SPE 120 - Introduction to Human Services

This is a Web-based course taught by Dr. Melanie McGill.

Instructor Contact Information 
headshot of Dr. Melanie McGill

Dr. Melanie McGill, Ph.D.
email: mjmcgill@sfasu.edu
(936) 468-1215

Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the field of human services and an overview of the following programs: deaf and hard of hearing, speech language pathology, rehabilitation services, orientation and mobility, visual impairment, and special education. The course is required for the Special Education non-teaching minor and is recommended as an interesting elective for any major.

Required Textbook
Mandell, B. R., & Schram, B. (2006). An introduction to human services: Policy and practice (6th Edition). Allyn & Bacon. ISBN 9-780-205442-140

Course Prerequisites
None.

Course Format and Participation Requirements
This is a web based course, designed for students who are independent learners who are well organized and motivated to stay on schedule and complete all requirements online through myCourses.  Students MUST have access to a reliable computer and Internet connection as well as adequate computer skills.  The instructor is readily available online through email and chat.

The format for this course includes scheduled assignments and deadlines, offline reading assignments, online readings and participation using web pages, email, discussion boards, and chat. The course includes scheduled online quizzes and exams. The course does not also require any face-to-face meetings.  All exams are taken online. To be successful in this course, the typical student should plan to spend at least 12-15 hours per week working on this course during a summer session.

On-campus or Face-to-Face Meeting Requirements
None

Course Assessment
Students earn their grade for this course by completing daily or weekly assignments, discussions, quizzes and exams.

Effort Expected
This is a 3-credit-hour course. To be successful, students should expect to spend at least 12-15 hours per week working on this course during the summer session.

Technical Requirements for the Course
Other than the minimum technical requirements for any course, students will need Real Player or QuickTime Player to view videos.  Free software downloads are available for online students through the Office of Instructional Technology.

Before the Course Begins

  • Complete the Getting Started area of sfaonline.
  • Register and pay for the course just as you would any other SFA course.
  • As soon as you are registered, please send an email message to the instructor.
  • Carefully read and complete all steps of Getting a myCourses Username and PIN.

    • F-1 Visa Holders
    There are important federal regulations pertaining to distance education activity for F-1 Visa holders. All students with an F-1 Visa should follow the instructions at the following link to make sure they are in compliance.
    http://www.oit.sfasu.edu/disted/facsup/f1visa.html

    RESOURCE LINKS:
     
    Prepare for an online course: Getting Started
    Order your textbooks online: Textbooks
    Log on to your course: myCourses Logon
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    Enable your SFA email account