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Course Outline

Course Name: Criminology (PFP 150)

Academic Period: 2023 - 2024

Faculty:


Faculty Availability:

Associate Dean:
Nivedita Lane
nivedita.lane@humber.ca

Schedule Type Code:

Land Acknowledgement

Humber College is located within the traditional and treaty lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit. Known as Adoobiigok [A-doe-bee-goke], the “Place of the Alders” in Michi Saagiig [Mi-Chee Saw-Geeg] language, the region is uniquely situated along Humber River Watershed, which historically provided an integral connection for Anishinaabe [Ah-nish-nah-bay], Haudenosaunee [Hoeden-no-shownee], and Wendat [Wine-Dot] peoples between the Ontario Lakeshore and the Lake Simcoe/Georgian Bay regions. Now home to people of numerous nations, Adoobiigok continues to provide a vital source of interconnection for all.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber (Humber) are leaders in providing a learning, working and living environment that recognizes and values equity, diversity and inclusion in all its programs and services. Humber commits to reflect the diversity of the communities the College serves. Students, faculty, support and administrative staff feel a sense of belonging and have opportunities to be their authentic selves.

Faculty or Department Faculty of Social & Community Services
Program(s)
Police Foundations (11071)
Police Foundations - Part-time (1107E)
Course Name: Criminology (PFP 150)
Pre-Requisites none
Co-Requisites none
Pre-Requisites for none
Equates none
Restrictions Must be enrolled in Postsecondary and FSCS
Credit Value 3
Total Course Hours 42
Developed By: Prepared By: Approved by:
Nivedita Lane

Humber Learning Outcomes (HLOs) in this course.

The HLOs are a cross-institutional learning outcomes strategy aimed at equipping Humber graduates with the employability skills, mindsets, and values they need to succeed in the future of work. To explore all the HLOs, please consult the Humber Learning Outcomes framework.

  • A white tree with roots, branches, and leaves appearing in an orange and green circleEquity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
  • A white butterlfy flying into the centre of a blue circleSustainability
  • A white beaver appearing in a purple circleSystems Thinking
  • A white turtle appearing in an orange circleIndigenous Ways of Being Knowing and Doing (IWBKD)
  • A white canoe rowing into a red circleCritical Thinking
  • A white howling coyote in a green circleCommunication
  • A white bat in flight and sound waves fly in from the left side into the centre of a blue circleDigital Fluency
  • A white sun spinning into an orange circleInnovation
  • Multiple white clouds appearing, then 1 remains in a blue circleLeadership
  • A white soaring eagle flying into the centre of a blue circleProfessionalism
  • A white beaver falling from the top of a purple and yellow circle to the centre of the circleStrategic Problem-Solving

Course Description

This course provides an examination of various theoretical explanations of criminal and deviant behaviour including classical, sociological, biological and psychological perspectives. Criminological theory related to various types of criminal activity and the reality of crime in Canada including victimology is examined through the use of crime statistics, main stream media coverage and correlates of criminal behaviour. The impact of theory on the development and effectiveness of the various criminal justice approaches are discussed with an emphasis on identifying future trends using a crime prevention focus. Students will apply theoretical models to real life challenges and develop an understanding of solutions to criminogenic issues using theory and best practices.

Course Rationale

The study of criminology informs students of various key elements addressing the causation and prevention of crime that they will deal with as professionals working within the Criminal Justice system. The goal is to expand students' understanding and appreciation of the 3 pillars of Criminology ( classical criminology and psychological and social determinism) to develop a deeper understanding of the root causes of criminal activity and crime management at a micro and macro societal level. This application of theory to real problems will help students develop a leadership perspective in the development of policies and strategies used to address criminogenic problems and potential avenues to consider in judicial reform as well as illustrate the limitations of a singular classical approach to achieving law and order.

Program Outcomes Emphasized in this Course

Police Foundations (11071)

  1. Analyze all relevant information and make effective and legally defensible decisions in accordance with ethical and professional standards.
  2. Be accountable for one’s actions when carrying out all tasks.
  3. Develop and implement ongoing effective strategies for personal and professional development.
  4. Ensure the respect of human rights and freedoms in all interactions.
  5. Work co-operatively in multidisciplinary teams to achieve mutual goals.
  6. Collaborate in the development and implementation of community policing strategies.

Police Foundations - Part-time (1107E)

    Course Learning Method(s)

    • Case Based Learning
    • Group or Team Work
    • Socratic Method
    • Lecture

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Discuss the value of theory, research and the scientific method in addressing criminogenic problems
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.
    • Apply criminological theory to practical crime issues, criminal behaviour and prevention.
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.
    • Compare and contrast reported and unreported crime rates on how they are used to inform criminogenic response strategies.
    • Develop a foundational knowledge of how to access reliable open source crime statistics.
    • Examine the reality of fear of crime and crime measurements instruments on how they inform micro and macro level policy.

    Assessment Weighting

    Assessment Weight
    Quiz 20%
    Final Exam 25%
    Midterm Exam 25%
    Essay 30%
    Total 100%

    Modules of Study

    Module Course Learning Outcomes Resources Assessments
    Understanding Criminology
    • Discuss the value of theory, research and the scientific method in addressing criminogenic problems
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.

    Course text: Chapters 1
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Classical Criminology
    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Discuss the value of theory, research and the scientific method in addressing criminogenic problems
    • Apply criminological theory to practical crime issues, criminal behaviour and prevention.
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.

    Course Text: Chapter 3
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Psychological / Biological Perspectives
    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Discuss the value of theory, research and the scientific method in addressing criminogenic problems
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.
    • Apply criminological theory to practical crime issues, criminal behaviour and prevention.
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.

    Course Text: Chapter 4
    • Essay - group or individual ( in person)
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Sociological Theories of Criminology: Strain, social control, conflict and labeling.
    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.
    • Apply criminological theory to practical crime issues, criminal behaviour and prevention.
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.

    Course Text: Chapters 5, 6, and 7
    • Essay - group or individual ( in person)
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Situational and Rational Choice Theory
    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Discuss the value of theory, research and the scientific method in addressing criminogenic problems
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.
    • Apply criminological theory to practical crime issues, criminal behaviour and prevention.
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.

    Course Text: Chapter 9
    • Essay - group or individual ( in person)
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Measuring Criminal Behaviour & Counting Crime
    • Explain the limitations of current judicial responses to crime based on classical criminological theory.
    • Compare and contrast reported and unreported crime rates on how they are used to inform criminogenic response strategies.
    • Develop a foundational knowledge of how to access reliable open source crime statistics.
    • Examine the reality of fear of crime and crime measurements instruments on how they inform micro and macro level policy.

    Course Text: Chapter 2, 

    Various web sites introduced in class 
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)
    Typologies of Crime
    • Explain crime, criminality and deviance based on classical criminology and biological and social determinism.
    • Explain major issues, concepts and debates surrounding varied theoretical approaches to crime management and reduction efforts.
    • Compare and contrast reported and unreported crime rates on how they are used to inform criminogenic response strategies.
    • Develop a foundational knowledge of how to access reliable open source crime statistics.

    Chapters 10, 11, and 12 & 13.
    • Midterm Exam (individual)
    • Final Exam (Individual)
    • Quizzes (Individual)

    Required Resources

    Name

    Freda Adler, Gerhard O.W. Mueller, William S. Laufer and Jana Grekul. (2018)   Criminology, 3rd Canadian Edition. https://www.mheducation.ca/criminology-9781260311150-can-group

    Additional Tools and Equipment

    • Computer- tablet, smartphone, with internet access: Students can use laptops or tablets in class and during all quizzes in this course. All readings and quizzes are delivered online. Cell phones are permitted .

    Essential Skills

    Section Skills Measurement Details
    Communication
    • Reading
    • Writing
    • Speaking
    • Listening
    		 Reinforce and measure
    • Through required reading and written submissions, students will receive support and feedback to help0 them develop and improve their reading and writing skills. Through the use of assessments built on reading and lecture s students will learn to focus their listening skills on applicable content delivery
    • Through the use of quizzes built on reading, exams, and essays focusing on the lectures, students will be required to demonstrate their reading writing, and listening skills.
    Numeracy
    • Analyzing and using numerical data
    • Conceptualizing
    		 Teach and measure
    • This course involves the use of statistical data and discussions on crime measurement practices and the application of statistical data to reflect on the impact that measurement can have on the application of different communities and their respective social support needs.
    • Through the use of quizzes, exams and an assignment students are required to process statistical data, comparing and contrasting the different needs of Ontario communities based on their socioeconomic makeup. After critical reflection students will be required to identify different social health support needs to respond to community stressors leading to crime.
    Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
    • Analysing
    • Synthesizing
    • Creative and Innovative Thinking
    		 Reinforce and measure
    • By reflecting and applying learned content and rationalizing it with pre-existing personal beliefs and professional ethics students consider multiple methods of addressing societal criminogenic issues.
    • Through the use of Essays, Quizzes, and applied exam questions students' ability to apply the concepts taught in this course will be demonstrated.
    Information Management
    • Gathering and managing information
    • Selecting and using appropriate tools and technology for a task or project
    • Computer literacy
    • Internet skills
    		 Reinforce and measure
    • Students are required to research and analyze statistical information to discover the differences in the community makeup, contrast that info to localized social health concerns ( depicted through crime rate) and assess different needs based on evidence collected.
    • Through the use of quizzes, essays, and applied exam questions students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their emerging critical thinking skills.
    Interpersonal Skills
    • Teamwork
    • Relationship management
    • Conflict resolution
    		 Reinforce and measure
    • Through the use of teamwork and in-class discussions on sensitive societal issues students will have to opportunity to hear multiple viewpoints and share ideas. through the application of teamwork in innovative accountability, process students will learn to manage their academic relationships.
    • Through the monitoring and encouragement of in-class participation and group work, students will learn to develop their skills teamwork and academic relationship management skills.

    Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)

    Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is the formal evaluation and credit-granting process whereby candidates may obtain credits for prior learning. Prior learning includes the knowledge competencies and skills acquired, in both formal and informal ways, outside of post-secondary education. Candidates may have their knowledge, skills and competencies evaluated against the learning outcomes as defined in the course outline. Please review the Assessment Methods Glossary for more information on the Learning Portfolio assessment methods identified below.

    The method(s) that are used to assess prior learning for this course may include:

    • Learning Portfolio (results reflected as SAT and not added to student’s CGPA)
    • Current resume
    • Collection of work

    Please contact the Program Coordinator for more details.

    Academic Regulations

    It is the student's responsibility to be aware of the College Academic Regulations. The Academic Regulations apply to all applicants to Humber and all current students enrolled in any program or course offered by Humber, in any location. Information about academic appeals is found in the Academic Regulations.  

    Anti-Discrimination Statement

    At Humber College, all forms of discrimination and harassment are prohibited. Students and employees have the right to study, live and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. If you need assistance on concerns related to discrimination and harassment, please contact the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion or the Office of Student Conduct.

    Accessible Learning Services

    Humber strives to create a welcoming environment for all students where equity, diversity and inclusion are paramount. Accessible Learning Services facilitates equal access for students with disabilities by coordinating academic accommodations and services.  Staff in Accessible Learning Services are available by appointment to assess specific needs, provide referrals and arrange appropriate accommodations. If you require academic accommodations, contact:

    Accessible Learning Services

    North Campus: (416) 675-6622 X5090

    Lakeshore Campus: (416) 675-6622 X3331 

    Academic Integrity

    Academic integrity is essentially honesty in all academic endeavors. Academic integrity requires that students avoid all forms of academic misconduct or dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating on tests or exams or any misrepresentation of academic accomplishment.

    Disclaimer

    While every effort is made by the professor/faculty to cover all material listed in the outline, the order, content, and/or evaluation may change in the event of special circumstances (e.g. time constraints due to inclement weather, sickness, college closure, technology/equipment problems or changes, etc.). In any such case, students will be given appropriate notification in writing, with approval from the Senior Dean (or designate) of the Faculty.

    Copyright

    Copyright is the exclusive legal right given to a creator to reproduce, publish, sell or distribute his/her work. All members of the Humber community are required to comply with Canadian copyright law which governs the reproduction, use and distribution of copyrighted materials. This means that the copying, use and distribution of copyright- protected materials, regardless of format, is subject to certain limits and restrictions. For example, photocopying or scanning an entire textbook is not allowed, nor is distributing a scanned book.

    See the Humber Libraries website for additional information regarding copyright and for details on allowable limits.

    Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning • 2023/2024.