Introduction to Philosophy Syllabus for 2017-2018
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Course

PHIL-1301-003 Introduction to Philosophy

Prerequisites

Course Description

A study of major issues in philosophy and/or the work of major philosophical figures in philosophy. Topics in philosophy may include theories of reality, theories of knowledge, theories of value and their practical applications.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

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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.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

1. Blackburn, Simon, The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy, 2nd Edition Revised, Oxford University Press, 2008. Reference Only.
2. Porter, Burton, Philosophy Through Film, 2nd Edition, Sloan Publishing, 2009. Required.

Supplies

Your textbooks, a dictionary, pens or pencils, notebook paper or a notebook, and access to a computer to complete assignments and review class materials. Access to film rentals may also be necessary if you cannot attend on the days we view and discuss contemporary movies.

Student Performance

ACCESSING AC CONNECT:

Online communication will be achieved between students and the professor by using AC Connect.  It is the student's responsibility to check for email messages and announcements regarding this class by clicking on AC Connect on the Amarillo College home page, and then clicking on the icon identifying this class.  You will be able to communicate with both your classmates and professor, check your syllabus, reviews for the examinations, and find your grades posted there.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (EXEMPLARY EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES):

Student Learning Outcomes are based on the required Core Curriculum Intellectual Competencies, Perspectives and Exemplary Educational Objectives as defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Course Student Learning Outcomes:  CCIC 1,2,3,4,5 CCP 1,2,5,7,8 EEOSB 1,2,4,5,9,10,12

Upon successful completion of the course, students will:

1. Read, analyze, and critique philosophical texts. 
2. Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, major arguments, problems and terminology in Philosophy. 
3. Present logically persuasive arguments both orally and in writing. 
4. Demonstrate critical thinking skills in evaluation and application of philosophical concepts to various aspects of life. 
5. Evaluate the personal and social responsibilities of living in a diverse world.

THE STUDY OF PHILOSOPHY: 

Philosophy is an important part to the foundation of a liberal arts education. Courses in philosophy help to provide a deeper understanding of the concepts which have formed human cultures while at the same time helping to develop the students’ skills in critical analysis, their ability to write and interpret texts from all cultures, and to examine the ideas behind theoretical thinking. 

SPECIFIC COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR PHILOSOPHY 1301:

1. Attendance.  Regular attendance and classroom participation. Two unexcused absences will result in the loss of one letter grade for the semester unless at least one of those absences is made up.  Four unexcused absences will then result in the loss of two letter grades unless at least one of those absences is made up.  Absences may be excused if they are the result of illness, official Amarillo College business, or personal emergencies.  It is your responsibility to talk with the instructor about this, though. Unexcused absences may be made up by doing extra work as approved by your instructor.
2. Reading.  A careful reading of all the assigned sections of the textbooks and all informational sheets given to you in class or online. See the class outline to find your specific reading assignments.  Reading the assigned portions of the textbooks before coming to class is necessary for the successful completion of this course.
3. Testing.  The successful completion of four examinations, including the final examination. See the course outline for the dates of these exams.
4. Participation.  Active participation in our classroom discussions. Any doctrinal point-of-view may be expressed if questioned or relevant, but you must speak respectfully to and of your fellow students and the instructor during all class discussions. A failure to treat the views of your classmates and instructor with respect will adversely result in the reduction of this part of your grade. In the same way, your instructor will treat your points-of-view with respect.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

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".

Expected Student Behavior

CELL PHONES/PERSONAL COMPUTERS:

In order to not interrupt the class, students are asked to mute all cell phones prior to the beginning of each class session unless you have already explained why your cell phone is needed to your instructor.  Personal computers are allowed for taking notes and/or looking up materials that will contribute to our class discussion.  However, the improper use of cell phones and/or computers will not be tolerated.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR:

Your instructor wants this class to be both interesting and fun, but any form of disruptive classroom behavior will not be tolerated.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

All students are required to follow the AC Student Rights/Responsibilities Statement (On the internet, go to www.actx.edu  and look under the “campus bookmarks”)

Grading Criteria

COURSE GRADE BREAKDOWN:                       COURSE GRADING SCALE:                 

First Examination           25%                                       90-100               A

Second Examination      25%                                        80-89                B

Third Examination          25%                                        70-79                C      

 Final Examinaton          25%                                        60-69                D

                            100%                                          0-59                 F

Attendance

Regular attendance and classroom participation. 

Calendar

Additional Information