Course Policies and Resources

Supporting your Success

I want everyone to succeed in this course! You've worked hard to be here and I want this to be an enjoyable experience for you. Available support includes:

Academic Support

  • Writing Center consultations
  • Research librarian assistance
  • Study groups
  • Technology support
  • Tutoring services

Personal Support

  • Counselling services
  • Food pantry
  • Emergency financial aid
  • Basic needs assistance
  • Crisis support

Course-Specific Support

  • Additional office hours by appointment
  • Study guides
  • Practice problems
  • Review sessions
  • Peer mentoring

Learning Support and Flexibility

  • Course materials available in multiple formats (text, audio, digital)
  • Choice in assignment formats (written, oral, visual, digital)
  • Structured notes and study guides provided before class
  • Recording of lectures available upon request
  • Alternative participation options for class discussions
  • Extended time options built into assignment design
  • Regular comprehension checks during class sessions

Accessibility

I am committed to creating an accessible learning environment for all students. This means:

  • Multiple ways to access course content
  • Flexible approaches to demonstrate your learning
  • Clear instructions and expectations
  • Proactive accommodations planning
  • Regular breaks during class sessions
  • Content warnings for sensitive material
  • Technology accommodations as needed

If you have a disability or any other circumstances that affect your learning:

  • You are encouraged to meet with me early in the semester
  • We can develop a plan that works for you
  • All discussions will remain confidential
  • No documentation is required to request basic flexibility

Communication

Open communication is essential for your success:

  • Email is the best way to reach me
  • I typically respond within 24 hours (M-F)
  • Let me know if you'll miss class
  • Reach out early if you're having difficulties
  • Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or help

Attendance and Participation

While attendance is important for your learning, I understand that life happens:

  • Notify me in advance about planned absences
  • Contact me if you're unwell
  • We can work together to keep you on track
  • Missing class won't automatically lower your grade
  • Multiple ways to demonstrate participation

Assignment Policies

I aim to be flexible while maintaining fairness:

  • Early feedback on initial assignments to help you adjust to course expectations
  • Mid-semester individual check-ins to discuss your progress
  • Draft reviews available for major assignments
  • Multiple attempts allowed on certain assessments
  • Two "no questions asked" 48-hour extensions
  • Option to revise and resubmit one major assignment
  • Weekly office hours for individual feedback
  • Anonymous suggestion box for course improvements

Technology in the Classroom

This course uses technology to enhance learning while being mindful of potential distractions.

Encouraged Uses

  • Taking notes
  • Accessing course readings
  • Collaborative activities
  • Research during designated times

Guidelines

  • Mute all notifications during class
  • Use technology primarily for course-related activities
  • Be mindful of how your technology use might affect others
  • Let me know if you need technological accommodations

Academic Integrity

In this course, academic integrity means:

  • Properly citing sources in your work
  • Submitting your own original analysis
  • Contributing equitably to group work
  • Respecting intellectual property rights
  • Asking questions when unsure about citation practices

I'm happy to discuss any questions about proper citation and collaboration.

Additional Campus Resources

  • Writers Workshop for writing support
  • Library Subject Guides for research help
  • Counseling Center for personal support
  • McKinley Health for medical services
  • Emergency Dean for crisis situations