Course Policies

(Official college policy italicized)

Student standards of conduct

Acceptable standards of conduct include behavior that is civil, courteous, and respectful of all members of the campus community, their property, and the property of the college; promotes mutual respect, equality, and safety of its members and opposes those acts that harass. Intimidate or haze its members.

Illegal acts include, but not limited to possession or use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons; gambling; unlawful possession, use, and distribution of narcotics; assault or stalking. ACC’s policy on student standards and code of conduct can be found here in the current student handbook: www.austincc.edu/handbook

Classroom Interaction

Throughout the course of the semester, you will be interacting with me, fellow students and outside professionals in critiques and group discussion. You will be both giving and receiving feedback on your work. These critiques will be conducted in various ways, from one-on-one interactions to large group environments. In all instances, classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. I expect everyone to treat one another with understanding, dignity and respect.

I will not tolerate disruptive behavior, which may include:

•       Persistent speaking without permission 

•       Side conversations

•       Engaging in activities not related to the class 

•       Ringing cell phones or using a cell phone to talk or send text messages

•       Using PDAs or laptop computers in the classroom for non-course related purposes

•       Sleeping in class 

•       Eating/drinking in class without permission 

•       Monopolizing class discussion, refusing to defer to instructor, or listen to others; persisting when the instructor has indicated that the student’s remarks are off topic and it is time to move on

•       Reacting angrily or defensively to critique from guests, instructors, or classmates

•       Sighing, rolling eyes, or muttering when other people are talking

•       Refusing to participate in group activities such as group or peer-to-peer critiques

•       Chronically entering late/leaving early, moving about the classroom

•       Filming, photographing, or taping the class without the instructor’s prior permission

•       Disputing authority and arguing with faculty and other students 

•       Yelling, arguing, swearing, bullying, or other harassing or intimidating behavior

•       Physically or verbally abusive conduct

•       Failure to adhere to the instructor’s rules or instructions

•       Vulgar or obscene language, slurs, or other forms of intimidation

•       Showing up to class under the influence of alcohol/drugs

•       Threats of any kind 

•       Destruction of property 

•       Any behavior that puts the health or safety of the instructor or other students in the classroom in jeopardy

If you engage in disruptive behavior, I may file a Student Discipline Report and refer you to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean will investigate the case, and based on the investigation, s/he may put sanctions into place, including but not limited to withdrawing you from the class.

If the behavior is severe, I will call Campus Police, who may immediately refer you to the Dean of Student Services.

Attendance and participation

Lab Attendance/Participation

Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. If there is any problem with being tardy, or attending class please notify instructor immediately.

Lab Absences

The following type of information is required in the syllabus but may be edited. If for any reason you’re unable to come to class your will be counted absent. You are allowed (3) absences. There is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence so use your absences meaningfully and sparingly. You are absent if you:

•    are not in class
•    leave the class extremely early
•    disappear in the middle of the class for a significant length of time
•    get to class extremely late

Online Class Absences

Online students who miss due dates and are not communicating with the instructor after two weeks risk failing the course. If you find yourself in this situation, you should consider withdrawing from the course.

Lack of progress and participation will cause a grade of D or F. In this case, you should withdraw from the course.
If you don’t withdraw, and the lack of progress continues past the final withdrawal date of the semester you will receive a grade of F. Remember lack of attendance, missed deadlines and non-communication in the work world is cause
for firing.

Course Daily Work Expectations

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

As a profession, graphics is extremely work intensive. Professional designers may routinely find themselves working much more than 40 hours per week. This course packs a lot of information in a short amount of time.

It’s essential for you to work on your assignments outside of class time. We will work every class period. You will have work over the weekends. The amount of time you’ll spend on work outside of class will vary depending on your experience, skill and knowledge, but the typical rule of thumb is to calculate double the amount of time for each hour in the course.

Although this is a lab class, there may be some classes at the beginning of each Competency when we will take all or most of the time to lecture. If you don’t have a computer accessible to you outside of this lab course, you’ll have to schedule time to work during open lab slots during the week or weekend.

Withdrawal Policy

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 he or she feel it is necessary If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date, __________, __________, 2021.  The student is also strongly encouraged to retain 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.

Dropping or withdrawing from a course can have serious consequences that affect your financial aid, veterans’ benefits or international student status. Details regarding this policy and others can be found in the ACC college catalog.

Missed or Late Work

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

Incomplete Grade

An instructor may award a grade of “I” (Incomplete) if a student was unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a 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.

If you are unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a course due to extraordinary circumstances—such as illness or death in the family—I may grant an “incomplete.” Generally, to receive a grade of I, you must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent you from completing the course. Finally, these circumstances must have occurred after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Copyright

The software programs used in the labs are licensed to the college, which is the original purchaser. Thus students cannot duplicate the software for their personal use. Do not use college equipment to duplicate software for other students or to produce work-for-profit.

Do not download, copy or scan copyrighted material for use in your projects unless it meets the Fair use guidelines below and the copyright holder is properly credited.

 Fair Use is an important element of U.S. copyright law that allows for the use of copyrighted work without asking permission of the copyright holder, especially when the copyrighted work is used for criticism, scholarship, and education. Under the Fair Use guidelines students may:

•       Incorporate portions of copyrighted materials when producing a project for a specific course; and

•       Perform and display their own projects and use them in their portfolio or use the project for job interviews or as supporting materials for application to other schools.

•       For more information on Fair Use see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_use

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:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct.

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..

Privacy Policy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects confidentiality of your educational records. Grades cannot be given over the phone, posted, over non ACC e-mail, or through a fellow student.

Statement on Student 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 Student Accessibility Services & Assistive Technology (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. Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student.   

Additional information about the Student Accessibility Services and Assistive Technology (SAS) is available at  https://www.austincc.edu/students/student-accessibility-services-and-assistive-technology

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 www.austincc.edu/ehs

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. 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 www.austincc.edu/emergency/

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 dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

Concealed Handgun 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.

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

Instructor’s Communication (Email) Policies

I will respond to student email and text messages within 24 hours. I will not normally answer emails or texts over the weekend from 5:00pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday.

I will send emails to student’ ACC email accounts only. It is imperative that students use their ACC email account and check it daily.

Cell phone policy

Please silence your phone during scheduled class times. Please do not check your phone or text during class time; you may check messages during your break. 

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: http://www.austincc.edu/support

Links to many student services and other information can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/current/


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: https://www.austincc.edu/students/tutoring/tutoring-schedules

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

Visual Communications Open Lab Policy

What is Open Lab? When does it take place?

•       Open labs are available during various time slots in VisCom classrooms and provide additional practice time for students to work on assignments. Open lab hours and available software listed here: viscom.austincc.edu/lab-info. An Adobe Creative Suite subscription is needed to utilize Photoshop in the labs.

Open lab locations:

•       SAC: 1210, 1211, 1212

•       NRG Building 4000: 4206, 4262, 4265, 4269

•       Highland Center in the ACCelerator Learning Lab: There are Mac computers with the CC 2020 software in the ACCelerator.

•       Tutoring is available in some labs. Please check the schedule for subject and availability.

Lab rules:

•       Know the Open Lab hours (posted on all classroom doors and web site).

•       Please bring a flash drive or external hard drive to class so you can save all your work to it.
Note: All media are scanned in accordance with ACC policy.

•       Do not view or download inappropriate material. VisCom Tech Support Staff tracks internet use.

Top tips for easier work in the lab:

•       Before working on a file, drag it from a flash drive to the desktop.

•       If you are using your Adobe Creative Suite subscription you will not have a font issue as Adobe Fonts will be available in your subscription.

•       If you need help with the computers, scanners, printers, or flash drives, ask VisCom Tech Support staff.

Using printers and scanners:

•       Limit your time with printers and scanners. Take turns.

•       For draft prints, use black-and-white printers only.

•       For final prints, you may use the color printer.

•       Ask VisCom Tech Support staff if you need to print on any special paper.

•       Please do not try to fix paper jams yourself. Contact VisCom Tech Support Staff.

Treat the lab like a learning space:

•       Keep food and drink away from the computers. 

•       Do not plug personal equipment (such as laptops) into Ethernet ports.

•       This lab is only for Visual Communication class assignments; please don’t use it for other classes, personal, or outside work.

•       Since this is an open lab, computers are first-come first-served. 

•       Be sure to logout before you leave the lab.

Be kind and considerate:

•       Silence cell phones and take phone calls in the hallways.

•       If you listen to music, use headphones or ear-buds.

•       If you argue, talk loudly, call people names, refuse to follow faculty and staff requests, or demand exceptions to these rules, you will be asked to leave.

Print Job Best Practices

•       Flatten your projects’ layers/save as PDF prior to printing.

•       Size your project appropriately before sending your job to the printer. Keeping the DPI of all objects in your assignment to 500 or less helps keep overall file size down, and the print queue moving for everyone.

•       Proof your work on the screen and to the black and white printers. As much as possible, reserve color printing for final projects.

•       Understand the difference between a paper’s “text” weight, and it’s “cover” weight, when making your custom paper selection. Our color printers are designed to handle 80# text, which is less than half the weight of that amount in cover.

•       Cardstock paper must be fed through the manual tray - attempting to place it in other trays will result in a paper jam, damaging your paper, and possibly, the printer itself. Always contact a member of the tech staff if you have concerns or questions

•       Transparencies or highly textured paper stock is not permitted for use in any department printer

•       Custom cut paper must be done so that it matches standard dimensions; i.e., 8.5”x11”, 11”x17”, etc.

•       Plan your final printing during periods when tech support staff are present (SAC 8-5 M-F, NRG 8-7 M-F)

•       Familiarize yourself with the printing process.  Any member of the tech staff will be happy to step your through getting your jobs through quickly and cleanly.

Tech Support Offices:

South Austin: 1213.5

NRG Building 4000: 4263.3

Tech Support Contact: 512-223-4862

Course Policies

(Official college policy italicized)

Student standards of conduct

Acceptable standards of conduct include behavior that is civil, courteous, and respectful of all members of the campus community, their property, and the property of the college; promotes mutual respect, equality, and safety of its members and opposes those acts that harass. Intimidate or haze its members.

Illegal acts include, but not limited to possession or use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons; gambling; unlawful possession, use, and distribution of narcotics; assault or stalking. ACC’s policy on student standards and code of conduct can be found here in the current student handbook: www.austincc.edu/handbook

Classroom Interaction

Throughout the course of the semester, you will be interacting with me, fellow students and outside professionals in critiques and group discussion. You will be both giving and receiving feedback on your work. These critiques will be conducted in various ways, from one-on-one interactions to large group environments. In all instances, classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. I expect everyone to treat one another with understanding, dignity and respect.

I will not tolerate disruptive behavior, which may include:

•       Persistent speaking without permission 

•       Side conversations

•       Engaging in activities not related to the class 

•       Ringing cell phones or using a cell phone to talk or send text messages

•       Using PDAs or laptop computers in the classroom for non-course related purposes

•       Sleeping in class 

•       Eating/drinking in class without permission 

•       Monopolizing class discussion, refusing to defer to instructor, or listen to others; persisting when the instructor has indicated that the student’s remarks are off topic and it is time to move on

•       Reacting angrily or defensively to critique from guests, instructors, or classmates

•       Sighing, rolling eyes, or muttering when other people are talking

•       Refusing to participate in group activities such as group or peer-to-peer critiques

•       Chronically entering late/leaving early, moving about the classroom

•       Filming, photographing, or taping the class without the instructor’s prior permission

•       Disputing authority and arguing with faculty and other students 

•       Yelling, arguing, swearing, bullying, or other harassing or intimidating behavior

•       Physically or verbally abusive conduct

•       Failure to adhere to the instructor’s rules or instructions

•       Vulgar or obscene language, slurs, or other forms of intimidation

•       Showing up to class under the influence of alcohol/drugs

•       Threats of any kind 

•       Destruction of property 

•       Any behavior that puts the health or safety of the instructor or other students in the classroom in jeopardy

If you engage in disruptive behavior, I may file a Student Discipline Report and refer you to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean will investigate the case, and based on the investigation, s/he may put sanctions into place, including but not limited to withdrawing you from the class.

If the behavior is severe, I will call Campus Police, who may immediately refer you to the Dean of Student Services.

Attendance and participation

Lab Attendance/Participation

Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. If there is any problem with being tardy, or attending class please notify instructor immediately.

Lab Absences

The following type of information is required in the syllabus but may be edited. If for any reason you’re unable to come to class your will be counted absent. You are allowed (3) absences. There is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence so use your absences meaningfully and sparingly. You are absent if you:

•    are not in class
•    leave the class extremely early
•    disappear in the middle of the class for a significant length of time
•    get to class extremely late

Online Class Absences

Online students who miss due dates and are not communicating with the instructor after two weeks risk failing the course. If you find yourself in this situation, you should consider withdrawing from the course.

Lack of progress and participation will cause a grade of D or F. In this case, you should withdraw from the course.
If you don’t withdraw, and the lack of progress continues past the final withdrawal date of the semester you will receive a grade of F. Remember lack of attendance, missed deadlines and non-communication in the work world is cause
for firing.

Course Daily Work Expectations

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

As a profession, graphics is extremely work intensive. Professional designers may routinely find themselves working much more than 40 hours per week. This course packs a lot of information in a short amount of time.

It’s essential for you to work on your assignments outside of class time. We will work every class period. You will have work over the weekends. The amount of time you’ll spend on work outside of class will vary depending on your experience, skill and knowledge, but the typical rule of thumb is to calculate double the amount of time for each hour in the course.

Although this is a lab class, there may be some classes at the beginning of each Competency when we will take all or most of the time to lecture. If you don’t have a computer accessible to you outside of this lab course, you’ll have to schedule time to work during open lab slots during the week or weekend.

Withdrawal Policy

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 he or she feel it is necessary If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date, __________, __________, 2021.  The student is also strongly encouraged to retain 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.

Dropping or withdrawing from a course can have serious consequences that affect your financial aid, veterans’ benefits or international student status. Details regarding this policy and others can be found in the ACC college catalog.

Missed or Late Work

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

Incomplete Grade

An instructor may award a grade of “I” (Incomplete) if a student was unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a 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.

If you are unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a course due to extraordinary circumstances—such as illness or death in the family—I may grant an “incomplete.” Generally, to receive a grade of I, you must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent you from completing the course. Finally, these circumstances must have occurred after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Copyright

The software programs used in the labs are licensed to the college, which is the original purchaser. Thus students cannot duplicate the software for their personal use. Do not use college equipment to duplicate software for other students or to produce work-for-profit.

Do not download, copy or scan copyrighted material for use in your projects unless it meets the Fair use guidelines below and the copyright holder is properly credited.

 Fair Use is an important element of U.S. copyright law that allows for the use of copyrighted work without asking permission of the copyright holder, especially when the copyrighted work is used for criticism, scholarship, and education. Under the Fair Use guidelines students may:

•       Incorporate portions of copyrighted materials when producing a project for a specific course; and

•       Perform and display their own projects and use them in their portfolio or use the project for job interviews or as supporting materials for application to other schools.

•       For more information on Fair Use see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_use

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:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct.

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..

Privacy Policy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects confidentiality of your educational records. Grades cannot be given over the phone, posted, over non ACC e-mail, or through a fellow student.

Statement on Student 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 Student Accessibility Services & Assistive Technology (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. Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student.   

Additional information about the Student Accessibility Services and Assistive Technology (SAS) is available at  https://www.austincc.edu/students/student-accessibility-services-and-assistive-technology

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 www.austincc.edu/ehs

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. 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 www.austincc.edu/emergency/

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 dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

Concealed Handgun 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.

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

Instructor’s Communication (Email) Policies

I will respond to student email and text messages within 24 hours. I will not normally answer emails or texts over the weekend from 5:00pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday.

I will send emails to student’ ACC email accounts only. It is imperative that students use their ACC email account and check it daily.

Cell phone policy

Please silence your phone during scheduled class times. Please do not check your phone or text during class time; you may check messages during your break. 

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: http://www.austincc.edu/support

Links to many student services and other information can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/current/


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: https://www.austincc.edu/students/tutoring/tutoring-schedules

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

Visual Communications Open Lab Policy

What is Open Lab? When does it take place?

•       Open labs are available during various time slots in VisCom classrooms and provide additional practice time for students to work on assignments. Open lab hours and available software listed here: viscom.austincc.edu/lab-info. An Adobe Creative Suite subscription is needed to utilize Photoshop in the labs.

Open lab locations:

•       SAC: 1210, 1211, 1212

•       NRG Building 4000: 4206, 4262, 4265, 4269

•       Highland Center in the ACCelerator Learning Lab: There are Mac computers with the CC 2020 software in the ACCelerator.

•       Tutoring is available in some labs. Please check the schedule for subject and availability.

Lab rules:

•       Know the Open Lab hours (posted on all classroom doors and web site).

•       Please bring a flash drive or external hard drive to class so you can save all your work to it.
Note: All media are scanned in accordance with ACC policy.

•       Do not view or download inappropriate material. VisCom Tech Support Staff tracks internet use.

Top tips for easier work in the lab:

•       Before working on a file, drag it from a flash drive to the desktop.

•       If you are using your Adobe Creative Suite subscription you will not have a font issue as Adobe Fonts will be available in your subscription.

•       If you need help with the computers, scanners, printers, or flash drives, ask VisCom Tech Support staff.

Using printers and scanners:

•       Limit your time with printers and scanners. Take turns.

•       For draft prints, use black-and-white printers only.

•       For final prints, you may use the color printer.

•       Ask VisCom Tech Support staff if you need to print on any special paper.

•       Please do not try to fix paper jams yourself. Contact VisCom Tech Support Staff.

Treat the lab like a learning space:

•       Keep food and drink away from the computers. 

•       Do not plug personal equipment (such as laptops) into Ethernet ports.

•       This lab is only for Visual Communication class assignments; please don’t use it for other classes, personal, or outside work.

•       Since this is an open lab, computers are first-come first-served. 

•       Be sure to logout before you leave the lab.

Be kind and considerate:

•       Silence cell phones and take phone calls in the hallways.

•       If you listen to music, use headphones or ear-buds.

•       If you argue, talk loudly, call people names, refuse to follow faculty and staff requests, or demand exceptions to these rules, you will be asked to leave.

Print Job Best Practices

•       Flatten your projects’ layers/save as PDF prior to printing.

•       Size your project appropriately before sending your job to the printer. Keeping the DPI of all objects in your assignment to 500 or less helps keep overall file size down, and the print queue moving for everyone.

•       Proof your work on the screen and to the black and white printers. As much as possible, reserve color printing for final projects.

•       Understand the difference between a paper’s “text” weight, and it’s “cover” weight, when making your custom paper selection. Our color printers are designed to handle 80# text, which is less than half the weight of that amount in cover.

•       Cardstock paper must be fed through the manual tray - attempting to place it in other trays will result in a paper jam, damaging your paper, and possibly, the printer itself. Always contact a member of the tech staff if you have concerns or questions

•       Transparencies or highly textured paper stock is not permitted for use in any department printer

•       Custom cut paper must be done so that it matches standard dimensions; i.e., 8.5”x11”, 11”x17”, etc.

•       Plan your final printing during periods when tech support staff are present (SAC 8-5 M-F, NRG 8-7 M-F)

•       Familiarize yourself with the printing process.  Any member of the tech staff will be happy to step your through getting your jobs through quickly and cleanly.

Tech Support Offices:

South Austin: 1213.5

NRG Building 4000: 4263.3

Tech Support Contact: 512-223-4862

Course Policies

(Official college policy italicized)

Student standards of conduct

Acceptable standards of conduct include behavior that is civil, courteous, and respectful of all members of the campus community, their property, and the property of the college; promotes mutual respect, equality, and safety of its members and opposes those acts that harass. Intimidate or haze its members.

Illegal acts include, but not limited to possession or use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons; gambling; unlawful possession, use, and distribution of narcotics; assault or stalking. ACC’s policy on student standards and code of conduct can be found here in the current student handbook: www.austincc.edu/handbook

Classroom Interaction

Throughout the course of the semester, you will be interacting with me, fellow students and outside professionals in critiques and group discussion. You will be both giving and receiving feedback on your work. These critiques will be conducted in various ways, from one-on-one interactions to large group environments. In all instances, classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. I expect everyone to treat one another with understanding, dignity and respect.

I will not tolerate disruptive behavior, which may include:

•       Persistent speaking without permission 

•       Side conversations

•       Engaging in activities not related to the class 

•       Ringing cell phones or using a cell phone to talk or send text messages

•       Using PDAs or laptop computers in the classroom for non-course related purposes

•       Sleeping in class 

•       Eating/drinking in class without permission 

•       Monopolizing class discussion, refusing to defer to instructor, or listen to others; persisting when the instructor has indicated that the student’s remarks are off topic and it is time to move on

•       Reacting angrily or defensively to critique from guests, instructors, or classmates

•       Sighing, rolling eyes, or muttering when other people are talking

•       Refusing to participate in group activities such as group or peer-to-peer critiques

•       Chronically entering late/leaving early, moving about the classroom

•       Filming, photographing, or taping the class without the instructor’s prior permission

•       Disputing authority and arguing with faculty and other students 

•       Yelling, arguing, swearing, bullying, or other harassing or intimidating behavior

•       Physically or verbally abusive conduct

•       Failure to adhere to the instructor’s rules or instructions

•       Vulgar or obscene language, slurs, or other forms of intimidation

•       Showing up to class under the influence of alcohol/drugs

•       Threats of any kind 

•       Destruction of property 

•       Any behavior that puts the health or safety of the instructor or other students in the classroom in jeopardy

If you engage in disruptive behavior, I may file a Student Discipline Report and refer you to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean will investigate the case, and based on the investigation, s/he may put sanctions into place, including but not limited to withdrawing you from the class.

If the behavior is severe, I will call Campus Police, who may immediately refer you to the Dean of Student Services.

Attendance and participation

Lab Attendance/Participation

Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. If there is any problem with being tardy, or attending class please notify instructor immediately.

Lab Absences

The following type of information is required in the syllabus but may be edited. If for any reason you’re unable to come to class your will be counted absent. You are allowed (3) absences. There is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence so use your absences meaningfully and sparingly. You are absent if you:

•    are not in class
•    leave the class extremely early
•    disappear in the middle of the class for a significant length of time
•    get to class extremely late

Online Class Absences

Online students who miss due dates and are not communicating with the instructor after two weeks risk failing the course. If you find yourself in this situation, you should consider withdrawing from the course.

Lack of progress and participation will cause a grade of D or F. In this case, you should withdraw from the course.
If you don’t withdraw, and the lack of progress continues past the final withdrawal date of the semester you will receive a grade of F. Remember lack of attendance, missed deadlines and non-communication in the work world is cause
for firing.

Course Daily Work Expectations

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

As a profession, graphics is extremely work intensive. Professional designers may routinely find themselves working much more than 40 hours per week. This course packs a lot of information in a short amount of time.

It’s essential for you to work on your assignments outside of class time. We will work every class period. You will have work over the weekends. The amount of time you’ll spend on work outside of class will vary depending on your experience, skill and knowledge, but the typical rule of thumb is to calculate double the amount of time for each hour in the course.

Although this is a lab class, there may be some classes at the beginning of each Competency when we will take all or most of the time to lecture. If you don’t have a computer accessible to you outside of this lab course, you’ll have to schedule time to work during open lab slots during the week or weekend.

Withdrawal Policy

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 he or she feel it is necessary If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date, __________, __________, 2021.  The student is also strongly encouraged to retain 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.

Dropping or withdrawing from a course can have serious consequences that affect your financial aid, veterans’ benefits or international student status. Details regarding this policy and others can be found in the ACC college catalog.

Missed or Late Work

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

Incomplete Grade

An instructor may award a grade of “I” (Incomplete) if a student was unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a 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.

If you are unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a course due to extraordinary circumstances—such as illness or death in the family—I may grant an “incomplete.” Generally, to receive a grade of I, you must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent you from completing the course. Finally, these circumstances must have occurred after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Copyright

The software programs used in the labs are licensed to the college, which is the original purchaser. Thus students cannot duplicate the software for their personal use. Do not use college equipment to duplicate software for other students or to produce work-for-profit.

Do not download, copy or scan copyrighted material for use in your projects unless it meets the Fair use guidelines below and the copyright holder is properly credited.

 Fair Use is an important element of U.S. copyright law that allows for the use of copyrighted work without asking permission of the copyright holder, especially when the copyrighted work is used for criticism, scholarship, and education. Under the Fair Use guidelines students may:

•       Incorporate portions of copyrighted materials when producing a project for a specific course; and

•       Perform and display their own projects and use them in their portfolio or use the project for job interviews or as supporting materials for application to other schools.

•       For more information on Fair Use see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_use

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:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct.

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..

Privacy Policy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects confidentiality of your educational records. Grades cannot be given over the phone, posted, over non ACC e-mail, or through a fellow student.

Statement on Student 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 Student Accessibility Services & Assistive Technology (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. Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student.   

Additional information about the Student Accessibility Services and Assistive Technology (SAS) is available at  https://www.austincc.edu/students/student-accessibility-services-and-assistive-technology

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 www.austincc.edu/ehs

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. 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 www.austincc.edu/emergency/

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 dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

Concealed Handgun 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.

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

Instructor’s Communication (Email) Policies

I will respond to student email and text messages within 24 hours. I will not normally answer emails or texts over the weekend from 5:00pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday.

I will send emails to student’ ACC email accounts only. It is imperative that students use their ACC email account and check it daily.

Cell phone policy

Please silence your phone during scheduled class times. Please do not check your phone or text during class time; you may check messages during your break. 

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: http://www.austincc.edu/support

Links to many student services and other information can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/current/


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: https://www.austincc.edu/students/tutoring/tutoring-schedules

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

Visual Communications Open Lab Policy

What is Open Lab? When does it take place?

•       Open labs are available during various time slots in VisCom classrooms and provide additional practice time for students to work on assignments. Open lab hours and available software listed here: viscom.austincc.edu/lab-info. An Adobe Creative Suite subscription is needed to utilize Photoshop in the labs.

Open lab locations:

•       SAC: 1210, 1211, 1212

•       NRG Building 4000: 4206, 4262, 4265, 4269

•       Highland Center in the ACCelerator Learning Lab: There are Mac computers with the CC 2020 software in the ACCelerator.

•       Tutoring is available in some labs. Please check the schedule for subject and availability.

Lab rules:

•       Know the Open Lab hours (posted on all classroom doors and web site).

•       Please bring a flash drive or external hard drive to class so you can save all your work to it.
Note: All media are scanned in accordance with ACC policy.

•       Do not view or download inappropriate material. VisCom Tech Support Staff tracks internet use.

Top tips for easier work in the lab:

•       Before working on a file, drag it from a flash drive to the desktop.

•       If you are using your Adobe Creative Suite subscription you will not have a font issue as Adobe Fonts will be available in your subscription.

•       If you need help with the computers, scanners, printers, or flash drives, ask VisCom Tech Support staff.

Using printers and scanners:

•       Limit your time with printers and scanners. Take turns.

•       For draft prints, use black-and-white printers only.

•       For final prints, you may use the color printer.

•       Ask VisCom Tech Support staff if you need to print on any special paper.

•       Please do not try to fix paper jams yourself. Contact VisCom Tech Support Staff.

Treat the lab like a learning space:

•       Keep food and drink away from the computers. 

•       Do not plug personal equipment (such as laptops) into Ethernet ports.

•       This lab is only for Visual Communication class assignments; please don’t use it for other classes, personal, or outside work.

•       Since this is an open lab, computers are first-come first-served. 

•       Be sure to logout before you leave the lab.

Be kind and considerate:

•       Silence cell phones and take phone calls in the hallways.

•       If you listen to music, use headphones or ear-buds.

•       If you argue, talk loudly, call people names, refuse to follow faculty and staff requests, or demand exceptions to these rules, you will be asked to leave.

Print Job Best Practices

•       Flatten your projects’ layers/save as PDF prior to printing.

•       Size your project appropriately before sending your job to the printer. Keeping the DPI of all objects in your assignment to 500 or less helps keep overall file size down, and the print queue moving for everyone.

•       Proof your work on the screen and to the black and white printers. As much as possible, reserve color printing for final projects.

•       Understand the difference between a paper’s “text” weight, and it’s “cover” weight, when making your custom paper selection. Our color printers are designed to handle 80# text, which is less than half the weight of that amount in cover.

•       Cardstock paper must be fed through the manual tray - attempting to place it in other trays will result in a paper jam, damaging your paper, and possibly, the printer itself. Always contact a member of the tech staff if you have concerns or questions

•       Transparencies or highly textured paper stock is not permitted for use in any department printer

•       Custom cut paper must be done so that it matches standard dimensions; i.e., 8.5”x11”, 11”x17”, etc.

•       Plan your final printing during periods when tech support staff are present (SAC 8-5 M-F, NRG 8-7 M-F)

•       Familiarize yourself with the printing process.  Any member of the tech staff will be happy to step your through getting your jobs through quickly and cleanly.

Tech Support Offices:

South Austin: 1213.5

NRG Building 4000: 4263.3

Tech Support Contact: 512-223-4862

Course Policies

(Official college policy italicized)

Student standards of conduct

Acceptable standards of conduct include behavior that is civil, courteous, and respectful of all members of the campus community, their property, and the property of the college; promotes mutual respect, equality, and safety of its members and opposes those acts that harass. Intimidate or haze its members.

Illegal acts include, but not limited to possession or use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons; gambling; unlawful possession, use, and distribution of narcotics; assault or stalking. ACC’s policy on student standards and code of conduct can be found here in the current student handbook: www.austincc.edu/handbook

Classroom Interaction

Throughout the course of the semester, you will be interacting with me, fellow students and outside professionals in critiques and group discussion. You will be both giving and receiving feedback on your work. These critiques will be conducted in various ways, from one-on-one interactions to large group environments. In all instances, classroom behavior should support and enhance learning. I expect everyone to treat one another with understanding, dignity and respect.

I will not tolerate disruptive behavior, which may include:

•       Persistent speaking without permission 

•       Side conversations

•       Engaging in activities not related to the class 

•       Ringing cell phones or using a cell phone to talk or send text messages

•       Using PDAs or laptop computers in the classroom for non-course related purposes

•       Sleeping in class 

•       Eating/drinking in class without permission 

•       Monopolizing class discussion, refusing to defer to instructor, or listen to others; persisting when the instructor has indicated that the student’s remarks are off topic and it is time to move on

•       Reacting angrily or defensively to critique from guests, instructors, or classmates

•       Sighing, rolling eyes, or muttering when other people are talking

•       Refusing to participate in group activities such as group or peer-to-peer critiques

•       Chronically entering late/leaving early, moving about the classroom

•       Filming, photographing, or taping the class without the instructor’s prior permission

•       Disputing authority and arguing with faculty and other students 

•       Yelling, arguing, swearing, bullying, or other harassing or intimidating behavior

•       Physically or verbally abusive conduct

•       Failure to adhere to the instructor’s rules or instructions

•       Vulgar or obscene language, slurs, or other forms of intimidation

•       Showing up to class under the influence of alcohol/drugs

•       Threats of any kind 

•       Destruction of property 

•       Any behavior that puts the health or safety of the instructor or other students in the classroom in jeopardy

If you engage in disruptive behavior, I may file a Student Discipline Report and refer you to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean will investigate the case, and based on the investigation, s/he may put sanctions into place, including but not limited to withdrawing you from the class.

If the behavior is severe, I will call Campus Police, who may immediately refer you to the Dean of Student Services.

Attendance and participation

Lab Attendance/Participation

Regular and punctual class and laboratory attendance is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. If there is any problem with being tardy, or attending class please notify instructor immediately.

Lab Absences

The following type of information is required in the syllabus but may be edited. If for any reason you’re unable to come to class your will be counted absent. You are allowed (3) absences. There is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence so use your absences meaningfully and sparingly. You are absent if you:

•    are not in class
•    leave the class extremely early
•    disappear in the middle of the class for a significant length of time
•    get to class extremely late

Online Class Absences

Online students who miss due dates and are not communicating with the instructor after two weeks risk failing the course. If you find yourself in this situation, you should consider withdrawing from the course.

Lack of progress and participation will cause a grade of D or F. In this case, you should withdraw from the course.
If you don’t withdraw, and the lack of progress continues past the final withdrawal date of the semester you will receive a grade of F. Remember lack of attendance, missed deadlines and non-communication in the work world is cause
for firing.

Course Daily Work Expectations

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

As a profession, graphics is extremely work intensive. Professional designers may routinely find themselves working much more than 40 hours per week. This course packs a lot of information in a short amount of time.

It’s essential for you to work on your assignments outside of class time. We will work every class period. You will have work over the weekends. The amount of time you’ll spend on work outside of class will vary depending on your experience, skill and knowledge, but the typical rule of thumb is to calculate double the amount of time for each hour in the course.

Although this is a lab class, there may be some classes at the beginning of each Competency when we will take all or most of the time to lecture. If you don’t have a computer accessible to you outside of this lab course, you’ll have to schedule time to work during open lab slots during the week or weekend.

Withdrawal Policy

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 he or she feel it is necessary If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is submitted before the Final Withdrawal Date, __________, __________, 2021.  The student is also strongly encouraged to retain 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.

Dropping or withdrawing from a course can have serious consequences that affect your financial aid, veterans’ benefits or international student status. Details regarding this policy and others can be found in the ACC college catalog.

Missed or Late Work

Work is due on the date/ time specified. If turned in after that date/time, the project is late. Work turned in past the
due date will automatically be lowered by a letter grade (or 10%). Work more than a week (two weeks) late may not
be accepted.

Incomplete Grade

An instructor may award a grade of “I” (Incomplete) if a student was unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a 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.

If you are unable to complete all the objectives for the passing grade in a course due to extraordinary circumstances—such as illness or death in the family—I may grant an “incomplete.” Generally, to receive a grade of I, you must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent you from completing the course. Finally, these circumstances must have occurred after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Copyright

The software programs used in the labs are licensed to the college, which is the original purchaser. Thus students cannot duplicate the software for their personal use. Do not use college equipment to duplicate software for other students or to produce work-for-profit.

Do not download, copy or scan copyrighted material for use in your projects unless it meets the Fair use guidelines below and the copyright holder is properly credited.

 Fair Use is an important element of U.S. copyright law that allows for the use of copyrighted work without asking permission of the copyright holder, especially when the copyrighted work is used for criticism, scholarship, and education. Under the Fair Use guidelines students may:

•       Incorporate portions of copyrighted materials when producing a project for a specific course; and

•       Perform and display their own projects and use them in their portfolio or use the project for job interviews or as supporting materials for application to other schools.

•       For more information on Fair Use see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_use

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:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct.

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..

Privacy Policy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects confidentiality of your educational records. Grades cannot be given over the phone, posted, over non ACC e-mail, or through a fellow student.

Statement on Student 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 Student Accessibility Services & Assistive Technology (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. Arrangements for academic accommodations can only be made after the instructor receives the ‘Notice of Approved Accommodations’ from the student.   

Additional information about the Student Accessibility Services and Assistive Technology (SAS) is available at  https://www.austincc.edu/students/student-accessibility-services-and-assistive-technology

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 www.austincc.edu/ehs

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. 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 www.austincc.edu/emergency/

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 dismissed from the day’s activity, may be withdrawn from the class, and/or barred from attending future activities.

Concealed Handgun 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.

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

Instructor’s Communication (Email) Policies

I will respond to student email and text messages within 24 hours. I will not normally answer emails or texts over the weekend from 5:00pm Friday to 8:00 am Monday.

I will send emails to student’ ACC email accounts only. It is imperative that students use their ACC email account and check it daily.

Cell phone policy

Please silence your phone during scheduled class times. Please do not check your phone or text during class time; you may check messages during your break. 

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: http://www.austincc.edu/support

Links to many student services and other information can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/current/


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: https://www.austincc.edu/students/tutoring/tutoring-schedules

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

Visual Communications Open Lab Policy

What is Open Lab? When does it take place?

•       Open labs are available during various time slots in VisCom classrooms and provide additional practice time for students to work on assignments. Open lab hours and available software listed here: viscom.austincc.edu/lab-info. An Adobe Creative Suite subscription is needed to utilize Photoshop in the labs.

Open lab locations:

•       SAC: 1210, 1211, 1212

•       NRG Building 4000: 4206, 4262, 4265, 4269

•       Highland Center in the ACCelerator Learning Lab: There are Mac computers with the CC 2020 software in the ACCelerator.

•       Tutoring is available in some labs. Please check the schedule for subject and availability.

Lab rules:

•       Know the Open Lab hours (posted on all classroom doors and web site).

•       Please bring a flash drive or external hard drive to class so you can save all your work to it.
Note: All media are scanned in accordance with ACC policy.

•       Do not view or download inappropriate material. VisCom Tech Support Staff tracks internet use.

Top tips for easier work in the lab:

•       Before working on a file, drag it from a flash drive to the desktop.

•       If you are using your Adobe Creative Suite subscription you will not have a font issue as Adobe Fonts will be available in your subscription.

•       If you need help with the computers, scanners, printers, or flash drives, ask VisCom Tech Support staff.

Using printers and scanners:

•       Limit your time with printers and scanners. Take turns.

•       For draft prints, use black-and-white printers only.

•       For final prints, you may use the color printer.

•       Ask VisCom Tech Support staff if you need to print on any special paper.

•       Please do not try to fix paper jams yourself. Contact VisCom Tech Support Staff.

Treat the lab like a learning space:

•       Keep food and drink away from the computers. 

•       Do not plug personal equipment (such as laptops) into Ethernet ports.

•       This lab is only for Visual Communication class assignments; please don’t use it for other classes, personal, or outside work.

•       Since this is an open lab, computers are first-come first-served. 

•       Be sure to logout before you leave the lab.

Be kind and considerate:

•       Silence cell phones and take phone calls in the hallways.

•       If you listen to music, use headphones or ear-buds.

•       If you argue, talk loudly, call people names, refuse to follow faculty and staff requests, or demand exceptions to these rules, you will be asked to leave.

Print Job Best Practices

•       Flatten your projects’ layers/save as PDF prior to printing.

•       Size your project appropriately before sending your job to the printer. Keeping the DPI of all objects in your assignment to 500 or less helps keep overall file size down, and the print queue moving for everyone.

•       Proof your work on the screen and to the black and white printers. As much as possible, reserve color printing for final projects.

•       Understand the difference between a paper’s “text” weight, and it’s “cover” weight, when making your custom paper selection. Our color printers are designed to handle 80# text, which is less than half the weight of that amount in cover.

•       Cardstock paper must be fed through the manual tray - attempting to place it in other trays will result in a paper jam, damaging your paper, and possibly, the printer itself. Always contact a member of the tech staff if you have concerns or questions

•       Transparencies or highly textured paper stock is not permitted for use in any department printer

•       Custom cut paper must be done so that it matches standard dimensions; i.e., 8.5”x11”, 11”x17”, etc.

•       Plan your final printing during periods when tech support staff are present (SAC 8-5 M-F, NRG 8-7 M-F)

•       Familiarize yourself with the printing process.  Any member of the tech staff will be happy to step your through getting your jobs through quickly and cleanly.

Tech Support Offices:

South Austin: 1213.5

NRG Building 4000: 4263.3

Tech Support Contact: 512-223-4862