Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2017 - HSCI 120 E200

Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior (3)

Class Number: 6042

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Mon, 4:30–7:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 9, 2017
    Sat, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Surrey

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introductory information about human sexuality across a broad spectrum of topic areas. Sexual function is a fundamental part of a full and healthy life, but misinformation, concerns, problems, and dysfunctions are prevalent. An evidence-based introduction to human sexual function and dysfunction, and normal psychosexual development across a range of sexual behaviors. A perspective on the effects of socialization on sexual attitudes and behavior. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This intent of the course is to provide students with an introduction to and overview of human sexuality and sexual behaviour across a broad spectrum of topic areas. Through various disciplines including biology, public health, psychology and sociology, students will engage with course content to critically examine sexual health as both an individual and population-level health process and outcome.

History of sexology, sexual health research methodologies, anatomy & physiology, gender and sexual orientation, fertility, contraception, conception and the life-course, sexual dysfunction, sexual variations, sexual behaviours and relationships, and critical discussions of sex in culture and media will be discussed.

The aim of this course is to critically discuss and learn about how sex and sexuality both influences and is produced by individual behaviour, identity and health as well as social and interpersonal relations and issues. The core competencies that this course will address are:

  • Core Concepts in Population and Public Health [Primary]
  • Strategies for Preventing Disease and Promoting Health [Primary]
  • Systems and Critical Thinking [Reinforcing]
  • Infectious Disease Mechanisms [Primary].

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

At the end of this course, students are expected to be able to:
1) To correctly and accurately describe how changes in the field of human sexuality have impacted perspectives, attitudes and knowledge of sexuality, sex and gender over time and across contexts.
2) Correctly identify and describe sexual anatomy, physiology, conception, prevention of pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, significance of gender identity constructs, sexual disturbances and treatment, sexual behaviours and describe issues related to maintaining sexual well-being.
3) Critically discuss and evaluate sexual health related issues as they appear in research and the media and develop independent and informed perspectives on such issues based largely on evidence and established knowledge.

Grading

  • Participation Quizzes 20%
  • Written Assignment 10%
  • Midterm Exam 1 20%
  • Midterm Exam 2 20%
  • Final Exam 30%

NOTES:

Changes to the syllabus will be made, as necessary, within Faculty / University regulations.

REQUIREMENTS:

The content of this course covers many aspects of human sexuality and may include discussion of content or topics that are sensitive to some people. In order to accomplish the objectives of this course, it will often be necessary that we speak frankly about sex, gender and sexuality. Please keep in mind that throughout the course you may be exposed to thoughts, ideas or opinions that may differ from your own. It is expected that everyone will conduct themselves with respect for the rights and feelings of others, by recognizing the potential sensitivity of such topics and responding appropriately to others' reactions and comments.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Top Hat subscription. We will be using Top Hat to assess participation and engage with course material during lectures. Please be sure you are registered with a Top Hat account by the start of the semeseter and familiarize yourself with how Top Hat works by completing the Student Orientation <https://success.tophat.com/s/article/Student-Top-Hat-Overview-and-Getting-Started-Guide>.

REQUIRED READING:

Human Sexuality: A Contemporary Introduction (2017); 2nd Edition. Edited by Caroline F Pukall. Oxford University Press.

*Lectures and readings will be structured around the 2nd edition of this textbook. Students wishing to use the earlier edition of this text are welcome to do so, but are responsible for reconsiling any differences between texts on their own. While many things in human sexuality may be fairly static overtime (i.e. our understanding of human anatomy and certain disease pathologies) our understanding of and treatment of social issues changes overtime and there are important updates that have occured since the first edition of this textbook.
ISBN: 978-0199023134

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS