Because the class involves active discussion about materials covered, we have a few rules (many based on research on how students learn).
- Computers and phones in class: In class, there will be NO use of computers or phones, please keep them closed.
- You will probably want to take notes, so bring a notepad and a pen or pencil!
- Reading and reacting to the text before class: It is important that you come to class prepared to engage in a discussion of the materials presented (that means to raise, answer, or respond to questions), particularly since I tend to wander around the classroom, and may tap on the shoulder and ask for your opinion.
- For this reason, we use an interactive web based text.
- Before class starts we will assign you to a group of up to 4 other students. You will receive an email (to your official university email address) from Highlighter.com (HL). Sign up with HL to establish an account.
-
- We will go over how to use HL in class. If, by the second week of class, you find your group to be dysfunction, let me know and I will assign you to another group.
- Please note: 20% of your grade is based on your using HL to interact with the text and your fellow students before class. I will be using your comments to structure in class discussions, so they are both important and valuable.
- Links within the text are not required reading (and if you are not careful could be distracting). Let me know about broken links.
- Office hours: Our TA and LAs will hold weekly meetings that your can attend (we will announce where and when in class, and then it will be posted here).
- I have office hours from 2 to 4 every Thursday, feel free to drop in. My office is 425 Porter BioSciences (in the back of the lab).
- There is also the MCDB Learning Lounge (Porter B0054) where students from a number of different classes often hang out [map], feel free to use it, since it is for you.
- Syllabus: The syllabus will be changed only if there are serious unforeseen circumstances, count on it to make your study/travel plans.
- Exams: This course builds from one concept to the other -- therefore all exams are cumulative, but primarily focused on the topic of the section leading up to the exam. There are three midterms and a final (dates can be found on the syllabus).
|