Thank you for being prepared for our work and ready to explore the topics at hand. As an expressive learning community, it is essential that we show the highest degree of respect for each other in every way. This respect should translate from our interpersonal interactions on discussion boards and in any online meetings to how we address each other’s speech and writing.

Rude, mean, divisive, and/or dismissive attitudes and unproductive discussion posts or comments are not appropriate for college discourse, nor will they be tolerated. I expect attentive and thoughtful conduct in every situation.

Any disruptive commentary and/or behavior will not be tolerated. This includes commentary and or behavior that excludes classmates from meaningful participation in the course. Any racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or otherwise prejudicial and/or bigoted language will not be tolerated in this space.

If you have questions about this policy, please feel free to speak with me in class, during office hours, by appointment, or through email for clarification. You are also encouraged to contact the Office of Multicultural Student Engagement (OMSE) with any questions or concerns about issues surrounding diversity, inclusion, and identity.

These guidelines will help us create a positive environment for learning together:

Log in and participate regularly to group conversations and activities. Given the short timeline of this semester, please log in to Canvas every day to stay on top of your learning! I will communicate with your through Canvas Abnnocements and email. It is important that you rerularly check your email and Canvas.
Be a learner. Keep an open mind when introduced to new ideas that may challenge your perceptions.
Treat the diverse contributions made by other community members with respect.
Have patience and a sense of humor with technology. We will experiece technological issues from time-to-time and these issues become less of a burden when appraoched with postivity and humor!
Ask for help when you have questions and concerns, and assist others when possible.
Understand that communication shared through text have higher likelihood of being misinterpreted than spoken words. Therefore, when you type a thought or comment, read it carefully before submitting it. If you question the way it is worded, read it aloud. If you still question the way it’s phrased, re-write it.
Contribute regularly to group dialogue, including discussion board postings, replies, and other group activities. The contributions of each individual play a crucial role in the collective strength and diversity of our community.
Capitalize only to highlight an important point or to distinguish a title or heading. An entire word or sentence in caps is often considered shouting and is strongly discouraged.
Avoid negativity and inappropriate materials. If you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t say it online.
Double check your grammar and spelling mistakes.
Stick to the point and focus on making a clear and relevant contribution.
If, at any time, you feel that any of these ground rules has been violated by a member of our community, you are encouraged to bring your concern directly to me. Clearly identify which group rule has been violated and included specific evidence of the violation in your correspondence. Your concerns will be addressed promptly and in an individualized manner.
Approach coursework with an open mind and postiive attitude - your mindset will play a central role in determining the expereince you have in the course.