Spring 2005

Class meetings: TR 9:30 – 10:50

Location: Ferguson (FE) 202

Instructor: Amanda Nimetz

Instructor’s Phone: 397-6244

Instructor’s Email: amanda.nimetz@mwsu.edu

Instructor’s Office: McGaha Hall - Academic Support Center

Instructor’s Office Hours: MWF 1-5 and TR 8-9 & 1:30-5

COURSE GOALS

The purpose of this course is to help new students make the transition to a college environment, focusing on the cognitive and behavioral dimensions of learning.  There is an emphasis on written and oral communication, and a career exploration project is required.

REQUIRED TOPICS           

Academic Skills                        note-taking, test taking, studying, reading and research. critical thinking and learning strategies, time management, academic advising/planning, communication skills

University Knowledge               traditions, campus resources and facilities, Moffett Library, MSU policies, procedures, and regulations, and cultural events/experiences

Skills for Living                         transition into college, personal development/values awareness, values clarification, health and wellness, goal setting, diversity

TEXT

The College Portfolio for Success, International Organization for Student Success, Ltd.

GRADES

The basis for your final mark will be the average of your quizzes, tests, and projects.  In other words, everything that you do in and for class counts.  You must demonstrate competency in writing through journal entries and other written work, in oral communication through class presentations and participation, and computer competency through specified assignments.  Grades will be as follows: 400-360 (A), 359-320 (B), 319-280 (C), 279-240 (D), and 239 and below (F).

ATTENDANCE

Students are required to attend all class meetings, and roll will be taken at the beginning of each class period. Each student will be allowed no more than 5 absences regardless of the reason. Students are encouraged to keep track of their own attendance on the attendance card which will be kept in the front of the student’s binder. Students will be required to meet with the instructor for each absence in excess of the first two absences. Students not abiding by the course attendance policies may be dropped from the class roll with a grade of F. Any personal emergencies that arise will be dealt with on an individual basis. Such emergencies should be reported to the Dean of Students office.

DUE DATES

All assigned work will be due on dates specified.  No late work will be accepted unless specific arrangements have been made with the instructor.