Class Expectations and Projects

Class Participation: This class is a highly interactive course, in which its foundation is based on our in class group discussions. The content and quality of these discussions depends on the content and quality of your critical responses. For you to do well in this course you simply have to be engaged in your written work, mid-term, final project and our daily class discussions. Each class you are expected to come prepared with a copy of that day’s reading and response, as well as a pen or pencil and notebook.

Note: We are investigating theoretical production in this class. This type of interaction is based on debate and discussion. Whether you feel like you have a mastery of the material at hand or a loss of understanding the material, your participation is always encouraged and expected. Participation gives you a chance to develop and articulate ideas about the material at hand and its interaction with the world around us.

Midterm: In addition to your weekly responses for our class midterm you are required to complete either a 5page essay or a short video based on the readings. This work (essay or video) is to be posted on our class blog no later than Monday Feb. 15th at 8pm. In addition, you are required to prepare a five-minute presentation on your research or work. This will occur on Tuesday Feb. 16 or Thursday Feb. 18. Your assigned dates are posted on our class blog. Please set aside Sunday Feb. 21 from 7- 9, in case in-class presentations go over our allotted class-time.

Final Exam: For our class final exam you are required to complete a 2nd short essay or short video based on the readings. This work (essay or videos) is to be posted on our class blog no later than Monday April. 26th at 8pm. In addition, you are required to prepare a five-minute presentation on your research or work. This will occur during Finals Week.

Evaluation:
Class Participation: 50%
• In class discussion: 25%
• Reading Responses: 25%

Projects: 50%
• Midterm: 25%
• Final: 25%

Class Attendance: Students who accumulate 3 or more unexcused absences will have their grade lowered by one letter grade. In addition, absences, whether excused or unexcused will negatively impact your participation grade.

Lateness: Everyday we have a lot of material to go through in a very short period of time. Please come alert and on time. Points will be deducted if you are late more than four times.

Class Expectations:
• Show up prepared and on time
• Turn in assignments on time
• Participate consistently in class
• Respect your peers during group discussion.

Matters of Attention: Please, no web reviewing, texting or talking on your phoned during class, and, double please, turn off your cell phone completely.

Honor Code: Vanderbilt’s Honor Code governs all work in this course. If you have doubts whether your completion of an assignment satisfies the Code, please discuss them with me before you hand it in.