SOCI 230 - Sociology of Sexualities - Briauna A. Johnson

Introduction

Hello! My name is Briauna A. Johnson, and I am the instructor for this course. 

I am very excited about the opportunity to dive into Sociology with you all. Of course, I may be biased but I think Sociology is one of the most interesting and useful subjects you can study. In sum, Sociologists study everything people do! This could be on a large scale like politics or the economy or on a smaller scale like intimate relationships.

Please feel free to email me with questions at briauna.johnson@canyons.edu after reading this informative letter. I want more than anything for you to be successful in this class.

The first thing to learn in any of my classes is my overall teaching philosophy. I aim to engage and inspire my students in both the classroom and beyond. I believe that teaching does not stop in the classroom but is rather a continuous process. I want my students to know that I am here to assist them in participating in their own success. As a lecturer/instructor, I want to inspire my students to grow within academia while reaffirming the students’ self-efficacy, abilities, and strengths needed for a successful college career. I want to instill in all my students that despite (and perhaps because of) their multifaceted backgrounds, collegiate success is also for them while providing support and resources that help keep this goal within their reach.

Course Description

Sexuality--it is often viewed as a deeply personal phenomenon. However, in sociology, we showcase how even the most "personal" things can be related to larger cultural and social institutions. We will dive into a number of fascinating ideas like the history of sexuality in the United States, media and pop culture, sports, religion, legal systems, and revolutions. We will explore ideas that are often taken-for-granted and outline how "the personal is political." 

This class is meant to be informative, nonjudgmental, mature, and ultimately a safe space for people of all backgrounds to discuss an often underdiscussed and yet central subject manner.

What to Expect in this Course

The weekly workload may shift throughout the semester. Some weeks, you are doing mostly reading (any mandatory reading will be made available to you on Canvas; the textbook is recommended only and therefore, you do not need to purchase it if you are unable to). I also suggest as you read, to fill out your study guide as you go along. Studying is best done through long periods of time, rather than all at once. Other weeks you will be asked to complete a writing assignment. You are given multiple prompts and asked to choose one from each category. Each category has different deadlines. You may also have a quiz, which I refer to as Check-ins. Check-ins are doing just that--checking in to see how much of the material you are understanding. Check-ins are completed 100% online and entail true/false and multiple-choice questions.

Types of Assessments

Success in any class starts early. Be sure to read the syllabus and calendar thoroughly before you begin the class. The syllabus is posted on Canvas and the course should be available for you to log in at least five days before class starts. This is an online course which means the course will occur 100% online. Therefore, be prepared for independent learning. We will be using Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) for all coursework done online. Examples of coursework done independently online include reading course materials, submitting assignments, and taking timed quizzes that I refer to as “Check-ins.” Additionally, I will periodically post small PowerPoints and videos to help with instructions and to break down some of the denser material covered in the class.

Textbook Information

This is a textbook free course. Any mandatory reading that I want you to do will be made available to you for free on Canvas.

The book listed for this class is RECOMMENDED ONLY. However, there will never be anything that is mandatory to read and if there is anything mandatory, it will be uploaded to Canvas.

Students can print some number of pages for free in the ASG computer lab located in Quad 1 at Canyon Country and in the Student Center at Valencia. You may print for a fee (bring one-dollar bills, no change is given) in the TLC (CCSS room 315 at Canyon Country or located next to the Library at Valencia).

Other Relevant Course Information

Since this course is 100% online, having working internet access and a reliable computer is crucial. I do not recommend taking this course if the primary mode you are attempting to complete the course is on your phone as this ultimately leads to mistakes. If you need help renting a reliable computer or if internet access is a concern for you, please let me know IMMEDIATELY so I may put you in contact with campus resources.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 07/27/2025 Sub#: 1952 Sub ID: 199576