Continuing Education Course Descriptions

This page lists the courses only taught in the STCC School of Continuing Education. If you need to access descriptions for Day School courses, please refer to the STCC Day School Course Descriptions page.

AUTO-490 - AUTO DAMAGE APPRAISAL   4 credits
This course will cover nomenclature of auto body parts, collision technology, estimating, and painting analysis and techniques. It will include frame damage analysis and straightening procedures. Insurance company policies as they relate to auto damage costs will also be discussed. Four lecture hours.

BIOL-299 - FIELD ECOLOGY   4 credits
Field ecology is a four-credit laboratory course that will focus on the ecology and wealth of natural communities found in New England. For the summer of 2001, the course will place special emphasis on the ecosystems found on Cape Cod. The first three weeks of the course will be spent on the STCC campus. Students will learn fundamental ecological principles such as the major component of ecosystems, trophic relationships, energy flow, nutrient cycling, and world biomes while exploring the ecosystems of Western Massachusetts. During the fourth week of class, students will spend one week (food, lodging, and transportation) on Cape Cod investigating ecosystems that are unique to the Cape as well as human threats facing these communities. Some of the activities planned include monitoring of water quality, measuring species abundance and distribution, touring a Superfund site, whale watching, and visiting the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Reserve. Participation in the field data gathered on the Cape and discussions of possible solutions to the environmental problems affecting the Cape. Three lecture and two lab hours. Prerequisite: BIOL-102 or permission of instructor. Offered SCE Only.

CHLD-225 - DYNAMICS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD BEHAVIOR   3 credits
The student will examine the process of guiding young children, evaluate personal strategies for guiding young children, and design implementation of strategies based on the knowledge that effective interaction with children develops when self-responsible adults accept responsibility, make informed behavioral decisions, understand how children develop, develop skills for effective guidance, possess realistic expectations for self and for children, understand the different systems which affect children’s behavior, and include the long- and short-term goals of child guidance. Students will increase their objectivity and demonstrate proficiency in observing and interpreting children’s behavior through their fieldwork in coordination with coursework.

ECNV-062 - Basic English Conversational Skill 1   3 credits
This is a beginning conversation course with emphasis on aural/oral skills. The focus of the course is on improving listening comprehension and increasing conversational fluency. Through a broad range of student-centered activities, students are given the opportunities to practice and reinforce important grammatical structures and patterns. This class meets once a week in a language laboratory. The course must be taken jointly with EESL-060 and ERDG-061. A grade of 'C' or better is required to pass this course. Note: Students must receive a grade of 'C' or higher in each of the three classes described above (EESL-060, ERDG-061, and ECNV-062) in order to pass Level 2 classes (EESL-063, ERDG-064, ECNV-065). If a student receives a grade of 'C-' or lower in EESL-060, ERDG-061, or ECNV-062, he or she must repeat all three classes.

ECNV-065 - BASIC SKILLS IN CONVERSATION LEVEL 2   3 credits
This course is designed for advanced beginning students of English as a Second Language. Emphasis is on the development of listening comprehension and speaking skills in English. It is offered in conjunction with EESL-063 and ERDG-064. Through a broad range of student-centered activities, students are given an opportunity to practice and reinforce important grammatical structures and patterns. While these activities take various forms-role-plays, extended guided conversations, questions about the students' real world, and topics for classroom discussion or debate-they are intended to actively engage the students in meaningful conversation based upon their interests, backgrounds, and imagination. Students must earn a passing grade of 'C' in each of the Level 2 courses-EESL-063, ERDG-064, and ECNV-065-before continuing to ESL Level 3 courses. PREREQUISITES: To enter ESL 2, ERCB 2, and Basic Skills Conversation 2, students must either have successfully completed ESL 1, ERCB 1, and Basic Skills Conversation 1, or have scored at the appropriate level on the placement examinations of the English as a Second Language program.

EESL-060 - ESL 1   3 credits
This is a beginning English language class for those students who have little or no previous experience with English. It is an introduction to basic vocabulary and fundamental grammar in English. The emphasis is on the present tense with an introduction to the past tense. Some of the classes feature multimedia techniques (text, audio, and video integrated through a computer) and are presented in a special multimedia classroom. This course must be taken jointly with ERDG-061 and ECNV-062. A grade of "C" or better is required to pass this course. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC. Lecture (3.00). Corequisite courses: ERDG-061, ECNV-062.

EESL-063 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE LEVEL 2   3 credits
This is an intensive course designed for advanced beginning students of English as a Second Language. Through extensive oral drills and written exercises, the course offers students an opportunity to master the fundamentals of English grammar and usage. Students will learn to use simple verb tenses in English.

EESL-066 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE LEVEL 3   3 credits
This grammar course is intended for students who have a high/intermediate level of English. It is assumed that the students who have enrolled in EESL-066 have either successfully completed courses EESL-060 through ECNV-065 or have been tested and placed into the Level 3 curriculum. EESL-066 is given jointly with ERDG-067 and EWRT-068. The focus of this course will be on complex verb forms, syntactical structures, and mechanics. Please note: Level 3 courses EESL-066, ERDG-067 and EWRT-068 are part of an intensive unit. All three courses must be taken together. A grade of 'C' or better in all three courses must be attained to pass on to the next level. If a student fails to achieve a grade of 'C' or better in any one of these courses, all three of the courses must be repeated.

EESL-070 - English As A Second Language 4   3 credits
This grammar course is intended for students who have mastered a high-intermediate level of English. It offers a comprehensive review of Level 2 and 3 structures, such as perfect verb tenses, modal auxiliaries, the passive voice, and compound/complex sentences. Students practice the verb tenses in integrated exercises. The review of complex syntactical patterns also covers appropriate mechanics. New grammar encompasses more advanced forms; future perfect tenses, noun clauses, gerunds, infinitives, modal perfects, unreal conditionals, and the subjunctive mode are covered. A grade of 'C' or higher in all three courses is required to pass. PREREQUISITE: EESL-066

ENGL-380 - Literature in Society   3 credits
In this course, students will explore 19th and 20th century authors and how these authors perceive the relationship between individuals and society. The images of gender, social class, race, and culture will be examined through reading selections of drama, non-fiction, fiction, and poetry. This thematic unit will focus on literature in various stages human experiences: Growing Up and Growing Older, Women and Men, Money and Work, Peace and War, and Varieties of Protest. Prereq: ENGL-100, ENGL-200 recommended

ERDG-061 - ENGLISH READING COMPREHENSION FOR BILINGUALS LEVEL 1   3 credits
This is a basic course in reading, writing, and vocabulary development. Reading techniques such as identifying the main idea and details, guessing the meaning of new words from context, and skimming and scanning are covered. In writing, students learn to write basic sentences, and progress to simple paragraphs. Some of the classes feature multimedia techniques (text, audio, and video integrated through a computer) and are presented in a special multimedia presentation classroom. This course must be taken jointly with EESL-060 and ECNV-062. A grade of 'C' or better is required to pass this course.

ERDG-064 - ENGLISH READING COMPREHENSION FOR BILINGUALS LEVEL 2   3 credits
This course for advanced beginning students is a review of the language skills introduced in the EESL-063 course. It is offered jointly with it. The focus of this course is on reading and writing development in English through exercises in the text, dictations, spelling drills, written class work, and homework assignments. Learning to write one paragraph well is emphasized. Recognition and implementation of the title and topic sentence, and good paragraph development and form are essential to complete the course objectives. Students are encouraged to use word processing on paragraph assignments; class at times may be scheduled in the computer room. Use of the multimedia room may also be scheduled during class time to help students understand the parts of a paragraph and instruct them on how to write good paragraphs.

ERDG-067 - ENGLISH READING COMPREHENSION FOR BILINGUALS 3   3 credits
This reading course is intended for students who have a high/intermediate level of English and is given jointly with EESL-066 and EWRT-068. The focus of this course is on the development of vocabulary, reading comprehension, and critical thinking. Students are required to read textbook material which covers a variety of cultural and/or literary material. Exercises to test comprehension and to review grammar and syntax will also be included. In addition, students will be asked to do outside readings which may include newspaper articles as well as a fiction or non-fiction book. Students will demonstrate their understanding of these materials by way of oral and written discussions. A grade of 'C' or better in all three courses must be attained to pass on to the next level. If a student fails to achieve a grade of 'C' or better in any one of these courses, all three of the courses must be repeated. is required to pass this course. Please note: Level 3 courses EESL-066, ERDG-067, and EWRT-068 are part of an intensive unit. All three courses must be taken together. A grade of 'C' or better in all three courses must be attained to pass on to the next level. If a student fails to achieve a grade of 'C' or better in any one of these courses, all three of the courses must be repeated.

ERDG-071 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 4   3 credits
This course is intended to continue the ESL student's development of the reading process in preparation for college level reading in English. Four basic areas are emphasized: reading for pleasure, developing comprehension and critical thinking skills, expanding vocabulary, and reading faster. Student centered individual and group activities are used extensively in the classroom. Students chart their progress in terms of increasing reading rate. COREQUISITES:EESL-070. A grade of 'C' or higher in all three courses is required to pass. PREREQUISITE: ERDG-068 or placement at Level 4

EWRT-068 - BASIC WRITING SKILLS 1   3 credits
This course is designed to meet the needs of students who have attained a high intermediate level of English. It is given in conjunction with EESL-066 and ERDG-067. The course will provide practice in writing paragraphs and essays, moving from very simple to more complex topics. The emphasis is on writing in various methods of discourse, grammar and mechanics. A grade of 'C' or better is required to pass this course. Please note: Level 3 courses EESL-066, ERDG-067, and EWRT-068 are part of an intensive unit. All three courses must be taken together. A grade of 'C' or better in all three courses must be attained to pass on to the next level. If a student fails to achieve a grade of 'C' or better in any one of these courses, all three of the courses must be repeated.

EWRT-072 - CONVERSATIONAL SKILLS - BILINGUAL   3 credits
ESL Level 4 - Advanced language skills with emphasis on paragraph and essay development and oral presentations. These courses are offered to students who have finished ESL Level 3 courses, or who have taken the placement test and placed appropriately.

FIRE-210 - BUILDING CONSTRUCTION   3 credits
An exploration of building construction and design with emphasis focused on fire protection concerns, review of statutory and suggested guidelines, local, state, and national. PREREQUISITE: FIRE-125

FIRE-220 - ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT OF FIRE DEPARTMENTS   3 credits
An exploration of organizational principles with emphasis on fire department organization; a study of the history, types, methods, and principles of fire department organization, both formal and informal, line and staff. Emphasis is placed on supervisory responsibilities and functions.

FIRE-310 - FIRE HYDRAULICS AND EQUIPMENT   3 credits
This course covers incompressible fluids, including fluid properties, principles of fluid status, fluid flow system principles, pipe friction and heat loss, flow measurements, pumps, and other hydraulic devices and machinery. Applications are related to fire protection systems such as sprinklers, standpipes, hoses, nozzles, pumpers, and water supply systems. Demonstrations will illustrate and supplement the principles developed in class. Required for graduation. PREREQUISITE: MATH-117

FIRE-330 - FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS   3 credits
The detection and extinguishing systems of both automatic and manual types are studied, including sprinkler and standpipe systems, inert gases, foam and dry chemicals, temperature and smoke responsive devices, and alarm and signaling systems. Demonstration will illustrate and supplement the class work. Required for graduation. PREREQUISITE: FIRE-125

FIRE-340 - FIRE OFFICERSHIP   3 credits
Fire department company officers play an important role in the coordination of the fire department ’s goals and objectives. In most instances they are the people who ensure that action is taken to accomplish day to day tasks. This course focuses on the basic principles of fire department organization, leadership principles, working relationships, and personnel management. For the firefighter aspiring to become a company officer, or for the company officer wishing to improve management skills, this course will help develop and improve the necessary skills to effectively manage the fire company. PREREQUISITE: FIRE-125

FIRE-410 - HAZARDOUS MATERIALS   3 credits
This course includes a review of basic chemistry, storage and handling of hazardous materials, laws, standards, and fire fighting practices within extreme fire hazard areas. Demonstrations will illustrate and supplement the class work. Required for graduation. PREREQUISITE: CHEM-101

FIRE-420 - FIRE CAUSES AND DETECTION (ARSON 1)   3 credits
This course concerns the history, development, and philosophy of fire investigation and detection. Includes inspection techniques, gathering evidence and development of technical reports, fundamentals of arson investigation, processing of criminal evidence and criminal procedures related to various state and local statutes. FIRE-125

FIRE-430 - ADVANCED PROTECTION SYSTEMS   3 credits
This course is a continuation of FIRE-330 and is presented for people interested in advanced fire control systems. Sprinkler systems are given a great amount of attention in this course; halogen agents will also be discussed. PREREQUISITE: FIRE-330

FIRE-498 - ARSON 2   3 credits
A continuation of Fire Causes and Detection (Arson 1) PREREQUISITE: FIRE-420

GEOL-110 - ENVIRONMENTAL GEOLOGY   3 credits
The primary focus of this course is to introduce the student to the natural environment and the human interactions and every day problems with the environment and global community from a geological perspective. This course will: introduce the student to the dynamics of how planet earth works, explore how the relationship between human activities and natural systems may change planetary conditions, and evaluate the role that developing technologies play in maintaining and altering these plantetary conditions. Topics covered will include: environmental systems, population growth, water resources, waste issues, atmospheric issues, natural hazards, energy resources and consumption. Lecture (3.00).

GRPH-170 - INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY   3 credits
This course is designed as an introduction in the use of a "point- and -shoot" digital camera as well as the more advanced single lens reflex models The course is designed for those who are too intimidated to read the owners manual and would like to have the features and procedures associated with their camera explained and demonstrated. This course will also benefit those who have yet to decide what type of digital camera to purchase or to upgrade to a more advanced model. In addition to lectures and demonstrations, students will have hands-on experience using supplied digital cameras and computer work stations that will show them how to record, store, e-mail and reproduce their digital images. While there are no prerequisites for this course, a basic understanding of computer use would be helpful.

GRPH-323 - PREFLIGHTING AND TRAPPING   3 credits
This is a lecture and lab course in which the most important elements of electronic prepress are discussed and practiced. Subjects included are the layout and positioning of images for printing, digital image assembly systems, image trapping, and preflighting jobs. Students will learn these skills on professional-level software such as Quark XPress, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and Luminus Trapwise and Presswise. PREREQUISITE: GRPH-145

HIST-142 - History of Witchcraft and Superstition   3 credits
This course covers the history and variety of human beliefs that stem from: witchcraft (ancient, modern and non-western), werewolves, vampires, golems, Dr. Frankenstein, ghosts, demons, UFOs, the Loch Ness Monster, Big Foot and zombies. Other related topics of interest to the class will also be studied. The meaning and history of supernatural and superstition will be investigated.

INHC-460 - BOTANICAL MEDICINE 1   4 credits
An introduction to the use of common medicinal herbs. Students will gain a knowledge of the historical and present uses of herbs for healing and wellness. The identification, preparation, storage, and proper use of herbal remedies will be included. Four hours of lecture. Offered Continuing Education

INHC-461 - BOTANICAL MEDICINE 2   4 credits
An introduction to the use of common medicinal herbs. For application to common problems of the digestive, nervous, respiratory, and immune systems. Students will study the proper formulations and applications of medicinal plants to these systems. Four hours lecture Offered Continuing Education

MECH-100 - INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER-AIDED DRAFTING   3 credits
This course is intended to provide the student who has no previous computer or drafting background with the necessary foundation to begin the CAD courses at STCC. The course begins with the terminology and basic Windows operating system. Students develop an understanding of computer hardware, manipulating windows, and file management. The course then provides instruction in drafting basics for mechanical applications. Topics include the multiview system of a drawing, selection and arrangement of orthographic views, auxiliary views, sectional views, detail views, and conventional drawing practices. In addition, line and lettering practices are covered for typical drafting standards. PREREQUISITE: None Offered Continuing Education only

MRKT-312 - ADVERTISING PRINCIPLES   3 credits
An introductory textbook will be used to cover the field of advertising as completely as possible. The course will not specifically take a business point of view or a marketing point of view, but instead, an advertising point of view. The course will include a variety of disciplines and specialties. Such things as research, media buying, print and broadcast production, sales promotion, product publicity, budgeting, scheduling, and even business presentations will be covered. The main purpose of the course is to introduce the non-business student to the richness and variety of the real world of advertising. Three lecture hours. (This course is restricted to the non-business student.) Offered Continuing Education

MUSC-110 - HISTORY OF MUSIC   3 credits
This course will focus on the history and influence of the western music tradition. Forms and styles of music from the Middle Ages to the present will be examined in relation to the timeline of historical events. Representative works by noted composers will be listened to and discussed. Three hours lecture.

PROG-318 - ORACLE   3 credits
This course is an introduction to the Oracle database. Students will learn to work with Oracle and the structured query language SQL as they design, manipulate and access the database. In addition, the student will analyze, design, develop, manage and execute projects in this powerful database environment. Prerequisite: PROG-314 or permission of the instructor.

SPAN-122 - CONVERSATIONAL SPANISH   3 credits
The focus of this course is on speaking and understanding the contemporary idiomatic patterns of the native speaker. Special attention is given to pronunciation and simple conversational patterns. Contemporary themes are emphasized, giving police, fire, and medical personnel, as well as other interested groups, the ability to express themselves in Spanish. PREREQUISITE: SPAN-121

SPAN-123 - Conversational Spanish-Medical Personnel   3 credits
The focus of this course is on phrases and conversational phrases that will be useful to medical and emergency personnel. This course will assist medical personnel, police, fire and other emergency personnel in speaking and understanding Spanish phrases in certain situations. Simple conversational patterns and pronunciations that will assist medical and emergency personnel understand and converse with Spanish speaking persons will be emphasized.