Class attendance is expected and class discussion and questioning is encouraged. In general, the students who receive higher grades are those who attend class consistently, complete all assigned readings, ask questions in class or during office hours if need be, and put significant effort into researching, organizing and writing their paper assignment.
Exam grades will be determined by taking the average of the two highest grades in the class and multiplying it by 93%, 90%, 87%, 83%, 80%, 77%, 73%, 70%, 67% and 65% to calculate cutoffs for an A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, and D, respectively. The instructor reserves the right in cases of extreme absences (missing more than 2 classes) to reduce the assigned grade accordingly. Written medical or other types of excuses for consistent absences must be provided. Make-up exams are typically not allowed, unless you miss class due to university-sponsored travel or reasons cited below in the university withdrawal policy. A 10-30 point penalty may be assessed for missing the exam for other reasons.
The opportunity exists for you to earn up to 3 extra credit points that would be added to your final cumulative average.
Supplemental WWW-based Exercises
Remember, this course has a number of Web-based exercises, linked to the Course Outline page and from your (textbook), you are encouraged to complete during the semester. Please explore these exercises as well as the many other course related websites linked to your syllabus.
Academic Misconduct
Cheating on any test, term paper, or other assignment will result in an automatic 0 and will likely result in failing the class; see the Academic Misconduct website for more information about the University's policy on cheating and plagiarism. You cheapen the university, your degree, and yourself when you act in these ways. All formal written assignments are subject to investigation using university-licensed software that evaluates plagiarism and web downloads.
University Withdrawal Policy
The withdraw deadline for this course can be found on the Academic Calendar. Please discuss any academic concerns with me prior to withdrawing. Withdrawal after the deadline will not be approved except for:
1. A death in the immediate family.
2. Serious illness of the student or an immediate family member.
3. A situation deemed similar to categories 1 and 2 by all in the approval process.
4. Withdrawal due to Military Service (Florida Statute 1004.07)
5. National Guard Troops Ordered into Active Service (Florida Statute 250.482)
Students who do not officially withdraw will be assigned a standard letter grade. Late withdraws must be approved by the students advisor, instructor of the course, department chairperson, and finally, the University Academic Appeals Committee. Students who withdraw are not enrolled as of the date the withdrawal is processed.
Students with Alternative Needs
Students with special needs who require specific accommodations for examinations or other course activities should contact the Student Disability Resource Center (SCRC) (web address: http://www.uwf.edu/SDRC, telephone: 474-2387). SDRC will provide the student with a letter for the instructor that will specify recommended accommodations for individual students. If you have a need for any in-class accommodations or special
test-taking arrangements, please get in touch with me as soon as possible.
Class Comportment
It is expected that you respect the instructor and your peers by refraining from talking or texting during class. You may be asked to temporarily relinquish any computer or handheld devices you are using that interfere with class processes. Unless absolutely necessary (e.g., bathroom), you are expected to remain in class for its entirety.
Weather Emergency Information
In the case of severe weather or other emergency, the campus might be closed and classes cancelled. Official closures and delays are announced on the UWF website and broadcast on WUWF-FM (88.1MHz). This is the official information source for the university. Any pertinent information regarding closings, cancellations, and the re-opening of campus will be broadcast. In the event that hurricane preparation procedures are initiated, the UWF Home Web Page and Argus will both provide current information regarding hurricane preparation procedures, the status of classes and the closing of the university.
Emergency plans for the University of West Florida are available at: http://uwfemergency.org/