EMAIL ME: THE VERY BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME is through email through your AC email account. You can also email be by going through the ONLINE BLACKBOARD MESSAGING FUNCTION, which is located in each class Blackboard sight. When messaging via Blackboard please check the box at the bottom to have the message emailed to me. PHONE CONTACT: THE SECOND BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME is to CALL ME/TEXT ME on my CELL PHONE at 806-341-9718. If you leave a message, please let me know your NAME and the CLASS YOU ARE IN with the section number, so I can be prepared to talk with you when I CALL YOU BACK. PLEASE NOTE: If you are dissatisfied with the instructor or something that happens in class, DO NOT TEXT ME ABOUT IT, you need to speak to me in person. OFFICE HOURS and APPOINTMENT TIMES IN PERSON: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am-10:00am, and Friday by appointment. If How will I contact you and impart information about the class? The primary method of communication from me will be through course announcements and/or email/message(s). All course announcements will be posted under the Announcements at the top of the course in Blackboard . Make sure to check your announcements/emails at least every other day to ensure you don’t miss out on important information. |
Communication Policy
Generally speaking, you can expect a response to your email/course message within 24 hours from the time you send your correspondence. However, there will be times when it could take slightly longer to respond. If you send an email and don’t receive a response, please make sure you follow up with me. If you send me a text, please include your name and which class you’re enrolled in. If you call and don’t receive an answer, please leave a message and I’ll call you back.
In the event you’re unable to contact me directly, there are some additional resources for assistance:
Option 1| The offices for the Criminal Justice department are located at the First Responder Academy at 3701 Plains Blvd. The general phone number is (806) 457-4450. You can leave a message for me at this number as well.
Option 2| ASK AC Helpline at (806) 371-5000, or after hours you can email them at askac@actx.edu.
Option 3| CTL Student & Faculty Help Center at (806) 371-5992. It’s available to students who are currently enrolled in academic or continuing education courses on a walk-in and/or appointment basis. Assistance is provided for: Logging-in to AC Connect, Password resets; How to use AC Online; Microsoft Office help/ Microsoft Office alternatives; General computer/software questions. They are located on the Washington Street Campus, Library, 2nd floor, Suite 205 and their hours are:
Monday – Thursday, 8am – 5pm (WARE 205)
Monday – Thursday, 5pm – 9pm (Library Research Desk on the 4th Floor of WARE)
Friday, 8am – 5pm (WARE 205)
Option 4| AC Connect Student Resources at: https://www.actx.edu/student-resources
This course is built upon the premise that students from diverse backgrounds and viewpoints benefit by taking this course together, that students' varying learning needs be addressed in and out of the virtual classroom, and the diversity students bring to this class be considered as a resource and advantage in the learning process.
Students should make themselves knowledgeable regarding appropriate ‘netiquette’ practices. There are several internet resources explaining the facets of netiquette. In addition, I have provided helpful information and links within the course.
You should always communicate with your classmates and instructor in a professional, considerate and courteous manner. Discourteous, rude and/or aggressive emails, text messages or phone conversations will not be tolerated.
When you have a question, complaint, or issue regarding the course, you should contact me first. Other students or Amarillo College staff or faculty are not responsible for making determinations regarding my course policies. If the situation cannot be resolved to your satisfaction, you may contact my immediate supervisor. This contact information is provided in the Additional Information section at the end of this syllabus.
If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.
Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.
If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.
As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc
Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016
Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.
NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.
The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students. If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .
CRIJ-1301-001 Introduction to Criminal Justice
This course provides a historical and philosophical overview of the American criminal justice system, including the nature, extent and impact of crime; criminal law; and justice agencies and processes.
Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website
Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:
Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact your advisor, the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.
(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)
On Campus Course
Criminal Justice Mainstream and Crosscurrents, John Randolph Fuller 3rd Edition, ISBN# 978-0-19-999796-1
No supplies available
Student Performance / Learning Objectives
In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .
If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".
There are certain requirements that will be necessary for the successful completion of this class. The requirements are mandatory and are explained fully in this syllabus.
You are responsible for keeping up with the assigned readings and being prepared for class discussions. The textbook readings are intended to provide background information to my lecture. Because we will be having class discussions when I am lecturing, it is of the utmost importance that you read the assigned reading for that particular lecture in the textbook. If for some reason I am unable to lecture on a particular topic in the book you are still responsible for knowing that particular section of the assigned reading. So, please be aware that you will be tested on what the book covers. Bring you textbook to every lecture. In order to be successful in this class, you will need to devote equal study time to course lecture as well as the readings; therefore, class participation is expected. HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS:
Behavior policy. Students are expected in this class to behave in a manner befitting adult, college students, with the proper respect displayed for their fellow students, the instructor, and the college. A student will receive one verbal warning only. Verbal warnings may include dismissal from class for the remainder of the class period. A second incident results in permanent expulsion with no chance for reinstatement.
Prohibited behavior includes, but are not limited to the following:
PLEASE BE IN CLASS ON TIME! Class starts at 6:00 p.m. |
Exams: Final Exam: The final exam will be comprehensive. The exam will consist of 200 True/False and/or multiple choice questions.
Final Exam Exemption Opportunity If you complete ALL assignments, including taking every exam (and pass each exam with a minimum of a 70) and have a minimum comprehensive course average of 80 or above, you will be “exempt” from taking the final exam. There will be no exception to this exemption opportunity. If you do not turn in an assignment, if you miss an exam, or if you miss more than 2 days of class for any reason, you will no longer be considered exempt from taking the final exam. Please realize that it is not that I am not understanding to situations that may come up during the semester. The purpose of this exemption opportunity is to encourage you all to attend class, prepare for exams, and complete all course work timely. On October 4, 2017 I will be sending an email to all students who have been designated as “exempt”. If you do not receive an email from me indicating such, then you MUST take the final exam. In the event that you are designated as “exempt” from taking the final exam, your highest chapter exam grade will serve as your final exam grade. For example, if your highest chapter test grade is a 79, you get designated as “exempt” and you choose not to take the final, then your highest chapter test grade of 79 will be the grade for your final exam. In the event you are designated as “exempt” you still have the option of taking the final if you choose to do so. Exam days: NO CELL PHONES, COMPUTERS, OR TABLETS ARE ALLOWED IN CLASS ON THE DAY OF EXAMS! If a student has one of these devices on the day of the test, the student will be asked to leave and will not be allowed to take the test. Students will not be permitted to leave the classroom once testing has begun. If a student leaves the room, then their test will be taken up and graded based on the questions they have answered up to that point. All tests will begin at 6:00 p.m., if a student enters the class after 6:10 they will not be allowed to take the test. YOU will have one hour and 15 minutes to complete each chapter exam, you will have two hours to complete the final exam. The final exam will be from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 P.M. A review sheet will be given for all exams.
Participation:
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Grading Scheme: Final 20% CORE assignment 10% Participation 10% Semester project 15% Attendance 20% Total 100%
A = 100%-89.5% B = 89.4%-79.5% F = 59.4% and below You get the grade you earn. At the end of the semester, if you have a final grade of an 89.5 you will receive an A, if you have a final grade of 89.4 you will receive a B. Makeup Policy: Because you have the opportunity to be exempted from the final, no makeup work or exam makeups will be allowed. Extra Credit: There is not an “extra credit” option. I want you to learn how to do college level work and do well in your class as opposed to passing a class based on extra credit. I want you to learn the study skills necessary to be successful as you continue taking courses in college.
Capstone assignment (see below for more information) |
Attendance and participation are required. A role sheet will be handed out at the beginning of class, you will sign acknowledging you are present. If you come in after the sign in sheet has been passed around, you will not be allowed to sign in and will be counted absent for that day. A student is allowed (2) two absences. Each additional absence will result in 10 points, per additional absence, being taken off of the attendance grade. STUDENTS HAVE FAILED SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY DID NOT ATTEND CLASS!
Students who wish to withdraw from a class must:
NOTE: The Texas Education Code stipulates that students attending Texas institutions of higher education for the first time fall 2007 and later may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career, including courses from which transfer students have withdrawn at other Texas institutions of higher education. (Senate Bill 1231) Rule 4.10.
Calendar- This schedule is subject to change by the instructor at any time Date Class Activity/Schedule Week 1 August 22 Syllabus, Course Dates, Class Structure Review, Review of five paragraph paper Out of class assignments: Read chapters 1 & 2
The Nature and Measurement of Crime (Chapter 2) Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 3 & 4 Complete All About Me Paper Due 08/29
Week 2 August 29 Theories of Crime (Chapter 3) Documentary All About Me paper due at the beginning of class
August 31 Criminal Law (Chapter 4) Review for test #1 (Chapters 1-4)
Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 5 & 6 Study for Test #1 Week 3 September 5 Test #1 The History and Organization of Law Enforcement (Chapter 5)
September 7 Policing and the Law (Chapter 6)
Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 7 & 8
Week 4 September 12 Issues in Policing (Chapter 7)
September 14 The History and Organization of Courts (Chapter 8) Review for test #2 (Chapter 5-8)
Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 9,10,11 Study for test #2 Week 5 September 19 Test #2 Working in the Courtroom (Chapter 9)
September 21 The Disposition; Plea Bargaining, Trial and Disposition (Chapter 10 ) The History of Control and Punishment (Chapter 11),
Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 12 & 13 Complete Capstone assignment
Week 6 September 26 Contemporary Prison life (Chapter 12) Documentary CORE assignment due by 11:59 p.m.
September 28 Corrections in the Community (Chapter 13) Documentary Review for test Semester project due at the beginning of class. Out of class assignments: Read Chapters 14
Week 7 October 3 Last day to drop Test #3 Juvenile Justice (Chapter 14)
October 5 Semester Project due Review for final exam
Out of class assignments: Study for Final Exam
Week 8 October 10 Final exam 6:00 p.m-8:00 p.m. |
Format for all assignments.
Title Page Information |
ALL ASSIGNMENTS MUST BE TYPED, HANDWRITTEN WORK WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED! APA style Format:
Every assignment you turn in must have the following cover page attached. If the cover page is missing 10 points will be deducted from your grade.
Title of paper Your name Introduction to Criminal Justice Instructor Haskins |
All About Me paper: |
August 29, 2017 – Due at the Beginning of Class All About Me Paper guidelines
Purpose- To introduce yourself to the instructor.
Topics- The paper needs to include information about your background, experiences, career goals, and anything in your life that may affect your performance in this class.
Format- This will be a five(5) paragraph essay with the following sections; I-Introduction (what is your paper about) II- Your history (family, educational history, etc...) III- Your current situation (your current family situation, current work situation, hobbies, etc...) IV- Your future (your major, what you plan to do with your degree, what you want to do when you grow up, etc...) V- conclusion(summarize what your paper was about)
SEE ABOVE BOX FOR ADDITIONAL FORMAT REQUIRMENTS.
Length –
Make sure to follow the format listed in the format for all assignments section.
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Capstone assignment Due: September 26, 2017 |
Read the 16.4 CROSSCURRENTS feature box on page 598 in your textbook. After careful consideration, craft a 500-word essay (minimum of 2 pages double spaced) that addresses the items listed below:
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Semester Project Due: September 28, 2017 |
Semester project guidelines
Purpose- To familiarize yourself with a criminal justice profession
Topic- Each student will be required to complete a final project that explores a criminal justice profession. The project will include interviewing an individual working in the criminal justice field, researching the job requirements of the chosen profession, researching the history of the chosen profession, and obtaining an application for the chosen position.
Format- This will be a five(5) paragraph essay with the following sections; I-Introduction (what is your paper about) II- History of the profession chosen III- Job requirements IV- interview V- conclusion(summarize what your paper was about)
Staple the application to the back of your paper
Length –
Make sure to follow the format listed in the format for all assignments section. |
Blackboard |
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08/01/17 9:07 PM
08/01/17 9:23 PM