Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - HSCI 120 D100

Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behavior (3)

Class Number: 4405

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 23, 2024
    Tue, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

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 course will examine human sexuality and sexual behaviour at an introductory level. Using an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach, the aforementioned concepts will be explored from public health, psychological, sociological, historical, biological, and clinical perspectives. Topic areas include: the history of sexology, sexual anatomy and physiology, reproduction, sexual dysfunctions, attraction, love, sexual behaviours and relationships, gender, sexual orientation, contraception, sexually transmitted infections, and research methodologies. Students will have opportunities to critically discuss sex in the media and culture.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Identify, describe, and apply theories used in the study of human sexuality
  • Develop an understanding of key course concepts (e.g., gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual dysfunction, and fertility)
  • Identify and describe human sexual anatomy, physiology, and reproduction
  • Describe contraception methods
  • Describe the risk factors, screening, transmission, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections
  • Describe variations in sexual behaviours and relationships
  • Critically discuss the ways sex is portrayed in the media and cultural understandings of sex

Grading

  • Participation 20%
  • Written assignment 20%
  • Midterm exam 25%
  • Final exam 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

iClicker remote

REQUIRED READING:

Human Sexuality: A Contemporary Introduction (3rd edition). Oxford University Press. By Caroline F. Pukall. 2020


ISBN: 9780190161156

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/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