RELG 101 - 001

Winthrop graduates think critically and solve problems. Winthrop University graduates reason logically, evaluate and use evidence, and solve problems. They seek out and assess relevant information from multiple viewpoints to form well-reasoned conclusions. Winthrop graduates consider the full context and consequences of their decisions and continually reexamine their own critical thinking process, including the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments.

Students are required to use the critical tools of sociology, anthropology, as well as historical and hermeneutical disciplines to analyze and interpret various religious systems of belief and practice.  The course requires discussion participation, writing assignments, tests, and a presentations to assess students’ progress in this ULC.

Winthrop graduates are personally and socially responsible. Winthrop University graduates value integrity, perceive moral dimensions, and achieve excellence. They take seriously the perspectives of others, practice ethical reasoning, and reflect on experiences. Winthrop graduates have a sense of responsibility to the broader community and contribute to the greater good.

As students wrestle with the way in which religion is related to ethics, morality and social justice through class lectures, discussions and journals, the students will reflect on their own approach to personal and social responsibility.

Winthrop graduates understand the interconnected nature of the world and the time in which they live. Winthrop University graduates comprehend the historical, social, and global contexts of their disciplines and their lives. They also recognize how their chosen area of study is inextricably linked to other fields. Winthrop graduates collaborate with members of diverse academic, professional, and cultural communities as informed and engaged citizens.

As the students learn to relate the function and meaning of religion as a world-wide phenomenon to their own contemporary lives and experience, they will understand better how we are connected one to another and to the world we live in.

Winthrop graduates communicate effectively. Winthrop University graduates communicate in a manner appropriate to the subject, occasion, and audience. They create texts – including but not limited to written, oral, and visual presentations – that convey content effectively. Mindful of their voice and the impact of their communication, Winthrop graduates successfully express and exchange ideas.

Students participate in class discussions and produce multiple forms of writing.  The instructor incorporates comments and suggestions not only on the content of each assignment but also the effectiveness of their communication.

University policy states that you will not receive credit for the course if you miss more than 25% of the class. This class has a stricter requirement. For this class, any classes missed beyond five (5) will reduce your grade. Please note that there are no automatically excused absences. The student is responsible for contacting the instructor in case of sickness, emergencies, sports travel and other engagements that require an absence. Note also that it is the student’s responsibility to make up for any missed work due to absences. Of course missed conversations and presentations are nearly impossible to make up so it is important to keep absences to a minimum. If you have a difficulty that might lead to excessive absence, the student should contact the instructor as soon as possible.

“During the course of normal exams no one will be allowed to leave the room. Anyone who does choose to leave will turn in their exam and will not be allowed to resume.”

Please note that there are no automatically excused absences. The student is responsible for contacting the instructor in case of sickness, emergencies, sports travel and other engagements that require an absence. Note also that it is the student’s responsibility to make up for any missed work due to absences. Of course missed conversations and presentations are nearly impossible to make up so it is important to keep absences to a minimum. If you have a difficulty that might lead to excessive absence, the student should contact the instructor as soon as possible.

Regardless of absence or lateness, the student is responsible for all course material and requirements.

Three tardies count as one absence.

Regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, religion, age and ability, you will be treated and respected as a human being. Your continued presence in this course signals your commitment to act likewise toward your peers and your instructors.

Students are expected to cultivate personal and academic integrity. Review the student code of conduct for university polices on academic misconduct. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated and will result in a failing grade on the assignment and/or in the course. The full handbook is available online at: http://www2.winthrop.edu/studentaffairs/handbook/StudentHandbook.pdf.

As noted in the Student Conduct Code: “Responsibility for good conduct rests with students as adult individuals.” The policy on student academic misconduct is outlined in the “Student Conduct Code Academic Misconduct Policy” in the online Student Handbook which can be accessed at

http://www.winthrop.edu/uploadedFiles/studentconduct/StudentHandbook.pdf. Dishonesty is a serious offense in all its forms, whether lying about reasons for an absence or missed assignment or cheating on a test or misrepresenting borrowed material as your own. It can result in a failing grade on a test, assignment, or the course, or even dismissal from the university.

Cell phones normally have no use in this class and when they are being used in class they reflect disrespect for students and instructors – a violation of the point above about our expectation of respect. Phones should be on silent and kept in your book bag or purse throughout class time unless otherwise instructed. Except with permission, texting or responding to email will result in a “0” for participation for the day. If a cell phone is in evidence during class hours, the owner of the phone will be marked absent for the day. There may or may not be a warning. If a student responds to text messages or email during class they will receive a “0” for the day’s participation.

(Note if you have some educational, health, or physical reason for an electronic device you must work with your instructor to inform him of the accommodation.)

There are clear uses for computers in the classroom, including; taking notes, reading digital textbooks, looking for reference information, etc. Equally clearly, computers provide easy distraction from the responsibilities we all bring to the classroom, including; checking email, browsing on Facebook®, etc., etc. These devices are allowed in my classroom, but any evidence of using them for anything other than clear classroom work will result in an assignment of “0” for the day’s participation grade.

Except as noted above my policy follows that of the division of Arts and Sciences found at http://www.winthrop.edu/uploadedFiles/artscience/PolicyForHandHeldTech-April2014.pdf.

Any questions concerning grading of assignments or other matters must be resolved within one week after the assignment is returned and graded.

N.B. that you are expected to have your textbook in class every day. If you do not have the textbook obviously available in class, your participation grade for the day will reflect a “0”.

I know that I do make mistakes and overlook things that I shouldn’t. It’s probably true of some of you as well. If you don’t understand a grade or comment, please ask me. If you think that a grade is in error and you would like it corrected, you must put your request and justification in writing. Under no circumstances will a grade be lowered because clarification was requested. No grades will be changed, however, without documentation.

Participation and engagement are essential elements in the RELG 101 classroom. You should seek to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity through demonstrated knowledge of the reading assignments, thoughtful reflection of the topics, contribution of insightful ideas and consideration of your classmates’ perspectives. Consider the following:

• Do you arrive at class on time, each class period, with a positive, open attitude?
• Did you critically read the material? Are there markings, highlights, and questions written in your book? Have you completed your reading journals?
• Have you thoughtfully considered the readings prior to arriving in class?
• Can you answer questions about the current readings and connect these ideas with previous readings in the class?
• Do you ask good questions? Do you listen to your peers?
• Are your questions and comments deep and related to the reading, or shallow and random?
• Are you willing to challenge your thoughts and opinions and those of others in a respectful, open manner? Are you willing to consider “what if I am wrong?”
• Disagreement is a basic element of a democratic society. Diverse perspectives are appreciated and encouraged. You are expected to show respect to your instructor and your peers. Students should work to create a classroom community where all perspectives are heard and appreciated. This classroom is a safe environment in which regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, natural origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, political beliefs, age, or ability, you will be treated with respect.

provides support for all students in all Winthrop classes free of charge. It is located in 242 Bancroft (ext. 2138). Check its web page for current hours (http://www.winthrop.edu/wcenter).

Winthrop University is dedicated to providing access to education. If you have a disability and require specific accommodations to complete this course, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 323-3290. Once you have your official notice of accommodations from Services for Students with Disabilities, please inform me as early as possible in the semester.

is a free resource for all undergraduate students seeking to perform their best academically. The ASC offers a variety of personalized and structured resources – including for RELG 101 – that help students achieve academic excellence. These resources includes things such as tutoring, academic skill development (test taking strategies, time management counseling, and study techniques), and group/individual study spaces. The ASC is located on the first floor of Dinkins, Suite 106. Tutoring for RELG 101 is offered through the office. If you wish to request a tutor, you must attend ONE Tutee Seminar during the academic year, offered every Friday until midterms. Please contact the ASC at 803-323-3929 or success@winthrop.edu if you have any questions. For more information on ASC services, please visit www.winthrop.edu/success.