Academic integrity

The university’s official position: Eastern Oregon University places a high value upon the integrity of its student scholars. Any student found guilty of academic misconduct (including, but not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, or theft of an examination or supplies) may be subject to having his or her grade reduced in the course in question, being placed on probation or suspended from the university, or being expelled from the university–or a combination of these. (see section II of the 2002-03 Student Handbook, p. 32ff, and p. 41 ff).

My interpretation: Plagiarism is taking credit for work, ideas, papers, that are not yours. Universities make lots of literature available for a nominal fee, the bargain being that if you use the ideas of others, you’ll credit them. So it isn’t just wholesale theft, but as the above says, deception, misrepresentation, etc. Be sure you’re familiar with what plagiarism is, and how to avoid it. If you’re caught plagiarizing, you’ll receive an ‘F’ on the assignment and possibly for the course. Doing your own work turns out to be more rewarding in the long term.

Attendance

Well, participation. You won’t get far without it. If you have a legitimate reason for missing class, you need to let me know as soon as you do, or anticipate missing. If you do it is your responsibility to find out what has been covered, the website and Canvas are a good start for that.

If you know you will be missing class, especially if it might happen during a quiz window or something, let me know in advance. However, don’t send me an email and assume I’ve read it if I didn’t reply.

Due dates and late assignments

Assignments are expected in class on the day they’re due (or submitted electronically). Late assignments will be assessed a penalty (one letter grade for each day, increasing with lateness). You can turn in assignments electronically in Canvas. I’ll try to make sure there is a submission link in the week’s module that they’re due. If you’re having difficulty with Canvas, let me know, and as a back-up send your assignment to me via email attachment. If you have extenuating circumstances for being late, I’m always willing to listen, but in fairness to others who’ve managed to get them in on time, it’ll have to be good. Always best to let me know in advance.

Note: Class schedule and assignments may be revised during the course of the term as needed.

Expectations

I will justify my lecture and reading material, assignments, etc., by showing their relevance to the overall course objectives. I will provide a friendly environment for discussion of ideas, try to make you think, share personal experiences relevant to course material, and be generally accessible, approachable, and clear and precise about course expectations. With respect to coverage of content, I emphasize depth over breadth—I’d rather cover less topics thoroughly, at a reasonable and engaging pace, than pledge strict allegiance to a course schedule.

In turn I expect students will do their own work, use or develop critical thinking skills and be able to express them on paper or in class discussion, speak up when unclear or in disagreement on a concept, either exhibit college-level writing skills or seek help to improve them, and refine note-taking skills. I’ll look for progress in developing abstract thinking skills and students’ abilities to focus on the “big picture”—key concepts delivered in class, their relevance to course material, the real world, etc. Discussion in class will focus on ideas—we can debate these in a civil way, but personal attacks on individuals will not be tolerated. You’re expected to show respect to everyone in the class. If you have questions about what’s appropriate, follow the Golden Rule.