FDREL 200 Syllabus- The Eternal Family
2 credits (6-8 hrs per week)
This course centers on The Family: A Proclamation to the World and develops gospel doctrines and principles pertaining to a successful and happy marriage and family life. Practical skills required to achieve and sustain provident living will also be explored and practiced. Students will study Online video podcasts where gospel truths about the topics being studied through presentations of modern prophetic teachings on the family. Discussion boards are used in groups for students to journal, participate in case studies, work on their problem-solving skills, and discuss with their classmates to understand and find ways to apply the prophetic readings in the course. Provident Living projects in the course are designed to help students BECOME by developing skills and habits to improve their life and family. A personal plan to practice each provident living skills will be created, implemented, and reported through private journaling and a concluding report.
Learning Outcomes
- Deepen our understanding of eternal law, the plan of salvation, and the doctrines and principles of effective family living as identified in The Family: A Proclamation to the World.
- Increase our desire, commitment, and ability to strengthen our marriages, nurture our children, and create a healthy, supportive, and righteous home and family environment.
- Provide opportunities to learn and share provident living skills that will aid in attaining an eternal marriage and family.
Required Materials
All of the course materials are available without cost in I-Learn. You can download each unit reading packet in the unit reading pages. If you prefer to download and/or print the entire reading packet, you can find the link on the Course Readings page in the Resources module within the course.
Technology
It is assumed that you either have your own computer or you have consistent access to a computer. You need to have the appropriate permissions on your computer to download lesson content, access websites, and update and/or download software as needed along with consistent, reliable access to an Internet connection. Visit the Orientation to Online Learning page in the first lesson of your course to verify that you have your computer set up properly.
Please read the I-Learn Computer Standards and be sure you have the proper technology to access I-Learn and complete your course.
Course Architecture
This 14-week course is organized into six units, an Introduction and a Conclusion. Each unit has two weeks that focus on the doctrines and principles addressed in a specific excerpt from the "The Family: A Proclamation to the World”. The six units are as follows:
- Paragraph 1: The Eternal Nature of Truth - God’s Plan of Salvation - Truth and Law
- Paragraph 2: Gender - An Essential Characteristic of Personal Identity and Purpose
- Paragraph 3: Gospel Ordinances and Covenants - The Eternal Marriage Covenant
- Paragraph 4-5: Procreation - The Law of Chastity and Sanctity of Life
- Paragraph 6-7: Family Life - Gospel Principles and Practices for Happiness in our Homes
- Paragraph 8-9: Strengthen and Protect the Family
Typical Unit Structure
There are six units. Within each unit there are two lesson modules. The lessons each have a Study and Ponder activity, Study and Share It Discussion Board, Study and Share It Reports, and an activity for the Provident Living Projects. Each odd lesson (second week of the unit) also contains a Case Study assignment.
This table below shows one example unit, broken out by week:
| 2-week Unit Pattern |
By Midweek | By End of Week |
|---|---|---|
| First Week | Unit Introduction First Week Study and Ponder |
Unit Share It and Reflect Thread #1 First Week Study and Share It Report Provident Living Project (Plan,Update, or Submission) |
| Second Week | Participate in Group Conversations Second Week Study and Ponder |
Unit Share It and Reflect Thread #2 Second Week Study and Share It Report Unit Case Study Provident Living Project (Plan,Update, or Submission) Unit Evaluation |
Unit Activities
Unit Introduction
Each unit begins with an Introduction, listing the unit objectives and the paragraph from the 'Family: Proclamation of the World' that you will study during that unit.
Study and Ponder
Each week you will be given some materials to study and reflect on during the unit activities. The first week of every unit provides a very helpful podcast that gives a good summary and introduction to the doctrines and principles of the unit. Also each week provides several readings, talks from modern prophets and church leaders. The readings have been split up to minimize the work load each week. Additional readings and resources are also provided for your own enrichment if you are looking for a bit more study on a certain concept. Carefully study the materials for each unit, as you will be reflecting on what you have learned and applying it during the unit activities.
Share It and Reflect
When one takes time to serve and teach another, they themselves gain more understanding and ability. The Share It activity gets you out of class and into your home and neighborhood conversing about the gospel. You will reflect on the teachings in the Study and Ponder materials and share your insights in a conversation with someone outside of your online class (friend, family, FHE group, etc.) Then you will share your experience with your online discussion group and converse with each other about the insights and inspirations you gained through the study materials and Share It experience. Through your online conversation, you will further deepen each other's understanding by offering further insight and testimony in each other's thread. Return to this discussion board often throughout the week to teach your classmates and have a more meaningful experience.
During the second week you will complete a second round of Share It and Reflect (except without the follow-up conversations). You will not be required to converse with each other in this 2nd thread but you may if you choose.
Study and Share It Report
After completing the podcast and reading 30 minutes a day in your Study and Ponder materials, you will report on your level of study. You will also report on your engagement in the Share It activity. Be sure to provide an honest report.
Provident Living Project PLP
"This work of providing in the Lord's way ... cannot be neglected or set aside. It is central to our doctrine; it is the essence of our religion" (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Providing in the Lord's Way," Oct. 2011 general conference). Provident living spans every aspect of our lives--from education and careers to personal finance, emergency preparedness and service.
The Provident Living Projects (PLP) in this course are designed to help you improve your life and bless your family by developing healthy habits and mastering important skills in provident living. You will complete a total of three PLPs this semester. Each project will span four weeks (Weeks 2-5, 6-9, and 10-13). At the beginning of the four weeks, you will first choose a project (one of four available options) that you feel will bless you and your family most. You will then develop a plan, execute it and submit a final write-up and report.
Case Study
Reflecting and pondering on the doctrines being studied, and their application in our personal lives, is an important part of “becoming” and not just “doing.” A case study allows you to begin to apply your knowledge to real scenarios that we face every day in our culture. You are not to be so concerned about presenting the "correct" answer or solution so much as identifying and understanding the gospel principles and doctrines that might provide guidance in the particular situation. The Spirit will teach and testify most effectively when we are focused on true principles and doctrines instead of seeking to defend a personal position.
Each case is an interpretation of real life situations that BYU-Idaho students have shared with their Professors. The names have been changed, but the cases are true to life and are authentic to our current culture.
Grading
Progress Grades: Attempted and Earned
Grades are determined by each instructor based upon an evaluation of all assigned and completed coursework. Classroom/laboratory participation, mastery of subject matter, and promise of continuing success in sequential courses in related fields are all criteria used to evaluate progress.
- "A" represents outstanding understanding, application, and integration of subject material and extensive evidence of original thinking, skillful use of concepts, and ability to analyze and solve complex problems. Demonstrates diligent application of Learning Model principles, including initiative in serving other students.
- "B" represents considerable/significant understanding, application, and incorporation of the material that would prepare a student to be successful in next level courses, graduate school, or employment. The student participates in the Learning Model as applied in the course.
- "C" represents sufficient understanding of subject matter. The student demonstrates minimal initiative to be prepared for class. Sequenced courses could be attempted, but mastering new materials might prove challenging. The student participates only marginally in the Learning Model.
- "D" represents poor performance and initiative to learn, understand, and apply course materials. Retaking this course or remediation may be necessary to prepare for additional instruction in this subject matter.
Final Grade Distribution
93% / above A
90-92% A-
88-89% B+
83-87% B
80-82% B-
78-79% C+
73-77% C
70-72% C-
60-69% D
59% / below F
Points Breakdown
| Introduction Week | |
|---|---|
| Icebreaker Discussion Board | 20 pts |
| Units 1-6 | |
| Share It and Reflection Discussion Board | 50 pts |
| Study and Share It Report (2 per unit) | 20 pts |
| Provident Living Project (3 total) | 40 pts |
| Case Study | 30 pts |
| Unit Evaluation | 1 pts |
| Course Total: | 866 pts |
Late Work Policy
Late work policy is up to your instructor who will email the class with more information during the first week of the semester.
Please note that online learning courses are not independent study courses. Deadlines for work should be met throughout the course, as per the late work policy that will be e-mailed by your instructor at the beginning of term. Instructors are not required to accept late work beyond the posted deadlines, so you will want to make sure that you print a copy of the schedule to ensure on-time submission of all assignments in this course.
Note: All Midweek assignments are due on Thursday at 11:00 PM (MT) and End of Week assignments are due on Saturday at 11:00 PM (MT) regardless of where you reside. Make sure your computer is set to your time zone so it will adjust due dates and notify you correctly.
Keys to Success
BYU-Idaho Learning Model
All courses, including online courses, at BYU-Idaho follow a pattern of learning that enables students to take more responsibility for their own learning and for helping to teach one another. This pattern is called the Learning Model. Here are two pages to help you better understand the Learning Model.
Take Charge of your education by applying the Learning Model | Learning Model interactive tutorial
Tips for Success in this Course
- As a 2 credit course, you should expect to spend around 6-9 hours per week (3-4 hours per credit-hour) completing course activities and assessments. Plan your weekly schedule wisely to set aside adequate study time and allow you to work at a healthy, steady pace throughout the course.
- Read your Announcements and communications from your instructor each week before beginning the lesson. Your instructor will provide timely information about changes, expectations and other important things to note as you begin the lesson.
University Policies
Student Honor Code
Student Honor is following the path of discipleship and learning to be more like Christ - learning to think, to feel, and to act more as He does. Following the Honor Code is of great importance as you strive to be a disciple of Christ. Academic honesty and integrity is expected of all BYU-I students.
- To copy another’s work from the Internet, a book, or from any other source and claiming it to be your own work is plagiarism. Read the official definitions of plagiarism and cheating from the Academic Honesty portion of the Honor Code. Each case of plagiarism or cheating will be dealt with by the instructor. Any academic dishonesty issue will be referred to the BYU-I Dean of Students, if necessary. When working on a group project, you have the responsibility to assure that others in the group do not plagiarize.
- Even though you are taking this course online, BYU-Idaho’s Dress and Grooming standards still apply.
By adhering to the Honor Code you will create a learning environment, “consistent with the ideals and principles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (Honor Code webpage).
Student Policies
You are responsible for understand all university student policies. Read the Student Policies and Procedures which include Student Honor, Students with Disabilities, Sexual Harassment, Complaints and Grievances, etc. There is also a University Policies page in your course with helpful contact information.
Disclaimer
This syllabus and the course schedule may be changed at any time prior to or during the semester as the need arises, based upon circumstances. Any changes will be available to view on the course documents.
Student Support
Tutoring and Academic Support
Tutoring options for online students are available through the Academic Support Centers. There are tutors available to help you with your writing questions and there might be course-specific tutoring available. Check the Online Tutoring page for more details.
Online Support Center
The Online Support Center provides many links and contact information for services such as: technology support, registration, academic support and other student resources.
Sexual Harassment
If you need assistance or information related to allegations of sexual harassment, please contact the Dean of Students, Kip Harris, using the following information:
- Phone (US only): 208.496.9200
- Email: Kip Harris at harrisk@byui.edu
- For more information, visit http://www.byui.edu/dean-of-students/sexual-misconduct-policy
Students with Disabilities
Disability Services Contact Information:
- Phone (US only): 208.496.9210
- Email: disabilityservices@byui.edu
- Fax: 208.496.5210
Website: Disability Services
Disclaimer
The instructor reserves the right to change any part of this syllabus any time during the semester in order to adapt to changing course needs. You will be notified prior to any changes that may take place.