted and tests written, you are in serious difficulty. This does not mean that you will fail but there is an urgent need to undertake remedial actions. In this case, speak to your teacher, go to the Academic Skills Center,

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get a tutor, etc. Do whatever is needed. The comment “Not available – see your teacher” means that the teacher was not able to assess your progress at the time of submission. If you are concerned, see your teacher and ask for clarification. Plagiarism: Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else’s ideas or work as your own. This happens if you forget to cite a source in an essay, or when you copy entire sentences or passages from journals, books or websites, without crediting the source. Handing in an essay written by another student, or bought through an essay-writing service, is also plagiarism. All academic institutions take plagiarism seriously and if caught, you may be expelled from the College. Pre-University: Social Science at Dawson is a pre-university program, which means that it is intended to prepare you for university level studies. Pre-U College level education offers a transition between high school and university. Ombudsperson: Disputes or difficulties sometimes arise between students and teachers. The Ombudsperson is a neutral party in such disputes. The role of the Dawson Ombudsperson is to help ensure that all Dawson students receive fair and equitable treatment within the College system. The Ombudsperson provides an independent and confidential service and is empowered to investigate complaints as well as facilitate or negotiate solutions. Religious Observances: The College recognizes that students come from many different religious backgrounds and that there are important religious holidays that may require you to miss classes. If you are going to miss classes due religious observances, you must inform your teachers, in writing, in the first two weeks of the semester. You cannot be penalized for missing class for a religious holiday, but it is your responsibility to make up for missed time and information. If you have an assignment due, have a friend bring it in, or bring it in yourself before the due date falls on a holiday that you observe. Talk to your teacher if an exam has been scheduled on that day in order to make alternate arrangements. Student Code of Conduct: The Code of Conduct applies to all students and is intended to cover instances of non-academic misconduct not otherwise dealt with in College regulations and policy. It applies on College premises and at any site or occasion where College business, programs or activities are being conducted, including extracurricular activities under the aegis or supervision of the College.

Program Manual - Dawson College · Congratulations on becoming a Social Science student! You are...

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