Algonquin College
SOC0012
Sociology of Health
Course Outline
2021-2022
- Pre-requisite(s)
- N/A
- Co-requisite(s)
- N/A
- Prepared by
- Linda McDevitt
- Approved by
- Leigh Ridgway, Chair
- Approval date
- Friday, July 9, 2021
- Normative hours
- 56.00
- Grading system
- A+ Through F
| Applicable Program(s) | Level | Core/Elective |
|---|---|---|
| 1625X01FWO - Pre-Health Standard | 2 | Core |
| 1626X01FWO - Pre-Health Advanced | 2 | Elective |
Course Description
Understanding current trends and issues in the interaction between society and health is essential for professionals working in the industry. Using the sociological perspective, students examine the social factors shaping health, illness, and the changing nature of health care work.
Vocational Learning Outcomes
This course provides the opportunity for you to achieve the following outcomes:
1625X01FWO - Pre-Health Standard
| VLO 4 | Use health sciences and other science-related language and terminology appropriately to communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in written, spoken and visual forms. (T, A) |
|---|---|
| VLO 7 | Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship. (T, A, CP) |
1626X01FWO - Pre-Health Advanced
| VLO 4 | Use health sciences and other science-related language and terminology appropriately to communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in written, spoken and visual forms. (T, A) |
|---|---|
| VLO 8 | Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship. (T, A, CP) |
Assessment Levels —T: Taught A: Assessed CP: Culminating Performance
Essential Employability Skills
This course contributes to your program by helping you achieve the following Essential Employability Skills:
| EES 1 | Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfills the purpose and meets the needs of the audience. (T, A, CP) |
|---|---|
| EES 6 | Locate, select, organize and document information using appropriate technology and information systems. (T, A, CP) |
| EES 7 | Analyze, evaluate and apply relevant information from a variety of sources. (T, A, CP) |
| EES 8 | Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems and contributions of others. (T, A, CP) |
Assessment Levels —T: Taught A: Assessed CP: Culminating Performance
Course Learning Outcomes / Elements of Performance
When you have earned credit for this course, you will have demonstrated the ability to:
1. Using theoretical sociological perspectives, analyze the societal structure and organization of health and illness.
- Distinguish between a medical model approach and a sociological approach to analyze health, illness and health care.
- Summarize the different perspectives used by sociologists to examine societal patterns of health and illness.
- Identify topics that are of interest to sociologists of health and illness.
2. Explore the patterns of health and illness in Canada and other countries.
- Describe differences in patterns of death and illness in Canadian populations.
- Examine the social determinants contributing to the distribution of illness in various populations.
- Compare the health and illness patterns between high income and low income countries.
3. Analyze the social factors that impact health, health outcomes, and health care.
- Describe the impact of social factors on the patterns of disease and death in a population.
- Examine socially patterned differences in illness according to age, sex, gender and race/ethnicity.
- Describe how work and family statuses and roles influence health and well-being.
- Compare the relationship between socioeconomic status and the social distribution of illness in a population.
- Examine health and illness from a global perspective to recognize how social factors can foster illness.
4. Discuss the social organization of the Canadian health care system.
- Describe the structure of Canada’s health care system.
- Relate the current challenges in Canada’s health care system to the implications of reform.
- Identify the role and societal expectations of health care professionals within the Canadian health care system.
5. Identify practices that contribute to responsible and sustainable health care provision in Canada and the global community.
- Determine the relevance of health promotion to changing ideas on health.
- Examine historical and current medical practices relating to the adherence to moral and ethical principles.
Learning Resources
Required Textbook:
Strohschein, L. & Weitz, R. (2014). The Sociology of Health, Illness, and Health Care in Canada: A Critical Approach (1st Canadian edition). Nelson Canada
In addition to the required textbook, learning materials will be provided through Brightspace LMS, including notes, handout readings, and links to external websites.
Students will be required to conduct independent research using additional sources.
Strohschein, L. & Weitz, R. (2014). The Sociology of Health, Illness, and Health Care in Canada: A Critical Approach (1st Canadian edition). Nelson Canada
In addition to the required textbook, learning materials will be provided through Brightspace LMS, including notes, handout readings, and links to external websites.
Students will be required to conduct independent research using additional sources.
Learning Activities
This hybrid course will include both synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. Please see your professor’s Brightspace site for more information on how the learning activities will be delivered at the time of this course offering.
The synchronous learning activities will include the following:
Lectures
Discussion and debate
Interactive activities
Reflective discussions and activities
Focused discussions centered around independent learning activities
The asychronous learning activities will include the following:
Research and readings
Discussion board participation and postings
Outside of and in addition to the learning activities described above, students will be required to complete readings and study for tests.
The synchronous learning activities will include the following:
Lectures
Discussion and debate
Interactive activities
Reflective discussions and activities
Focused discussions centered around independent learning activities
The asychronous learning activities will include the following:
Research and readings
Discussion board participation and postings
Outside of and in addition to the learning activities described above, students will be required to complete readings and study for tests.
Pre-defined Evaluation / Earning Credit
The following list provides evidence of this course's learning achievements and the outcomes they validate:
Discussion Forum (50%)
Validates Outcomes: CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3, CLO 4, CLO 5, EES 1, EES 6, EES 7, EES 8
Midterm Exam(s) (25%)
Validates Outcomes: CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3, EES 7
Final Exam (25%)
Validates Outcomes: CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3, CLO 4, CLO 5, EES 7
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Students who wish to apply for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all outlined course learning outcomes. Evidence of learning achievement for PLAR candidates includes:
- Challenge Exam
Other Information
Grade Scheme
| Final Grade | Mark Equivalent | Numeric Value | Final Grade | Mark Equivalent | Numeric Value |
| A+ | 90% - 100% | 4.0 | A | 85% - 89% | 3.8 |
| A- | 80% - 84% | 3.6 | B+ | 77% - 79% | 3.3 |
| B | 73% - 76% | 3.0 | B- | 70% - 72% | 2.7 |
| C+ | 67% - 69% | 2.3 | C | 63% - 66% | 2.0 |
| C- | 60% - 62% | 1.7 | D+ | 57% - 59% | 1.4 |
| D | 53% - 56% | 1.2 | D- | 50% - 52% | 1.0 |
| F | 0% - 49% | 0 | FSP | 0 | 0 |
Course Related Information
Please refer to the Course Section Information (CSI) / weekly schedule for specific course-related information as provided by your professor.
Program Information
Department Information
Student Success:
Student Academic Responsibilities
Each student is responsible for:
Knowing the due dates for marked out-of-class assignments.
Knowing the dates of in-class marked assignments and exercises.
Maintaining a folder of all work done in the course during the semester for validation claims in cases of disagreement with faculty.
Keeping both paper and electronic copies of all assignments, marked and unmarked, in case papers are lost or go missing;
Regularly checking both Brightspace announcements as well as one's Algonquin e-mail account for important messages from both professor and college administration.
Actively participating in on-line/remote and classroom exercises and activities as required.
Class Conduct:
It is expected that all students will arrive to class on time and demonstrate courteous behaviour toward the professor and fellow students. The classroom allows us the opportunity to learn together, and through this process, there may be times where exploring new concepts and ideas may seem difficult or uncomfortable. It is important for everyone to have a safe space to learn. Individuals who disrupt other students or behave in a manner that is not in accordance with College Policy SA07-Student Conduct will be asked to leave the classroom.
Assignments:
Professors will clearly outline the assignment format, due date/time and consequences for late submission in the Course Section Information (CSI).
Late submissions may be subject to a late penalty or a mark of zero.
If a student is unable to complete the assignment at/by the originally scheduled date/time due to a medical or compassionate issue, professors may consider alternative accommodations as outlined in College Policy AA21-Deferred Evaluation.
Tests and Exams:
Professors will clearly outline the test/exam format and scheduled date/time in the Course Section Information (CSI).
Students are expected to make every effort to meet the originally scheduled course requirements by writing tests and examinations as scheduled and submitting assignments by the due date as outlined in College Policy AA21.
Students can request to have an evaluation rescheduled if one of the following eligibility criteria is met:
Suffer from a serious illness resulting in the inability to be present for a scheduled evaluation;
Have legal obligations such as jury duty or court appearances;
Face significant personal circumstances such as family bereavement or family crisis;
Have a conflict with religious observanceStudents are to notify their professor of their absence in writing and of the need for a rescheduled evaluation as soon as possible, before or, in extenuating circumstances, immediately after the evaluation is missed, normally within three (3) working days.
Documentation to support any of the eligibility criteria may be required.
Program Progression and graduation:
Students are advised to carefully read and be familiar with Policy AA39 - Program Progression and Graduation Requirements. Students must check with the program coordinator, Academic Advisor or Student Support Specialist as some programs may require success in 50% or more of their Level 1 courses in order to progress to Level 2 of the programs.
Students who fail to meet the outlined progression criteria to advance to Level 2 will be required to withdraw from the program and must reapply to Level 1 through the Ontario College Application Services www.ontariocolleges.ca if they wish to return.
Withdrawn students will be academically encumbered and must meet with the Academic Administrator or designate for review and advising before returning to the program.
Student Academic Responsibilities
Each student is responsible for:
Knowing the due dates for marked out-of-class assignments.
Knowing the dates of in-class marked assignments and exercises.
Maintaining a folder of all work done in the course during the semester for validation claims in cases of disagreement with faculty.
Keeping both paper and electronic copies of all assignments, marked and unmarked, in case papers are lost or go missing;
Regularly checking both Brightspace announcements as well as one's Algonquin e-mail account for important messages from both professor and college administration.
Actively participating in on-line/remote and classroom exercises and activities as required.
Class Conduct:
It is expected that all students will arrive to class on time and demonstrate courteous behaviour toward the professor and fellow students. The classroom allows us the opportunity to learn together, and through this process, there may be times where exploring new concepts and ideas may seem difficult or uncomfortable. It is important for everyone to have a safe space to learn. Individuals who disrupt other students or behave in a manner that is not in accordance with College Policy SA07-Student Conduct will be asked to leave the classroom.
Assignments:
Professors will clearly outline the assignment format, due date/time and consequences for late submission in the Course Section Information (CSI).
Late submissions may be subject to a late penalty or a mark of zero.
If a student is unable to complete the assignment at/by the originally scheduled date/time due to a medical or compassionate issue, professors may consider alternative accommodations as outlined in College Policy AA21-Deferred Evaluation.
Tests and Exams:
Professors will clearly outline the test/exam format and scheduled date/time in the Course Section Information (CSI).
Students are expected to make every effort to meet the originally scheduled course requirements by writing tests and examinations as scheduled and submitting assignments by the due date as outlined in College Policy AA21.
Students can request to have an evaluation rescheduled if one of the following eligibility criteria is met:
Suffer from a serious illness resulting in the inability to be present for a scheduled evaluation;
Have legal obligations such as jury duty or court appearances;
Face significant personal circumstances such as family bereavement or family crisis;
Have a conflict with religious observanceStudents are to notify their professor of their absence in writing and of the need for a rescheduled evaluation as soon as possible, before or, in extenuating circumstances, immediately after the evaluation is missed, normally within three (3) working days.
Documentation to support any of the eligibility criteria may be required.
Program Progression and graduation:
Students are advised to carefully read and be familiar with Policy AA39 - Program Progression and Graduation Requirements. Students must check with the program coordinator, Academic Advisor or Student Support Specialist as some programs may require success in 50% or more of their Level 1 courses in order to progress to Level 2 of the programs.
Students who fail to meet the outlined progression criteria to advance to Level 2 will be required to withdraw from the program and must reapply to Level 1 through the Ontario College Application Services www.ontariocolleges.ca if they wish to return.
Withdrawn students will be academically encumbered and must meet with the Academic Administrator or designate for review and advising before returning to the program.
College Related Information
Algonquin College’s policies have been developed to ensure the health, safety and security of all students, faculty and staff, and the proper and fair operation of the College as an academic institution and employer. Please refer to the Algonquin College Policies website for the most current policy information available at http://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/.
Students are especially encouraged to be aware of the following College expectations
Academic Integrity
Algonquin College is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity, and students are expected to uphold these standards as part of the learning process. Any academic work submitted by a student is expected to be their own work, unless designated otherwise and all sources must be attributed. All students should be familiar with the Algonquin College policy AA48: Academic Integrity . In some courses, online proctoring may be used to discourage cheating. Additional information can be found at https://www.algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/student-learning-kit/preparing-to-learn-online/. Students with any questions about the course expectations for academic dishonesty and plagiarism are encouraged to speak to their professor.
Centre for Accessible Learning
Students with visible and/or non-visible disabilities are encouraged to register with the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) in order to be eligible for appropriate learning supports and/or accommodations. Students are strongly encouraged to make an appointment at the Centre for Accessible Learning as early as possible when starting a program. Once your needs are identified, a Letter of Accommodation (LOA) will be issued which you can share with your professors. If you are a returning student, please ensure that professors are given a copy of your LOA each semester.
College Email
Students at Algonquin College are provided with a college email account. This is the address that will be used when the College, your professors, or your fellow students communicate important information about your program or course activities. Your network credentials can be found in the ACSIS portal and you are expected to check your Algonquin email regularly and to use it to send and receive college-related email. Support is available through the college Information Technology Service (ITS) at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/its/
Retroactive Accommodations
Students are expected to meet evaluation and completion deadlines as stated in course outline and course section information documents. In circumstances where evaluation and/or completion deadlines are missed or student performance has been affected by a temporary or permanent disability (including mental health), interim or retroactive accommodations may be considered. In such instances, please consult your course faculty member. For other situations where deferral of evaluations may be warranted, please consult Algonquin College Policy AA21: Deferred Evaluation.
Student Course Feedback
Algonquin College’s invites students to share their course experience by completing a student course feedback survey for each course they take. For further details consult Algonquin College Policy AA25: Student Course Feedback.
Use of Mobile Devices in Class
With the proliferation of small, personal mobile devices used for communications and data storage, Algonquin College believes there is a need to address their use during classes and examinations. During classes, the use of such devices can be disruptive and disrespectful to others. During examinations, the use of such devices may facilitate cheating. For further details consult Algonquin College Policy AA32: Use of Mobile Devices in Class
Technology Requirements
As Algonquin College continues to respond to public health guidelines, many courses will be offered through remote delivery. As such, students will be required to have access to a computer and to the internet. There may also be additional technology-related resources required to participate in a course that are not included in the course materials fee, such as headphones, webcams, specialized software, etc. Details on these requirements can be found in the Course Section Information of the course outline for each course available on Brightspace.
Transfer of Credit
It is the student’s responsibility to retain course outlines for possible future use to support applications for transfer of credit to other educational institutions.
Students are especially encouraged to be aware of the following College expectations
Academic Integrity
Algonquin College is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity, and students are expected to uphold these standards as part of the learning process. Any academic work submitted by a student is expected to be their own work, unless designated otherwise and all sources must be attributed. All students should be familiar with the Algonquin College policy AA48: Academic Integrity . In some courses, online proctoring may be used to discourage cheating. Additional information can be found at https://www.algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/student-learning-kit/preparing-to-learn-online/. Students with any questions about the course expectations for academic dishonesty and plagiarism are encouraged to speak to their professor.
Centre for Accessible Learning
Students with visible and/or non-visible disabilities are encouraged to register with the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) in order to be eligible for appropriate learning supports and/or accommodations. Students are strongly encouraged to make an appointment at the Centre for Accessible Learning as early as possible when starting a program. Once your needs are identified, a Letter of Accommodation (LOA) will be issued which you can share with your professors. If you are a returning student, please ensure that professors are given a copy of your LOA each semester.
College Email
Students at Algonquin College are provided with a college email account. This is the address that will be used when the College, your professors, or your fellow students communicate important information about your program or course activities. Your network credentials can be found in the ACSIS portal and you are expected to check your Algonquin email regularly and to use it to send and receive college-related email. Support is available through the college Information Technology Service (ITS) at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/its/
Retroactive Accommodations
Students are expected to meet evaluation and completion deadlines as stated in course outline and course section information documents. In circumstances where evaluation and/or completion deadlines are missed or student performance has been affected by a temporary or permanent disability (including mental health), interim or retroactive accommodations may be considered. In such instances, please consult your course faculty member. For other situations where deferral of evaluations may be warranted, please consult Algonquin College Policy AA21: Deferred Evaluation.
Student Course Feedback
Algonquin College’s invites students to share their course experience by completing a student course feedback survey for each course they take. For further details consult Algonquin College Policy AA25: Student Course Feedback.
Use of Mobile Devices in Class
With the proliferation of small, personal mobile devices used for communications and data storage, Algonquin College believes there is a need to address their use during classes and examinations. During classes, the use of such devices can be disruptive and disrespectful to others. During examinations, the use of such devices may facilitate cheating. For further details consult Algonquin College Policy AA32: Use of Mobile Devices in Class
Technology Requirements
As Algonquin College continues to respond to public health guidelines, many courses will be offered through remote delivery. As such, students will be required to have access to a computer and to the internet. There may also be additional technology-related resources required to participate in a course that are not included in the course materials fee, such as headphones, webcams, specialized software, etc. Details on these requirements can be found in the Course Section Information of the course outline for each course available on Brightspace.
Transfer of Credit
It is the student’s responsibility to retain course outlines for possible future use to support applications for transfer of credit to other educational institutions.