COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

CST8116 Introduction to Computer Programming

Possessing the fundamentals of logic, problem-solving and programming language structure provides a solid foundation for further study in the field. Students develop introductory knowledge of computer programming with emphasis on problem analysis and design, using algorithms, pseudocode, flowcharts, UML Class Diagrams and testing, with the Java programming language used as a means to implement problem solution designs. Through an introduction to the Java programming language students use sequential structures, selection structures, repetition structures, variables, constants, methods, constructors, one-dimensional arrays, object-oriented programming, classes, objects, abstraction, encapsulation, inputs, outputs, coding conventions and documentation. Theory is reinforced with application by means of practical laboratory assessments.

CST8118 Computer Essentials

Maintaining a computer, using operating system and productivity software, and expressing related environmental and sustainability concerns, is an important part of working with Information Technology. Students explain computer hardware, and use operating system software to maintain, utilize, and secure a computer. Students practice the use of spreadsheet software to solve problems, use formulas, and visualize data with charts. Students discuss computer hardware and software with regards to financial and environmental sustainability. Theory is reinforced with application by means of practical laboratory assessments, including using virtualization software to install guest operating systems onto a host computer.

CST8215 Introduction to Database

Databases are used to store data and are a core component of many information technology systems. Students learn the fundamentals of relational databases design using Entity Relation Diagrams (ERDs), and use Structured Query Language (SQL) to create, modify and query a database. Students design and create databases that are maintainable, secure and adaptable to change in business requirements, using normalization. Students become familiar with the functions of a Database Management System (DBMS) and its components in comparison with legacy systems and alternative information storage mechanisms.

CST8300 Achieving Success in Changing Environments

Rapid changes in technology have created personal and employment choices that challenge each of us to find our place as contributing citizens in the emerging society. Life in the 21st century presents significant opportunities, but it also creates potential hazards and ethical problems that demand responsible solutions. Students explore the possibilities ahead, assess their own aptitudes and strengths, and apply critical thinking and decision-making tools to help resolve some of the important issues in our complex society with its competing interests.

ENL1813T Communications I

Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.

MAT8001C Technical Mathematics for Computer Science

The study of algebraic and transcendental functions is an essential prerequisite to Calculus. Students manipulate algebraic expressions, solve algebraic equations and learn the properties of and graph algebraic and transcendental functions. Students investigate computer number systems in addition to Boolean algebra and logic to help solve problems involving computer systems. Students also study the addition and subtraction of vectors using vector components. Delivered in a modular format, this course is equivalent to the completion of all of the following math modules MAT8100 - A, B, C, F, L, and T.

CST2355 Database Systems

Database systems can automate data processing tasks as well as tie into the security of information technology systems. Students acquire practical experience using market-leading object-relational database management systems like Oracle and MySQL. Students obtain hands-on experience with advanced engineering modeling tools along with SQL, SQL scripts and programming with Oracle's PL/SQL blocks. Database concepts covered include advanced SQL, case structures, rollup and cube operations, metadata manipulation, data storage and retrieval, security and transaction control and data warehousing

Pre-requisites: CST8215

CST8102 Operating System Fundamentals (Gnu/Linux)

Operating systems form the backbone of information technology systems coordinating the interaction between hardware and software. Students explore the basic concepts and components of Operating Systems (OS), and how they function and interact with hardware and software components. Students examine the details of operating system structures, process management, storage management, installation, configuration, and administration both in theory and through practical assignments based on the GNU/Linux operating system. Lab work is designed to implement the theory by developing skills using the powerful GNU/Linux command-line tools and utilities.

Pre-requisites: CST8116 AND CST8118

CST8284 Object Oriented Programming (Java)

Working in the field of information technology as a programmer requires a firm understanding of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts. Students explore object-oriented programming methodology using the Java programming language. Object oriented concepts, such as encapsulation, inheritance, abstraction and polymorphism are covered and reinforced with practical applications. Students explore the basics of data structures and algorithms as well as basic Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming.

Pre-requisites: CST8116

CST8285 Web Programming

The World Wide Web (WWW) has become an integrated part of everyday life. Students develop basic skills of web programming, website design and implementation. JavaScript, HTML5, and PHP are used to explore web-based solutions to problems of increasing interactivity and complexity. Lectures are reinforced by practical assignments that encourage students to construct and maintain their own websites.

Pre-requisites: CST8116

ENL2019T Technical Communication for Engineering Technologies

The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven economy. Students are exposed to exercises and assignments designed to foster independent and collaborative critical thinking, research, writing, visual communication and presentation skills related to technical topics.

Pre-requisites: ENL1813T

AST2000 Introduction to Astronomy

What can the sky tell us about our place in the universe, and how life began? This introductory course to astronomy will teach students indigenous and Western constellations in the sky, as well as introduce them to the major planets. Students will act as beginning astronomers and engineers by performing sketches, doing research on astronomy topics, and learning about missions to Mars that are on the hunt for signs of life.

COR1737 Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses

Emphasis is on the study of signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. Additionally, there are discussions about eating and sleeping disorders, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder.

DSN2100 Design Thinking

Design Thinking uses a designer mindset to produce business innovations in products and services, with a focus on deep understanding of and empathy with the people who use them. Following a holistic innovation process for an area of interest or organization, students build an initial business case and apply design thinking and creative problem-solving strategies to make innovation a sustainable practice.

ENL0009 Introduction to Children's Literature

This course introduces students to various texts and sources in the domain of Children's Literature, and gives students the opportunity to discuss the many genres, issues and theories that pervade the field, while simultaneously helping them gain practice analyzing literature for children with various critical literary elements in mind.

ENL0010 Science Fiction

Science fiction addresses key concerns that are not restricted to the imaginative worlds depicted in fiction; rather, science fiction uses alien settings, strange worlds, alternate timelines, or virtual environments as a way of exploring contemporary issues. Over the course of exploring the various issues contained in these fictions, the various movements of science fiction will be explored to provide a broader sense of the genre's development from its earliest to its most current forms; in addition, terminology will be introduced so, by the end of the course, students will have a broader understanding of science fiction's historical and thematic terrain.

ENL1798 Contemporary Canadian Issues

A critical understanding of contemporary Canadian issues is vital to being an active member in our democratic society. Students explore a variety of topics and analyze their ethical implications and relevance to Canadian life. Discussions, debates and other collaborative activities offer opportunities to consider recent controversies from different perspectives, and use of a variety of media (e.g. newspapers, articles, and other resources online) allows for in-depth reflection on the history and current state of a range of social and political topics.

ENV0002 Environmental Citizenship

Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities. An environmental citizen is committed to learning more about the environment and to taking responsible environmental action. Through a combination of interactive activities, assignments and discussions, students learn how they are personally connected with current environmental issues. Students are also encouraged to adopt attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility.

ENV5004 Waste-Free Ontario

Ontario continues to generate more and more waste; historically, three quarters of this waste has been discarded. In this course, learners are introduced to the tremendous environmental and economic opportunities that exist to embrace resource conservation ideology and a circular economy - a system in which products are never discarded, but reused, recycled and reintroduced into new products. With interactive activities, videos, and gaming; learners identify concepts and technologies to make informed decisions regarding waste management. Learners reflect on material learned, connect it to their own personalized industry or interest, and locate innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities.

FAM1003 Psychology of Learning

Students explore how individuals acquire knowledge and skills and how environments influence the learning process. Through examination of different theories from both historical and current perspectives, students develop an understanding of how learning is influenced by developmental, psychological and social elements. Students use real life experiences to identify how these theories can be used to support learning and development within continuously changing environments.

GED0021 Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity

All forms of art have a powerful influence on our perceptions. Students describe and explore through case studies a range of disabilities and their unique features. Using arts, enquiry and discussion, students critique historical and modern-day portrayals of individuals with disabilities. Students consider the attitudes and social barriers that individuals with disabilities face, and focus on the link between the formation of cultural identity and the arts.

GED0022 Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being

While fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with explaining how individuals and communities flourish through the scientific exploration of happiness, optimal human functioning, and civic engagement. The field of Positive Psychology has the objective of making life more satisfying and meaningful through interventions that promote and develop qualities such as self-knowledge, learned optimism, gratitude, mindfulness, resilience, and community connection. Students participate in both interactive lectures and on-line discussions, maintain weekly journals, and develop personal strengths through direct engagement with well-being initiatives.

GED2200 Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media

This course will allow students to explore social media and its effects on free speech and public discourse in contemporary society. It will cover the philosophical foundations of free speech, the legal and institutional expressions of free speech in modern democracies, the characteristics of social media infrastructure, how our society's free speech is being influenced if not transformed by this infrastructure, and perspectives on the need, or not, for regulatory fixes advanced from different viewpoints.

GED5007 Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition

The effects of transatlantic slavery, which began in the 15th century and was not abolished until the 19th, are still present in contemporary social, political and economic systems. In this course, students are provided with a chronological understanding of the transatlantic slave trade that charts: 1) its creation and its economic underpinnings in European and American power and wealth; 2) the resistance to slavery and its eventual abolition; and 3) the afterlife of slavery in the present day. Through class discussion, examination of academic and non-academic literature, and analysis of images and videos, students will be introduced to the history and continuing legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.

GED5010 The Fungus Among Us

Understanding fungi is critical for a more complete picture of both natural history, as well as historical and current human affairs. Students learn the major groups of fungi most of which are beneficial to humans. Students learn the influence of fungi on historical and cultural activities including art and food. Students also examine the direct involvement of fungi on industrial processes and current medical and biotechnological processes. Students explore the role of fungi as it relates to soil fertility and best practices in agriculture and environmental sustainability. Students will connect fungi to the world around them.

GED5301 On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)

Though death is an immutable consequence of life, society's attitudes and reactions to it have been ever-changing. The viewpoint that life is sacrosanct, to be protected at all costs, is now being challenged by individuals demanding greater control of their quality of life, including the right to die. An historical overview of attitudes towards death will be examined, with a focus on the growing acceptability of medical assistance in dying (MAID), and the reasons behind this movement (demographics, economics, medicine). This course, through discussion of differing social perspectives, government legislation, case studies, research, images and videos will provide students a greater understanding of society's past and present approaches to death.

GED7105 Professionalism and Ethics

Professionalism and ethics are the foundation for those preparing for leadership roles in the workplace, community and educational settings. By exploring the different facets of leadership theory and ethical dilemmas, students develop decision making, judgment, and personal value positions that form the basis for the examination of professional conduct and personal accountability.

GEO0012 Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants

Understanding the natural environment and the geological features and landscapes that shape our world is vital for students to have a greater understanding and respect for others by being more globally and culturally aware. The transformation of Earth as we know it has been a 4.5 billion year marvel in the making. The ever-changing continents, oceans, seas, and geographic landforms continue to reshape our world. Through the exploration of the unique landscapes of Earth and the examination of the geographic distribution of populations, countries, and regions of the world, students will use virtual field trips, case studies, and web quests to enhance their sense of global community.

MGT2346 Introduction to E-Business

Students are provided with tools, skills, an understanding of technology, business concepts and issues that surround the emergence of electronic business. Emphasis is on that part of the Internet known as the World Wide Web (WWW), where such tools as browsers are used. In addition to acquiring basic skills for navigating the Internet, students develop an understanding of the current practices and opportunities in electronic publishing, electronic shopping, electronic distribution and electronic collaboration. Students also explore several of the problems surrounding electronic business and commerce, such as security, authentication, privacy, encryption, safeguarding of intellectual property rights, acceptable use policies and legal liabilities.

PSI1702 Government of Canada

Students explore the Canadian governmental system and consider key principles of democracy and federalism. In addition, students analyze the impact of government on the lives of its citizens, as well as the ways in which citizens and communities affect the government. Finally, students examine the diverse political, national and ideological dynamics of Canadian politics.

PSY0007 Cults and Terrorism

In this course, students will explore the historical evolution and social impact of cults and terrorist groups. Students will learn ways to identify and define cults. Using discussions and active learning approaches, students will examine what motivates cults and terrorist groups with a specific lens towards violent activity. The impact of media and globalization will also be discussed. Students will advance their social and cultural understanding and gain awareness of cults in contemporary society. Students in this course will discuss the validity of historical evidence and research historical interpretations of events using relevant and recent sources.

PSY0014 Learning, Thinking and Problem Solving

Psychology is an academic discipline that is concerned with all aspects of human existence, focusing in particular upon human thought, emotion and action. Psychology combines the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes with the development of therapeutic and practical approaches to human problems and concerns. Psychology is, in addition, a major contributor to the ongoing development of our understanding of human nature more generally. After a brief historical overview, this subject examines psychology as a science. Psychological research and theory making facilitates our understanding of ourselves as individuals and as members of social groups by describing, explaining and predicting how we develop and relate in society, how we create ourselves and our world; applied psychology makes its contribution through efforts to enhance individual development and adaptation within society. Students benefit by gaining an introductory knowledge of psychology that can be applied to their daily lives.

PSY1754 Selected Topics in Psychology

In this course, students will learn about some popular topics in psychology including learning, memory, sleep and consciousness, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Through hands-on experiments, case studies, multimedia and demonstrations, students will gain an appreciation for psychology as a social science.

SCI2200 Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone

DNA is the recipe book for all living things. This small molecule can tell us about our past, present, and future. It is what makes us all unique and what ties us together. DNA can answer some of life's biggest questions: Where do we come from? How are we made? Can we cure disease? Can we predict the future or change the outcome? In this course, we will examine the spectacular DNA molecule and how it works. Through contemporary articles, research, images, and videos, we will investigate ways in which DNA can be used to predict traits, detect disease, discover ancestry and engineer babies. We will look at DNA's involvement in our evolution, and how we can harness its powers to create superfoods, change a wolf into a pug or clone extinct species. Through a combination of discussion boards, quizzes and assignments, students will discuss DNA history, technology and social attitudes, providing them with a greater understanding of their genetic make-up, both on a personal and global level.

SSC5012 Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Equity

Students learn the definition of racism and discrimination, and will be able to identify the various sources of discrimination and racism resulting from cultural values and physical differences between individuals. By identifying racism and discrimination issues in North American society, students learn how to analyze the sociological factors that cause bias and prejudice to surface in our society. The main objective of this course is to enhance sensitivity to and intolerance of mistreatment based on racial or ethnic background and appearance, and to consider how to handle these issues as professional individuals in a pluralistic Canadian society. Students communicate with one another through electronic discussion and learn to appreciate through various readings and assignments the many facets of racism and discrimination. This course will be of interest to workers in health services, education, human resources and business, and those who want to enhance their knowledge and sensitivity to issues of racism and discrimination particularly when communicating with people from other cultures or with physical appearances that differ from their own.

CST2234 Systems Analysis and Design

Complex information technology systems require extensive planning and design. Guided by industry standard software engineering methodologies, students gain hands-on experience with case studies used to develop systems from inception through elaboration, construction and transition phases. Object-oriented design, modeling tools and techniques are used to produce system specifications. Project management principles are also used within team developed projects. Software methodologies discussed include the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC), agile approach, Rational Unified Process (RUP)and Rapid Application Development (RAD).

Pre-requisites: CST8215 AND CST8284 AND ENL2019T

CST2335 Mobile Graphical Interface Programming

Mobile devices play an instrumental part of everyday life, thus requiring knowledge of mobile graphical user interface development. Students explore graphical user interface programming in a mobile Android environment. Students learn how to program applications using the latest Android development tools. Topics include application architecture, interface design, network communication, and database integration.

Pre-requisites: CST8215 AND CST8284

CST8109 Network Programming

Software programming in today's environment requires detailed knowledge of the underlying network topology, its implementation and programming support functions. Gaining an appreciation and perspective of this technology is imperative to developing good network programming applications. Students explore topics including the basic structure, design and layered communications models, with an emphasis on data communications, TCP/IP protocol suite, socket programming and multi-threading concepts. Labs include practical exercises in basic networking and using socket programming, along with multi-threading, in an environment rich with common networking tools for diagnosing and troubleshooting typical network programming problems.

Pre-requisites: CST8116 AND MAT8001C

CST8288 Object Oriented Programming with Design Patterns

Design patterns are programming architecture solutions to common challenges faced in software implementation. Students implement best practices of object-oriented program development with software design patterns. Students also apply Unified Modeling Language (UML) program specifications in the Java programming language. SQL through JDBC technology is used embedded for developing and using data access objects. Course topics include refactoring, domain modelling, JDBC and multithreaded servlet programming. Students develop proficiency in creating, testing, debugging, deploying and documenting programs and servlets through practical application.

Pre-requisites: CST8215 AND CST8284

CST8283 Business Programming

Information systems built using the COBOL programming language support important institutions such as government services and the banking sectors. Students create COBOL programs in a business environment using structured methodology in the latest visual programming environment. Topics include output design, logic design tools, structured, top-down and modular coding, testing and debugging, and documentation. Students examine interactive, file-based, and database processing of data related to business problems. Arrays, indexed files, database access and sub-programs are explored.

Pre-requisites: CST8116

CST8390 Business Intelligence and Data Analytics

Business Intelligence (BI) can be broadly defined as a set of applications, infrastructure, and best practices that integrate and transform raw data into actionable information used for planning, monitoring and analyzing processes. The foundation underlying this process is the Data Analytics that explore the data, identify the relationships and patterns in a meaningful way. Students examine the components and best practices of BI technology, and how it guides operational to strategic business decisions in the context of real-world applications. Data analytics techniques are used to derive insight using statistical software to provide insight into patterns and trends not immediately obvious in the raw data.

Pre-requisites: CST8116 AND CST8215 AND MAT8001C

CST8002 Programming Language Research Project

Learning a new programming language or framework on your own is a challenge faced by programmers on the job as part of their career. Students explore this process of self-study by applying project planning, applied research, testing, and implementation of basic and advanced concepts appropriate to the language or framework under study. Students develop major milestones and deliverables culminating in a project and reflective summary submission.

Pre-requisites: CST8284

CST8276 Advanced Database Topics

Database administration is an important role, in particular for deployed information technology systems. Teams and individuals explore advanced database topics including database administration (using Oracle), data governance, globalization, security and advances in database technology. Topic coverage includes business intelligence, data warehouses, data visualization, big data, NoSQL and graph databases. Database administration tasks requiring knowledge of database architecture are examined: relational vs. non-relational models, security, performance, database distribution, database sharing, backup and recovery

Pre-requisites: CST2355 AND CST8109

CST8277 Enterprise Application Programming

Enterprise applications connect clients to services that are based on data stored in database management systems. With a focus on the IT Enterprise, students examine the application enterprise environment using and extending the technologies learned in previous courses. Students examine the commonly used enterprise systems development technologies such as Java/Jakarta Enterprise Edition, cloud computing, security and the corporate database repository.

Pre-requisites: CST2355 AND CST8109 AND CST8288

CST8319 Software Development Project

Industry recognizes the value of graduates possessing real-world software development experience. Following the agile software engineering methodology, teams work with clients to analyze business needs, determine computer system requirements, model system designs, build prototypes, test code and deliver final products. Project management techniques are used to monitor progress and organize tasks. Students participate in interviews, technical reviews, presentations and the preparation of technical reports. The culmination of the course is a final presentation and technical review, followed by the delivery of the finished product.

Pre-requisites: CST2234 AND CST2335 AND CST2355 AND CST8102 AND CST8109 AND CST8285 AND CST8288 AND ENL2019T

AST2000 Introduction to Astronomy

What can the sky tell us about our place in the universe, and how life began? This introductory course to astronomy will teach students indigenous and Western constellations in the sky, as well as introduce them to the major planets. Students will act as beginning astronomers and engineers by performing sketches, doing research on astronomy topics, and learning about missions to Mars that are on the hunt for signs of life.

COR1737 Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses

Emphasis is on the study of signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. Additionally, there are discussions about eating and sleeping disorders, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder.

DSN2100 Design Thinking

Design Thinking uses a designer mindset to produce business innovations in products and services, with a focus on deep understanding of and empathy with the people who use them. Following a holistic innovation process for an area of interest or organization, students build an initial business case and apply design thinking and creative problem-solving strategies to make innovation a sustainable practice.

ENL0009 Introduction to Children's Literature

This course introduces students to various texts and sources in the domain of Children's Literature, and gives students the opportunity to discuss the many genres, issues and theories that pervade the field, while simultaneously helping them gain practice analyzing literature for children with various critical literary elements in mind.

ENL0010 Science Fiction

Science fiction addresses key concerns that are not restricted to the imaginative worlds depicted in fiction; rather, science fiction uses alien settings, strange worlds, alternate timelines, or virtual environments as a way of exploring contemporary issues. Over the course of exploring the various issues contained in these fictions, the various movements of science fiction will be explored to provide a broader sense of the genre's development from its earliest to its most current forms; in addition, terminology will be introduced so, by the end of the course, students will have a broader understanding of science fiction's historical and thematic terrain.

ENL1798 Contemporary Canadian Issues

A critical understanding of contemporary Canadian issues is vital to being an active member in our democratic society. Students explore a variety of topics and analyze their ethical implications and relevance to Canadian life. Discussions, debates and other collaborative activities offer opportunities to consider recent controversies from different perspectives, and use of a variety of media (e.g. newspapers, articles, and other resources online) allows for in-depth reflection on the history and current state of a range of social and political topics.

ENV0002 Environmental Citizenship

Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities. An environmental citizen is committed to learning more about the environment and to taking responsible environmental action. Through a combination of interactive activities, assignments and discussions, students learn how they are personally connected with current environmental issues. Students are also encouraged to adopt attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility.

ENV5004 Waste-Free Ontario

Ontario continues to generate more and more waste; historically, three quarters of this waste has been discarded. In this course, learners are introduced to the tremendous environmental and economic opportunities that exist to embrace resource conservation ideology and a circular economy - a system in which products are never discarded, but reused, recycled and reintroduced into new products. With interactive activities, videos, and gaming; learners identify concepts and technologies to make informed decisions regarding waste management. Learners reflect on material learned, connect it to their own personalized industry or interest, and locate innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities.

FAM1003 Psychology of Learning

Students explore how individuals acquire knowledge and skills and how environments influence the learning process. Through examination of different theories from both historical and current perspectives, students develop an understanding of how learning is influenced by developmental, psychological and social elements. Students use real life experiences to identify how these theories can be used to support learning and development within continuously changing environments.

GED0021 Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity

All forms of art have a powerful influence on our perceptions. Students describe and explore through case studies a range of disabilities and their unique features. Using arts, enquiry and discussion, students critique historical and modern-day portrayals of individuals with disabilities. Students consider the attitudes and social barriers that individuals with disabilities face, and focus on the link between the formation of cultural identity and the arts.

GED0022 Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being

While fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with explaining how individuals and communities flourish through the scientific exploration of happiness, optimal human functioning, and civic engagement. The field of Positive Psychology has the objective of making life more satisfying and meaningful through interventions that promote and develop qualities such as self-knowledge, learned optimism, gratitude, mindfulness, resilience, and community connection. Students participate in both interactive lectures and on-line discussions, maintain weekly journals, and develop personal strengths through direct engagement with well-being initiatives.

GED2200 Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media

This course will allow students to explore social media and its effects on free speech and public discourse in contemporary society. It will cover the philosophical foundations of free speech, the legal and institutional expressions of free speech in modern democracies, the characteristics of social media infrastructure, how our society's free speech is being influenced if not transformed by this infrastructure, and perspectives on the need, or not, for regulatory fixes advanced from different viewpoints.

GED5007 Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition

The effects of transatlantic slavery, which began in the 15th century and was not abolished until the 19th, are still present in contemporary social, political and economic systems. In this course, students are provided with a chronological understanding of the transatlantic slave trade that charts: 1) its creation and its economic underpinnings in European and American power and wealth; 2) the resistance to slavery and its eventual abolition; and 3) the afterlife of slavery in the present day. Through class discussion, examination of academic and non-academic literature, and analysis of images and videos, students will be introduced to the history and continuing legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.

GED5010 The Fungus Among Us

Understanding fungi is critical for a more complete picture of both natural history, as well as historical and current human affairs. Students learn the major groups of fungi most of which are beneficial to humans. Students learn the influence of fungi on historical and cultural activities including art and food. Students also examine the direct involvement of fungi on industrial processes and current medical and biotechnological processes. Students explore the role of fungi as it relates to soil fertility and best practices in agriculture and environmental sustainability. Students will connect fungi to the world around them.

GED7105 Professionalism and Ethics

Professionalism and ethics are the foundation for those preparing for leadership roles in the workplace, community and educational settings. By exploring the different facets of leadership theory and ethical dilemmas, students develop decision making, judgment, and personal value positions that form the basis for the examination of professional conduct and personal accountability.

GEO0012 Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants

Understanding the natural environment and the geological features and landscapes that shape our world is vital for students to have a greater understanding and respect for others by being more globally and culturally aware. The transformation of Earth as we know it has been a 4.5 billion year marvel in the making. The ever-changing continents, oceans, seas, and geographic landforms continue to reshape our world. Through the exploration of the unique landscapes of Earth and the examination of the geographic distribution of populations, countries, and regions of the world, students will use virtual field trips, case studies, and web quests to enhance their sense of global community.

MGT2346 Introduction to E-Business

Students are provided with tools, skills, an understanding of technology, business concepts and issues that surround the emergence of electronic business. Emphasis is on that part of the Internet known as the World Wide Web (WWW), where such tools as browsers are used. In addition to acquiring basic skills for navigating the Internet, students develop an understanding of the current practices and opportunities in electronic publishing, electronic shopping, electronic distribution and electronic collaboration. Students also explore several of the problems surrounding electronic business and commerce, such as security, authentication, privacy, encryption, safeguarding of intellectual property rights, acceptable use policies and legal liabilities.

PSI1702 Government of Canada

Students explore the Canadian governmental system and consider key principles of democracy and federalism. In addition, students analyze the impact of government on the lives of its citizens, as well as the ways in which citizens and communities affect the government. Finally, students examine the diverse political, national and ideological dynamics of Canadian politics.

PSY0007 Cults and Terrorism

In this course, students will explore the historical evolution and social impact of cults and terrorist groups. Students will learn ways to identify and define cults. Using discussions and active learning approaches, students will examine what motivates cults and terrorist groups with a specific lens towards violent activity. The impact of media and globalization will also be discussed. Students will advance their social and cultural understanding and gain awareness of cults in contemporary society. Students in this course will discuss the validity of historical evidence and research historical interpretations of events using relevant and recent sources.

PSY0014 Learning, Thinking and Problem Solving

Psychology is an academic discipline that is concerned with all aspects of human existence, focusing in particular upon human thought, emotion and action. Psychology combines the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes with the development of therapeutic and practical approaches to human problems and concerns. Psychology is, in addition, a major contributor to the ongoing development of our understanding of human nature more generally. After a brief historical overview, this subject examines psychology as a science. Psychological research and theory making facilitates our understanding of ourselves as individuals and as members of social groups by describing, explaining and predicting how we develop and relate in society, how we create ourselves and our world; applied psychology makes its contribution through efforts to enhance individual development and adaptation within society. Students benefit by gaining an introductory knowledge of psychology that can be applied to their daily lives.

PSY1754 Selected Topics in Psychology

In this course, students will learn about some popular topics in psychology including learning, memory, sleep and consciousness, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Through hands-on experiments, case studies, multimedia and demonstrations, students will gain an appreciation for psychology as a social science.

SCI2200 Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone

DNA is the recipe book for all living things. This small molecule can tell us about our past, present, and future. It is what makes us all unique and what ties us together. DNA can answer some of life's biggest questions: Where do we come from? How are we made? Can we cure disease? Can we predict the future or change the outcome? In this course, we will examine the spectacular DNA molecule and how it works. Through contemporary articles, research, images, and videos, we will investigate ways in which DNA can be used to predict traits, detect disease, discover ancestry and engineer babies. We will look at DNA's involvement in our evolution, and how we can harness its powers to create superfoods, change a wolf into a pug or clone extinct species. Through a combination of discussion boards, quizzes and assignments, students will discuss DNA history, technology and social attitudes, providing them with a greater understanding of their genetic make-up, both on a personal and global level.

SSC5012 Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Equity

Students learn the definition of racism and discrimination, and will be able to identify the various sources of discrimination and racism resulting from cultural values and physical differences between individuals. By identifying racism and discrimination issues in North American society, students learn how to analyze the sociological factors that cause bias and prejudice to surface in our society. The main objective of this course is to enhance sensitivity to and intolerance of mistreatment based on racial or ethnic background and appearance, and to consider how to handle these issues as professional individuals in a pluralistic Canadian society. Students communicate with one another through electronic discussion and learn to appreciate through various readings and assignments the many facets of racism and discrimination. This course will be of interest to workers in health services, education, human resources and business, and those who want to enhance their knowledge and sensitivity to issues of racism and discrimination particularly when communicating with people from other cultures or with physical appearances that differ from their own.