Western Michigan University
Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation
HPER 6620: Legal Issues in Sport
Course
Syllabus
- Instructor: Dr. Jim
Lewis
- Office: SRC 4024, #20
- Phone: 387-2697
- e-mail: lewisj@wmich.edu
-
Course
Description:
This course provides an
introduction to legal issues that are encountered in education, sport, and physical education. Students will discuss basic legal concepts and stuctures as they apply to the physical activity context. An understanding of legislative issues, (especially in Michigan), and legal senstivity will be pursued through case studies and group projects.
Required Text:
Dougherty, N.J., Goldberger, A.S., Carpenter, L.J. (2007). Sport, physical activity, and the law. (3rd Ed). Champaign, IL, Sagamore.
| Grading |
| Attendance/Participation |
35% |
| Quizzes, Tests |
10% |
| Assignments |
35% |
| Group Work |
20% |
Policies, Procedures,
Attendance, Etc. . . .
I would expect that
you will attend all of the class sessions. Because we cover programs in class,
it is difficult to catch a student up if he/she misses class. Each unexcused absences will result in loss of letter grade
The purpose of this
class is to acclimate you to legal issues. You will be graded on assignments
that you will complete. I am not an attorney and will not pretend to be. DO NOT
BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS!!!!!
This class will use WebCT/Vista/Blackboard (whatever the university is calling it today). You will log on through GoWMU. Assignments, WebSites to assist you, Assessments, etc. are posted there. Get used to it!!
Topics
to Be Covered in Class:
- Understanding the legal system.
- Constitutional Guarantees
- Federal Laws that apply to education, sport and physical education.
- Personal Rights
- Legal responsibility for participants.
- Michigan Law
Class
Philosophy:
The
purpose of this class is to acclimate you to legal issues. Many of you
have been involved in various legal issues, please do not hesitate to share experiences in class. In addition,
please to not hesitate to ask questions.
FINALLY!!
We all
carry cell phones and with significant others, cell phones are important. Please
put your cellphone on vibrate. Standing rule in my class, If your cell phone
rings during instruction time, I answer it. If your cell phone goes off and
you need to take a call, please walk into the hall and take it. Of if you need
to make a call, do the same thing.
Remember,
while this is an important class, (you are Graduate Students!!) the best way
to learn anything is to enjoy what you are doing. Relax, get
to know the people in the class. If you have questions, by all means bring them up!!