Course Syllabus

 

 

CANADIAN STUDIES 101: INTRODUCTION TO CANADA

 

INDIANA UNIVERSITY NORTHWEST

Département des langues modernes

Fall / Automne 2020

 

CDNS-101                                                            

Introduction to Canadian Studies (3 credits)

Class hours: ONLINE

Classroom: ONLINE

 

Instructor:

 

Dr. Scooter Pégram

INDIANA UNIVERSITY NORTHWEST
Département des langues modernes
Programme de la langue française
Automne 2020 

Office: Hawthorn 463 (le mardi et le jeudi de 9h15 à 11h00 et de 13h00 à 16h00 et de 17h00 à 18h00). 

Phone / Voice Mail: 219-980-6532 (office), 773-717-6487 (home and via text message)

e-mail: spegram@iun.edu

Facebook: “Scooter Pégram,” or www.facebook.com/scooterpegram  
Also on available on “Skype”

Instagram: Search for "Scooter Pégram" or by my IG name "desertsoleil"

French programme webpage: www.facebook.com/IUNFrenchStudies 

IUN French Studies on Snapchat: Search "desertsoleil87"

IUN French Studies on Instagram: Search "@IUNFrenchStudies"

 

And read this before contracting any of your professors for the first time (before we get to know you): https://medium.com/@lportwoodstacer/how-to-email-your-professor-without-being-annoying-af-cf64ae0e4087 

 

Textbook and Reading Sources:

 

• Thompson, Wayne. (2018). Canada: 2018-2019 (or most recent version of this book) Harpers Ferry: Stryker Publications.

• Other readings from journals and online sources that will be posted on the modules

• Historical, social, political (etc) videos that you can watch that will posted on many of the modules

 

You many not know this, but the IUN library has acquired a significant collection of Canadian books and magazines. For example, in the periodicals section, one can peruse each week’s copy of Maclean’s magazine, which is the major news periodical in English-speaking Canada. You will be responsible for following news and cultural events emanating from Canada, and one good way in which to undertake this task will be to utilise this and other resources in the university library. 

 

Course Description:

This class examines Canadian culture and society from an interdisciplinary perspective. Subjects and topics covered in this class present Canada as seen in its geographical, historical, political and cultural contexts. Furthermore, this course will focus on several larger themes: the "Canadian" Identity, How cultural pluralism continues to shape the national identity, Canada's position in the global economy, Québec nationalism, and Canadian and American values, among others. While this course lends itself to comparisons between Canada and the United States, it is not intentionally comparative in nature. This course has three broad goals: to introduce students to some of the dominant theoretical and cultural approaches concerning the study of Canada; to encourage students to think critically about Canada and Canadian public policy; and to offer students a chance to draw conclusions about what they have learned not only about Canada, but about the creation and dynamics of all world cultures.

 

Course Outcomes:

 

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

 

• Describe how select global issues affect Canada and Canadians;
• Describe how Canada and Canadians respond to and try to address select global issues;
• Explain how Canada’s image in the world is not objectively determined but rather is a product of Canadian actions and inactions;
• Describe different visions of Canada as a global actor;
• Articulate your vision of Canada as a global actor;
• Employ more effectively your research skills (including library, web-based research, academic reading, writing, and referencing;
• Employ more effectively your multimodal learning skills, including the critical analysis of visual, aural, and written texts, using traditional and new media

 

Some Further Course Specifics: 

Participation: Excused online absences and/or late work will not be granted, other than exceptions as determined by the instructor and programme supervisor. Examples of these very few exceptions include: an incredibly personal illness (and not the flu, etc), the very serious illness of a dependent, the death or funeral of an immediate family member, required attendance at an official university activity, pigs flying, a nuclear explosion, another Great Chicago Fire, a hurricane in Northwest Indiana, an attack of killer locusts or monkeys in Northwest Indiana, the next Black Plague, or a Cubs vs. White Sox World Series Final. To be classified as “excused,” the absence must be documented authoritatively (for example, the very serious illness as denoted above must be documented by a doctor’s note). PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Excused absences or consistent late work may keep you from being automatically withdrawn from the course, but you will NOT receive participation points on the days you miss class, under any circumstance.

NOTE: Please review the attendance policy as set forth by the university (it is available online or in the Bulletin). As per university and departmental policy, students who miss more than 50% of their class meetings and / or who do not attend their enrolled classes during the first four weeks of the fall or spring semesters are subject to administrative withdrawal from their courses, regardless of their class level, grades, or standing. This withdrawal may affect your financial aid and scholarships in future semesters and your good academic standing with the university at large.

In summary: The professor will make learning a positive, relaxing and stimulating activity, and in return, you will participate in all scheduled class activities.

 

Academic Honesty

Academic honesty is expected of all students. Students are responsible for knowing how to maintain academic honesty and for abstaining from cheating, the appearance of cheating, and permitting or assisting in another’s cheating. Students must especially avoid plagiarism. The Indiana University Code of Student Rights defines plagiarism as “presenting someone else’s work, including the work of other students, as one’s own” (http://studentcode.iu.edu/responsibilities/academic-misconduct.html).

 

Plagiarism will not be tolerated. All students must turn in their papers and exams to Canvas. TurnItIn on Canvas will check the submissions for common sentences that could be signs of plagiarism. Plagiarism on a paper or an exam will result in a score of zero. If you are uncertain about whether your writing crosses the line into plagiarism, please contact your instructor.

 

Academic integrity: As noted in the IU and IUN Bulletin and Catalogue, any student who is dishonest in any academic work and in any way is liable to receive a wide variety of sanctions and / or punishments. Simply put, you are here at university to learn, so please make sure that the work that you do turn in is all your own. For more information, please see: http://www.iu.edu/~code/code/responsibilities/academic

 

Additional Course Policies

 

Right to Accommodation for Individuals with Disabilities

Indiana University is committed to creating a learning environment and academic community that promotes educational opportunities for all individuals, including those with disabilities. Course directors are asked to make reasonable accommodations, upon request by the student or the university, for such disabilities. It is the responsibility of students with documented physical or learning disabilities seeking accommodation to notify their course directors and the relevant campus office that deals with such cases in a timely manner concerning the need for such accommodation. Indiana University will make reasonable accommodations for access to programs, services, and facilities as outlined by applicable state and federal laws.

 

Campus support office:

Student Support Services location: Hawthorn Hall 29, 219-980-6798
Student Support Services online: www.iun.edu/~supportn

 

IU Northwest Attendance and Course Commitment Policy

This course has been approved to enforce the IU Northwest Attendance and Course Commitment Policy and the full text of this policy is available at http://www.iun.edu/registrar/attendance-policies.htm.

 

As a student in this course, you are expected to attend scheduled class meetings and actively participate in all class activities. Students who miss the first week of the semester or who do not attend 50% of the scheduled class meetings before the end of the fourth week of the semester may be subject to administrative withdrawal. Regardless of attendance, students who do not actively participate in this class by not submitting a majority of their assignments by the posted due date are subject to administrative withdrawal. Students who are administratively withdrawn from this class after the fourth week will not be eligible for a tuition refund. Administrative withdrawals may have an impact on the student’s financial aid awards and visa status.

 

IU FLAGS (Student Performance Early Alert System)

This semester I will be using IU’s Early Alert System to provide real-time feedback on your performance in this course. I will be entering data on factors such as your class attendance, participation, and success with coursework, among other things. This information will provide feedback on how you are faring in the course and offer you suggestions on how you might be able to improve your performance. You will be able to access this information in the student center at One.iu. If there is no entry, then no concerns have been reported about your academic performance.

 

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT: IU does not tolerate acts of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment and all forms of sexual violence.  If you have experienced sexual misconduct, or know someone who has, the University can help.  It is important to know that federal regulations and University policy require faculty to promptly report complaints of potential sexual misconduct known to them to their campus Deputy Title IX Co-ordinator(s) to ensure that appropriate measures are taken and resources are made available.  The University will work with you to protect your privacy by sharing information with only those that need to know to ensure the University can respond and assist.  If you are seeking help and would like to speak to someone confidentially, you can make an appointment with a Mental Health Counsellor on campus (contact information available at http://stopsexualviolence.iu.edu/employee/confidential.html).  Find more information about sexual violence, including campus and community resources at http://stopsexualviolence.iu.edu/. 

 

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS OF CLASSROOM BEHAVIOUR: A classroom is analogous to a professional environment. Students are expected to behave professionally so that everyone can engage fully in the educational process. This means that disruptive behaviour during class is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, arguing with the instructor about grades or assignments, arguing with other students, bringing up individual concerns with the instructor in the middle of class, or using language or exhibiting other behaviour that distracts others from engaging fully in the academic enterprise. A student who disrupts the learning environment will be asked to stop the behaviour immediately; if the disruptive behaviour continues, the student will be asked to leave the class session.

 

Everyone needs to read this: https://medium.com/@lportwoodstacer/how-to-email-your-professor-without-being-annoying-af-cf64ae0e4087 

 

If you need help, please do not hesitate to ask! Here is where you can seek it:

 

First, check the day-to-day announcements. If what you need is not there, please ask me! You can find me in my office (Hawthorn 463), by text message or voice (773-717-6487), office phone (219-980-6532), via e-mail (spegram@iun.edu), or on Facebook, or carrier piegon (if you are really savvy). 

 

In addition, Indiana University Northwest has an incredible Counselling Centre that is available for students at NO COST. Find out more here: http://www.iun.edu/counseling-services/ 

 

Academic Success and Achievement Programs:  http://www.iun.edu/academic-success/index.htm

Anderson Library:  http://www.iun.edu/library/

Career Services:  http://www.iun.edu/career-services/

Counseling Services:  http://www.iun.edu/counseling-services/

Financial Information: http://www.iun.edu/financialaid/links/index.htm

Student Advising Center: http://www.iun.edu/student-advising/index.htm  

Student Support Services: http://www.iun.edu/student-support/

Technical Support:  http://www.iun.edu/technology/

Veteran Services:  http://www.iun.edu/veterans/

Writing Center:  http://www.iun.edu/english/writing-center/

 

Course Setup

The modules in this class are arranged by subject or thematic matter, and NOT by week. You can find the readings bu looking at the "Introduction" page to each module. Also, each module will feature a variety of extra study links that will help you understand the studied materials better. We suggest very strongly that you consult all of the posted materials found on each module. These links may include videos from YouTube or elsewhere, extra readings, or other things of interest. All of these little extras will help you comprehend what you are learning in an additional way (i.e. not just from a stale textbook). 

 

Because the modules are set up by subject or thematic matter and NOT by week-to-week, to know what is demanded of you in terms of assignments, please refer to the syllabus or the calendar here on Canvas. That way you can always see and know what is due, be aware of what is coming up, etc. You should also train yourself to check the Announcements often, as well as your e-mail. Both will feature additional messages from your professor in regards to what is being studied, as well as other information that will be helpful or pertinent to you. 

 

To get you into a good work-habit of thinking as we progress along, please be aware of the following:

 

1. Discussion questions will be due on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with perhaps an exception or two because of holidays (etc). 

 

2. A more formal written assignment or project will be due on Sunday, but maybe not each week (sometimes you will have a weekend off, yay!). All written assignments will need this: 2020-2021-Checklist for Weekly Written Assignments-2.docx

 

3. Open-book quizzes on the readings from the required book will be due every Friday.

 

4. A quick paraphrasing of a newspaper article that you will read (from your chosen Canadian city) will be due each Monday. 

 

PLEASE NOTE: You can ALWAYS complete work early and ahead of time. No need to wait until the due date. So if you want to be a "go-getter," by all means, go for it!

 

Course Assignments are as follows:

 

1. Discussion Questions:

There will be discussion questions in this course, all shown within the course modules. Other discussion questions will cover Canadian news that you choose. Each module will contain at least one discussion question, and it must be answered by its scheduled due date. Students are responsible for making sure that all work is completed on time (and yes, discussion questions can be answered as soon as they are accessible in the modules, so early submissions are welcome). The subject matter for each discussion question will vary, as will the format and/or design. All discussion questions will not be particularly long, and students are encouraged to converse and debate with one another in the spirit of congeniality.

Some discussion questions will be exactly that, subjects to discuss openly with the class, whilst others will ask you to submit your answer directly to the professor. Please make sure to read the directions to each discussion question carefully before submitting your answer. 

Please note: Students are expected to post a "reply" to at least one of the posts put forth by their peers and to ask a question of at least one. Students should make sure to look for the "Word Count" as to know how long to write. 

 

Discussion questions will be due every Tuesday and Thursday. 

 

PLEASE make sure to consult the guidelines for submitting discussion questions here, and they are also shown below:

 

Guidelines for Discussion Questions.docx

Logistics for ALL written assignments.doc

 

And read me too: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/articles/2015/04/03/5-ways-to-ace-discussion-board-assignments-in-an-online-class 

 

Read me too, so you can ace the DQs: https://www.elearners.com/education-resources/online-learning/how-to-write-an-a-discussion-posting/ 

 

Another printable rubric for Discussion Boards: Rubric for Online Discussion Boards.doc

 

2. Formal Writing Assignments:

There will be several writing assignments scheduled, all of which must be completed by their marked due dates. Students are responsible for making sure that all assignments are submitted on time. Late work will only be accepted with the consent of the professor. The assigned critiques will contain questions that will ask students to respond to the subject matter that is shown in each week's module (as written in the instructions for the assignment). As you write your compositions, please make sure to follow the directions listed on each assignment page. All written assignments will need this: 2020-2021-Checklist for Weekly Written Assignments-2.docx

Please note: Written assignments are more formal, and should be composed professionally and academically. Please adhere to the grammar and style guidelines listed on each assignment page, to the letter! 

 

Written assignments will be due every Sunday. 

 

The grading rubric that I will use to evaluate your assignments can be found below (all are worth printing and keeping):

 

Checklist for Weekly Written Assignments-2.docx

Grading Rubric for Writing Assignments.docx

General Writing Tips for College.docx

Performance Rubric-Written Assignments.docx

Logistics for ALL written assignments.doc

 

Read me forever, and this is REQUIRED for all Sunday assignments where writing is involved: Checklist for Weekly Written Assignments-2-1.docx

 

Read this on academic writing: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/section/1/2/ 

 

These generalisations (and more) should never be used in the Sunday assignments: http://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-generalization.html 

 

How to avoid slang and informal language and write like a champion: https://www2.ivcc.edu/rambo/tip_formal_writing_voice.htm 

 

How to use sources: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/02/ 

 

How to expand your sentences: http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/choppysentences.pdf 

 

How to avoid repetition: http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/5-ways-to-deal-with-word-repetition 

 

How to develop your thoughts: https://uni.edu/~reineke/developi.htm 

 

Furthermore, students MUST follow the course's writing and style guidelines in all of their written assignments. The style guidelines for the course can be found by clicking on the document links shown above. 

 

Formal Writing Expectations: PLEASE READ THIS!

There is a good deal more writing required in an online class because students cannot respond to assignments or discussions orally like they do in a traditional classroom. This, added with the belief that online classes are less formal and our culture’s addiction to “text speak” can all do irreparable damage to your final grade if you are not careful.   What students need to understand is that no matter what they write for the class, the quality of writing makes an impression on their professor. Think about it. Your professor probably may never meet you. Your first impression is your writing. Academic writing is required for all online classes, and a good professor will spell it all out the expected grammar and mechanics in the syllabus or the assignment rubrics. An online class is not the place to disregard all writing conventions or standards. You are not texting friends, tweeting or writing a thank you card to Grandma. You must uphold scholarly quality, and be mindful formal writing standards to be successful taking classes online, no matter what the subject or discipline.   

 

YOU MUST USE THIS CHECKLIST FOR ALL FORMAL SUNDAY WRITING ASSIGNMENTS 

 

 

3. Quizzes:

There will also be quizzes based on the lesson or posted readings for many of the subject modules. The quizzes are designed to make sure that you have read through whatever materials are posted since they will be necessary for you to have a better understanding of the readings. Obviously, all quizzes are open-book by design. 

 

Open book quizzes on the required readings will take place every Friday

 

THERE IS NO MIDTERM OR FINAL EXAM IN THIS COURSE

 

4. Canadian News Synopsis:

 

 

5. Map Quiz

 

A map quiz that deals with Canadian provinces, territories, and capital cities will be given on Friday 14 September. Please study the maps of Canada available in your book. Please note that the province of Newfoundland and Labrador is not called "Newfoundland" alone. 

 

You will need to know the names and geographic locations of each province or territory, as well as the capital cities of each jurisdiction (as well as the main cities). Although this quiz is open-book, you should study these areas for reference. 

 

Summary Roundup:

 

There are NINETEEN (19) modules in total. The modules are arranged by subject or thematic matter, and not by week (please follow the syllabus and the calendar to know what is due).

 

The workload is lighter than it may appear on the modules, so please do not panic (this is only a 100-level class, after all). This is an online course, so these discussions and other things replace what we would be doing in a traditional classroom setting. Now, our classroom is cyberspace. As you navigate through the readings and subjects on the modules, you will easily be able to complete all of your work in a relaxing and fun way, all on your own time (whilst respecting the course deadlines).

 

Course evaluation will be as follows:

 

Written Assignments: 40%

Final Written Assignment: 5%

Quizzes on Readings: 20%

Discussion Questions: 35%

Attendance and participation: 5%

 

Student Responsibilities for Online Courses:

Online courses provide you with a flexible and convenient way to learn, but that does not mean online learning is easier than in a traditional classroom. Online courses such as this one offer the same opportunities for learning and growth, and the chance to challenge yourself as a student. As an online student you will need to be motivated, dedicated and determined with your studies.

 

Computer Requirements:

Make sure that you have access to a computer that is operational! It sounds silly to state the obvious, but your computer must be working so that you can complete the tasks at hand. 

 

Communication and Participation:

• Be willing to communicate with classmates and your professor (i.e. moi) online.

• Participate in weekly online activities. You will need to log into your course at least two to three times per week to view announcements, answer the discussion questions, and complete the weekly written assignments.

• Complete the writing assignments, and discussion questions by the due dates to allow your professor (i.e. moi) adequate time to review your work and provide feedback.

• Contact your instructor with course related questions well in advance of due dates as needed so I can help when and if needed.

 

Time Management:

Time management is the most important factor in completing any coursework, especially for online courses. Successful online students have to be very organised in their studies and take responsibility for their own learning. It is VERY IMPORTANT to keep up with the work listed on the modules, and to make sure that your responsibilities and met and the discussion questions and writing assignments are completed and submitted on time.

To do this best, you should determine what time of day you can best focus on your studies. It is very helpful to have a set schedule for studying. If you get into a routine of sitting down at the same time each night or for the same hour each morning, you can ensure that you stay on top of your work and will not fall behind. Routine is key.

 

Balancing Personal Obligations:

Many students choose to take online courses because of the convenience. You may be working full-time or have other obligations this summer. Balancing school and other important aspects of your life can become a juggling act.

The greatest strength of online courses is that you can study around your schedule. It is up to you to find time for your coursework and to make the most of it. When you study, you should try to avoid distractions, such as phone calls or television. This is especially true in a film course, as the movies should have your full attention when you watch them.

 

Study Environment:

A well-lit place that is free from distractions is recommended. If you cannot escape in-home interruptions, you can work on the IU-Northwest campus (and I would be happy to screen all of the course’s films to you on a big screen with good sound). Schedule your designated study time when you can be in a distraction-free environment and your chances for success will increase.

 

Participation:

It is important to take an active part in your online education. Just because you do not see your classmates or instructors face to face does not mean that you cannot interact with them. Online courses are designed to include group discussions and online chats, and students are encouraged to debate with one another and comment on each other’s posts.

Netiquette is a set of rules for behaving properly online. Something about cyberspace makes it easy for people to forget that they are interacting with other real people. The following bullet points cover some basics to communicating online:

• Be sensitive to the fact that there will be cultural and linguistic backgrounds, as well as different political and religious beliefs, plus just differences in general.

• Use good taste when composing your responses in Discussion Forums. Swearing and profanity is also part of being sensitive to your classmates and MUST be avoided. Also consider that slang can be misunderstood or misinterpreted.

• Do not use ALL CAPITAL letters when composing your responses as this is considered “shouting” on the Internet and is regarded as impolite or aggressive. It can also be stressful on the eye when trying to read your message.

• Be respectful of your others’ views and opinions. Avoid “flaming” (publicly attacking or insulting) them as this can cause hurt feelings and decrease the chances of getting all different types of points of view.

• Be careful when using acronyms. If you use an acronym it is best to spell out its meaning first, then put the acronym in parentheses afterward, for example: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). After that you can use the acronym freely throughout your message.

• Use good grammar and spelling, and avoid using text messaging shortcuts.

 You can also consult Indiana University's rules on Netiquette by following this link.

 

Confused? Lost? Ask me questions!!

Do not be afraid to ask me questions. As an online student there are several ways to get the answers you are seeking. You can always message me for clarification (e-mail, text, Facebook, Canvas, carrier pigeon), just be sure you ask early enough that you can get a response well before any pending deadlines or due dates. You can also turn to your classmates for help. Post questions to the discussion board to benefit from other students’ knowledge and insights.

I will always be happy to assist you in whatever way that I can.

 

Get out of it what you put in:

The more effort you put forth in your online courses to comprehend the material the more likely you are to succeed after the course is finished. Extra effort during the course will lead to a better, more lasting experience. Online courses have a lot to offer students who dedicate the time and focus to getting the most out of their courses.

That said, I hope that you enjoy this course. Bienvenue / Welcome!!

 

Welcome to the study of Canada!

 

Did you know……

 

• Canada is the second largest country in the world but has the smallest economy among the most advanced countries in the world.
• Canada has French and English as its national languages.
• Canada, not Japan or China, is the largest single trading partner of the United States with $500 billion worth of annual trade between them.
• The U.S. is the single largest investor with many U.S. multinational corporations doing business in Canada. Canada is the fourth largest investor in the United States.
• The term “global village” was first coined some 40 years back by Marshall McLuhan, a Canadian.
• Canada calls its largest group of “native Canadians” the “First Nations."
• Canada, not the Middle East, is the largest supplier of energy to the United States.

 

If these points come as a little surprise to you, you should learn more about Canada, our friendly neighbour to the north.

 

Students can pursue a minor in Canadian studies at IU-Northwest. The Canadian studies programme will give you a stronger academic focus by experiencing:

 

• The integration with faculty from Canada
• An appreciation of Canada’s cultures
• Intercultural experiences in Canada

 

Course Calendar

(subject to modification as we proceed forward)   

 

Please note: Assignments and their due dates will be shown below following this week-by-week overview

 

Week One:                            

General Introductions to the course; Physical Geography of Canada; Aboriginal Peoples of Canada         

 

Week Two:                            

Cultural Geography of Canada; History of Canada: Pre-contact and New France

         

Week Three:               

History of Canada: The Conquest; History of Canada: British Control

 

Week Four:             

Revolutions, Rebellions, Frustrations

 

Week Five:

Confederation and conquering the West    

     

Week Six:           

World War I and its aftermath

 

Week Seven:

World War II and its aftermath

 

Week Eight:             

« French Power » and the Quiet Revolution

 

Week Nine:           

The 1970s and the ongoing Québec Question

 

Week Ten:                  

Constitution and Change

 

Week Eleven:

The 1980s to the Contemporary Era; The Canadian Constitution and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and other constitutional issues

 

Week Twelve:                

The Canadian Parliamentary and Judicial System: How does it work?

 

Week Thirteen:               

Multiculturalism; Immigration and Minority Groups in Canada; International Relations

 

Week Fourteen:      

International Relations; Trade and Relations with the United States;  Comparing the United States with Canada on Social Issues

    

Week Fifteen:               

Comparing the United States with Canada on Social Issues

 

Week Sixteen:               

Canadian Television and Media; Canadian Pop-Culture