Course Requirements

For more information, see the complete syllabus below.

COURSE GRADES

 

Summary of Grading Criteria:

            Online discussion group (14 weeks @ 5 pts/week)   =          70 points

            Homework assignments (5 @ 15 points each)          =          75 points

            Exams (5 exams @ 100 points each)                        =          500 points

            Total number of points                                                =          645 points

 

See below for more information about exams, online discussion groups, and homework.

 

Grading Scale:

Final grades for the course will be based on these percentages:

                                    A - 90-100%                (581 to 645 points)

                                    B - 80-89%                  (516 to 580 points)     

                                    C - 70-79%                  (452 to 515 points)

                                    D - 60-69%                  (387 to 451 points)

                                    F - below 60%             (0 to 386 points)

 

There are no curved scores and no additional projects for extra credit other than the extra credit described in the syllabus (see page 9).  Since there are extra credit points for every unit, grades will not be not curved. Your grade is based solely on the points you earn from exams, homework, extra credit and participation in your online discussion group.  If you have a borderline grade (such as 79.6%), I look at your grades. If you did all exams, homework assignments, weekly discussion groups (did you substantially participated?), and took the optional final, the grade will be a B.  Otherwise, your grade will be a C. This decision will be solely at the instructor’s discretion.

 

 

ONLINE DISCUSSION GROUPS

 

Students are expected to participate in online discussion groups in Blackboard.  You will be assigned to a discussion group during the first week of class by the instructor. 

 

To find your discussion group, look in the frame on the left side of the course Blackboard site.  You will see “Discussion Board” listed there.  Click on this to get to a list of discussion groups.  There will only be one group that you can click on – that is your group.  If you add the class during the add-drop period, you may find that you cannot click on any group.  This just means that I haven’t had a chance to add you to a group yet.  Also, it can take Blackboard up to 24 hours to add you to the class after you have registered for it. Please send me an e-mail about this.

 

I will post a set of discussion topics at the beginning of each week (usually on Monday) for the group to discuss.  You will find the discussion topics for each unit in the “Course Content” folder, under “Unit Course Content” folder.  For the first unit, click on the “Unit 1 Course Content” folder and then click on the “Discussion Topics for Unit 1” folder.  Some of these questions include study guide material.  Other questions may require you to look at other online sources. 

 

You are also welcome to start your own areas of discussion.  This is a great place to ask your group members to explain a concept that you did not understand.  You may make posts about study guide questions as part of your required number of posts, but don’t forget that all of the discussion topics will be covered on exams.  Your group needs to get through all of the discussion topic questions each week.  If your group does not cover all of the topics, then you need to study them on your own. 

General Guidelines for Discussion Groups:

 

1.     I expect you to participate in your group discussion forums at least two times during each week.  In order to earn full credit, you will have to make at least one post on two different days of the week.  (Note:  The minimum number of posts per week is 2.)  Example: a student could make 1 post on Wednesday and 1 post on Sunday.)

2.     At least one of your two required posts must be a response or reply to another group member.  I expect you to read and respond to the posts from other group members.  You must respond to another group member at least once during the week to earn full credit. 

3.     Your posts must be meaningful and about the subject material.  Read what your other group members have written about a topic before posting.  If your post is a repeat of what has already been said, then you are not adding anything to your group’s discussion and this will not be counted as a meaningful post. If you are concerned that your posts are too short, you can always post several times per day in different topic areas.

        Procedural posts will not count toward your grade.  This includes posts such as “I could not get the link to work.  Did anyone have better luck” or “I agree” or “Thank you for posting this information. It really helped me.”  You could make these is a substantive post by adding more information that relates to the discussion topic or expands on the topic. Posting the discussion topic question without comment is a procedural post and will not count.

        It is acceptable to make a response that expands on another person’s post, including any personal comments that you want to make.  (Just remember to be respectful of other people!) If you want to restate something that someone has said to clarify the meaning or make a correction, that is perfectly fine. 

4.     Be polite to each other.  It is okay to disagree with someone else’s opinion or interpretation but disagree politely.  Remember that people may not be able to tell if you are being sarcastic or witty when they are reading your posts.  Be careful and considerate!  The instructor can and will remove you from your discussion group for inappropriate postings.  If this happens, your grade for any remaining discussion topics will be a zero (0) and you will not be given the chance to make these points up in an alternate fashion.

5.     When you post an answer to a discussion topic, especially if you are the first one to respond, please do not answer every question.  Leave some room for other group members to share in the discussion.  For example, if you asked to compare two organisms, you might discuss one way the organisms are similar and one way they are different.  That gives an opportunity for another group member to contribute to the discussion by bringing up other similarities and      differences.  Some questions have multiple parts (part a through f). You can just answer one or two of the parts and leave the other parts for other group members. Start a conversation – don’t “hog” the conversation! 

       Your group should try to answer all of the questions.  You do not have to post every answer.

6.     It is perfectly okay to bring up new material, point out interesting websites, and add more information in your posts, as long as the material posted pertains to the material covered in the unit under discussion.  You may also post questions and answers about study guide materials but try to make sure that your group covers all of the discussion topics for the week.

7.     Remember, these are discussions!  It helps if you ask questions as part of your post; this might make it easier for other students to reply.  Put your questions at the end of your post.

8.     Please do not use abbreviations in your posts.  OMG, LOL and other texting shortcuts are not appropriate in the discussion forums.

9.     What do you do if you feel like you need to move to another group?  E-mail your instructor and ask to be moved and explain why you would like to move.  There is no guarantee that you will be moved or that you will like the new group any better than the old one.  If you are moved, you will not have access to your old posts. 

10.   Discussion forums usually start on Monday (12:00 am) and end on 11:59 pm the following Sunday.  Any posts made after the end of the time period will not count for credit.

11.   There will be 14 weeks of discussion topics posted by the instructor for your group. You will receive a grade for your participation in your group discussion forum.  Each week will be worth 5 points (14 weeks x 5 points = 70 points total). 

        Almost 11% of your grade comes from participating in the discussion groups.  If you do not participate, it will affect your grade.  Please take the discussion groups seriously!

12.   Posts made after the posting deadline for the week will not be counted for credit.

Weekly discussion grades will be assessed using the following general criteria:

(a.)  Did you contribute at least TWO times on different days?  Remember that a post that repeats what another group member has already posted does not count for credit. 

(b.)  Did you post in a timely fashion?  Your posts must be submitted within the deadlines in order to earn credit for posting. 

(c.)   Were your posts relevant to the discussion topic?  Or, as an alternative, did you introduce new material for the group to consider? Were your posts meaningful? 

(d.)  Did you read and respond to postings of your group members at least once?   You must respond to another group member.  Responses to yourself will not count.

Students are encouraged to post often.  That way, you are reviewing the materials and others have a chance to correct any mistakes or misconceptions. 

These weekly discussion groups are an important part of the class.  If you do not participate in these weekly discussion groups, your grade will suffer.  In the past, some students who did not participate in the weekly discussion groups have found themselves lacking 5-20 points in order to pass the course.  At that point, it is too late to wish that you had not thrown away the 70 points by not participating.  There will be nothing you can do at that point to improve your grade.  This is an uncomfortable position to be in, so please do not put yourself in this position!

 

HOMEWORK

 

You will be given a homework assignment for each unit. You will find the homework assignment in the “Course Content” folder, under the “Unit Course Content” folder for each unit. Each homework assignment is worth 15 points.  Most homework assignments will require Internet access; some may require a high-speed connection in order to work.  If you do not have access at home, you can use a computer in an ACC computer lab or Learning Lab.  Exams will include questions over homework materials.

 

You will submit your homework through Blackboard.  There is a paper-based set of instructions that explains what you need to do for the homework.  This includes the questions that you need to answer.  After completing the instructions, you will use your answers to work through a Blackboard-based homework.  After finishing the Blackboard-based homework, you will submit your homework through Blackboard.  You will only have one chance to submit the Blackboard-based assignment for credit. No credit will be given for the paper-based instructions.

 

There will be a deadline for turning in homework for each unit.   After the deadline, the Blackboard-based homework will not be available and your grade will be zero (0).  There is no credit for late homework.  Please do not wait until the last minute to do your homework.  If your server is not working or the internet goes down or you have a technology problem, you will not be able to submit your homework in a timely fashion.

 

After you have submitted your homework in Blackboard, you will be able to check immediately to see if your answers were correct.  Also, you can access the graded homework by going into My Grades, clicking on the homework assignment (highlighted in blue) and then clicking on the blue highlighted grade.  You should then be able to see your homework, your answers and correct answers.  See the course schedule for specific deadlines.

 

11.6% of your grade comes from homework and this material is tested on exams.  If you do not do your homework, it will affect your grade.  Please do the homework!

 

EXAMS

 

There are five required unit exams and an optional comprehensive final.  Exams are only available on specific days.  Exams must be taken in an ACC testing center or pre-approved location.

 

Unit Exams

Each unit exam is worth 100 points.  Each unit exam has two parts:

(1)  45 objective questions (multiple choice or true-false).  Each objective question will be worth 2 points.  That makes the objective section worth 90 points total.

(2) Short answer questions.  There will be two short answer questions, worth 5 points each.  This section will be worth 10 points total.

(3) Extra credit question.  There will be one written extra credit questions, worth 2 points.

You may be tested on any material covered in the study guide, homework, and discussion topics.  In addition to your ability to remember facts and definitions, you will also be tested on your ability to apply what you have learned to new situations, identify relationships, and analyze situations using the facts and terms you have learned.  I have included a copy of Bloom’s taxonomy, a method of classifying different levels on learning, on the Blackboard site.  While most of your learning falls under knowledge (1.00), you will also have to use comprehension (2.00), application (3.00) and analysis (4.00).  See the Bloom’s Taxonomy document in the Syllabus section of Blackboard.

 

There are no retests or makeup exams in this course for the five required exams.  However, you can use the optional comprehensive final exam (discussed below) to replace your lowest non-zero exam grade.  The final will not substitute for a required exam that you did not take.

Optional Comprehensive Final

An optional comprehensive final will be available during the last few days of the semester.  The final will cover all the material in the five units.  The final consists of 53 multiple choice questions, each worth two points.  Three of the questions are extra credit.  Your grade on the comprehensive final will be used to substitute for your lowest required exam but will not be used to substitute for an exam that you did not take.  If your grade on the comprehensive final is lower than your lowest required exam grade, the final will not be counted.  The final cannot hurt your grade; it can only improve it. If you have a borderline grade take the final!

 

Extra Credit

There are two ways you can earn extra credit. (1) Each unit has a set of practice questions to help you work through some of the unit material. Unit 5 has two sets of practice questions. Once you have completed the paper-based practice questions, there is a Blackboard-based assignment over the practice question materials. See course schedule for due dates. You can earn up to 3 points of extra credit per unit for a total of 18 possible extra credit points. (2) Each unit exam has one extra written question that you can answer for extra credit, for a total of 10 possible extra credit points over the semester. The optional final has up to 6 extra credit points. Collectively, there are 28-32 possible extra credit points. There are no other extra credit options for this class.  There are no extra credit papers that will replace your exam grades.  If you want to replace your lowest exam grade, take the optional final.

 

Readings

For more information, see the complete syllabus below.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS

You will need the following items:

1.     BIOL 1309 Life on Earth Study Guide, 4^th edition (updated), modified for Speer & Maxim, Nov 2018 by BIOL 1309 Redesign Team. This study guide is not sold through any bookstore. You can download and print from this course’s Blackboard site. (Available as Adobe PDF file.)

2.    The Tangled Bank: An Introduction to Evolution, ACC Special Edition by Carl Zimmer. 2010, McMillian. Important: Get the ACC Special Edition, which is different from the 1^st and 2^nd editions. Available only at ACC bookstores. You cannot buy the ACC special edition online. 

          3.    Life of Mammals, episode 1, available through the ACC library. You will need to watch sections of this video                twice. (Study Guide Section 7 and Section12).

• Go to ACC Library Services and search for “Life of Mammals” in the catalog. Scroll until you find “The life of mammals: A Winning Design” with the format “Film”. Click on “View Now” and connect to Kanopy with your ACC eID. Sign up for the free service.  

• DVDs on library reserve at CYP, ELG, EVC, HLC, HYS, NRG, RRC, RVS, SAC

4.    Discussion group topics, available in the Discussion Topics area of each unit. Use the “Course Content” folder in Blackboard to find the individual unit folders labeled “Unit Course Content”.

5.    Homework assignments, available in the Homework area of each unit. Use the “Course Content” folder in Blackboard to find the individual unit folders labeled “Unit Course Content”.

You are responsible for all materials covered in the study guide, textbook, narrated PowerPoint lectures, discussion topics, homework assignments, online videos, and online activities.   

 

Course Subjects

 

Course Schedule

BIOL 1309 Life on Earth (ONL)

 Spring Semester 2019

 

Date	Course Work and Exams
Week 1 Jan 22-Jan 27	Work through Section 1 in study guide and start on Section 2. Start Homework #1. Post to online discussion group for week 1. Complete and submit orientation materials by deadline.
Week 2 Jan 28-Feb 3	Finish Section 2 and Section 3 in study guide Submit Homework #1 by Wednesday deadline. (Exam 1 is available on the next day.) Submit Practice Questions #1 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 2
Week 3 Feb 4-Feb 10	Take exam 1 by Wednesday, February 6 (Grace Period: Thurs, Feb 7). Work through Section 4 in study guide and start on Section 5. Start Homework #2.  Post to online discussion group for week 3
Week 4 Feb 11-Feb 17	Finish Section 5 and start on Section 6 (pp 49-54) in study guide. Work on Homework #2. Post to online discussion group for week 4
Week 5 Feb 18-Feb 24	Finish Section 6 (pp 49-54) in study guide. Submit Homework #2 by Wed deadline.  (Exam 2 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #2 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 5
Week 6 Feb 25-Mar 3	Take exam 2 by Wednesday, February 27 (Grace Period: Thurs, Feb 28). Work through Section 6 (pp 55-60). Start Homework #3. Post to online discussion group for week 6
Week 7 Mar 4-Mar 10	Work through Section 7 in study guide and start on Section 8 (pp 76-85).  Work on Homework #3. Post to online discussion group for week 7
Week 8 Mar 11-Mar 17	Finish Section 8 (pp 76-85) in study guide.  Submit Homework #3 by Wed deadline.  (Exam 3 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #3 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 8
Week 9 Mar 25-Mar 31	Take exam 3 by Wednesday, March 27 (Grace Period: Thurs, Mar 28). Work through Section 8 (pp 85-93) and Section 9 in study guide.  Start Homework #4. Post to online discussion group for week 9
Week 10 Apr 1-Apr 7	Work through Section 10 in study guide and start on Section 11. Work on Homework #4. Post to online discussion group for week 10
Week 11 Apr 8-Apr 14	Finish Section 11 in study guide. Submit Homework #4 by Wed deadline. (Exam 4 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #4 by Fri deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 11
Week 12 Apr 15-Apr 21	Take exam 4 by Wednesday, April 17 (Grace Period: Thurs, Apr 18). Work through Section 12 in study guide and start on Section 13. Start Homework #5. Post to online discussion group for week 12
Week 13 Apr 22-Apr 28	Finish Section 13 in study guide and start on Section 14. Work on Homework #5. Post to online discussion group for week 13
Week 14 Apr 29-May 5	Finish Section 14 in study guide. Submit Homework #5 by Wed deadline. (Exam 5 is available on the next day.) Submit Practice Questions #5 and # 6 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 14
Week 15 May 6-May 12	Take exam 5 by Wednesday, May 8 (Grace Period: Thurs, May 9). Optional final becomes available on May 9.
Week 16	Take optional final by Thursday, May 16 (no grace period).

 

 

DEADLINES AND IMPORTANT DATES

 

Mandatory Orientation Deadline

You MUST complete your orientation, including your e-mail to me, by 11:59 pm, January 27, 2019.  I must receive your signed and completed student information sheet by this date and time.

 

Mandatory Discussion Group Deadlines

Discussion Topics	Deadline
Week 1	Sunday, January 27 (11:59 pm)
Week 2	Sunday, February 3 (11:59 pm)
Week 3	Sunday, February 10 (11:59 pm)
Week 4	Sunday, February 17 (11:59 pm)
Week 5	Sunday, February 24 (11:59 pm)
Week 6	Sunday, March 3 (11:59 pm)
Week 7	Sunday, March 10 (11:59 pm)
Week 8	Sunday, March 17 (11:59 pm)
Week 9	Sunday, March 31 (11:59 pm)
Week 10	Sunday, April 7 (11:59 pm)
Week 11	Sunday, April 14 (11:59 pm)
Week 12	Sunday, April 21 (11:59 pm)
Week 13	Sunday, April 28 (11:59 pm)
Week 14	Sunday, May 5 (11:59 pm)

Mandatory Homework Deadlines

Homework #	Deadline
1	Wednesday, January 30 (11:59 pm)
2	Wednesday, February 20 (11:59 pm)
3	Wednesday, March 13 (11:59 pm)
4	Wednesday, April 10 (11:59 pm)
5	Wednesday, May 1 (11:59 pm)

 

Extra Credit Practice Questions Deadlines

Practice Questions #	Deadline
1	Friday, February 1 (5:00 pm)
2	Friday, February 22 (5:00 pm)
3	Friday, March 15 (5:00 pm)
4	Friday, April 12 (5:00 pm)
5	Friday, May 3 (5:00 pm)
6	Friday, May 3 (5:00 pm)

 

Other Important Dates

            Last Day to Withdraw without a W:                February 6, 2019

            Last Day to Withdraw with a W:                     April 29, 2019

            College Closed for Spring Break:                   March 18-March 22, 2019

            College Closed for Easter Sunday:                April 21, 2019

 

What Happens If You Miss A Deadline

            Miss Mandatory Orientation Deadline:                              Dropped from the class

 

            Miss Discussion Group Posting Deadlines:                      No credit for late posts

 

            Miss Homework Deadlines:                                                 No credit for late homework

 

            Miss Practice Questions Deadlines:                                  No extra credit for unit

 

            Miss Exam Deadlines:                     

            If you miss a deadline, you will get a 0 on that exam and you will not be able to use

            the final to replace it. 

 

            Needless to say, you do not want to miss these deadlines!  Remember, in this course a

            deadline is the last day to take the exam in a timely fashion.  You should try to take the

            exam at least 1-2 days before the deadline.  There is an automatic 24-hour grace period for

            all unit exams, which means you can take the exam the following day and still have it

            counted.  There are no extensions past the grace period. 

 

            In the case of a serious documented medical emergency or unavoidable conflict with a

            deadline, get in touch with me immediately to make alternate arrangements (if possible).  

 

The deadline for the optional final is not negotiable.

Mandatory Exam Deadlines

You must take your exams by the deadlines below.  I enforce the deadlines, not the testing centers.  The deadline is the last day to take the exam in a timely manner.  To avoid problems, try to take your exam 1-2 days before the deadline.  Note:  For exams 1-5, there is an automatic 24-hour grace period after the exam deadline.  I will not accept any exams taken after the grace period for credit and your grade will be zero.  There is no grace period for the optional final (see table for deadlines).  You may take exams at any ACC testing center.

 

Exam #	Exam Covers	Status	Format of Exam	Mandatory Deadline
1	Sections 1, 2 and 3 Homework #1 Discussion Topics 1 and 2	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Feb 6
2	Sections 4, 5 and 6 (pp 49-54) Homework #2 Discussion Topics 3, 4 and 5	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Feb 27
3	Sections 6 (pp 55-60), 7, and 8 (pp 76-85) Homework #3 Discussion Topics 6, 7 and 8	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Mar 27
4	Sections 8 (pp 85-93); 9, 10 and 11 Homework #4 Discussion Topics 9, 10 and 11	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Apr 17
5	Sections 12, 13 and 14 Homework #5 Discussion Topics 12, 13 and 14	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday May 8
6	Comprehensive Final (Optional)	Optional	50 objective questions + 3 extra credit	Thursday May 16

 

The exams indicated must be completed by the deadlines.   If you miss an exam deadline for a required exam, there is an automatic 24-hour grace period.  You do not have to ask me to use the 24-hour grace period.  (There is no grace period for the final.)   Any exam taken after the grace period will not be accepted for credit (without documented proof of a medical emergency).  It is your responsibility to complete the exams by the deadlines.

 

How does the grace period work? It is essentially an automatic extension of the deadline for 24 hours. Let’s look at Exam 1 as an example. If the deadline for Exam 1 is Feb 6, then you can take Exam 1 on Feb 7 without penalty. Grace period for Exam 2: Feb 28. Grace period for Exam 3: Mar 28. Grace period for Exam 4: Apr 18. Grace period for Exam 5: May 9. There is no grace period for the optional final. You do not need to ask me for permission to use the grace period.

 

Unit exams become available on the Thursday before the mandatory deadline. Unit 1 exam opens January 31. Unit 2 exam opens February 21. Unit 3 exam opens March 14. Unit 4 exam opens April 11. Unit 5 exam opens May 2. The final exam opens May 9.

Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives

Student Learning Outcomes

Course-Level for Life on Earth:

Specific skills and competencies expected of students who complete this course include:

•     Ability to explain evolutionary relationships among different organisms

•     Ability to discuss adaptations, using several different examples

•     Ability to apply biological concepts to new examples

 

General Education for Life on Earth:

As a Core Curriculum course, students completing this course will demonstrate competence in:

• Critical Thinking - Gathering, analyzing, synthesizing, evaluating and applying information. 
• Interpersonal Skills - Interacting collaboratively to achieve common goals.
• Quantitative and Empirical Reasoning - Applying mathematical, logical and scientific principles and methods.
• Written, Oral and Visual Communication - Communicating effectively, adapting to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

 

DEPARTMENTAL COMMON COURSE OBJECTIVES

The ACC Biology Department has specified the content for this course in the departmental common course objectives. The departmental objectives are located under “Course Information” at:    http://www.austincc.edu/biology/

 

Complete syllabus

SYLLABUS FOR BIOLOGY 1309 - LIFE ON EARTH (DIL)

BIOL 1309-012 (68744)

Spring 2019 16-Week Semester

 

This syllabus is your guide for taking BIOL 1309 Life on Earth.  It is a long document, but the answers to your questions about the course are covered in it.  To help you find what you need, here is a brief table of contents.

Orientation	Page 1
Instructor information	Page 1
General Course Information	Page 2
Course Format	Page 3
Required Textbook and Materials	Page 3
Course Technology	Page 4
Course Grades	Page 5
Online Discussion Groups	Pages 5-7
Homework	Pages 7-8
Exams	Pages 8-11
Deadlines and Important Dates	Pages 11-13
Using the Testing Centers	Pages 14-15
Withdrawals and Incompletes	Pages 15-16
Attendance/Class Participation; Is Distance Learning For You?; Bad Weather; Concealed Handgun Policies	Page 17
Course Schedule	Page 18
ACC Academic Policies and Services	Pages 19-20
Testing Center Guidelines	Pages 21-23

 

ORIENTATION

Completing the course orientation by 11:59 pm on Sunday, January 27, 2019 is mandatory.  You must carefully read the syllabus, go through the narrated Student Orientation PowerPoint, fill out and return your signed student information sheet, and send me an e-mail using your ACC email account to complete orientation.  After I receive your e-mail and signed student information sheet, I will send you a confirmation e-mail.  Your orientation is not complete until you receive the return confirmation e-mail from me.

 

You must complete your orientation by 11:59 pm on January 27, 2019 or you will be dropped from the course.  I must receive your signed orientation papers by this date and time.

 

INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION:

Instructor:                 Bernice Speer

Office Location:       RRC3, Room 3322.00

Office Hours:           Mon/Wed     4:30-5:50 pm

                                   Tues             7:00-9:00 pm

                                   Thurs            5:00-5:20 pm

                                   Other hours by appointment

Office Phone:           512-223-0323 (with voice mail)

e-mail:                       bspeer@austincc.edu

ACC Distance Learning Student Handbook:  Distance Learning Handbook

ACC Student Information:  Catalog and Student Handbook

 

GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

 

Course Description:

A survey of the living organisms on our planet for the non-science major.  Emphasis on evolutionary and natural history, structural and behavioral adaptations, biological diversity and co-evolution.

 

Skills Requirement:

Reading and writing proficiency as determined by the COMPASS or ASSET test, or by the statewide THEA test, or by providing an official transcript from another college.  If you do not meet these requirements, you may be withdrawn from the course.

 

Course Rationale:

This course was designed for students who are primarily non-science majors.  Through the use of a study guide, textbook readings, good science videos, narrated PowerPoint lectures, web-based homework assignments and discussion groups, students are introduced to the organisms that inhabit this planet, their characteristics, their evolutionary relationships and their adaptation to life on earth.

 

Student Learning Outcomes

 

Course-Level for Life on Earth:

Specific skills and competencies expected of students who complete this course include:

•     Ability to explain evolutionary relationships among different organisms

•     Ability to discuss adaptations, using several different examples

•     Ability to apply biological concepts to new examples

 

General Education for Life on Earth:

As a Core Curriculum course, students completing this course will demonstrate competence in:

• Critical Thinking - Gathering, analyzing, synthesizing, evaluating and applying information. 
• Interpersonal Skills - Interacting collaboratively to achieve common goals.
• Quantitative and Empirical Reasoning - Applying mathematical, logical and scientific principles and methods.
• Written, Oral and Visual Communication - Communicating effectively, adapting to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

 

 

DEPARTMENTAL COMMON COURSE OBJECTIVES

The ACC Biology Department has specified the content for this course in the departmental common course objectives. The departmental objectives are located under “Course Information” at:  Biology Department Common Course Objectives

 

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY

This course is a three-hour lecture course.  This section is taught as an ONL (online) distance learning class.  This class does not meet in a classroom.  Contact between the students and professor is achieved through e-mail, discussion groups, and the class Blackboard site.  Students will have to come to an ACC campus to take exams in the testing centers or arrange for distance testing (discussed on pages 10-11). 

 

COURSE FORMAT

► The course is divided into five units. 

► These units must be completed in order. Course materials become available during each unit.  

► There is a study guide that is central to the course.  The study guide includes some text that   explains major concepts for each section and guides you through the textbook readings and

      online videos/activities. The study guide is essential to the course. Start each unit with the

      study guide and follow the instructions in order.

► Each unit will have one graded homework assignment which you will complete and submit to

      your instructor through Blackboard.  Paper-based assignments will not be accepted for grading. 

      See more information on pages 7-8.

► The class will be divided into discussion groups.  For each unit, discussion topics will be posted

      for students to discuss online.  You can also discuss study guide questions and concepts if

      your discussion group has covered all the discussion topics.  You will be graded on your

      participation and discussion topics will be covered on the exams. (Discussed on pages 5-7.)

► During each unit, you will need to:

            1) Read the material in the study guide.

            2) Read the assigned textbook material.

            3) Watch online videos and/or complete online activities.

            4) Complete any narrated PowerPoint lectures for the unit, if available.

            5) Answer all study guide questions.

            6) Do your homework assignment and turn it in on time.

            7) Prepare materials for posting to your discussion group and make your posts.

            8) Do the practice questions for the unit and turn it in on time.

            9) Study everything you have done.

            10) Take the exam over these materials in an ACC testing center or preapproved location.

 

 

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS

You will need the following items:

1.     BIOL 1309 Life on Earth Study Guide, 4^th edition (updated), modified for Speer & Maxim, Nov 2018 by BIOL 1309 Redesign Team. This study guide is not sold through any bookstore. You can download and print from this course’s Blackboard site. (Available as Adobe PDF file.)

 

2.    The Tangled Bank: An Introduction to Evolution, ACC Special Edition by Carl Zimmer. 2010, McMillian. Important: Get the ACC Special Edition, which is different from the 1^st and 2^nd editions. Available only at ACC bookstores. You cannot buy the ACC special edition online. 

 

3.    Life of Mammals, episode 1, available through the ACC library. You will need to watch          sections of this video twice. (Study Guide Section 7 and Section12).

• Go to ACC Library Services and search for “Life of Mammals” in the catalog. Scroll until            you find “The life of mammals: A Winning Design” with the format “Film”. Click on “View             Now” and connect to Kanopy with your ACC eID. Sign up for the free service.  

• DVDs on library reserve at CYP, ELG, EVC, HLC, HYS, NRG, RRC, RVS, SAC

 

4.    Discussion group topics, available in the Discussion Topics area of each unit. Use the “Course Content” folder in Blackboard to find the individual unit folders labeled “Unit Course Content”.

 

5.    Homework assignments, available in the Homework area of each unit. Use the “Course Content” folder in Blackboard to find the individual unit folders labeled “Unit Course Content”.

 

You are responsible for all materials covered in the study guide, textbook, narrated PowerPoint lectures, discussion topics, homework assignments, online videos, and online activities.   

COURSE TECHNOLOGY

 

ACCeID:

You will need an ACCeID to use the ACC Online Services and Blackboard.  If you don't already have an ACCeID, go to the ACC eID Login   Click on "First-Time Login" and follow the instructions. 

 

Use of ACCMail:

All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify you of any college related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account. Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff. Information about ACC mail, including instructions on setting up an account can be found at ACCmail

 

For privacy reasons, I must use the Blackboard system to e-mail students.  Because Blackboard automatically uses your ACCMail address when sending e-mails, it is imperative that you set up and check your ACCMail account regularly. After orientation, I cannot respond to non-ACC emails.

 

You can have your ACC e-mail forwarded to another e-mail address if you prefer.  See more information at: Automatically Forward Gmail

 

Blackboard Site for This Section:

You will be using Blackboard extensively throughout this class to access course materials and graded online discussion groups.  You will also use Blackboard in the ACC Testing Centers to take all exams and submit your homework assignments.  Announcements and grades will be posted on Blackboard.  I will also use Blackboard to send e-mails to the class.  

 

To get started on Blackboard, go to the login site at: Blackboard  and click on the “Student Guide – Getting Started with Blackboard” link.   This will help you set up your Blackboard account and get you to the course site. 

 

You are expected to check Blackboard regularly.  Announcements clarify course materials, remind about deadlines, correct problems with urls, and give hints about difficult concepts. 

 

Note: Blackboard may not available on Friday evenings after 5:00 pm for maintenance.

 

ACC Photo ID:

You must have an ACC photo student ID to use the testing center.  Go here:  Student ID

 

Technology Requirements and Problems

On page iv in the study guide, technological requirements for the class are discussed.  Read this carefully.   Make sure you have the proper software installed.  If you have trouble accessing a web page, make sure that pop-ups are not blocked, or try a different browser/computer. If you still have problems, contact the ACC Help Desk at Student Services Help Desk or call 512-223-4636.  If you have a laptop, check with the Learning Lab staff to see if they can help you resolve the problem.  If nothing else works, you may have to use an ACC computer.  

COURSE GRADES

 

Summary of Grading Criteria:

            Online discussion group (14 weeks @ 5 pts/week)   =          70 points

            Homework assignments (5 @ 15 points each)          =          75 points

            Exams (5 exams @ 100 points each)                        =          500 points

            Total number of points                                                =          645 points

 

See below for more information about exams, online discussion groups, and homework.

 

Grading Scale:

Final grades for the course will be based on these percentages:

                                    A - 90-100%                (581 to 645 points)

                                    B - 80-89%                  (516 to 580 points)     

                                    C - 70-79%                  (452 to 515 points)

                                    D - 60-69%                  (387 to 451 points)

                                    F - below 60%             (0 to 386 points)

 

There are no curved scores and no additional projects for extra credit other than the extra credit described in the syllabus (see page 9).  Since there are extra credit points for every unit, grades will not be not curved. Your grade is based solely on the points you earn from exams, homework, extra credit and participation in your online discussion group.  If you have a borderline grade (such as 79.6%), I look at your grades. If you did all exams, homework assignments, weekly discussion groups (did you substantially participated?), and took the optional final, the grade will be a B.  Otherwise, your grade will be a C. This decision will be solely at the instructor’s discretion.

 

 

ONLINE DISCUSSION GROUPS

 

Students are expected to participate in online discussion groups in Blackboard.  You will be assigned to a discussion group during the first week of class by the instructor. 

 

To find your discussion group, look in the frame on the left side of the course Blackboard site.  You will see “Discussion Board” listed there.  Click on this to get to a list of discussion groups.  There will only be one group that you can click on – that is your group.  If you add the class during the add-drop period, you may find that you cannot click on any group.  This just means that I haven’t had a chance to add you to a group yet.  Also, it can take Blackboard up to 24 hours to add you to the class after you have registered for it. Please send me an e-mail about this.

 

I will post a set of discussion topics at the beginning of each week (usually on Monday) for the group to discuss.  You will find the discussion topics for each unit in the “Course Content” folder, under “Unit Course Content” folder.  For the first unit, click on the “Unit 1 Course Content” folder and then click on the “Discussion Topics for Unit 1” folder.  Some of these questions include study guide material.  Other questions may require you to look at other online sources. 

 

You are also welcome to start your own areas of discussion.  This is a great place to ask your group members to explain a concept that you did not understand.  You may make posts about study guide questions as part of your required number of posts, but don’t forget that all of the discussion topics will be covered on exams.  Your group needs to get through all of the discussion topic questions each week.  If your group does not cover all of the topics, then you need to study them on your own. 

General Guidelines for Discussion Groups:

 

1.     I expect you to participate in your group discussion forums at least two times during each

        week.  In order to earn full credit, you will have to make at least one post on two different

        days of the week.  (Note:  The minimum number of posts per week is 2.)  Example: a student 

        could make 1 post on Wednesday and 1 post on Sunday.)

 

2.     At least one of your two required posts must be a response or reply to another group

        member.  I expect you to read and respond to the posts from other group members.  You

        must respond to another group member at least once during the week to earn full credit. 

 

3.     Your posts must be meaningful and about the subject material.  Read what your other group

        members have written about a topic before posting.  If your post is a repeat of what has

        already been said, then you are not adding anything to your group’s discussion and this will

        not be counted as a meaningful post. If you are concerned that your posts are too short, you

        can always post several times per day in different topic areas.

 

        Procedural posts will not count toward your grade.  This includes posts such as “I could not

        get the link to work.  Did anyone have better luck” or “I agree” or “Thank you for posting this

        information. It really helped me.”  You could make these is a substantive post by adding more

        information that relates to the discussion topic or expands on the topic. Posting the discussion         topic question without comment is a procedural post and will not count.

 

        It is acceptable to make a response that expands on another person’s post, including any    personal comments that you want to make.  (Just remember to be respectful of other people!) 

If you want to restate something that someone has said to clarify the meaning or make a correction, that is perfectly fine. 

 

4.     Be polite to each other.  It is okay to disagree with someone else’s opinion or interpretation

        but disagree politely.  Remember that people may not be able to tell if you are being sarcastic

        or witty when they are reading your posts.  Be careful and considerate!  The instructor can

        and will remove you from your discussion group for inappropriate postings.  If this happens,

        your grade for any remaining discussion topics will be a zero (0) and you will not be given the

        chance to make these points up in an alternate fashion.

 

5.     When you post an answer to a discussion topic, especially if you are the first one to respond,

        please do not answer every question.  Leave some room for other group members to share

        in the discussion.  For example, if you asked to compare two organisms, you might discuss

        one way the organisms are similar and one way they are different.  That gives an opportunity

        for another group member to contribute to the discussion by bringing up other similarities and

        differences.  Some questions have multiple parts (part a through f). You can just answer one

        or two of the parts and leave the other parts for other group members. Start a conversation –

        don’t “hog” the conversation! 

 

        Your group should try to answer all of the questions.  You do not have to post every answer.

 

6.     It is perfectly okay to bring up new material, point out interesting websites, and add more

        information in your posts, as long as the material posted pertains to the material covered in the unit under discussion.  You may also post questions and answers about study guide

        materials but try to make sure that your group covers all of the discussion topics for the week.

 

7.     Remember, these are discussions!  It helps if you ask questions as part of your post; this might make it easier for other students to reply.  Put your questions at the end of your post.

 

8.     Please do not use abbreviations in your posts.  OMG, LOL and other texting shortcuts are not

        appropriate in the discussion forums.

 

9.     What do you do if you feel like you need to move to another group?  E-mail your instructor and

        ask to be moved and explain why you would like to move.  There is no guarantee that you will

        be moved or that you will like the new group any better than the old one.  If you are moved,

        you will not have access to your old posts. 

 

10.   Discussion forums usually start on Monday (12:00 am) and end on 11:59 pm the following

        Sunday.  Any posts made after the end of the time period will not count for credit.

 

11.   There will be 14 weeks of discussion topics posted by the instructor for your group. You will

        receive a grade for your participation in your group discussion forum.  Each week will be worth

        5 points (14 weeks x 5 points = 70 points total). 

 

        Almost 11% of your grade comes from participating in the discussion groups.  If you do        not participate, it will affect your grade.  Please take the discussion groups seriously!

 

12.   Posts made after the posting deadline for the week will not be counted for credit.

 

Weekly discussion grades will be assessed using the following general criteria:

(a.)  Did you contribute at least TWO times on different days?  Remember that a post that repeats

        what another group member has already posted does not count for credit. 

 

(b.)  Did you post in a timely fashion?  Your posts must be submitted within the deadlines in

        order to earn credit for posting. 

 

(c.)   Were your posts relevant to the discussion topic?  Or, as an alternative, did you introduce

        new material for the group to consider? Were your posts meaningful? 

 

(d.)  Did you read and respond to postings of your group members at least once?   You must

        respond to another group member.  Responses to yourself will not count.

 

Students are encouraged to post often.  That way, you are reviewing the materials and others have a chance to correct any mistakes or misconceptions. 

 

These weekly discussion groups are an important part of the class.  If you do not participate in these weekly discussion groups, your grade will suffer.  In the past, some students who did not participate in the weekly discussion groups have found themselves lacking 5-20 points in order to pass the course.  At that point, it is too late to wish that you had not thrown away the 70 points by not participating.  There will be nothing you can do at that point to improve your grade.  This is an uncomfortable position to be in, so please do not put yourself in this position!

 

 

HOMEWORK

 

You will be given a homework assignment for each unit. You will find the homework assignment in the “Course Content” folder, under the “Unit Course Content” folder for each unit. Each homework assignment is worth 15 points.  Most homework assignments will require Internet access; some may require a high-speed connection in order to work.  If you do not have access at home, you can use a computer in an ACC computer lab or Learning Lab.  Exams will include questions over homework materials.

 

You will submit your homework through Blackboard.  There is a paper-based set of instructions that explains what you need to do for the homework.  This includes the questions that you need to answer.  After completing the instructions, you will use your answers to work through a Blackboard-based homework.  After finishing the Blackboard-based homework, you will submit your homework through Blackboard.  You will only have one chance to submit the Blackboard-based assignment for credit. No credit will be given for the paper-based instructions.

 

There will be a deadline for turning in homework for each unit.   After the deadline, the Blackboard-based homework will not be available and your grade will be zero (0).  There is no credit for late homework.  Please do not wait until the last minute to do your homework.  If your server is not working or the internet goes down or you have a technology problem, you will not be able to submit your homework in a timely fashion.

 

After you have submitted your homework in Blackboard, you will be able to check immediately to see if your answers were correct.  Also, you can access the graded homework by going into My Grades, clicking on the homework assignment (highlighted in blue) and then clicking on the blue highlighted grade.  You should then be able to see your homework, your answers and correct answers.  See the course schedule for specific deadlines.

 

11.6% of your grade comes from homework and this material is tested on exams.  If you do not do your homework, it will affect your grade.  Please do the homework!

 

EXAMS

 

There are five required unit exams and an optional comprehensive final.  Exams are only available on specific days.  Exams must be taken in an ACC testing center or pre-approved location.

 

Unit Exams

Each unit exam is worth 100 points.  Each unit exam has two parts:

(1)  45 objective questions (multiple choice or true-false).  Each objective question will be worth 2

      points.  That makes the objective section worth 90 points total.

(2) Short answer questions.  There will be two short answer questions, worth 5 points each.  This

      section will be worth 10 points total.

(3) Extra credit question.  There will be one written extra credit questions, worth 2 points.

 

You may be tested on any material covered in the study guide, homework, and discussion topics.  In addition to your ability to remember facts and definitions, you will also be tested on your ability to apply what you have learned to new situations, identify relationships, and analyze situations using the facts and terms you have learned.  I have included a copy of Bloom’s taxonomy, a method of classifying different levels on learning, on the Blackboard site.  While most of your learning falls under knowledge (1.00), you will also have to use comprehension (2.00), application (3.00) and analysis (4.00).  See the Bloom’s Taxonomy document in the Syllabus section of Blackboard.

 

There are no retests or makeup exams in this course for the five required exams.  However, you can use the optional comprehensive final exam (discussed below) to replace your lowest non-zero exam grade.  The final will not substitute for a required exam that you did not take.

Optional Comprehensive Final

An optional comprehensive final will be available during the last few days of the semester.  The final will cover all the material in the five units.  The final consists of 53 multiple choice questions, each worth two points.  Three of the questions are extra credit.  Your grade on the comprehensive final will be used to substitute for your lowest required exam but will not be used to substitute for an exam that you did not take.  If your grade on the comprehensive final is lower than your lowest required exam grade, the final will not be counted.  The final cannot hurt your grade; it can only improve it. If you have a borderline grade take the final!

 

Extra Credit

There are two ways you can earn extra credit. (1) Each unit has a set of practice questions to help you work through some of the unit material. Unit 5 has two sets of practice questions. Once you have completed the paper-based practice questions, there is a Blackboard-based assignment over the practice question materials. See course schedule for due dates. You can earn up to 3 points of extra credit per unit for a total of 18 possible extra credit points. (2) Each unit exam has one extra written question that you can answer for extra credit, for a total of 10 possible extra credit points over the semester. The optional final has up to 6 extra credit points. Collectively, there are 28-32 possible extra credit points. There are no other extra credit options for this class.  There are no extra credit papers that will replace your exam grades.  If you want to replace your lowest exam grade, take the optional final.

 

Preparing for Exams

1.  Use the study guide to direct your studying.  The study guide has been written to go through the material in a sensible fashion.  The material in the study guide, including the study questions, is as important as the material in the textbook or online videos/activities.  In some sections, you will find that certain pages in the textbook have been skipped. You do not need to cover this material.

 

2.  Participate in the online discussion groups.  Make sure you are familiar with all of the concepts covered in the discussion topics, whether your group discussed them or not.

 

3.  Do your homework in a timely fashion.   If you submit your homework in a timely fashion, you will have the opportunity to check your answers to see if they were correct before taking the exam.

 

4.  Before you take the unit exam, go back and review the material in the study guide, textbook, discussion topics, practice questions and homework.   You may be tested on any material covered in the study guide, homework, or weekly discussion topics. 

 

Taking Exams in the ACC Testing Centers

Exams must be taken exams at an ACC Testing Center.  (See next two sections of the syllabus for alternatives.)  You can take your exams at any ACC Testing Center.  The locations and hours of operation for each testing center can be found at: Testing Services . Some testing centers have different schedules from others.  You are responsible for knowing the schedule of the testing center you intend to use.

 

You will take your exam on Blackboard on a computer in the Testing Center.  You will be given scratch paper at the testing center for use during the electronic exam.  If you have not taken exams on a computer in the ACC testing center before, please visit this web site before your first exam:  Secure Online Testing

 

All exams consist of questions from instructor-generated question pools.  Each exam is randomly generated and will give students a different group of questions from the question pool for that unit.

Each exam will have two sections:  part A and part B.  Part A will have multiple choice questions and you will receive your score as soon as you submit part A of the exam.  Part B will have two written short-answer questions and one written extra credit questions.  Each exam is worth 100 points plus two extra credit points.

 

The two sections of the exam are separate.  You can take them in any order, but you must finish one and submit it before opening the other one – you cannot switch back and forth between them.  If you open another window or tab during the exam, your exam will be automatically submitted as is. Your score for Part A will show up automatically in your grades in Blackboard.  I will grade the short-answer section online and post the grades on Blackboard.  Exams are graded on a first-in, first-out basis.  You should expect your grade on Part B to be posted within a few days. 

 

If a problem arises in the testing center (power failure, ACC server or Blackboard is down, etc.), please send me an e-mail immediately.   You can also ask the staff at the testing center to call my office and leave a message about the problem. (Office phone number: 512-223-0323.)

 

Remember that the exam is a computer-based exam.  Remember there will be two sections to exams 1-5.  (The optional final has multiple choice questions only.)  You will add the score on Part A and Part B of each exam to find out your total grade for the exam.

 

If all of the testing center computers are in-use, you will have to wait for one to be available.  You will not be given an extension on test deadlines if you wait until the last day to take the exam and could not get access to a testing center computer.

 

You should allow a minimum of one hour to take exams for this class and it may take longer. The testing center will close promptly at its stated closing time. If students are still taking exams, the exams will be collected. If closing time is 8:00 pm, your exam will be collected at 8:00 pm.

 

Taking Exams in a SAS Office

Students with disabilities can take their exams at any ACC testing center.  In order to send exams to a SAS office, I must first receive your letter of accommodation.  Please tell me which SAS office you wish to use.  Most SAS offices can administer Blackboard-based exams.  If paper exams are specified in your accommodation letter, I will send your exams to the SAS office of your choice.

 

If taking paper exams, please e-mail me after you have completed each exam, so I know you have taken the exam.  This is critical for the final, because the deadline is very close to the semester’s end. I may not receive it in time and this could affect your grade. It is your responsibility to send me an e-mail stating that you have completed each exam. You can also request that your SAS office make a copy of your paper-based exam, just in case the exam is lost in the intercampus mail. If you take paper-based exams instead of computer-based exams, the exam format will be the same.  Once I receive your exam, I will grade it and post the results in Blackboard.  It will take a little longer for me to grade your exam because it must be delivered by intercampus mail to deliver the exam before I can grade it.  Campus mail usually takes 1-2 business days but it could take as long as 5 business days. If I do not receive your last exam by the time I have to turn in grades at the end of the semester, and you have e-mailed me that you have completed the exam, I will give you an incomplete and then change your grade once I receive and grade your exam.

 

Taking Exams by Special Arrangement with Distance Testing Office

Please contact me as soon as possible for instructions on how to take your exams.  Final arrangements for testing at alternate sites must be completed during the first week of the semester.  If you have waited until the semester has started to discuss details about distance testing, the instructor may not have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.  If this happens, you will not be given additional time to take Exam 1. You will find more information at this web page: Distance Testing

 

 

What’s On the Exams?

Exam #	What’s Covered on Each Exam
Exam 1	Section 1, Section 2, Section 3; Homework 1; Discussion Topics 1 and 2
Exam 2	Section 4, Section 5, Section 6 (pp 49-54); Homework 2; Discussion Topics 3, 4 and 5
Exam 3	Section 6 (pp 55-60), Section 7; Section 8 (pp 76-85, stop at Genetic Drift); Homework 3; Discussion Topics 6, 7 and 8
Exam 4	Section 8 (pp 85-93, start with Genetic Drift); Section 9; Section 10, Section 11; Homework 4; Discussion Topics 9, 10 and 11
Exam 5	Section 12, Section 13; Section 14; Homework 5; Discussion Topics 12, 13 and 14
Final	Optional Comprehensive Final; covers all course materials

 

DEADLINES AND IMPORTANT DATES

 

Mandatory Orientation Deadline

You MUST complete your orientation, including your e-mail to me, by 11:59 pm, January 27, 2019.  I must receive your signed and completed student information sheet by this date and time.

 

Mandatory Discussion Group Deadlines

Discussion Topics	Deadline
Week 1	Sunday, January 27 (11:59 pm)
Week 2	Sunday, February 3 (11:59 pm)
Week 3	Sunday, February 10 (11:59 pm)
Week 4	Sunday, February 17 (11:59 pm)
Week 5	Sunday, February 24 (11:59 pm)
Week 6	Sunday, March 3 (11:59 pm)
Week 7	Sunday, March 10 (11:59 pm)
Week 8	Sunday, March 17 (11:59 pm)
Week 9	Sunday, March 31 (11:59 pm)
Week 10	Sunday, April 7 (11:59 pm)
Week 11	Sunday, April 14 (11:59 pm)
Week 12	Sunday, April 21 (11:59 pm)
Week 13	Sunday, April 28 (11:59 pm)
Week 14	Sunday, May 5 (11:59 pm)

Mandatory Homework Deadlines

Homework #	Deadline
1	Wednesday, January 30 (11:59 pm)
2	Wednesday, February 20 (11:59 pm)
3	Wednesday, March 13 (11:59 pm)
4	Wednesday, April 10 (11:59 pm)
5	Wednesday, May 1 (11:59 pm)

 

Extra Credit Practice Questions Deadlines

Practice Questions #	Deadline
1	Friday, February 1 (5:00 pm)
2	Friday, February 22 (5:00 pm)
3	Friday, March 15 (5:00 pm)
4	Friday, April 12 (5:00 pm)
5	Friday, May 3 (5:00 pm)
6	Friday, May 3 (5:00 pm)

 

Other Important Dates

            Last Day to Withdraw without a W:                February 6, 2019

            Last Day to Withdraw with a W:                     April 29, 2019

            College Closed for Spring Break:                   March 18-March 22, 2019

            College Closed for Easter Sunday:                April 21, 2019

 

What Happens If You Miss A Deadline

            Miss Mandatory Orientation Deadline:                              Dropped from the class

 

            Miss Discussion Group Posting Deadlines:                      No credit for late posts

 

            Miss Homework Deadlines:                                                 No credit for late homework

 

            Miss Practice Questions Deadlines:                                  No extra credit for unit

 

            Miss Exam Deadlines:                     

            If you miss a deadline, you will get a 0 on that exam and you will not be able to use

            the final to replace it. 

 

            Needless to say, you do not want to miss these deadlines!  Remember, in this course a

            deadline is the last day to take the exam in a timely fashion.  You should try to take the

            exam at least 1-2 days before the deadline.  There is an automatic 24-hour grace period for

            all unit exams, which means you can take the exam the following day and still have it

            counted.  There are no extensions past the grace period. 

 

            In the case of a serious documented medical emergency or unavoidable conflict with a

            deadline, get in touch with me immediately to make alternate arrangements (if possible).  

 

The deadline for the optional final is not negotiable.

Mandatory Exam Deadlines

You must take your exams by the deadlines below.  I enforce the deadlines, not the testing centers.  The deadline is the last day to take the exam in a timely manner.  To avoid problems, try to take your exam 1-2 days before the deadline.  Note:  For exams 1-5, there is an automatic 24-hour grace period after the exam deadline.  I will not accept any exams taken after the grace period for credit and your grade will be zero.  There is no grace period for the optional final (see table for deadlines).  You may take exams at any ACC testing center.

 

Exam #	Exam Covers	Status	Format of Exam	Mandatory Deadline
1	Sections 1, 2 and 3 Homework #1 Discussion Topics 1 and 2	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Feb 6
2	Sections 4, 5 and 6 (pp 49-54) Homework #2 Discussion Topics 3, 4 and 5	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Feb 27
3	Sections 6 (pp 55-60), 7, and 8 (pp 76-85) Homework #3 Discussion Topics 6, 7 and 8	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Mar 27
4	Sections 8 (pp 85-93); 9, 10 and 11 Homework #4 Discussion Topics 9, 10 and 11	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday Apr 17
5	Sections 12, 13 and 14 Homework #5 Discussion Topics 12, 13 and 14	Required	45 objective questions (90 pts + 2 written questions (10 pts) + 2 written extra credit questions (4 pts)	Wednesday May 8
6	Comprehensive Final (Optional)	Optional	50 objective questions + 3 extra credit	Thursday May 16

 

The exams indicated must be completed by the deadlines.   If you miss an exam deadline for a required exam, there is an automatic 24-hour grace period.  You do not have to ask me to use the 24-hour grace period.  (There is no grace period for the final.)   Any exam taken after the grace period will not be accepted for credit (without documented proof of a medical emergency).  It is your responsibility to complete the exams by the deadlines.

 

How does the grace period work? It is essentially an automatic extension of the deadline for 24 hours. Let’s look at Exam 1 as an example. If the deadline for Exam 1 is Feb 6, then you can take Exam 1 on Feb 7 without penalty. Grace period for Exam 2: Feb 28. Grace period for Exam 3: Mar 28. Grace period for Exam 4: Apr 18. Grace period for Exam 5: May 9. There is no grace period for the optional final. You do not need to ask me for permission to use the grace period.

 

Unit exams become available on the Thursday before the mandatory deadline. Unit 1 exam opens January 31. Unit 2 exam opens February 21. Unit 3 exam opens March 14. Unit 4 exam opens April 11. Unit 5 exam opens May 2. The final exam opens May 9.

USING THE TESTING CENTER

 

The Testing Centers are here to facilitate the test-taking process for open campus students.  However, you must do your share in order to be prepared.  Read the “ACC Testing Center Procedures for Students” on pages 20-22 of the syllabus.  Be aware of their policies before you take your first exam.  The Testing Centers are very strict about enforcing their policies and you need to know about them in advance.   You must have an ACC photo student ID to use the testing center.  You will not be able to use the Testing Center without the student photo ID.  More information about the Testing Centers is available at Instructional Testing

 

Please be aware of their policy:  Testing is done on a “first come, first serve” basis. Sometimes there is a long wait to use the testing center.  If the testing center closes before you can get in to take the test, you will have to come back again.  Make sure you get to the testing center with plenty of time before they close.  This is another good reason not to wait until the deadline to take your exam.

 

Testing Center Policy:

Under certain circumstances, an instructor may have students take an examination in a testing center. Students using the Academic Testing Center must govern themselves according to the Testing Center Guidelines and should read the entire guide before going to take the exam.

 

To request an exam, one must have:

• ACC Photo ID

• Course Abbreviation:            BIOL
• Course Number:                   1309
• Course Synonym:                 68744
• Course Section:                    012
• Instructor's Name:                Bernice Speer

• Check the box for Distance Learning
• Check the box for Computer-based Test
• Test number = (Be very careful to put the correct test number)
• Instructor’s home campus = RRC                                   

 

Do NOT bring cell phones to the Testing Center. Having your cell phone in the testing room, regardless of whether it is on or off, will revoke your testing privileges for the remainder of the semester. ACC Testing Center guidelines can be found at Testing Center Guidelines.  If your testing privileges are revoked, you will not be allowed to test in my office or anywhere else.

 

Keep the yellow copies of your student testing agreement form until you receive your course grade. They are your only proof that you completed an exam if the online exam was lost due to a computer problem.  It is your responsibility to keep the paperwork.

 

Verify the exam before you start to take it.  For electronic exams, you will be responsible for signing into Blackboard and choosing the correct exam from the list of available exams. 

 

You should allow a minimum of one hour to take exams for this class.  It may take you longer than an hour to finish an exam.  Please note:  The testing center will close promptly at its stated closing time. If you are still taking an exam, your exam will be collected. This means if it is 7:30 pm and the Testing Center closes at 8:00 pm, you will only have 30 minutes to finish both parts of the exam.  

 

What If There Is A Problem At The Testing Center?

When any problem occurs at a testing center, remember that you, I or the testing center staff may have made a mistake. If a problem occurs at the testing center that they cannot resolve, you should e-mail me at soon as possible. You can also leave a message at my office (512-223-0323).

 

Please treat the testing center staff as nicely as you want them to treat you.  You can ask them to call me (they have my cell phone number), but they may be too busy while you are there to try to solve the problem. The best thing you can do is to notify me immediately by e-mail and I will try to solve the problem. When you contact me, include a description of the problem and the testing center location.

 

If the computers or Blackboard are not working, you can try another testing center or go back when they are working again.  If you miss a deadline because of a computer not working or problems with Blackboard, please ask the testing center staff to e-mail me to explain the problem.  Always e-mail me as soon as possible if there are any problems at the testing center. 

 

If you do not follow instructions carefully while taking an electronic exam, Blackboard may terminate the exam before you are finished.  Please read the Student FAQs under “Questions and Answers” at this website before you go to the testing center:  Secure Online Testing

 

Follow instructions that appear on the screen.  Click NO if asked if your instructor has assigned a password for the exam.  You do not have to save each answer but you can.  If the computer crashes, saved answers can be retrieved.  Otherwise, you will lose all of your answers.  Do NOT use the enter key or press the submit button at the bottom of the exam until you have answered all of the questions!  Once you submit the exam, you cannot retake it again.

 

If you are taking an exam in Blackboard, you cannot open a web page or click to a web page that is already open.  If you do this, Blackboard will terminate your exam.  If this occurs, then your grade for that exam will be a zero, since this is considered academic dishonesty.  You will not be given another chance to take the exam.   See the policy on academic dishonesty.

 

 

WITHDRAWALS

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the roll should he or she decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he/she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The student is also strongly encouraged to retrain their copy of the withdrawal form for their records.  Students who enroll for the third or subsequent time in a course taken since Fall, 2002, may be charged a higher tuition rate, for that course. State law permits students to withdraw from no more than six courses during their entire undergraduate career at Texas public colleges or universities. With certain exceptions, all course withdrawals automatically count towards this limit. Details regarding this policy can be found in the ACC college catalog.  You can find more information about the “Rule of Three or Third Course Attempt” at Third Attempt.  Information about the “Texas Six Drop Rule” can be found at Six Course Limit

 

 

Student-initiated withdrawal:

If you decide to withdraw from the class, you will complete this activity through Online Services.

 

 

The last day to drop the class without leaving a W on your transcript is February 6, 2019.  If you withdraw by this date, you do not have to worry about the six course withdrawal rule.

 

The last day to withdraw for the semester (the Final Withdrawal Date) is April 27, 2019.  If you withdraw between February 7 and April 27, you will get a W on your transcript and it will count toward the six-course withdrawal limit.

 

Instructor-initiated withdrawal:

You will be withdrawn from the class by the instructor if you do not complete the orientation materials by the orientation deadline of 11:59 pm on January 27, 2019.  I must receive your signed and dated orientation materials by this deadline.

 

To complete orientation, you must send me a completed and SIGNED orientation form AND send an e-mail confirmation, by 11:59 pm on January 27, 2019.

 

At my discretion, I may also drop students who have missed one or more exams.  

 

These course policies apply to ALL students, even those who are repeating the class or those who added the class during late registration.

 

If you are dropped for these reasons, you will not be reinstated.  

 

 

INCOMPLETES

An instructor may award a grade of “I” (Incomplete) if a student was unable to complete all of the objectives for a passing grade in the course.  An incomplete grade cannot be carried beyond the established date in the following semester.  The completion date is determined by the instructor but may not be later than the final deadline for withdrawal in the subsequent semester.

 

A grade of "I" (Incomplete) for this class will be given only if:

1.   You have taken exams on a regular basis. 

 

2.   You have completed your homework on time.

 

3.   You have participated in your online discussion group regularly.

 

4.   You have taken and passed successfully least 4 out of the 5 exams with a minimum average grade of C (70%).

 

5.   You have completed four exams with a minimum average grade of C (70%) before the drop deadline.  Your overall average in the course must be at least 70%.

 

6.   You have spoken with me prior to the last day of class, requested an incomplete grade in writing, and supplied documentation of the cause for requesting an incomplete.

 

7.   Once these criteria are met, I will decide whether to give an incomplete grade.  If an incomplete grade is given, you must complete and sign an incomplete form.  I must have receipt of the form signed by the student no later than May 16, 2019 by 5:00 pm.  If a student does not complete and sign the necessary paperwork, an incomplete grade will NOT be given.

 

 

ATTENDANCE/CLASS PARTICIPATION POLICY

Regular class attendance is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.  Everyone is expected to participate regularly in class activities, including homework and online discussion groups.

 

IS DISTANCE LEARNING THE RIGHT FORMAT FOR YOU OR NOT?

If this is your first distance learning class, you may be wondering whether distance learning is the right format for you or not.  Here are some resources that may help you answer that question.

 

First, take the learning style survey at: Am I Ready for Distance Education?

This survey will help you decide whether your learning style matches up with distance learning.

 

Then, take the technical skills checklist at: Technical Skills Checklist

This will help you see if you have the technical skills needed for an online course.

 

VARK is another good resource for any student.  Taking a VARK questionnaire can help you discover how you learn.  Once you know your personal learning styles, there are many useful techniques that can help you study more efficiently.

 

First, take the questionnaire here: VARK Questionnaire.  After you submit the questionnaire, you will see your score and be directed to more information about your specific learning styles.  Go to  those pages to get more information about how to study effectively with your specific learning style.

 

BAD WEATHER

If classes are cancelled because of bad weather or other problems, ACC notifies instructors and students on the ACC homepage (ACC Home Page and on local radio and television stations.

 

In the unlikely event that the college is closed unexpectedly on the day of a grace period for an exam, the grace period will be extended. If only one campus is closed unexpectedly, the grace period will not be extended.

 

CONCEALED HANDGUN AND CAMPUS-CARRY POLICY

The Concealed Campus Carry video includes important information on who can carry a concealed handgun, where they can carry, LTC responsibilities, and how to report a violation. Students are required to watch this video during the first week of class to ensure students have this important information:  ACC Concealed Campus Carry Policy

 

The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on

campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy. It is the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns at all times. Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 222 from a campus phone or 512-223-7999. Refer to the concealed handgun policy online at Campus Carry

 

 

Course Schedule

BIOL 1309 Life on Earth (ONL)

 Spring Semester 2019

 

Date	Course Work and Exams
Week 1 Jan 22-Jan 27	Work through Section 1 in study guide and start on Section 2. Start Homework #1. Post to online discussion group for week 1. Complete and submit orientation materials by deadline.
Week 2 Jan 28-Feb 3	Finish Section 2 and Section 3 in study guide Submit Homework #1 by Wednesday deadline. (Exam 1 is available on the next day.) Submit Practice Questions #1 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 2
Week 3 Feb 4-Feb 10	Take exam 1 by Wednesday, February 6 (Grace Period: Thurs, Feb 7). Work through Section 4 in study guide and start on Section 5. Start Homework #2.  Post to online discussion group for week 3
Week 4 Feb 11-Feb 17	Finish Section 5 and start on Section 6 (pp 49-54) in study guide. Work on Homework #2. Post to online discussion group for week 4
Week 5 Feb 18-Feb 24	Finish Section 6 (pp 49-54) in study guide. Submit Homework #2 by Wed deadline.  (Exam 2 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #2 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 5
Week 6 Feb 25-Mar 3	Take exam 2 by Wednesday, February 27 (Grace Period: Thurs, Feb 28). Work through Section 6 (pp 55-60). Start Homework #3. Post to online discussion group for week 6
Week 7 Mar 4-Mar 10	Work through Section 7 in study guide and start on Section 8 (pp 76-85).  Work on Homework #3. Post to online discussion group for week 7
Week 8 Mar 11-Mar 17	Finish Section 8 (pp 76-85) in study guide.  Submit Homework #3 by Wed deadline.  (Exam 3 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #3 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 8
Week 9 Mar 25-Mar 31	Take exam 3 by Wednesday, March 27 (Grace Period: Thurs, Mar 28). Work through Section 8 (pp 85-93) and Section 9 in study guide.  Start Homework #4. Post to online discussion group for week 9
Week 10 Apr 1-Apr 7	Work through Section 10 in study guide and start on Section 11. Work on Homework #4. Post to online discussion group for week 10
Week 11 Apr 8-Apr 14	Finish Section 11 in study guide. Submit Homework #4 by Wed deadline. (Exam 4 is available on the next day.)  Submit Practice Questions #4 by Fri deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 11
Week 12 Apr 15-Apr 21	Take exam 4 by Wednesday, April 17 (Grace Period: Thurs, Apr 18). Work through Section 12 in study guide and start on Section 13. Start Homework #5. Post to online discussion group for week 12
Week 13 Apr 22-Apr 28	Finish Section 13 in study guide and start on Section 14. Work on Homework #5. Post to online discussion group for week 13
Week 14 Apr 29-May 5	Finish Section 14 in study guide. Submit Homework #5 by Wed deadline. (Exam 5 is available on the next day.) Submit Practice Questions #5 and # 6 by Friday deadline. Post to online discussion group for week 14
Week 15 May 6-May 12	Take exam 5 by Wednesday, May 8 (Grace Period: Thurs, May 9). Optional final becomes available on May 9.
Week 16	Take optional final by Thursday, May 16 (no grace period).

 

 

ACC ACADEMIC POLICIES AND SERVICES

 

Statement on Scholastic Dishonesty

A student attending ACC assumes responsibility for conduct compatible with the mission of the college as an educational institution. Students have the responsibility to submit coursework that is the result of their own thought, research, or self-expression. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations. Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, and falsifying documents. Penalties for scholastic dishonesty will depend upon the nature of the violation and may range from lowering a grade on one assignment to an “F” in the course and/or expulsion from the college. See the Student Standards of Conduct and Disciplinary Process and other policies at Student Standards of Conduct

 

I treat acts of scholastic dishonesty following the policies outlined in the ACC Student Standards of Conduct and Disciplinary Process.   For information on those policies, see Disciplinary Process

 

Student Rights and Responsibilities
Students at the college have the rights accorded by the U.S. Constitution to freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition, and association. These rights carry with them the responsibility to accord the same rights to others in the college community and not to interfere with or disrupt the educational process. Opportunity for students to examine and question pertinent data and assumptions of a given discipline, guided by the evidence of scholarly research, is appropriate in a learning environment. This concept is accompanied by an equally demanding concept of responsibility on the part of the student. As willing partners in learning, students must comply with college rules and procedures.

 

Statement on Students With Disabilities

Each ACC campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through the Office of Students Accessibility Services (SAS).  Students are encouraged to request accommodations when they register for courses or at least three weeks before the start of the semester, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed.

 

Students who have received approval for accommodations from SAS for this course must provide the instructor with the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from SAS before accommodations will be provided.  Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student.

 

Students with approved accommodations are encouraged to submit the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ to the instructor at the beginning of the semester because a reasonable amount of time may be needed to prepare and arrange for the accommodations.

 

Additional information is available at Student Accessibility Services

 

Safety Statement

Austin Community College is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for study and work. You are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies. Additional information on these can be found at ACC Environmental Health and Safety. Because some health and safety circumstances are beyond our control, we ask that you become familiar with the Emergency Procedures poster and Campus Safety Plan map in each classroom.

Please note, you are expected to conduct yourself professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual will be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

 

Additional information about emergency procedures and how to sign up for ACC Emergency Alerts to be notified in the event of a serious emergency can be found at Emergency Management

 

 

Student and Instructional Services

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services. Information on these services and support systems is available at Learning Support

 

Links to many student services and other information can be found at Current Students

 

ACC Learning Labs provide free tutoring services to all ACC students currently enrolled in the course to be tutored. The tutor schedule for each Learning Lab may be found at Tutoring

 

For help setting up your ACCeID, ACC Gmail, or ACC Blackboard, see a Learning Lab Technician at any ACC Learning Lab. More information is available at Learning Lab

 

Student Support Services

Resources to support you are available at every campus. Food pantries are available at all campus Student Life offices (Food Pantry).  Assistance paying for childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center (Campus Support Center). For sudden, unexpected expenses that may cause you to withdraw from one or more of your courses, go to Student Emergency Fund to request emergency assistance through the Student Emergency Fund. Help with budgeting for college and family life is available through the Student Money Management Office (Money Management Office). Counselors are available at any campus if you experience a personal or mental health concern (Counseling). All services are free and confidential.

 

Distance Learning Counselor

ACC now offers specialized counseling services to address the unique needs of Distance Learning (DL) students. The Distance Learning Counselor will work with DL students to help them understand how to select appropriate courses and decide on reasonable academic loads,and address other Student Services questions regarding online and distance education. DL students may email the DL Counselor, Carol Townsend, at townsend@austincc.edu or contact her by phone at 512-223-6081.

 

 

ACC Policy Concerning Copyrighted Materials

All class materials provided on ACC web pages, electronic reserves, on diskette, and in printed form are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the copyright holder. This may be the instructor, ACC, or a publisher.  Reproduction consists of photocopying, scanning and copying files, or posting on a server or web site.  For more information about ACC’s policy on copyright material, go to Copyright

 

Students currently registered for this section have permission to print one copy of course materials their own personal use. No permission is given for posting any course materials on web sites.

 

 

 

 

ACC Testing Center Procedures for Students

Updated January 11, 2018

 

Austin Community College provides testing services to ACC faculty and students.  To ensure test integrity and adequate space for testing, ACC has established the following guidelines:

 

A. I.D. Requirement

     1.  Students must present an ACC ID, a current government issued ID, or school issued ID in order to

         test. Students who test without an ACC ID must know their ACC ID number.

     2. ACC Photo IDs may be obtained at any campus Admissions & Records Office.

     3. An instructor may accompany a student without the proper ID to identify the student at the time of

         testing.

 

B. To request a test, the following information is required:

     1. Course Abbreviation & Course Number

     2. Instructor’s Name

     3. Student ID Number

     4. Test Number

 

C. Testing Materials

1. If approved by the instructor, Testing Centers provide paper, scanform answer sheets and English

     dictionaries and Thesauri.

     2. Calculators: Instructors must approve both the use and type of calculator for students.  Testing Centers have limited supplies of calculators for student use.

     3.  Students may bring foreign language dictionaries if approved by the instructor.  Dictionaries must not

         contain any extraneous written notations.  Electronic dictionaries are not allowed in the Testing Centers.

     4. Possession of any testing materials or items not authorized by Testing Center staff are not allowed and

         are in violation of Testing Center academic integrity policy.

 

D. Use of notes 

     1.  Notes must be pre-authorized by the instructor.

     2. Notes must be written or typed on an “8 ½ x 11” sheet of paper.

     3.  Notes will be collected, attached to the completed test, and returned to the instructor.

     4.  Notes written on index cards and any size sheet other than 8½ x 11 are not allowed.

 

E. Prohibited Items

     1.  Cell phones and all electronic devices

     2. Brimmed hats, hoods (except for religious head apparel)

     3. Food and drink

     4. Tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices

     5.  All watches

     6.  Cases and pouches

     7.  Firearms

 

F. Campus Carry

     All Assessment and Testing Centers are Exclusion Zones. A License to Carry (LTC) Holder may not

     carry a concealed handgun, weapon, or firearm.

     1.  A License to Carry (LTC) Holder shall not leave a handgun unattended regardless of whether stored in

         a locker, locked container, desk drawer, cabinet, office, backpack, purse, or other similar bag or

         carryall.

     2.  A License to Carry (LTC) Holder may lawfully store their handgun or ammunition in a locked, privately

         owned motor vehicle on any driveway, street, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area

         provided by or under the control of the Austin Community College District.

     3.  Only law enforcement personnel with proper law enforcement ID are allowed to have their firearms in

         Testing Centers. They may not take in cell phones, radios or any other electronic item while testing.

G.   Surveillance and Monitoring 

In addition to monitoring by staff, the Testing Centers employ audio, video and computer surveillance and recording technologies to maintain an environment of academic integrity.

 

H. Student Test Deadlines

     Testing Center staff do not give out test deadlines to students.

 

I.   Written Permission from Instructor

     1.  If the test deadline has passed, the student must present written or emailed (to student from

         professor’s ACC email) permission from the instructor to test. Phone calls from instructors are not

         acceptable.

     2.  Some tests require permission from the instructor which must be presented when the student requests

         an exam.

 

J. Retesting

     1. If an instructor has made provisions, retesting is available to students.

     2.  Students are not allowed to request a specific test version.

 

K. Completion of Tests

     Once the completed test has been handed to staff by the student, it cannot be reviewed or examined

     again in the Testing Center. Students should contact their instructor for feedback information on the test

     items.

 

L. No Breaks during Testing

     1.  Students taking academic tests may not leave the Testing Center for breaks, to drink water, or go to

         the restroom, unless the Student Accessibility Services office has provided the Testing Center staff

         with documentation to allow breaks. If a student leaves for any reason, including any emergency which

         may arise, the testing session is terminated and the student will not be able to return to complete test. 

         The student must check with the instructor for other testing arrangements.

 

M. Seating Policy

     1. Testing Center staff may assign seating at their discretion.

     2.  When the Testing Center is full,

               a. Students may be put on a wait list to wait for the next available seat.

   b. If student is taking multiple tests and a wait line exist, the student must re-enter the wait queue

        for each test.

 

N. Grades of Incomplete  

     1.  Students are required to bring one of the following to test:

a. Report of Incomplete Grade Form with the instructor’s signature.

b. Email verification from the instructor’s ACC email account.

 

O. Course Homework/Assignments

     Students cannot submit course homework and other assignments to the Testing Center. These items

     should be taken to the Campus Duplication/Mailroom for assistance.

 

P. Lockers

     1.  Lockers are available for students to store belongings while testing.

     2. Students are responsible for the return of the lock and key to Testing Center staff.

     3. A hold will be placed on the student’s record until the lock/key is returned.

     4.  Testing Center staff are not responsible for unsecured items.

 

Q. Children Are Not Allowed in Testing Centers

     Children may not be left unattended at any location on any ACC Campus. Student’s testing session will

     be concluded and the student will be asked to exit the Testing Center to attend to children. Instructor

     approval is required for another attempt toward completing this test.

R. Hours of Operation

     1.  Hours of operation for the campus Instructional Testing Centers vary from campus to campus and are

         located on the ACC website at Instructional Testing

     2.  Emergency closures will be on the ACC website home page. Should an emergency closure occur for

         the college or any campus(s) during open hours, all tests will be immediately collected and instructors

         notified of the emergency closure.

     3. Students will not be admitted and new tests will not be administered after the stated closing time.  

     4.  All test materials are collected from students thirty (30) minutes after closing time.

 

S. Evacuation

     1.  Students must remain with Testing Center staff at all times.

     2.  Students are not allowed to remove any belongings from lockers prior to evacuation. Students who

         remove belongings will be treated as having unauthorized materials and will not be allowed to finish

         testing.

     3.  Students who do not return to the Testing Center with staff will be treated as taking an unauthorized

         break and will not be allowed to finish testing.

 

T. Testing Center Violations

     1.  Students who significantly interfere with or disrupt Testing Center operations are in violation of

         Student Standards of Conduct. Students in violation will be asked to leave the Testing Center and may

         be subject to disciplinary action by the Campus Dean of Student Services.

     2.  A student found to have unauthorized materials including food, drink, tobacco items, cell phones, and

         other electronic devices (including, but limited to, electronic smoking devices or smart watches) are in

         violation of the Testing Center guidelines.  Students in violation will be asked to leave the Testing

         Center and may be subject to disciplinary action.

     3.  The Testing Center staff will complete a Student Discipline Form and forward supporting evidence to

         the appropriate Dean of Student Services.

     4.  Students in violation of guidelines may not use the Testing Centers for the remainder of the semester

         for the course involved.  If testing services are needed, the instructor is responsible for making other

         testing arrangements for these students for the remainder of the semester.

 

U. Academic Misconduct

     1. Academic misconduct refers to any activity that compromises academic integrity or subverts the

         educational process. See Administrative Rules and select AR rule 1.04.006, Guideline/Procedure –

         Academic Integrity and Disciplinary Process, for a complete definition.

     2.  Testing Center staff will complete the Academic Integrity Report, and forward supporting evidence to

         the according instructor who will have five days (from the date he/she meets with the student) to issue

         a written decision to the student, Testing Center Supervisor, Department Chair, Instructional

         Department Dean, and Dean of Student Services.

     3.  Students in violation of guidelines may not use the Testing Centers for the remainder of the semester

         for the course involved. If testing services are needed, instructor(s) are responsible for making other

         testing arrangements for these students.

 

Any guidelines not covered by this documentation will be at the discretion of the Director of Testing, Holly Delacroix-DeRouen or the Executive Dean of Student Services for the Central Region, Dr. Dorado Kinney.

 

Additional Information from Your Instructor: 

Admission to the Academic Testing Center is on a first-come, first-serve basis.  There are times when the Academic Testing Center is very busy and you may have to wait several hours to take your exams.  Plan your time wisely and do not wait until the last minute to try to take your exams.  If you wait until the last minute to take your exam and you cannot get into the Academic Testing Center, the deadline will not be extended.  Contact your instructor if a testing center is unexpectedly closed due to an emergency.  Contact your instructor if Blackboard is unavailable at the Testing Center and ask the Testing Center staff to call me or send me an e-mail confirming the difficulty. The instructor will not provide alternate testing arrangements for students in violation of Testing Center guidelines or for academic misconduct.