SOCI 108 - Thinking Critically About Social Issues - Briauna A. Johnson

Introduction

I am a lecturing professor in the Department of Sociology. I have taught a variety of courses from Introduction to Sociology to Research Methods. I am a lecturing professor in the Department of Gender Women Studies at CSUN, the Department of Sociology at Moorpark College, College of the Canyons, and CSUN. I am also a CSUN alumnus! 

I look forward to exploring critical thinking with you! In today's age of misinformation, this class is more important than ever!

Course Description

This course introduces students to critical thinking in sociology, emphasizing how individuals interpret information, construct arguments, evaluate social issues, and understand society using the three major theoretical perspectives. Students will apply the sociological imagination to connect personal experiences with broader social issues.

What to Expect in this Course

Students should have access to a computer and Wi-Fi as this is an online course. You should also have access to Google Docs and/or Microsoft Word. 

Types of Assessments

This course has zero exams! Instead, you should expect to do some reading (provided to you for free on Canvas) and complete written assignments.

Textbook Information

This course uses a Zero Textbook Cost book. There will be a compilation of articles that you will read on Canvas.

Other Relevant Course Information

Please make sure you sign on to the course on the day it begins, otherwise, you will be dropped.

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: 03/20/2026 Sub#: 2034 Sub ID: 210374