MH1100: Introduction to Human Services

KINGSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The City University of New York Department of Allied Health, Mental Health and Human Services

MH1100: Introduction to Human Services

Syllabus

CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION: Introduction to the nature and scope of human services in America today. A variety of human services, settings and programs, career options, including occupational therapy, social work, psychology, art and dance therapy, counseling, mental health and gerontology will be described. Prevention efforts, the effect of social policies on provision of needed services, the development of the human services movement will be examined in the light of changing social values. 3 credits/3 contact hours.

COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
Course Learning Objectives
  • Evidence/Assessment Measures
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the variety of career options in the helping professions, the educational and licensing requirements for each, and be able to engage in career building strategies.
  • Understand the impact of contemporary problems on human needs. Examine the struggle for support among vulnerable populations.
  • Understand and discuss groups such as: the poor, unemployed, survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ, seniors, substance abusers, people with disabilities.
  • Understand the concept of prevention within the human services field. Understand the various levels of prevention strategies.
  • Understand the concept and different types of social policy. Understand the factors in establishing and implementation of social policy.
CLASS ATTENDANCE:

Attendance and participation are highly important in the classroom. Regular attendance is expected and absolutely MANDATORY.  Excessive absences will negatively affect your final grade even if you have excellent marks on all your assignments.

EXAMS:

There will be one in-class exam and one final exam. However, the final exam will not be cumulative.

Each exam will consist of multiple-choice, fill in the blanks and matching questions. Exams WILL NOT be open book or open notes!

POINT OF VIEW

The readings, may suggest a point of view that you disagree with. It is my intent to present these ideas without any bias. I am not here to oppose you or force you to follow a certain narrative. I am supporting you to foster your own, honest, and well-informed opinions. I encourage you to disagree with the ideas in the readings and lectures as well as the perspectives of your peers in the course. Please express yourself.

In Class Expectations:
  • A significant part of a college education is learning about the complexity of various issues; therefore, it is important that we listen and respect one another but we do not have to agree.
  • A richer discussion will occur when a variety of perspectives are presented in class for discussion. EQUITY, CIVILITY, RESPECT for DIVERSITY and INCLUSION I am committed to the principle of universal learning. This means that our classroom, our virtual spaces, our practices, and our interactions will be as inclusive as possible.
  • Mutual respect, civility, and the ability to listen and observe others carefully are crucial to universal learning.
  • Active, thoughtful, and respectful participation in all aspects of the course will make our time together as productive and engaging as possible.
  • Respect for the opinions of others is very important in an academic environment. It is likely you may not agree with every topic that is discussed in the classroom.
  • Courteous behavior and responses are expected. Therefore, in this classroom, any acts of harassment and/or discrimination based on matters of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and/or ability is not acceptable. Whether we are students, faculty, or staff, we have a right to be in a safe environment, free of disturbances in all aspects of human relations. Incivility will not be tolerated and should be reported immediately to the instructor or director. Furthermore, I would like to create a learning environment for my students that supports a diversity of thoughts, perspectives and experiences, and honors your identities (including race, gender, class, LGBTQAI+, religion, ability, etc.)
Academic Expectations:
  • The Department of Allied Health adheres to the Policies and Procedures on Academic Integrity as set forth by CUNY. See the Kingsborough Community College student handbook, the KCC Catalog and website for further details.
  • Students are expected to take all tests when scheduled.
  • Any late assignments WILL be penalized. All assignments will be given to you in advance so there should be no excuses for late submissions. I will be available during my designated office hours.
  • Counseling Services Room D-102 All Kingsborough students are eligible to receive free and confidential personal counseling through the Counseling Services Center, where they will find a staff of trained and caring mental health practitioners who are committed to providing high-quality services, in a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment, while always respecting students as individuals and as members of a diverse school community. Kingsborough Learning Center (KLC)
  • CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM The faculty and administration of Kingsborough Community College support an environment free from cheating and plagiarism. Each student is responsible for being aware of what constitutes cheating and plagiarism and for avoiding both. The complete text of the CUNY Academic Integrity Policy and the Kingsborough Community College procedure for implementing that policy can be found at this site: http://www.kingsborough.edu/faculty_staff/Documents/ Academic_Integrity_Policy.pdf The policy is to give a failing grade to any assignment that has been plagiarized and possibly an F for the course.