¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ

SOCI 102 - Introduction to Research Methods - Briauna A. Johnson

Introduction

Hello and welcome to my online Sociology class, Introduction to Research Methods, at College of the Canyons! I am very excited about the opportunity to dive into Sociology with you all. Of course, I may be biased but I think Sociology is one of the most interesting and useful subjects you can study. In sum, Sociologists study everything people do! This could be on a large scale like politics or the economy or on a smaller scale like intimate relationships.

Course Description

This course examines methodologies for an application of the scientific method to social phenomena, including both quantitative and qualitative methods of collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting data, as well as considerations about research design, the role of theory, and ethics. Methods covered may include survey research, experimental research, secondary data analysis, content analysis, qualitative interviews, and historical comparative research. Introduction to sociology provides a firm foundation for other courses in the social sciences as it provides an insight into areas of social life. The course is CSU and UC transferable.

What to Expect in this Course

The first thing to learn in any of my classes is my overall teaching philosophy. I aim to engage and inspire my students in both the classroom and beyond. I believe that teaching does not stop in the classroom but is rather a continuous process. I want to engage with my students in my class and I am also excited about the possibility of supporting them throughout their academic careers beyond my class. I want my students to know that I am here to assist them in participating in their own success. As a minority from an underrepresented population in institutions of higher education, I have first-hand experience with the collegiate classroom environment and its potential barriers that can manifest for many students. As a lecturer/instructor, I want to inspire my students to grow within academia while reaffirming the students’ self-efficacy, abilities, and strengths needed for a successful college career. I want to instill in all my students that despite (and perhaps because of) their multifaceted backgrounds, collegiate success is also for them while providing support and resources that help keep this goal within their reach.

Types of Assessments

Remember that for each three-unit sociology class you should expect to spend eight to nine hours per week doing work for the class. This includes reading, taking exams, working on projects/final papers, engaging in our face-to-face material, etc. I want you to be successful so remember, although our course is online, it requires a high level of self-initiative. This is particularly true considering this is a short-term section (8 weeks). The types of assessments you may anticipate in this course include discussion forums, in-class activities, a final project, and periodic graded check-ins.

Textbook Information

The free textbook can be found on Canvas under the “Learning Tools” module. A list of specific readings will be provided to you on the syllabus and discussed further during our first in-person class discussion.

You may also be asked to read periodic articles for the week to complement the textbook. These articles will also be located for FREE on Canvas.

Other Relevant Course Information

Many of our class discussions will take place in pre-recorded short lectures that will be posted on Canvas. Class exams (which I refer to as Check-ins) differ from most traditional formats in that they are open book (textbook is FREE and can be found on Canvas) and take place independently on Canvas. However, they are timed. This means you will not have the time to look up more than a couple of items, so it is imperative that you study the material well. Please make sure you email any questions you may have so that I may clarify ideas prior to the check-in. There is also reading and writing required for every course I teach.

To keep track of deadlines, it is important to print the course calendar and keep it handy so you will have the due dates. No matter what the date, 11:59PM is the due time for all assignments and check-ins. Canvas also lists all assignments for all your classes in a calendar format. It also lists due dates in a list format. It is in your best interest to check these sources regularly.

Most of the work is available for at least one week. That said, it is good practice to not wait until the day assignments are due to begin working on them. Technology is great, but sometimes things go wrong. For example, if your exam freezes or something happens to your computer and the deadline for the assignment is only 30 minutes away, I may not be available to assist you.

Please be sure to sign on to Canvas no later than 6/17 or you will be dropped from the course.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at . Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/02/2025 Sub#: 1933 Sub ID: 195741