Our Class Guidelines
Chances are we all use technology in some form in our daily lives. However, students enter their programs and this class with a variety of technology and communication skills so it is important to review some foundational guidelines so we are all on the same page in terms of expectations. Provided this is an online course, how we interact with one another and how we interpret those interactions may be different than if we were in-person in a classroom setting. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about the following guidelines.
Technology Requirements
To be successful in this fully online course, you will need the following:
- Dependable internet. I find the best success when using Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox browsers.
- Email. Please send me an email ([email protected]) to briefly introduce yourself and to share 2 methods that I can reach you by.
- A computer that can tolerate downloads, can open pdf documents, and has a Microsoft Word/Powerpoint.
- Access to video/audio technology (e.g., webcam or smart phone, built-in microphone or headphones, etc.).
Communication Policy
Email Communication
Interactions Throughout The Course
- My preferred method of communication is email. Here is the email you can reach me at: [email protected]
- Acknowledge emails from the instructor and peers and respond within 24-36 hours.
- Do not forward, copy (“cc”), or blind copy (“bcc”) any information shared by anyone to someone else not enrolled in the course.
- Remember, email etiquette is generally more formal than face-to-face communication or texting. Therefore, use complete sentences, check grammar and spelling, address your email to the sender (“Hello, Alicia”), and sign the email with your name (“Thanks, Your Name”). Phrase questions and comments in a respectful way that most accurately shares the information you intend to convey. Most importantly, remember that email is not texting.
- You will notice that my emails generally try to convey the respect I have for you and your time through the information added and the way it is conveyed, and I appreciate you doing the same in your emails, too.
Interactions Throughout The Course
- The instructor and students are expected to maintain confidentiality and are asked NOT to discuss personal accounts shared by the instructor, students, or anyone else.
- In communications (email, discussions, etc.) with the instructor and peers, please refrain from the use of profanity or derogatory statements about sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, race, gender, age, ability, etc.
- Be concise and avoid sarcasm - there is no way to be sure that it won't be misinterpreted.
- You will be expected to handle yourself in a professional and respectful manner.
- When reading or listening to other student's posts, keep an open mind and focus on the content and arguments they bring up. Responses should illustrate critical listening and thought, and be respectful of others’ right to have opinions. Praise others where they deserve it. Make sure criticism is constructive.
- Don't be discouraged to disagree with others’ opinions. All disagreements and arguments should be intellectual and respectful. Explain why you disagree in a well articulated and educated manner. Be sure to separate the opinion from the person; just because you do not agree, you should still treat the other person and their free will with respect.
- Show grace towards one another and treat others as you would want to be treated.