HA-101: Eastern Massage I
Course Information
Course, prefix, number, & title: HA-101 Eastern Massage I
Hours (Class, recitation, Laboratory, studio): 1 hour lecture, 3 hours laboratory, offered in Fall or Spring semester
Credits: 2
Co-requisites (if any): BI-301 All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C or better
Course Description in college catalog:
This course combines lecture, focused on expanding the student’s understanding of Eastern healing and traditional Chinese medicine, with practicum experience in the foundational techniques of Shiatsu. Drawing upon concepts introduced in Eastern anatomy and physiology, the student learns the palpatory skills necessary to administer an effective full-body Shiatsu treatment. Proper body mechanics, fluidity, and stretching techniques are emphasized in the practicum.
Academic programs for which this course serves as a requirement or an elective:
Course-specific student learning outcomes:
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:
| Course Objectives | Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| 1. Using self-care practices to develop awareness and amplification of Ki flow. | Students will explore meditation, breathing and physical movement practices throughout the semester. |
| 2. Practical skill in basic Shiatsu floor technique including moving from the Hara, Zen Shiatsu two-hand method, palming, thumbing, simple stretch and joint movement. | Students will demonstrate proficiency in the performance of a whole-body framework and practice with individual meridians. |
| 3. Accurately locating and palpating twelve primary Organ meridians and major tsubos | Students will pass lab Quizzes on each set of meridians, chart each meridian and major tsubos as homework and be able to treat meridians in a practical final exam. |
| 4. Understand the Chinese medical roots and historical development of Shiatsu and the relation of Zen Shiatsu to other Asian Body Therapies. | Students will be able to clearly articulate differences in methods and scope of practice of CCM doctors, acupuncture, herbs, etc. Certified Shiatsu Therapists, and entry level NYS Licensed Massage Therapists. |
| 5. Ability to explain foundational concepts in Classical Chinese Medicine. | Students will apply these concepts in developing a wholistic understanding of health and illness and giving a basic whole-body Shiatsu treatment. |
| 6. Understanding contrast and complementarity of Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) and Modern Scientific Medicine (MSM). | Students will discuss differences in basic theory and practice of the two systems, and possibilities for integrative approaches in medicine and massage. |
| 7. Practicing proper hygiene. | Students will wear clean clothing, wash their hands before and after massage practice, and maintain the sanitation of the work space. |
| 8. Setting up a floor treatment space. | Describe and demonstrate arrangement of an appropriate mat, bolsters, and surrounding area. |
Program-specific outcomes
Demonstrate a strong foundation in the biological sciences, together with a broad based general education in the liberal arts
Demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in the art and science of massage therapy, within a holistic health framework Prepare for application for licensure in New York State.
Comprehend theoretical knowledge of and apply Eastern and Western massage therapy techniques
Methods by which student learning will be assessed and evaluated; describe the types of methods to be employed; note whether certain methods are required for all sections:
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION AND MASSAGE TRAINING:
Methods of instruction will emphasize demonstration, and will include lecture, reading and journaling assignments, supervised student practice, exams, and practical massage evaluation.
Class Activities
An important component of massage therapy practice is self-care. The course requirements listed above relate to body mechanics and personal comfort as well as to attitude. In HA 101, we also use contemplative practices and movement to cultivate self-awareness and compassion in preparation to offer touch therapy to others. Participation in these activities is required throughout the semester.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT :
| Assessment Item | % Of Final Grade |
|---|---|
| Two Written Exams | 30% |
| Written Final Exam | 20% |
| Homework Assignments | 10% |
| Practical Meridian Quizzes | 10% |
| Practical Final Evaluation | 30% |
Academic Integrity policy (department or College):
Academic honesty is expected of all students. Any violation of academic integrity is taken extremely seriously. All assignments and projects must be the original work of the student or teammates. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any questions regarding academic integrity should be brought to the attention of the instructor. The following is the Queensborough Community College Policy on Academic Integrity: "It is the official policy of the College that all acts or attempted acts that are violations of Academic Integrity be reported to the Office of Student Affairs. At the faculty member's discretion and with the concurrence of the student or students involved, some cases though reported to the Office of Student Affairs may be resolved within the confines of the course and department. The instructor has the authority to adjust the offender's grade as deemed appropriate, including assigning an F to the assignment or exercise or, in more serious cases, an F to the student for the entire course." Read the University's policy on Academic Integrity opens in a new window(PDF).
Disabilities
Any student who feels that he or she may need an accommodation based upon the impact of a disability should contact the Office of Accessibility Services in Science Building, Room S-132, 718-631-6257, to coordinate reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. You can visit the Office of Accessibility Services website.
