Syllabus
Civil Drafting 1

Civil Drafting 1

DFTG-1430

Credit Spring 2021
01/19/2021 - 04/18/2021

Course Information

Section 002
Distance Learning
ONL DIL
Jeffrey Muhammad

Section 002
Laboratory
ONL DIL
Jeffrey Muhammad

Office Hours

  • M T W Th
    11:30a - 1:00p
    Online
    Online only, email jmuhamma@austincc.edu
  • F
    10:00a - 3:00p
    Online
    By appointment only, email jmuhamma@austincc.edu

teaching methodology & description

 

DFTG 1430-002 CIVIL DRAFTING 1 - INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY

This is a 100% ONLINE class. This course has a MANDATORY* online Orientation meeting on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2021, from 3:00p-4:40p where students will receive an overview of the course and online expectations. *Orientation and all class meetings will be recorded and posted to Blackboard for students who are not able to attend. Students will receive a detailed confirmation email from the professor prior to the start date. Contact Jeffrey Muhammad: email jmuhamma@austincc.edu with course questions.

Online learning, is different from traditional face-to-face learning. In particular, time management and study skills are required to be a successful online student.  Students should review the ACC Distance Education General Information available at https://online.austincc.edu/faq/   

Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration.

 

IMPORTANT COURSE DATES

Mandatory Online Orientation: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2021, from 3:00p-4:40p

Online classes: MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS from 3:00p-4:40p,  JAN 19 - APR 18 

 

Links to online classes will be provided in Blackboard.

 

PREREQUISITES: DFTG 1405 Technical Drafting

 

COURSE RATIONALE:

Introduce students to accepted principles, methods and best practices in drafting with AEC software for civil infrastructure design.  Prepare students for advanced level Civil CAD courses.  Provide students with necessary skill sets suitable for entry level employment as a Civil CAD technician.

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION: (4 credit hours) Expected work load is approximately 8 hours per week

An in-depth study of drafting methods and principles used in civil engineering.

Transferability of workforce courses varies. Students interested in transferring courses to another college should speak with their Area of Study (AoS) advisor, Department Chair, and/or Program Director.

REQUIRED TECHNOLOGY, TEXTBOOK AND MATERIALS

REQUIRED TEXTBOOK: Instructor will provide the course curriculum at no cost to student in Blackboard.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS:

Since this course is 100% online, students are required to have the appropriate technology to successfully participate in the course.

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS: A FREE student version of CIVIL 3D 2021 can be downloaded by joining the Autodesk Student Community here >> https://www.autodesk.com/education/edu-software/. Click here for more information about educational downloads. 

When downloading CIVIL 3D 2021, select the "CIVIL 3D" option, do not select the "Civil 3D Project Explorer" option.

INTERNET ACCESS: Students must have access to a high speed internet connection (at least 20 Mbps download speed). Click here to test your internet speed.

COMPUTER HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS: Students must have a computer with a Windows 10 operating system that can run the desktop student version of CIVIL 3D 2021. Autodesk’s system requirements for CIVIL 3D 2021 can be found here. Online meetings require a computer to have a speaker (or telephone) for audio. Please note: CIVIL 3D 2021 runs only on the Windows operating system.It will not run on a Chromebook. Mac users will need either Apple Boot Camp or Parallels installed to run CIVIL 3D 2021.

RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES: A dual monitor display setup is strongly recommended. A computer with a webcam and a microphone is recommended.

If you don’t have access to the technology required for this course, please click here to request help. Students that are unable to meet course requirements may have to drop or withdraw from the course.

 

ACC EMAIL AND BLACKBOARD

ACC Email

All 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 expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account unless other arrangements have been made.  Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff.  Instructions for activating an ACCmail account can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/accmail/index.php.

Blackboard (Bb)

The entire curriculum for this course will be accessed through Blackboard.

  • Distribution of handouts and readings
  • Instructional materials including videos
  • Submissions of assignments and activities
  • Grading

As instructed by your professor, students will be required to access instructional materials via Blackboard.

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

Course Requirements

Any changes will be announced in class and posted in Blackboard

INTRODUCTION
Mandatory online orientation, course syllabus
Unit 01 Intro to Civil Drafting 
Unit 02 Intro to CAD Standards
Unit 03 Intro to Civil 3D Interface
Unit 04 Using an Engineer’s Scale & Sketch to CAD
Unit 05 Model Space, Paper Space, Layouts & Viewports 
Unit 06 Intro to XREFs
 
SITE PLAN DESIGN (some unit numbers have been omitted)
Unit 08.1 DVD video: Basic Surveying (if available from ACC library)
Unit 08.2 Create the Existing Base 
Unit 09 Intro to Surfaces 
Unit 10 Surface Analysis-ELEVATION BANDING 
Unit 11 Surface Analysis-SLOPES
Unit 12 Surface Analysis-DRAINAGE
Unit 13 Erosion/Sedimentation Control & Tree Protection 
Unit 15 Site Area Calculations 
Unit 16 Proposed Dimension Plan
Unit 17 Proposed Grading Plan
Unit 18 Proposed Utility Plan

Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives

Course-Level Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • Interpret field notes; develop documents for a civil project; analyze and layout drainage and utilities infrastructure; and perform related calculations.

(source WECM manual end-of-course outcome).

  • Define terminology and criteria related to land development codes.
  • Utilize AEC (Architecture, Engineering & Construction) Software in the organization & creation of land development drawings.
  • Utilize drawing templates & plot styles
  • Manipulate Civil 3D Object Styles, Label Styles, drawings and data
  • Set up, create, import and manage survey point data
  • Create, edit, annotate and analyze TIN Surfaces
  • Produce drawings for Site Plan land development design project
  • Utilize and manage reference drawings & data.
  • Utilize Page Setups, Layouts and Viewports for plan production

 

 

PROGRAM-LEVEL STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

C1. Utilize CAD drafting & design software to plan and prepare construction documents, technical graphics and visualizations appropriate to the civil infrastructure industry.

C2. Demonstrate knowledge of civil drafting and design procedures; familiarity with design criteria, and their appropriate uses in civil infrastructure projects.

C3. Perform analyses and calculations suitable for civil infrastructure drafting & design processes.

I1.  Utilize CAD software to plan and prepare documents and technical graphics appropriate to a range of design,

        manufacturing, and construction industries.

GRADING, ATTENDANCE, ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

COURSE EVALUATION/GRADING SCHEME

Drawing assignments will be graded based on:

  • Completeness & Accuracy
  • Density & Complexity (some errors can receive more or less point deductions depending on the drawing type)
  • Appropriate use of tools and techniques
  • CAD standards & aesthetics
  • Meets or exceeds design criteria (if applicable)
  • Submitted on time (date set by instructor)

 

Grades will be determined as follows:

  • Site Plan Project
    • 10% XREF Existing Base
    • 10% Elevation Banding Map
    • 10% Slope Map
    • 10% E/S Control & Tree Protection Plan
    • 20% Dimension Plan
    • 20% Grading Plan
    • 20% Utility Plan
  • 100%     Total                                                 

 

The grade range for completed assignments is as listed:

  • 90 to 100 = A
  • 80 to 89 = B
  • 70 to 79 = C
  • 60 to 69 = D
  • Below 60 = F
  • A final grade of D or lower requires that the student retake the entire course.

 

LATE ASSIGNMENTS:

Assignments turned in late mayreceive a late penalty of 5 points beyond each class day it is late.

Incompletes

See ACC policy on Incompletes in the Withdrawals and Incompletes section below.

 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements, and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. 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, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

Representing the work of another person as your own work is considered scholastic dishonesty by the A&E CAD department.  Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their own thought, research or self-expression.  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, the assignment being replaced with a different project with a reduced maximum grade, and/or expulsion from the college.

Reproduction or transmission of A&E CAD Departmental Check Prints in any manner (including photography and scanning) is a violation of the A&E CAD department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy.

Sharing a drawing file of a class project with another student, or representing another’s file as your own work, is a violation of the department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy.

In consultation with the department chair, the instructor may resolve the matter in one or more of the following ways:

  • Dismissing the allegation;
  • Issuing a written warning that further violations may result in additional penalties;
  • Requiring the student to revise or replace the work in which the violation occurred – including a reduced maximum grade;
  • A reduction in the grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade or other denial of credit in the course;
  • Recommending disciplinary sanctions to the Dean of Student Services.

Within 5 (five) business days of the meeting with the student, the instructor shall provide written notification of the resolution to the student, the department chair, the instructional dean, for informational purposes, and to the Dean of Student Services, for possible disciplinary action.

ATTENDANCE/CLASS PARTICIPATION:

Regular and timely class participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. It is the student's responsibility to inform instructor when circumstances prevent him/her from completing projects or keeping up with the pace of the class.   An instructor may lower a student’s final grade on a project for late submittal.

In the event the college or campus closes due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, severe weather or other emergency), the student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor as a result of class sessions being missed.

WITHDRAWALS AND INCOMPLETES

ACC Withdrawal Policy

The College defines withdrawals as occurring after the official reporting date of the semester, typically the 12th class day.  In addition, the Legislature has mandated the Rule of Six (see below).  There may also be financial aid issues.

“It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is March 22.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

ACC Incomplete Policy

Students may request an Incomplete from their faculty member if they believe circumstances warrant.  The faculty member will determine whether the Incomplete is appropriate to award or not.  The following processes must be followed when awarding a student an I grade. 

1.      Prior to the end of the semester in which the “I” is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date.  This meeting can occur virtually or in person.  The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

2.     The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.   

3.      The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  

4.      Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  

5.      When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.”

TUTORING

TUTORING

Hours for the online open lab will coincide with the tutoring schedule which will be posted during the first week or two of the semester. You may not be able to complete all the assignments in class, so the online open lab is one of your best opportunities to get help in finishing the lab exercises.

You can access the online tutored lab from the link in Blackboard.

Course Subjects

Any changes will be announced in class and posted in Blackboard

INTRODUCTION
Mandatory online orientation, course syllabus
Unit 01 Intro to Civil Drafting 
Unit 02 Intro to CAD Standards
Unit 03 Intro to Civil 3D Interface
Unit 04 Using an Engineer’s Scale & Sketch to CAD
Unit 05 Model Space, Paper Space, Layouts & Viewports 
Unit 06 Intro to XREFs
 
SITE PLAN DESIGN (some unit numbers have been omitted)
Unit 08.1 DVD video: Basic Surveying (if available from ACC library)
Unit 08.2 Create the Existing Base 
Unit 09 Intro to Surfaces 
Unit 10 Surface Analysis-ELEVATION BANDING 
Unit 11 Surface Analysis-SLOPES
Unit 12 Surface Analysis-DRAINAGE
Unit 13 Erosion/Sedimentation Control & Tree Protection 
Unit 15 Site Area Calculations 
Unit 16 Proposed Dimension Plan
Unit 17 Proposed Grading Plan
Unit 18 Proposed Utility Plan

Readings

Any changes will be announced in class and posted in Blackboard

INTRODUCTION
Mandatory online orientation, course syllabus
Unit 01 Intro to Civil Drafting 
Unit 02 Intro to CAD Standards
Unit 03 Intro to Civil 3D Interface
Unit 04 Using an Engineer’s Scale & Sketch to CAD
Unit 05 Model Space, Paper Space, Layouts & Viewports 
Unit 06 Intro to XREFs
 
SITE PLAN DESIGN (some unit numbers have been omitted)
Unit 08.1 DVD video: Basic Surveying (if available from ACC library)
Unit 08.2 Create the Existing Base 
Unit 09 Intro to Surfaces 
Unit 10 Surface Analysis-ELEVATION BANDING 
Unit 11 Surface Analysis-SLOPES
Unit 12 Surface Analysis-DRAINAGE
Unit 13 Erosion/Sedimentation Control & Tree Protection 
Unit 15 Site Area Calculations 
Unit 16 Proposed Dimension Plan
Unit 17 Proposed Grading Plan
Unit 18 Proposed Utility Plan

acc policies

ACC Withdrawal Policy

The College defines withdrawals as occurring after the official reporting date of the semester, typically the 12th class day.  In addition, the Legislature has mandated the Rule of Six (see below).  There may also be financial aid issues.

“It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is March 22.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

ACC Incomplete Policy

Students may request an Incomplete from their faculty member if they believe circumstances warrant.  The faculty member will determine whether the Incomplete is appropriate to award or not.  The following processes must be followed when awarding a student an I grade. 

1.      Prior to the end of the semester in which the “I” is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date.  This meeting can occur virtually or in person.  The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

2.     The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.   

3.      The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  

4.      Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  

5.      When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.”

 

 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

 

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements, and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. 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, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

 

Sharing a drawing file of a class project with another student, or representing another student’s drawing file as your own work, is a violation of the A&E CAD department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy. Reproduction, transmission or sharing of A&E CAD Departmental Check Prints in any manner is also a violation of the A&E CAD department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy.

 

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, the assignment being replaced with a different project with a reduced maximum grade, and/or expulsion from the college.

In consultation with the department chair, the instructor may resolve the matter in one or more of the following ways:

  • Dismissing the allegation;
  • Issuing a written warning that further violations may result in additional penalties;
  • Requiring the student to revise or replace the work in which the violation occurred – including a

                                       reduced maximum grade;

  • A reduction in the grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade or other denial of credit in the course;
  • Recommending disciplinary sanctions to the Dean of Student Services.

Within 5 (five) business days of the meeting with the student, the instructor shall provide written notification of the resolution to the student, the department chair, the instructional dean, for informational purposes, and to the Dean of Student Services, for possible disciplinary action.

 

 

HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

All ACC campuses and centers have one entrance for students and employees. The college is limiting facility access to faculty, essential staff, and students who are enrolled in Career and Technical Education courses.  Each person is required to take the following steps: 

1. Self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms using the ACC Health Screening App. There are three secure ways to use the app — 1) download it on your phone (recommended), 2) download the web link, or 3) you may use an iPad that is available at the door. It is easy to download and use. Answer a series of quick questions and the app will give you results. Save the results to show at the door upon entry. Get the app here at:

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/acc-health-screening-app

2. ACC ID badges or Student ID cards will be required for all employees and students upon entry. Employees and students must display their I.D. at all times.

3. Temperature checks will be conducted with a no-touch thermometer. If you have a fever 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, you will not be admitted to the building. 

4. ACC Health Screen App results will be requested at the door. If you are unable to download the app, an iPad will be provided at the door so that you may answer a series of questions to determine if you have COVID-19 symptoms which include:
      Cough
      Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
      Chills
      Repeated shaking with chills 
      Muscle pain
      Headache
      Sore throat
      Loss of taste or smell
      Diarrhea
      Fever
      Have you come into contact with anyone who tested positive for COVID-19 with 14 days?

If you do not pass the pre-screening, you will receive specific information on healthcare procedures and instructions for what you need to know to be able to return to campus.

5. Facial coverings/masks are required for anyone entering an ACC building. You must wear a facial covering/mask at all times. In private spaces such as an individual office, your facial covering may be removed if you are alone. These guidelines are consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which makes clear that facial coverings and social distancing are among the most effective measures for limiting the spread of COVID-19. 

TIP—Students should arrive to campus early to ensure enough time to get through the screening line. 

On-Campus Protocols

  • Wash and sanitize your hands prior to entering a classroom, office, or facility. Hand sanitizing stations, disinfecting wipes, soap, and water are readily available.
  • Continue to practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently for 20 seconds.
  • Practice social distancing with all individuals by maintaining at least six feet of separation.
  • Follow floor stickers that are placed throughout the campus to help guide social distancing in high traffic areas.
  • A maximum of two people at a time will be allowed in elevators.
  • Facial coverings/masks must remain on at all times. A facial covering may only be removed as allowed by the course safety plan (i.e., when alone in private spaces such as an individual office).
  • For the safety of all who are on-campus, water fountains will be turned off, vending machines will have limited services, all food services will be suspended, and common area furniture will be removed. Please plan accordingly.

·Classroom Protocols

  • Schedules are staggered and courses have been divided into smaller sections to minimize contact with individuals.
  • Seating for standard classrooms is limited to nine students and one instructor unless the classroom is deemed large enough to handle more by the Safety & Operations Office.
  • Faculty will assign seats to students to keep them at a safe distance from one another. It's imperative that students follow seat assignments in order to track any contamination or the possible spread of COVID-19.
  • Plexiguards are installed on faculty desks if there is not at least nine-feet between the desk and the first row of students. 
  • Once inside the classroom, facial coverings must continue to be worn.
  • ACC encourages students to wipe down their desks before class begins. Supplies will be provided in each classroom.

·Deep Cleaning Protocols

  • ACC's Campus Operations Quality Control staff will regularly and frequently disinfect any and all high touch surfaces such as door knobs, tables, chairs, and restrooms.
  • Staff will disinfect classrooms as soon as classes are over.
  • Students and employees will be reminded to disinfect personal electronics on a regular basis.
  • Hand sanitizer will be available in or near every classroom.
  • Sufficient disinfecting supplies are available to maintain hygienic standards throughout the day.
  • These disinfectant procedures will occur after each class and at the end of every day.

·Illness & Travel Protocols

  • If you feel sick, feverish, or unwell, please do not come to campus or office.
  • You will need to get tested for COVID-19 and report the results (positive or negative) to ACC's COVID-19 Liaison (see below). 
  • If you become ill in the classroom or inside an ACC facility, you will be asked to go into an isolation room to take the state's online self-assessment.
  • Isolation rooms are available on each campus and center with resources and information to help you learn about the next steps and where to go for a COVID-19 test. 
  • All areas used by anyone who is sick or tests positive for COVID-19 will be immediately closed, waiting for the appropriate period of time before it is thoroughly deep cleaned, disinfected, and deemed safe to reopen. 
  • If you have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 14 days, you must self-report. ACC's Self-Report form is available online.
  • ACC has identified a primary COVID-19 Liaison responsible for communicating and coordinating with local health departments. Our liaison is Michael Garcia, Executive Director of Regulatory Affairs, sem-helpdesk@austincc.edu

A training video is available here at: https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/health-and-safety-protocols

 

COLLEGE POLICIES

Campus Operations

To limit the spread of COVID-19, ACC campuses remain closed to all but faculty, essential staff, and students who are enrolled in certain Career and Technical Education courses.   Face-to-face classes and services are limited.

Statement on Academic Integrity

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements, and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. 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, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

 

Representing the work of another person as your own work is considered scholastic dishonesty by the A&E CAD department.  Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their own thought, research or self-expression.  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, the assignment being replaced with a different project with a reduced maximum grade, and/or expulsion from the college.

 

Reproduction or transmission of A&E CAD Departmental Check Prints in any manner (including photography and scanning) is a violation of the A&E CAD department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy.

 

Sharing a drawing file of a class project with another student, or representing another’s file as your own work, is a violation of the department’s Scholastic Dishonesty policy.

In consultation with the department chair, the instructor may resolve the matter in one or more of the following ways:

  • Dismissing the allegation;
  • Issuing a written warning that further violations may result in additional penalties;
  • Requiring the student to revise or replace the work in which the violation occurred – including a reduced maximum grade;
  • A reduction in the grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade on the work in question;
  • A failing grade or other denial of credit in the course;
  • Recommending disciplinary sanctions to the Dean of Student Services.

Within 5 (five) business days of the meeting with the student, the instructor shall provide written notification of the resolution to the student, the department chair, the instructional dean, for informational purposes, and to the Dean of Student Services, for possible disciplinary action.

 

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state and federal laws. www.austincc.edu/srr

 

As a student of Austin Community College you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct

 

 

Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements 

Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-clinical counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them.

 

If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus:  (512) 223-2616, or to schedule online:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling

While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options:  Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964;  compliance@austincc.edu .

 

If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up.

 

Student Complaints

A defined process applies to complaints about an instructor or other college employee. You are encouraged to discuss concerns and complaints with college personnel and should expect a timely and appropriate response. When possible, students should first address their concerns through informal conferences with those immediately involved; formal due process is available when informal resolution cannot be achieved.

 

Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction, college services and offices on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

 

Further information about the complaints process, including the form used to submit complaints, is available at: http://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-complaint-procedures

Statement on Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects confidentiality of students’ educational records. Grades cannot be provided by faculty over the phone, by e-mail, or to a fellow student.

 

Class grades should be posted in Blackboard, and this could be mentioned here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recording Policy

To ensure compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), student recording of class lectures or other activities is generally prohibited without the explicit written permission of the instructor and notification of other students enrolled in the class section.  Exceptions are made for approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

 

Recording of lectures and other class activities may be made by faculty to facilitate instruction, especially for classes taught remotely through BlackBoard or another platform.  Participation in such activities implies consent for the student to be recorded during the instructional activity.  Such recordings are intended for educational and academic purposes only.

 

Safety Statement

Health and safety are of paramount importance in classrooms, laboratories, and field activities. Students are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies.  Emergency Procedures posters and Campus Safety Plans are posted in each classroom and should be reviewed at the beginning of each semester.  All incidents (injuries/illness/fire/property damage/near miss) should be immediately reported to the course instructor. Additional information about safety procedures and how to sign up to be notified in case of an emergency can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/emergency

 

Everyone is expected to conduct themselves professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual may be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity and will be referred to the Dean of Student Services for disciplinary action.

 

In the event of disruption of normal classroom activities due to an emergency situation or a continuing illness outbreak, the format for this course may be modified to enable completion of the course. In that event, students will be provided an addendum to the class syllabus that will supersede the original version.

 

 

Campus Carry

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 512-223-7999.   Please refer to the concealed handgun policy online at http://austincc.edu/campuscarry

Discrimination Prohibited

The College seeks to maintain an educational environment free from any form of discrimination or harassment including but not limited to discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

 

Faculty at the College are required to report concerns regarding sexual misconduct (including all forms of sexual harassment and sex and gender-based discrimination) to the Manager of Title IX/Title VI/ADA Compliance.  Licensed clinical counselors are available across the District and serve as confidential resources for students.

 

Additional information about Title VI, Title IX, and ADA compliance can be found in the ACC Compliance Resource Guide available at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1o55xINAWNvTYgI-fs-JbDyuaMFDNvAjz/view

 

Use of ACC email

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 students 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 email accounts, including instructions for accessing it, are available at:  http://www.austincc.edu/help/accmail/questions-and-answers

Use of the Testing Center

All testing is currently online.  While campuses are closed, exams for courses will be online tests that students can take from home.  For more information about online testing at ACC, visit the Online Testing resource page: https://www.austincc.edu/academic-and-career-programs/acconline/testing.

 

The instructor should provide additional information about how they will conduct examinations and other assessments here.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The success of our students is paramount, and ACC offers a variety of support services to help, as well as providing numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.

Student Support

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services.  Information on these campus services and resources is available at  http://www.austincc.edu/students.  A comprehensive array of student support services is available online at:

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/remote-student-support

Student Accessibility Services

Students with documented disabilities who need academic or other accommodations must request them through the office Student Accessibility Services (SAS).   SAS offices are located at each major campus.  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 document titled “Notice of Approved Accommodations” from SAS before accommodations will be provided. Accommodations will not be provided retroactively.  Arrangements by the instructor for academic accommodations can only be made after he or she receives the “Notice of Approved Accommodations” from the student.

 

Additional information about Student Accessibility Services is available at https://www.austincc.edu/offices/student-accessibility-services-and-assistive-technology

Academic Support

ACC offers academic support services on all of its campuses. These services, which include online tutoring, academic coaching, and supplemental instruction, are free to enrolled ACC students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects ranging from accounting to pharmacology. Students may receive these services on both a drop-in and referral basis. 

 

An online tutor request can be made here:

https://de.austincc.edu/bbsupport/online-tutoring-request/

 

Additional tutoring information can be found here:

austincc.edu/onlinetutoring

 

 

Library Services

ACC has a full-service library at each of its campuses to support ACC courses and programs and to provide students with research and assignment assistance from expert faculty librarians.  ACC students have full rights and privileges to access Library Services online 24/7 via the ACC Library website and students can use their ACCeID logins to access all online materials, including ebooks, articles from library databases, and streaming videos.   ACC Libraries also provide an “Ask a Librarian” service, which allows students to reach a librarian 24/7 through online chat “live.”  Faculty librarians are also available via email and phone seven days a week during hours of operation. Visit:

 

 

In partnership with ACC’s Student Support Center, ACC Libraries also maintain a limited collection of textbooks for students (made available by Student Affairs) to borrow. Priority access to the textbook collection is given to students receiving assistance. More information is available on the ACC website by searching “Student Support Center Textbook Collection.”

 

 

Student Organizations

ACC has over seventy student organizations, offering a variety of cultural, academic, vocational, and social opportunities.  They provide a chance to meet with other students who have the same interests, engage in service-learning, participate in intramural sports, gain valuable field experience related to career goals, and much else.  Student Life coordinates many of these activities, and additional information is available at http://sites.austincc.edu/sl/.

 

Personal Support

Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others:

  

 

Mental health counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns: http://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling .

 

If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help. However if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.

 

Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:

  • Austin / Travis County 24 hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
  • The Williamson County 24 hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
  • Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
  • Hays County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741
    • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:   1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

 

Some faculty may consider adding a student sign-off page at the end of the syllabus to be removed and handed back to the instructor providing evidence that the student received a copy of the syllabus and had an opportunity to ask questions, but such a page is optional.

 

Illness

Any ACC student or employee with symptoms or exposure to the COVID-19 virus should inform their professor(s) or supervisor and complete the college’s self reporting form: 

https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?AustinCC&layout_id=124

 

a&e cad department policies and procedures

Attendance/Class Participation

Regular and timely class participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. Students accruing more than two (2) UNEXCUSED absences may be withdrawn from the course at the instructor's discretion.  Students may make-up absences by attending other classes.  It is the student's responsibility to inform instructor when circumstances prevent him/her from attending class.   An instructor may lower a student’s final grade for a course due to excessive absences.

 

In the event the college or campus closes due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, severe weather or other emergency), the student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor as a result of class sessions being missed.

Withdrawal Policy

The College defines withdrawals as occurring after the official reporting date of the semester, typically the 12th class day.  In addition, the Legislature has mandated the Rule of Six (see below).  There may also be financial aid issues.

“It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is [refer to ACC website].  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

Policy on Late or Missing Work

Instructors may impose a late penalty on work that is submitted after the assigned due date.

 

Ownership of Student Work

The Architectural & Engineering Computer Aided Design (A&E CAD) Department reserves the right to retain any and all student work (including but not limited to: original work, scans, photographs, and copies of student work) completed as A&E CAD course work for the purposes of documentation, accreditation, evidence of student performance, university transfer, marketing or any other purpose supporting the mission of the Department and Austin Community College.

 

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices

To avoid disturbing or distracting others during face-2-face classes or open on-campus lab times, students are requested to conduct personal communications of any sort outside of the classrooms. For this reason, the use of cell phones and other PDA’s by students is prohibited inside A&E CAD classrooms (this includes placing or receiving phone calls, text messages and emails). When conducting personal communication in the hallways, please control the volume of your voice so as not to disturb students in nearby classrooms.