HIS 311 African History to 1875 Fall 2008, Tue-Thu 9:30-10:45
What's New? 10/06: Added review list for 2nd exam

OBJECTIVES: This course examines the complexity of African history and how it was shaped by geography, human development and international relations. In the process, it helps students to demonstrate the following learning outcomes: 1) a knowledge of historical eras, change over time, and key historical concepts in global history; 2) effective communication of history in formal written assignments and structured classroom discussions using reasoned arguments supported by historical evidence, allowing for multiple causes, effects, and perspectives; and 3) an analytical appreciation of diverse perspectives. Successful students should be able to make connections between their new historical knowledge and contemporary life and issues in a heterogeneous, global society.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The professor must deliver interesting lectures or facilitate meaningful discussion, maintain regular office hours, write fair examinations and provide written feedback. Students must read assignments before coming to class, participate in class discussion and pass three examinations.

ATTENDANCE: I follow the University's attendance policy which permits a grade reduction for excessive unexcused absences. An excused absence is one that occurs as the result of a documented medical condition, legal proceeding, university-sanctioned event or death of an immediate family member (i.e. parent, sibling or child). All other absences are unexcused. If you believe that you have an extraordinary circumstance that merits special consideration, make an appointment to speak to me during my office hours to discuss it before you are absent. Requests for special consideration made after an unexcused absence has occurred will not be considered.

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM: Cheating is any act that "defrauds, deceives or employs trickery" in order to obtain credit for work which has not been completed. Plagiarization is the act of "passing off the ideas of another as one's own work." Anyone who cheats or plagiarizes will receive a zero (i.e. a grade much lower than F) for that examination or assignment. Anyone who commits a second offense will receive an F for the course and be referred to the University's judicial system for additional sanctions.

DISABILITIES: We at West Chester University comply with the ADA of 1990 by making accommodations for persons with disabilities. Please make your needs known by contacting the professor and/or the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities at ext. 3217. Sufficient notice is needed in order to make the accommodations possible.

DISCRIMINATION: West Chester University prohibits discrimination, including sexual harassment, of any individual based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, religious creed, disability or veteran status. The University is committed to providing leadership in extending equal opportunities to all individuals and will continue to make every effort to provide these rights to all members of the University community, including students, staff, and administrators, as well as all applicants for admission or employment and all participants in University-sponsored activities. Any individual having suggestions, problems, complaints or grievances with regard to equal opportunity or affirmative action is encouraged to contact the Director of Social Equity at ext. 2433.

SUBSTANCE USE/ABUSE: West Chester University is committed to improving retention, graduation and time-to-degree rates by assisting students during key transitional periods in their academic careers. Because I believe that alcohol and drug issues can compromise student success, I have participated in a training program called "Partners in Prevention" designed to help faculty/staff recognize addiction and guide students to assistance. If you wish to discuss any of this with me -- in confidence -- please contact me outside of class.

GRADING: There are three examinations, each worth 30% of your final grade. The remaining 10% of your grade will come from class participation.

TEXTBOOK: Toyin Falola, editor, Africa, vol. 1. African History Before 1885 (Durham, NC: Carolina Academic Press, 2000 & 2003). ISBN 0-89089-768-9. Other materials (including study aids) are available at http://courses.wcupa.edu/jones/africa.htm.

Visit Jim Jones' other course web sites at courses.wcupa.edu/jones .