Criminology Practicum

Curriculum guideline

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Course
CRIM 3345
Discontinued
No
Course code
CRIM 3345
Descriptive
Criminology Practicum
Department
Criminology
Faculty
Humanities & Social Sciences
Credits
3.00
Start date
End term
201830
PLAR
No
Semester length
15
Max class size
25
Contact hours
Seminar/Group Meetings: 10 hrs / semester Practicum: 100 hrs / semester
Method(s) of instruction
Seminar
Practicum
Learning activities

The course will employ a number of methods to accomplish its objectives but in all cases will include students being assigned to a criminal justice agency for a minimum of 100 hours during the semester. Other instructional methods employed may include:

  • Audio-visual materials
  • Group discussions
  • Guest speakers
  • Research assignments

Course description
This course provides the student with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the criminal justice field. Students will be exposed to the daily operations and informal and formal structure of a chosen agency. The theoretical and substantive roles played by each agency in the wider criminal justice context will be explored.
Course content

 

  1. Information Seminar
    • Development of knowledge base regarding the agency, application process, employment standards, interview process, resume building, and professional expectations
  2. Interview Process
    • Scheduling and preparing for interview, organizing and submitting resume
  3. Practicum Experience
    • Field hours and network development
  4. Evaluation of Practicum Experience
    • Debrief and present work experience, self and agency evaluation, submitting term paper 
Learning outcomes

At the conclusion of the course the successful student will have acquired work experience in a professional setting and be able to:

  1. Describe the basic role and operations of the agency
  2. Describe the formal and informal structures and governance of the agency
  3. Identify and describe the role(s) played by the agency in the wider criminal justice context
  4. Apply critical theory to the reality of daily operations of the agency
  5. Foster professional relationships and establish networking contacts
  6. Demonstrate accountability and professionalism through dress, conduct, and outlook
  7. Develop and refine oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  8. Assess personal performance and set goals for ongoing professional development
  9. Increase capacities for reflection and adaptation to experience and feedback
  10. Problem solve, think creatively and flexibly and take responsibility for own actions
  11. Report, share and reflect on practicum experiences with peers
Means of assessment

Evaluation will be carried out in accordance with Douglas College policy. The instructor will provide a written outline with the specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. An example of the evaluation includes:

Research Paper  30%
Interview/Oral Evaluation  20%
Journal Critique  10%
Practicum Evaluation  40%
Total 100%
Textbook materials

A list of readings will be determined by the instructor and the student in consultation with officials in specific practicum settings.

Prerequisites

CRIM 2140