Course Description:This course is designed as a topical introduction to Western Academic Philosophy for students who cannot participate in the traditional campus setting. To be successful in this course you must be a strongly motivated independent learner, with developed reading and writing skills. The student is NOT expected to have prior experience with Philosophy or Logic, but such experience will certainly enhance the depth of our study.
If you think that taking a course over the internet will be easier than a regular on-campus class, YOU ARE WRONG! Internet courses are actually more difficult because you must keep up with your reading and assignments on your own. I will not be reminding you of due, or over-due, assignments as we go through the semester. YOU are responsible to get your work done and turned in ON TIME. If you are by nature a procrastinator, I would NOT recommend you attempt this course!
Technology Requirements:If you are new to computing or the internet, this is NOT the course for you. It is expected that you already know how to access the internet, use web browsers, email, and other basic WWW software. I am here to help you learn about Philosophy, not your computer!Students must secure their own internet access through an internet service provider (ISP) of their choice. The choice of hardware platform and OS (i.e., Macintosh, Windows, or Unix) is irrelevant. Students must be competent in a word-processing (preferably MS Word 6.x or higher) and email platform (see the Syllabus for more information on submitting written assignments). Students will also need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader, in order to access some of the example files I've provided (e.g., example paper, cover page, outline, etc.). I have also included some audio mini-lectures that all students will need to access. These are available in streaming Real Audio format. Students will need to download the RealOne Audio Player (if you're using a newer version of Netscape or Internet Explorer, you probably already have a Real Audio plug-in, if not it's available free).
For practice, try downloading the "Welcome" Real Audio file I've provided.
If you have pop-up blocking software installed in your web browser, be sure to turn it OFF before you attempt to visit the WebCT portion of the course (i.e., the online grade book and the exams). Pop-up blockers will interfere with your ability to take your exams and view your grades.
Text Book: Eventually the readings for this course will be provided in hypertext format. For the present, however, we will use an excellent anthology. You may either order your text online by following one of the links below, or check our campus bookstore.REQUIRED TEXT:
If You Wish to Order Your Book Online, check out these sites:
The price of your text may vary from company to company, so you'll probably want to do some comparison shopping before you buy.
Course Instructor: