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. Every two weeks, students will focus on a different paragraph or two of the proclamation and study scriptures and talks pertaining to those paragraphs. Video podcasts are also studied, where gospel truths about the topics being studied are explored through modern prophetic teachings on the family. Students will have the opportunity to share what they learn with local friends and family and apply their problem-solving skills to present solutions to hypothetical case study situations. Each week, students will participate in Study Groups where they will dive into the scriptures and talks together, then help each other problem-solve their own real-life situations and better understand how to apply the prophetic readings in their own lives. Provident Living Projects throughout the semester help students "become," by developing skills and habits in provident living to improve their life and family. Students will create a plan to implement a provident living skill into their life and carry out their plan for several weeks.
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 a link to all Podcasts and Readings 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.
This course requires a pdf reader. Most computers and browsers have pdf readers built in but if you are having trouble accessing the pdfs in the course, click here to download a pdf reader - Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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 course is organized into 14 week-long lessons, each following a similar structure as outlined below. There are two semester projects called Provident Living Projects (PLP), which span several weeks each. Please read below for more information.
Typical Lesson Structure
Each lesson is assigned to a week. You will find the gradebook, podcasts and readings throughout the course are organized into two-week units, focused on one topic (one or two paragraphs of the proclamation).
- Weeks 2-3 -- Paragraph 1: The Eternal Nature of Truth - God’s Plan of Salvation - Truth and Law
- Weeks 4-5 -- Paragraph 2: Gender - An Essential Characteristic of Personal Identity and Purpose
- Weeks 6-7 -- Paragraph 3: Gospel Ordinances and Covenants - The Eternal Marriage Covenant
- Weeks 8-9 -- Paragraph 4-5: Procreation - The Law of Chastity and Sanctity of Life
- Weeks 10-11 -- Paragraph 6-7: Family Life - Gospel Principles and Practices for Happiness in our Homes
- Weeks 12-13 -- Paragraph 8-9: Strengthen and Protect the Family
Each week has a Prepare activity. Even weeks have a Podcast & Quiz and a Provident Living Project submission (Plan, Progress or Final Report). Odd weeks have a 'Share with Others' activity and a Case Study.
Therefore, beginning in Week 02, the course follows the same two-week pattern for each topic, as follows:
| Two-Week Pattern |
By Midweek | By End of Week |
|---|---|---|
|
Part 1 of each topic |
Prepare (scripture block and talks) Podcasts and Quiz |
Share with Others Provident Living Plan, Progress, or Report |
| Part 2 of each topic (odd weeks) |
Prepare (additional talks) Study Group -Initial Post |
Study Group - Participation Case Study - problem solving response |
6-Week Provident Living Project (PLP) Due Dates
| Unit | By End of Week |
|---|---|
| Units 1-3 |
Week 2 - PLP #1 Plan Submission |
| Units 4-6 |
Week 8 - PLP #2 Plan Submission |
Unit Activities
Prepare
Each week you will be given some materials to study and reflect on during the unit activities. Each week provides a scripture block and several readings, talks from modern prophets and church leaders. The readings have been split up to minimize the work load each week. Carefully study the materials for each unit, as you will be reflecting on what you have learned and applying it during the lesson activities.
Be aware that there is a substantial amount of personal reading and study to complete each week, which you must organize and complete on your own. Be sure to read your feedback on each week’s assignments so you will understand how you can improve. Understand that religion courses require the same rigor as any other academic class.
Podcast and Podcast Quiz
The first week of every unit provides a very helpful podcast that gives a good summary and introduction to the doctrines and principles covered that week and the next. Each podcast is followed up by a quick quiz to capture your knowledge of the information that is covered in that week and the following.
Study Groups
When one takes time to serve and teach another, they themselves gain more understanding and ability. The Study Group activities are designed to give students opportunity to deepen their understanding of the gospel principles presented and share in each other's life experience. During the odd weeks, when you first move to a different proclamation paragraph, you will have a scripture block, talks and podcasts in your studies. You will share a few passages from your studies that particularly inspired you and add your own insightful annotations to the passages. You will also present a question that came up in your studies or in general, pertaining to that week's topic, that your study group can help with. The rest of the week the study group will help each other answer those questions and provide more insight into the study materials and conversations.
The second post is dedicated to sharing life experiences and insight pertaining to the particular paragraph from the proclamation covered that week. Here is an opportunity to get some extra help from your classmates on questions you have or struggles you have in applying certain principles in the proclamation to your life. You will be presented with a few options to respond to. Some of these options ask you to share personal struggles--which you are comfortable sharing with your study group. Please refrain from sharing private information that should only be discussed within your family or with spiritual or professional counselors. Just pick something you could use a little advice on or help to improve. Examples are provided in the instructions. The rest of the week will be helping your study group members with their struggles or questions, drawing on your own life experience and the scriptrues and talks provided.
Share with Others
After completing the scipture block, readings and podcasts, every other week you will have the opportunity to share your learning with local friends and family. Again, when one takes time to serve and teach another, they themselves gain more understanding and ability. The Share With Others activity gets you out of class and into your home and neighborhood conversing about the gospel. You will reflect on the teachings in the Prepare materials and share your insights in a conversation with someone outside of your online class (friend, family, FHE group, etc.). Then you will reflect on the experience and share that with your instructor. Be sure to give an honest report of your experience. The goal is not to "judge your righteousness" but to give you opportunity for enriching your life and others, and hearing an honest recap of the experience.
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 purpose of the Provident Living Projects (PLP) in this course is to give you a chance to experiment with new positive changes in your life and possibly form new long-term habits that will bless your life for many months or years to come. You will complete two PLP projects throughout the semester. Each project will span five weeks (Weeks 2-6 and Weeks 8-12), with three assignment deadlines--Project Plan, Midway Progress Report, Final Report. During the first week of the project, you will submit a plan then spend fours weeks carrying out the plan and reporting your experience.
Case Studies
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 will have a case study response every other week and be given two or three options to respond to. The scenarios are designed to be relevent to typical every-day situations you may find yourself in.
For a successful Case Study response, you should not be so concerned about presenting the "correct" answers or solutions. Focus on identifying and understanding the gospel principles and doctrines that might provide guidance in that 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.
Good Writing Practices for FDREL 200 Assignments
Exactness is a principle of the Gospel. When we exercise this in all areas of your lives, we can realize an increase in the direction we receive from the Spirit. This can be demonstrated in the little things in our post and other written assignments. This includes:
- Capitalizing the names of deity and people - God, Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, Lord, Joseph Smith, Jane Doe, etc.
- The Church requests that we capitalize second and third-person pronounce referring to Deity. For example:
- Jesus and His disciples
- When God create the earth, He did not create it out of nothing (Style Guide for Publications of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, (2013) 4th ed. 34).
- Referring to General Authorities by their titles such as President, Elder, or Sister, i.e., President Monson and Elder Holland.
- Using good grammar and complete sentences
- Using proper punctuation
- Use the spell checker in Word or in your postings to be sure you are ready to post well thought-out post, paragraph, or paper.
- Read your post/assignment out loud to make sure it sounds well written and cohesive, and adheres to the rubrics.
Examples of Citations for FDREL 200
| Scriptures | "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father..." (1 Nephi 3:7). |
| LDS.org | Quote or paraphrase... (LDS.org, Happiness in Family Life: Work, https://www.lds.org/family/ |
| Conference Talks | Quote or paraphrase... (Thomas S. Monson, "Three Goals to Guide You", Gen. Conf., Oct. 2007) |
| Church Magazine Articles | Quote or paraphrase... (Boyd K. Packer, "Do Not Fear", Ensign, May 2004) |
| FDREL 200 Podcasts | Quote or paraphrase... (Podcast, U3P1, Section Title) |
| Books | Quote or paraphrase... (David A. Bednar, Increase in Learning, 2011, p. 23) |
Grading
Grades are determined by each instructor based upon grading rubrics and evaluation of coursework.
- "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
| Week 01 - Introduction | |
|---|---|
| Course Readiness Quiz | 10 pts |
| Pre-semester Survey | 10 pts |
| Icebreaker Discussion Board | 10 pts |
| Weeks 02 - 13 | |
| Podcast Quiz (even weeks, 10 pts each) | 60 pts |
| Study Group (odd weeks, 20 pts each) | 120 pts |
| Provident Living Project (even weeks, 10 pts each) | 60 pts |
| Share with Others (odd weeks, 20 pts each) | 120 pts |
| Case Study (odd weeks, 15 pts each) | 90 pts |
| Week 14 - Conclusion | |
| Post-semester Survey | 10 pts |
| Course Total: | 490 pts |
| Available Extra Credit project | +10 pts |
Late Work Policy
In general, no work is accepted late. You may request an exception if you have experienced a serious accident, injury, illness, hospitalization, death or birth in your immediate family. Your grade will be lowered if you ask for an exception for reasons other than those stated. However, your instructor will email their Late work policy and information during the first week of the semester, which may differ slightly from the general policy above. 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. Give them as much advanced notice as possible of any anticipated conflicts with your ability to submit work on time.
Please note that online learning courses are not independent study courses. Be sure to check your calendar and assignment instructions so you are not surprised by any due dates. Compter issues and other things happen; plan ahead and submit work while there is still time to resolve any problems that may arise. If you encounter any problems with computers, the internet, or I-Learn, FIRST contact the Online Support Center BEFORE writing to your Instructor.
Note: All Midweek assignments are due on Wednesday 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.
Preventing Sexual Harassment
BYU-Idaho prohibits sex discrimination against any participant in its education programs or activities. Prohibited sex discrimination includes incidents of sexual harassment (including sexual violence), dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking (collectively "sexual misconduct").
One responsibility of instructors is to help create a safe learning environment for students and for the campus as a whole. University policy requires that instructors report all incidents of sexual misconduct that come to their attention. If an instructor or student encounters sexual misconduct, please contact the please contact the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@byui.edu or 208-496-9209. Additional information about sexual misconduct and available resources can be found at www.byui.edu/titleix.
Disability Services
BYU-Idaho does not discriminate against persons with disabilities in providing its educational and administrative services and programs, and follows applicable federal and state law. This policy extends to the University’s electronic and information technologies (EIT).
Students with qualifying disabilities should contact the Disability Services Office at disabilityservices@byui.edu or 208-496-9210. Additional information about Disability Services resources can be found at http://www.byui.edu/
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.