SYLLABUS
For
SPRING 2012 QUARTER
HUMAN RELATIONS SKILLS
HMRL 1010 7A
SOUTH OMAHA CAMPUS (SOC)
MAHONEY BLDG (MHY), ROOM 510
MONDAY/WEDNESDAY 8:00-9:55 a.m.
Patrick D. Russell, MA
INSTRUCTOR
WELCOME TO METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE!
Metropolitan Community College
SYLLABUS
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
CLASS IDENTIFICATION
Title:
Prefix/Section:
Credit Hours:
Begins/Ends/No-Class Days:
Meeting Day/Time:
Human Relations Skills
HMRL 1010 7A
4.5 Quarter Hours
12 March – 23 May 2012
Monday, Wednesday (8:00 - 9:55 a.m.)
Last Day to Withdraw:
Saturday, 08 May 2012
Delivery Type:
Class Location:
Lab Location:
Course Web Address:
Lecture
SOC, Mahoney Bldg, Room 510
N/A
http://faculty.mccneb.edu/prussell/
CONTACT INFORMATION
Instructor’s Name:
Office Location:
Office Telephone:
Facsimile:
Office Hours:
Email Address:
Faculty Web Site:
Academic Program Area:
Dean’s Office Telephone:
Patrick D. Russell; MA (Bus Admin), BS (Math)
N/A
402 457-7200, Ext 8037
N/A
By Appointment
prussell@mccneb.edu (preferred method of contact)
http://faculty.mccneb.edu/prussell/
Social Sciences
402 738-4545
COURSE INFORMATION
Course Description: This is an introductory course in interpersonal skills stressing the
importance of utilizing those skills in the workplace. The student is presented with opportunities
to become more effective, discerning, ethical, flexible, perceptive and understanding in both
professional and personal endeavors. Special attention will be given to appropriate
communication skills, multinational awareness and learning activities as applied to an
increasingly diverse workplace and multinational environment.
Course Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for this course. The ability to read
and write at the college level is highly recommended.
Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, each student will be able to
a. Recognize human relations issues and develop basic communications skills.
b. Demonstrate self-awareness consistent with success in the workplace.
c. Formulate strategies for improving human relations in the workplace (i.e., flexing,
teamwork, stress management, etc.) and emphasize the importance of workplace ethics.
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d. Develop team and group membership skills that are necessary for success in today's
workplace.
e. Develop strategies for adapting to the challenges of rapidly changing conditions in the
workplace.
f. Develop strategies for coping with stress and anger related to workplace.
g. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of diversity issues as they relate to the
workplace and formulate a plan for dealing with those issues effectively.
h. Demonstrate an understanding of globalization as it relates to the workplace and
strategies for dealing with global issues effectively.
i. Describe the nature of communications problems within a culturally diverse workplace
and develop approaches for interacting with all individuals including those with
disabilities, differences in gender, race, ethnic background, age, socioeconomic status,
and sexual orientation.
j. Develop and understand the nature of diversity issues as it relates to the workplace and
formulate a plan for dealing with these issues effectively.
k. Prepare a one-page resume, cover letter, complete a job application and participate in
simulated job interview activities.
Rationale: This course is intended to provide an overview of the major human relations skills
required in today’s workplace. General subject areas included are self-awareness,
assertiveness, communications, and team participation skills. Skills needed to cope with
change and stress; and, skills needed to improve communications and work relationships with
persons of backgrounds different from your own.
Required & Supplemental Materials:
Title: Effective Human Relations In Organizations
Edition: Ninth Special Edition for Metropolitan Community College
Author: Reece and Brandt
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Class Structure:
This course is primarily a lecture, discussion, and team activity course. There may be some
outside readings and activities, as well as experiential class activities. Audiovisual aids are
included as supplements to the lectures and class discussions. In-class discussion may or may
not follow the readings, yet the readings may be covered in a quiz, and the student is expected
to apply concepts in the readings to portfolio assignments.
ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT WORK
Types of Assessments/Assignments:
Students will be graded on the results of quizzes (if given), assigned papers, a team project, a
human relations portfolio, classroom participation, and attendance.
Methods of Learning:
In this course active learning is promoted by individual and team participation.
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INSTRUCTOR'S EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
Registration at the college means a commitment to seriousness of purpose, academic integrity,
and high standards of personal and social behavior. Students are expected to be cooperative
and responsible members of the college community.
Attendance Statement:
See page six of this document.
Academic Honesty Statement:
Students are reminded that materials you may use as sources for this course may be subject to
copyright protection. Additional information about copyright is provided on the library webpage
at http://www.mccneb.edu/library, by your instructor, or by the college's copyright officer. In
response to incidents of student dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism, etc.), the college imposes
specific actions that may include receiving a failing grade on a test, failure in the course,
suspension, or dismissal from the college. The disciplinary procedures are available in the
counseling/advising
centers
or
at
http://www.mccneb.edu/procedures/V4_Student_Conduct_and_Discipline.pdf.
Student Withdrawal:
If you cannot attend and complete this course, you should officially withdraw by calling Central
Registration, 402 457-5231 or 800 228-9553. Failure to officially withdraw will result in either an
instructor withdraw (IW) or failing (F) grade. The last date to withdraw is identified on the
second page of this syllabus.
Use of Student Work:
The ownership of student works submitted in fulfillment of classroom requirements shall remain
with the student(s): By enrolling in classes offered by Metropolitan Community College, the
student gives the college license to mark on, modify, and retain the work as may be required by
the process of instruction, as described in the course syllabus. The institution shall not have the
right to use the work in any other manner without the written consent of the student(s).
Accommodations for Students with Disabilities:
Metropolitan Community College will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with
documented qualifying disabilities. It is the student’s responsibility to request accommodations
from Disability Support Services (DSS) located in each Student Services Office. After students
have arranged for accommodations with DSS, the student and instructor should privately
discuss these accommodations. For further information, please contact DSS or visit
http://www.mccneb.edu/dss/.
Assessment of Student Learning Program:
Metropolitan Community College is committed to continuous improvement of teaching and
learning. You may be asked to help us to accomplish this objective. For example, you may be
asked to respond to surveys or questionnaires. In other cases, tests or assignments you are
required to do for this course may be shared with faculty and used for assessment purposes.
This will be done in accordance with FERPA guidelines.
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TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT
For assistance with student email, passwords, and most other MCC technology, contact the
Help Desk at 402 457-2900 or mcchelpdesk@mccneb.edu.
Technology Resources:
By using the information technology systems at MCC (including the computer systems and
phones) you acknowledge and consent to the conditions of use as set forth in the Metropolitan
Community College Procedures Memorandum on Acceptable Use of Information Technology
and Resources. It is your responsibility as a student to be familiar with these procedures. The
full text of the Procedures Memorandum may be found at the following website:
http://www.mccneb.edu/itprocedures.htm
Use of College Computers:
When you use computers in college computer labs, learning centers, libraries and many
classrooms, you will need to login using your student username and password. Your username
is the same as your WebAdvisor username and your initial password is your student ID with
leading zeros to make it seven digits. If you need assistance, please contact staff at any of the
computer labs, learning centers and libraries; your instructor may also be able to help.
It is recommended that students save their files to removable media often as they work. The
college reserves the right to take steps necessary to maintain the confidentiality of student
identity information through the use of automatic logouts and screensavers.
Educational Services Program Area Identification:
Program Area:
Social Sciences
Dean:
Jane Franklin
Academic Dean’s office phone: 402 738-4545
Written Assignments Standards:
Most assignments will be typed, double spaced, with one inch margins and 12 point fonts.
When assignments are not typed then the penmanship will be readable. Points will be
deducted if the writing is unreadable. Those who request accommodation of their
developing English composition and writing skills may submit an audio tape in which the student
reads aloud the written assignment, (which is also submitted). The instructor’s focus will not be
on the writing techniques but upon content, (except in the case of Section A of the Portfolio, in
which the resume and cover letter must meet typical employment standards).
Methods of Instruction:
This course will be primarily a lecture, discussion and team activity course. There will be some
outside readings and activities. Audiovisuals will be included as a supplement to the topics of
discussion. There may be some experiential class activities as well as outside speakers. Inclass discussion or lecture may or may not follow the readings; yet the reading may be covered
in a quiz and the student may be expected to apply it in portfolio projects.
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Grading Policy:
There will be no midterm or final examinations but up to five quizzes may be administered. The
criteria for the final course grade will be in accordance with the grading schedule below:
Attendance ...................................................................................100 points
Classroom participation/Quizzes...………………………….………100 points
Portfolio:
Section A – Self Presentation………….… .150 points
Section B – Self Awareness……….......…. 150 points
Section C – Workplace Challenges ....……100 points
Section D – Human Relations Reflection...100 points
Section E – Cultural Awareness/Diversity..200 points
Portfolio Appearance……………… . …… 100 points.
Portfolio Total………………………………...800 points
Total Possible……………………….……………………………...1000 points
A = 900-1000
B = 800-899
C = 700-799
D = 600-699
F = 599 and below
A total of up to five quizzes may be given that will cover the day’s class content and/or assigned
readings. It will be given at the end of the class period. The following scoring system will be
used for quizzes:
5 points
entire response is correct.
3-4 points
the quiz is taken and an incorrect response is given in some
section(s).
0 points
the quiz is not taken… there are absolutely no make-ups allowed for
quizzes!
Late Assignments:
Promptness is a highly valued attribute in the workplace. Employees are expected to plan
ahead to meet deadlines. Managers reprimand or terminate employees who are repeatedly late
with assignments. In unusual situations, an extension may be granted if it is requested in
advance. In this course, late assignments will be fined 10% of the total possible points per
day late up to a maximum of three days and thereafter, (i.e., after 3 rd day), no points will
be awarded.
Student Expectations:
Students are expected to do assigned readings, to study materials so as to be able to apply
them in a test situation, to complete portfolio assignments as indicated, to participate in
experiential activities in class, to participate appropriately as a member of a task team, and to
practice interpersonal skills in the classroom. Students will be engaged in a wide range of
learning methods.
a. Attendance Policy: Attendance is important as it will affect your grade and team
participation. Woody Allen once said that “90% of succeeding is showing up.” Since you can
neither contribute nor benefit from class discussion when you are absent, absences will have a
very serious impact upon your grade. Therefore, you will lose 10 points for each class day
missed up to a maximum of 100 points. Points are also deducted for being late and/ or
leaving early.
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Furthermore as is true in a business setting, it is the student's responsibility to contact the
instructor prior to or on the day of absence. Failure to do so is noted in the instructor's grade
book and is utilized, as in a business setting when the instructor considers whether or not to
give the student the benefit of the doubt on subjective matters. It is also the student's
responsibility to obtain all missed notes or materials.
If you are absent, make arrangements with a fellow student, and not the instructor, to obtain
copies and handouts from the class that you missed. Students who attend no class meetings
up to and including the Section Census Date published in the Class Schedule at
www.mccneb.edu/schedule/default.asp may be disenrolled from the class. There is no appeal
for this disenrollment. A student who fails to meet class attendance expectations may receive a
final grade mark of FX, indicating an absence-related failure, or a failing (F) grade.
b. Professional Comportment: Employees who demonstrate integrity and who earn the
respect of their colleagues face a number of challenges in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Fulfillment of those responsibilities requires that the individual interact with co-workers,
supervisors and business clients/customers respectfully and, at times, confront and rise above
personal biases and prejudices in order to perform his or her tasks ethically and with
professionalism. Accordingly, you will be expected to comport yourself in the classroom with the
same level of professionalism and respect in interactions with your faculty and student
colleagues.
Appropriate Behavior Includes, But Is Not Limited To:
 Punctual class attendance and returning from breaks on time.
 Attention and careful listening when others are speaking
 Respectful expression of differences and disagreement
 There should be active participation in class with respect for any personal disclosures
made in class. Additionally, students should have a commitment to preserve the
confidentiality of all disclosures.
Behavior that is disrespectful of others may result in dismissal from class, or receipt of a lower
or failing grade. Education is not only about being right, but also about examining and
understanding many points of view – even though one may personally disagree with them.
Remember that your mind is like a parachute: It only functions when opened.
c. Cellular Phones:
It is understandable that emergencies may occur. Please place cell phones on vibrate. Leave to
answer your call. If you spend longer than three minutes, this will count against you in the
performance and professional evaluation during grading. Texting during class is
inappropriate and this behavior shall also count against you.
d. Other Team Members in the Class:
1.
Phone:
E-mail:
2.
Phone:
E-mail:
3.
Phone:
E-mail:
4.
Phone:
E-mail:
5.
Phone:
E-mail:
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Persons missing the equivalent of eight or more classes may be dropped with an IW according
to college guidelines (N.B., this is not to be construed as a statement that the instructor is
required to withdraw the student). Attendance can affect future financial aid, as well.
Notice:
This syllabus is written as an expectation of class topics, learning activities, and expected
learning outcomes. However, the instructor reserves the right to make changes in this schedule
that may result in enhanced or more effective learning for students. These modifications will not
substantially change the intent or objectives of this course and will be done within the policies
and guidelines of Metropolitan Community College.
Learning Support:
Metro’s Academic Resource Centers can help you achieve educational success. The staffs in
these centers provide drop-in assistance with basic math, reading, writing and computer skills.
They offer a friendly, supportive learning environment. Self-paced computer-assisted
instructional support in reading, vocabulary, typing, English as a Second Language, and online
course orientation are available. Detailed information about these services are in the Student
Handbook, College Catalog, and online. Links to these resources are located at
http://www.mccneb.edu/arc/.
College Policies:
College policies, such as student rights and responsibilities, academic standards, plagiarism,
etc. are outlined in the College Catalog and Student Handbook. This information can be access
via the online catalog at http://www.mccneb.edu/studentservices/studenthandbook.pdf.
a. Student Code Of Conduct: The College has a standard code of conduct that involves
consequences for specific academic and non-academic behavior that may result in a failing
grade, probation, or suspension from the college. More complete information about the code
of conduct is located in the Student Services portion of the online catalog
http://www.mccneb.edu/catalog/studentinformation.asp.
b. Student Withdrawal: If you cannot attend and complete this course, you should officially
withdraw by calling Central Registration, 402 457-5231 or 800-228-9553. Failure to officially
withdraw will result in either an attendance-related failure (FX) or failing (F) grade. The last date
to withdraw is noted on page two of this syllabus.
c. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities:
If you have a disability that may substantially limit your ability to participate in this class, please
contact a Disability Support Services Counselor, located in the Student Services Office on each
campus. Metro Community College will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with
documented qualifying disabilities. However, it is the student’s responsibility to request
accommodations. For further information, please contact the Student Services Office at your
campus.
ATTACHMENTS
a. Schedule Of Assignments
b. Portfolio Requirements
c. Important Dates
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SCHEDULE OF ASSIGNMENTS
prussell@mccneb.edu
http://faculty.mccneb.edu/prussell/
Class
1
2
Date
Mon 3/12
Wed 3/14
Topics
Syllabus Review/Introductions/Ice Breakers
Introduction to Human Relations Skills
Human Relations Pre-Test - Section D
Homework
3
Mon 3/19
Special MCC Section
4
Wed 3/21
Wed 3/21
Develop Draft Resume, Cover Letter, Application
Due: "Who Am I..." paper - Section A
Developing A Professional Presence
Census Date
5
6
Mon 3/26
Wed 3/28
Develop Final Resume, Cover Letter, Application
Improving Personal And Organizational Communications
Due: Final Resume, Cover Letter, Application - Section A
Guest Speaker
Chapter 4
7
8
Mon 4/2
Wed 4/4
Understanding Your Communication Style, Part One
Understanding Your Communication Style, Part Two
The Gold Watch Exercise
Chapter 5
Chapter 5
9
10
Mon 4/9
Wed 4/11
Self Awareness Inventories - Section B
Mock Job Interviews - Section A
In Class Work
11
12
Mon 4/16
Wed 4/18
Team Building: A leadership Strategy
Building High Self-Esteem
Due: Self-Awareness Paper/Goals/Affirmations - Section B
Chapter 2
Chapter 6
13
14
Mon 4/23
Wed 4/25
Personal Values Influence Ethical Choices
Attitudes Can Shape Your Life
Due: Workplace Challenges - Section C
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
15
16
Mon 4/30
Wed 5/2
Responding to Personal and Work-Related Stress
Resolving Conflict and Achieving Emotional Balance
Due: Human Relations Skills Reflection - Section D
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
17
18
Mon 5/7
Wed 5/9
Valuing Work Force Diversity
Due: Team Presentations - Section E & Portfolio Review
Chapter 11
Sat 5/12
Chapter 1
Chapter 3
Last Drop Date
19
20
Mon 5/14
Wed 5/16
Due: Team Presentations - Section E & Portfolio Review
Due: Team Presentations - Section E & Portfolio Review
21
22
Mon 5/21
Wed 5/23
A Life Plan for Effective Human Relations
Final Class
Chapter 12
Please check the faculty website for the most current version of this document at:
http://faculty.mccneb.edu/prussell/
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PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS
Each student will develop a notebook of completed assignments that will be periodically
reviewed by the instructor and graded for satisfactory completeness according to instructions
provided in class. If you want a good grade on this important assignment then it is highly
recommended that you take pride in its construction and completion. Your portfolio is a
reflection of you, your career choices, and your ability to create and reach your goals.
The portfolio will consist of five sections, each dealing with a specific aspect of Human Relations
Skills as related to today’s workplace. The following five sections are required:
Section A - Self-Presentation
1. The student will write a one and one half to three page paper about them entitled “Who Am I,
What is my Purpose and Where Am I Going”. The instructor will provide further details and
examples of what is required.
2. The student will demonstrate competence in job seeking basic skills by completing each of
the following:
a) A one page resume. (use of the website WWW.onetcodeconnector.org is highly
encouraged).
b) A one page cover letter.
c) A sample application (provided by the instructor).
d) A team interview, (feedback sheets will be included in the portfolio) with a self-assessment.
f) A job description (extra credit)
e) A thank you letter (thanking the prospective employer for the opportunity to interview) – extra
credit.
Section B - Self Awareness for Workplace Success
The student will complete six personal inventories presented by the instructor. After completing
the self-inventories, the student will write a three to five page double-spaced typed summary of
his/her conclusions regarding his/her personal strengths, weaknesses and their likely impact
upon his/her prospective workplace effectiveness. Copies of the completed inventories are to
accompany the summary in the portfolio.
Based upon the student's completed inventories and summary, the student will identify three
personal or professional goals. The student will write an action plan (for extra credit) for
accomplishing these goals; including resources target dates, and rewards.
Section C – Workplace Challenges
The student will write a two to four page paper on one or more of the following topics. The
student is expected to apply class and textbook material to the topic, as well as attach two
articles (for extra credit) from print media or the internet regarding the topic.
a. Stress - A description of the student’s current stresses (based upon class handouts),
typical reaction patterns, and a description of three coping techniques that the student
has learned that he/she believes may help to relieve stress.
b. Anger - A description of how the student has previously expressed anger and a plan for
dealing with future anger provoking situations. The student will want to describe any
trigger points (based upon class handouts) as well as coping techniques.
c. Conflict – Include a description of a conflict that is disrupting human relations at work,
school, or home. Identify all persons involved in the conflict and design a conflict
resolution plan with strategies you might use.
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d. Discrimination – Include a description of how the student would deal with a work-related
situation in which he/she was subjected to discrimination (or a situation in which the
student observed another person being subjected to discrimination.)
e. Ethical Choice – Include a description of an ethical choice/conflict you have faced in the
workplace. Include personal values that influence your ethical decisions.
Section D - Human Relations Reflection
The student will complete a pre Human Relations Skills test at the beginning of the course and a
post test near the end of the course. A three to five page paper will be written based upon the
two tests and the student’s reflections about the course. Further, specific, instructions will be
provided later in the quarter.
Section E - Cultural Awareness/Diversity Presentation
Today’s workplace is increasingly diverse and, often, globally focused. Cultural competence is
both an important workplace skill as well as key to good citizenship. This assignment is
intended to help the student develop a measure of cultural awareness. After attending a cultural
event/experience, assigned teams will develop and present a presentation focusing on a shared
cultural experience, which may include one of the following:
 Ethnicity
 Race
 Religion
 Other cultures and their religious beliefs, cultural customs
 Gender differences
 Socio-economic status
 Work life
 Sexual orientation
 Classism
 Disability
 Ageism
Further detailed instructions will be provided later in the quarter.
Please note that specific information regarding the above assignments will be discussed in
class.
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2012 SPRING QUARTER IMPORTANT DATES
Classes Begin…………………………………………………….……………....…March 8 TH
Summer Current Student WebAdvisor Only Registration Begins …….…......…March 14 W
Summer General Registration Begins................................................................March 21 W
***Census Date/Tenth Day* Date.......................................................................March 21 W
Holiday Recess/College Closed..................... ...................................................April 7-8 SA-SU
Holiday Recess Ends/Classes Resume.............................................................April 9 M
Winter Quarter Incomplete "I" Grades Due.........................................................May 9 M
Last Day to Withdraw..........................................................................................May 12 SA
Classes End..................................................................................................... May 23 W
All Spring Grades Due And Posted To WebAdvisor By 11:59 p.m. ..................May 25 F
Memorial Day Recess (College Closed).............................................................May 26-28 SA-M
*Tenth Day is the date on which your enrollment level is checked.
** To view the last day to withdraw “drop” a class, go to the class schedule found on line at
http://www.mccneb.edu/schedule /classschedule.asp. Then, find the course section and click
on the Important Dates link on the same line as the course title. The refund dates for each
course section are automatically calculated based on the start and end dates and the number of
sessions for a course. A student must withdraw by this date to avoid an “F” grade.
Note: Schedule changes may have implications for students on Financial Aid. Check with the
Financial Aid Office prior to any schedule changes at 402-457-2330. The Census Date*** is the
date on which Financial Aid Student’s enrollment is checked to determine the type and amount
of funds authorized for the quarter. Payment is based on enrollment as of that date.
REFUND POLICIES for Credit Courses
A student is responsible for withdrawing “dropping” from a course(s) if unable to attend. Nonattendance or non-payment does not relieve a student from the obligation to pay. To withdraw
“drop” from a course, log on to WebAdvisor https://webadvisor.mccneb.edu and click “Register
and Drop Sections”.
An official schedule change that reduces or terminates a student’s academic credit load may
entitle the student to a refund. The eligibility and amount of a refund is automatically calculated
by the date of the withdrawal.
A student may see the refund percentage received through midnight of the same day by
logging into WebAdvisor and clicking on the Tuition Refund Calculator
A link to the Student Information Calendar is available once logged in on WebAdvisor.
Please complete the “Syllabus Test”, sign and date the “Syllabus
Contract” on page 14 and turn this completed document in to the
instructor at the beginning of your next class.
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Syllabus Test
1. What are the class start and end times?
a. 07:55 - 09:55 a.m.
b. 08:00 - 09:55 a.m.
c. 08:00 - 10:00 a.m.
d. 08:10 - 09:25 a.m.
2. Which assessment technique(s) will be used to determine your grade?
a. Quizzes
b. Assigned papers
c. A team project
d. A Human Relations portfolio
e. Classroom participation (including attendance)
f. All of the above
3. What is the penalty for a late assignment?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
4. What is the penalty for missing a class?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
5. List at least four things that constitute appropriate class behavior?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
6. In general what behavior might result in dismissal from class, or receipt of a
lower or failing grade?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Syllabus Contract
I, ____________________, have read, understand and agree to abide by the
classroom policies stated in this syllabus.
Date: ___________
Signature: _______________________________________
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