Course Descriptions

World History

Offered: (I teach 1st Semester) Year – Required for 10th

Prerequisite: None  Credits: 2

World History is a survey of our heritage from the first human societies to the present day.  The course focuses on the development of western and non-western civilization and the evolution of modern global conditions. Topics include the earliest human societies, the beginning of civilization, early Western society, major Asian, African and American cultures, and the development of the modern world’s political, social, economic, cultural conditions, and international relations. A major goal of this course is an understanding of the world we live in.

United States History

Offered: Year – Required for 11th

Prerequisite: none  Credits: 2

United States History is a survey of the social, economic, political, and cultural development of our nation. The course starts with a review of early U. S. history from its American Indian heritage and colonial beginnings through the late nineteenth century. The topics include American social conditions and lifestyles, the role of our government and its approaches to various issues, and the participation of the United States in world affairs. A major goal of the course is an understanding of life in the United States and an ability to make judgments, evaluations, and decisions about issues concerning our nation.

Current Issues

Offered: Spring 

Prerequisite: None Credits: 1

An examination of present day issues and concerns in American society and the world.  Subject matter will change from year to year. There will be an emphasis on research, individualization and personal initiative.

20th /21 st Century US History through Primary Sources

Open to: 10-12 Offered: Fall

Prerequisite: None Credits: 1

Course will examine visual, print, media, and audio from differing modern eras in U.S. history to explore these time periods in greater depth and detail.  The course will develop critical and historical thinking skills.

*Introduction to Psychology

Offered: Spring

Prerequisite: none Credits: 1

NICC Code: PSY111 NICC Credits: 3

This class is designed for those students who wish to experience an introductory course in psychology. Psychology is the study of behavior and mental processes. It is a science with roots in the fields of biology, philosophy and physiology. The philosophical background causes psychologists to wonder about the behavior and thinking of humans, and the more science-based knowledge allows us to test our hypotheses. Discussions, lectures, and assignments will introduce the student to developing an understanding of human behavior. The primary questions addressed in the course, will be "Why do people act the way that they do in specific situations?" and "How can people change their behaviors?"

This introductory course will expose students to many of the fields of interest within Psychology. Topics covered will be the more familiar Personality Development, Altered States of Consciousness (sleep, dreams, and hypnosis), Learning, Memory, and Abnormal Behavior. Students will also study the Biological Basis of Behavior, Motivation, Sensation, Perception, Health Psychology and Social Psychology introduced. In addition, students are expected to develop their critical thinking skills.

*Psychology of Human Relations

Offered: Fall

Prerequisite: none Credits: 1

NICC Code: PSY112 NICC Credits: 3

Covers all types of interactions among people-their conflicts, cooperative efforts, and group relationships.  It is the study of those beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that cause interpersonal conflict in our personal lives and in work-related situations.  The course emphasizes the development of the whole person for successfully communication.   This course will be offered as an online class.