FAM 180 Family Dynamics is designed to provide students with a variety of theoretical perspectives to understanding families. It considers the diversity of families through the lenses of the life course perspective and political policies. Family formation, parenting, separation and divorce and aging are all examined. Family issues are also considered, including marriage and death rituals, work and poverty, same sex relationships, disabilities and immigrants. Policies that affect families are explored through an examination of violence in the family and political trends. The course is intended to be a foundation for further study of families.
Prerequisites: Must be done concurrently with or after completing ENGL 110.
Accessibility Services Notice
Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 45 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 3 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Analyze theories that contribute to how families are defined, and explain how theoretical perspectives influence collective understandings of the role and function of families in society
- Examine the historical context of family life in Canada and recognize how it influences contemporary understanding of family
- Examine the concept of family diversity and discuss how it contributes to a vibrant and dynamic society
- Describe various family iterations throughout the lifespan and examine how these can vary among individuals and families
- Analyze ways that families are impacted by the social and political context in Canada
- Develop collaboration skills and critical thinking skills
Teaching and Learning Approach
This course will be experienced online through lectures, class discussions, and group work. Learning will be
assessed through written papers, participation in group discussions, and individual and group assignments.Learning Resources
Required:
Belanger, M., & Ward, M. (2023). The family dynamic: Canadian perspectives (8th ed.). Nelson Education Ltd.
Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. 1. Course overview What is a Family? (Part 1) Introduction to Diversity
2. 2. What is Family? (Part 2) Family Theories
3. 3. Family Diversity in Canada History, Culture, and Canadian Families
4. 4. Couple Relationships Intimacy, Commitment, & Family Formation
5. 5. Parenting Young Children Decisions and Realities
6. 6. Families in Middle Years
7. 7. Time to work on group presentations
8. 8. Families Later in Life
9. 9. Separation and Divorce Navigating family transitions and lone parenthood
10. 10. Family, Work, and Caregiving Paid & Unpaid Work
11. 11. Indigenous Families
12. 12. Family Resilience Overcoming Challenges (Disability or Chronic Illness)
13. 13. Violence in Families
14. 14. Family Poverty
Assessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
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| Personal Reflection parts A & B | 3,4,5 | 30% |
| Theories Quiz | 1,2 | 15% |
| Insights-Resource-Application (IRAs) | 2,3,4,5,6 | 25% |
| Case Study- Family Assessment | 1,2,3,4,5,6 | 30% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table
| Percentage |
Letter Grade |
GPA |
| 90-100 |
A+ |
4.33 |
| 85-89 |
A |
4.00 |
| 80-84 |
A- |
3.67 |
| 76-79 |
B+ |
3.33 |
| 72-75 |
B |
3.00 |
| 68-71 |
B- |
2.67 |
| 64-67 |
C+ |
2.33 |
| 60-63 |
C |
2.00 |
| 55-59 |
C- |
1.67 |
| 50-54 |
P |
1.00 |
| 0-49 |
F |
0.00 |
| |
DNW |
0.00 |
See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.
Disclaimer
Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.