Department of Social Work

Marriage and the Family

COURSE OBJECTIVES
Increase students' knowledge and ability to apply family system concepts to both personal and professional life.
Understand family strengths and be able to identify them in close relationships.
Gain greater appreciation for the diversity of families and the assets of family diversity for individuals and society.
Learn more about the complexity and challenges of marriage and family life in our society.
Understand the meanings of happy marriages.
Explore one's own family of origin and to think about the type of marriage and family you desire.

REQUIRED TEXT:
Olson, D. H. & DeFrain, J. (1997). Marriage & the Family: Diversity & Strengths. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield Publishing.
EVALUATION:
Mid-term exams 30 points
Final exams 30 points
Attendance and participation 10 points
Class Presentation 10 points
2 Assignments 20 points

COURSE EXPECTATIONS OF INSTRUCTOR
The instructor will use a variety of instructional methods including performing mini-lectures, interactive exercises, videos, PowerPoint, to reach students with a variety of learning styles. The instructor will provide structure for sessions through clarifying objectives, facilitating discussion focusing on critical assessment of issues, providing appropriate summaries and linkages to preceding and subsequent content. The instructor is willing to answer students' questions both during class and off class.

COURSE EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS
Punctuality, attendance, and active participation are expected. Students are required to read all readings before class and to participate in class discussion. Participation and preparation are critical to group activities. Students are also expected to complete assignments on due dates.