Valencia Core competencies: TVCA

Valencia faculty has defined four interrelated competencies (Value, Think, Communicate and Act) that prepare students to succeed in the world community. These competencies are complex abilities that are essential to lifelong success. This course will help you develop and demonstrate the abilities to (1) think clearly, critically, and creatively; (2) communicate with others verbally and in written form; (3) make reasoned value judgments and responsible commitments; and (4) act purposefully, reflectively, and responsibly. Due to the nature of these global competencies many problems and activities will be presented in the context of an application. These applications will require students to select appropriate information from the problem and communicate effectively how to arrive at an appropriate solution.

Communications:

This is an online course; therefore, we will communicate mainly electronically, via e-mail. The only e-mail used in this course is the Atlas e-mail. You must check your Valencia email regularly as to not miss any important messages from the instructor!

You will always use my email address to communicate with me:  pfernandez@valenciacollege.edu

Please remember to include “B-Calculus” on the subject line of the email, followed by the nature of your message, so that your email will have priority.  To protect my computer from any virus, I will delete without opening any email with no subject. All communications should follow appropriate etiquette. Email should be used in a professional way. Always put identifying information in the subject line so that I know what your message is about. Use appropriate language and include your name so that I know who you are.

If you call my office and wish to leave me a voice mail, please repeat your name and telephone number twice. Since I am not always in my office, an email will have a faster response than a voice mail.

Note: MML allows you to create messages and communicate via email with your instructor. You will disregard this feature!

IMPORTANT: Since I will be sending all my communications to your Valencia email account, please remember that you must delete old messages from your mailbox; otherwise, if you exceed the quota, your Valencia mailbox will not accept any more and you will not receive my weekly emails. I have no control of your email account, so please check this regularly.

All emails will receive my response in a timely fashion. You should expect my reply within a 24-hr. period, excluding Saturdays and Sundays. If you have not received a reply from me within this period, probably I have not received your email. Please resend it. If time permits, I will also get back to you during weekends. On the other hand, when you receive any email from me that requires your response, I expect you to reply within a 24-hr. period as well. Again, I will be communicating with you on a regular basis, therefore, it is crucial that you check your emails and any announcements via BB frequently, so that you are always on track.

Not checking my emails is not accepted as an excuse for missing required tasks; missed announcements and/or emails may affect your grade and are the responsibility of the student.

Attendance Policy:

The frequency of your visitations to the course websites will also be monitored. In the event of an extended absence -that is, not logging onto course sites (Blackboard and/or MML) for more than 4 days, or not replying to my emails in a timely manner (within 48 hours) - you should contact me as soon as possible to indicate the reason for the inactivity. Before the withdrawal deadline, if your off-campus absences become extreme (4 days or more), you may receive an excessive absence notification and may be withdrawn from this course for noncompliance with the requisites of the course.

Work Requirement:

Instruction in this course does not involve classroom lectures. You will learn the material by reading the sections, watching videos, experimenting  and doing the problems in MML.. All instructional materials used throughout the course, as well as the scheduled activities, support and promote the achievement of the stated learning outcomes and unit learning objectives. I will act as facilitator and will guide you in your learning experience. I will not be teaching you the course in the traditional sense, because this is not the purpose of this online course. If you need a live person to explain to you the concepts, this course is not for you, and I suggest you take a classroom course.

 Accessing the Online Textbook material in MML:

To access the online textbook, login to Course Compass, and go to the Chapter Content (in the left hand side). Select the desired chapter and section in MML. In there, you will find the Watch Videos and the 'Multimedia e-text’ link that contains the book section in a PDF format. All the Multimedia and video lectures are integrated in the e-text.  The 'Tracked Tutorial Exercises' are optional and will not count towards your grade.

Doing Online Homework in MML:

When you are ready to do an online homework, login to Course Compass and in Course Home, select the 'Homework' tab. When you work a problem, make sure to click the save button. You may do the homework as many times as you want (until you get 100%).
Every time yousubmit homework, your homework grade will be updated in your Gradebook. It is the student's responsibility to check their Gradebook to ensure that the homework was submitted successfully.

Note: Your commitment in this course is directly related to your grade in the MML Homework. A low grade in the MML Homework is an indication that you do not have enough time for this course.  

Caution: Trying the online homework before doing the assigned textbook reading will result in wasting many hours of your time in front of the computer without learning the material.

If you do not want to waste your time, (1) Read the section in the e-book and work the textbook examples (2) Watch any related videos, (3) do the online homework.

 You have learned the material when you can do the homework without referring to the book or your notes.

Remember: In Mathematics "There are no shortcuts".

Non Graded Assessment:

The Study Plan, and the Sample Tests and Quizzes under the Quizzes & Tests tab, will not count toward your grade in the course. You only do those if you feel you require more practice.

Evaluation:

There will be 4 in class tests and a comprehensive optional final Exam. All tests are comprehensive with emphasis of the most recently completed material.  Test problems are similar to homework problems. Each tests will count as one (1) grade each, the online homework (MML) will count as one (1) grade, and the comprehensive Optional Final will replace your lowest test grade. There will be a total of 5 grades. Take-home part of tests is timed (150 minutes) and you will have only one opportunity to take them. The password to access take-home tests is the same for all tests, and it is: onetime.  Once you open the test, you have to take it! Do not email me saying that you opened it by mistake, because to open it, you have to write the password: onetime. Testing-Center tests have no time limit, and your proctor will write the password for you.

 Extra credit:

You will be able to replace your lowest test grade with the optional Final Exam Grade. Each test has a Take-Home part, each homework problem in MML can be attempted until you get 100%. No other extra credit will be given; so please do not ask for it.

Make-Up Policy:

NO make-up tests will be given.  If you miss one test, the optional Final Exam's score will replace the missed test. Only one test can be replaced during the academic term. If you miss more than one test, for any reason, you can only replace one test score with the Final Exam's score; any other missed test will receive a score of zero. No exceptions! Note: If you do not miss any test, and you are satisfied with your grade, you do not need to take the Final Exam. It is never advisable to miss a test because you do not feel prepared.

Grades: The final grade for this course will be derived from the following sources:

Test #1              100 points

Test #2              100 points   

Test #3              100 points   

Test #4              100 points   

MML               100 points                                  

Computing your grades:                             

You can compute, at any time, the grade you have in this course by adding your total number of points obtained, including tests and the homework score, and dividing by the total number of grades.

    At the end of the term your final grade will be computed by adding all your scores, and dividing by 5.

The grading scale is as follows:

A  90-100%      B  80-89%      C*  70-79%      D  60-69%      F  Below 60% 

* Minimum grade to pass MAC 1105 (Gordon Rule/General Education Requirements) 

Borderline policy:

If your course average is borderline (that is, 89, 79, 69, 59), you must take the final to have the opportunity to go up.

If your course average is borderline (that is, 89, 79, 69, 59) after taking the final exam, your average will go up depending on the average of all your test grades (4 tests, including any final exam adjustment). If the average of your tests grade is higher than the borderline score, you grade will go up. If your average is the same or lower than your borderline score, you grade will stay the same. To find if you are eligible to go up, find the average of your tests. If this average is higher than your borderline score of 89, 79, 69 or 59, you will "go up". Otherwise, you will stay at your current grade.

Extra Help:

In addition to receiving help from your instructor, you should try to attend your respective campus math support area. The tutoring services provided by Valencia's math support centers will help you clarify course content. You can work on any specific questions and you can get help with your required homework problems. All Valencia’s math support centers are very helpful. Valencia also offers free online tutoring (7 days/week, 24 hours/day), which is an excellent resource for online students. You can find the SmartThinking link in Blackboard under the Tutoring Help Link.

Math Help 24/7:

This Valencia website provides links to video tutorials created by Valencia math professors. The videos use a variety of technologies, and all simple to view. This link will take you there: http://valenciacollege.edu/math/liveScribe.cfm   (Copy and paste the link to your browser if needed.)

Once you are on the website, you only need to look for the course name, and it will take you to specific videos for this class.  HELPFUL SITE!

Computer/Equipment Use Policy:

Use of computers at Valencia College is restricted to those activities designated by the instructor to enhance the class materials. Any other use is strictly forbidden. Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to:

 Use of computer to send email or access Internet sites not specifically assigned in class.

Use of computer for job, internship, homework or other activities not assigned in class.

Modifying any hardware or software system configuration or setting.

Activities not in accordance with the Valencia Student Code of Conduct.

Use of computers in the departmental open lab is limited to those activities involved with preparing homework or coursework in this department and is subject to the same restriction as listed above. Computer use is remotely monitored; any student using computers inappropriately may be subject to dismissal from class or banishment from the lab. Subsequent offense may be sent to the campus administration for further disciplinary action.

Rules and Tips for Taking Tests at the Testing Center:

You will need at least 2 hours to complete each math test.  You will be taking your tests at a Valencia Testing Center. You are responsible for finding out their hours of operation. 

Here is a link to Valencia's Testing Centers. It provides information on their locations, contact information, and hours of operation: http://valenciacollege.edu/testingcenter/.

Government ID cards are required for the Testing Center. No other form of ID at those locations will be accepted. A Valencia ID can be obtained at the Campus Security Office of your campus. Call for details. Click on this link for their contact information:  http://valenciacollege.edu/studentdev/centers.cfm. Not having an ID is not an excuse for missing a test!

http://www.valenciacollege.edu/studentdev/centers.cfm

* The Testin-Center part of tests are closed book/notebook. No notes or formulas are allowed

* No calculators are allowed in any Testing Center part of the test

* Do not bring food or beverages to the testing center.

* Cell phones and other electronic devices must be turned off and stowed away during testing. If your phone or any electronic device rings, you will be asked to stop testing and sign out, and you will miss the opportunity you have to take the test. Ouch! Do not let this happen to you!

* Allow enough time to take a test. The Testing Center will not give a test the last hour before closing (for example, if the Center closes at 9:00 p.m., the last test is given out at 8:00 p.m.); it will not give a Final Exam within two hours of closing.

* In addition to these rules, your instructor’s test policies will apply.

Academic Honesty:

All students are expected to be in complete compliance with Valencia College’s policies on academic honesty. Here is a link for details on this policy: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/documents/Volume8/8-11-Academic-Dishonesty.pdf

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to: plagiarism, cheating, furnishing false information, forgery, alteration or misuse of documents, misconduct during a testing situation and misuse of identification with intent to defraud or deceive. In no instance will dishonesty of any type be tolerated in this course. Students who violate any of Valencia’s academic honesty policies will risk penalties that can go from receiving a grade of “F” to dismissal from class and/or expulsion from the college. The professor reserves the right to determine the appropriate penalties within the aforementioned policies. 

Student Code of Conduct:

Valencia College is dedicated not only to the advancement of knowledge and learning but is concerned with the development of responsible personal and social conduct. By enrolling at

Valencia, a student assumes the responsibility for knowing and abiding by the rules articulated in the Student Code of Conduct. Here is a link to the Student Code of Conduct: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/documents/Volume8/8-03-Student-Code-of-Conduct.pdf

Primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with the faculty. Faculty members are authorized to define, communicate, and enforce appropriate standards of decorum in classrooms, offices, and other instructional areas under their supervision. Students who engage in any prohibited or unlawful acts that result in disruption of a class may be directed by the faculty member to leave the class for the remainder of the class period. Violation of any classroom or Valencia’s rules may lead to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from Valencia. Disciplinary action could include being withdrawn from class, disciplinary warning, probation, suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate and authorized actions. In addition, Valencia College strives to provide a drug-free learning environment for all those involved in the academic experience.

Policy: In compliance with the provisions of the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, Valencia College will take such steps as are necessary in order to adopt and implement a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by Valencia College students or employees on college premises or as part of any college activity. The student code of conduct applies to the online classroom environment as well.

Withdrawal:

If you decide to withdraw from this course, you must follow the proper Valencia procedure.  Students should familiarize themselves with Valencia Community College’s withdrawal policy. 

The withdrawal deadline for this term is found in the Important Dates section of the syllabus. Per Valencia Withdrawal Policy (4-07), a student cannot withdraw and obtain a grade of W after this deadline. After this deadline, students will only receive a letter grade of A, B, C, D or F. Again: No W grade can be given after the withdrawal deadline. 

 Important Dates:    

MML is open. You will have a 14 day trial period where you do not have to buy a code to start working.

First day of classes/course site available in Blackboard: Monday, January 9, 2017

Campus email-first assignment deadline: Wednesday, January 11, 2017 (deadline: 11:59 PM)

Dept. of Education Attendance Requirement deadline: Tuesday, January17, 2017 (11:59 PM)

No-Show requisites deadline: Tuesday, January17, 2017 (11:59 PM)

Drop/Refund deadline: Tuesday, January17, 2017 (11:59 PM)

Withdrawal deadline (via Atlas): Friday, March 31, 2017 (11:59 PM)  No "W" grade will be given after the withdrawal deadline.

Final Exam deadline (Testing Center): Monday, April 24, 2017.

Academic Support:

In addition to the textbook math lessons and guidance and assistance from your instructor, you have supplementary academic support:

1. Tutors can be assigned to students through the Tutoring Center.

2. Math Support Center (walk in tutoring) Great Help!

3. Web links that will provide math help are available in our BB math site.

4. Math Help 24/7 (See page 9 on this syllabus for details.)

5. Online Tutoring (See Blackboard and/or Atlas for link.)

Here is a link to the tutoring services: http://valenciacollege.edu/tutoring

This link will provide you information on our math resources: http://valenciacollege.edu/math   

For computer lab hours, click here: http://valenciacollege.edu/labs

Blackboard Support:

For BB issues, please email onlinehelp@valenciacollege.edu

Student with Disabilities:

Students with disabilities who qualify for academic accommodations must provide a letter from the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) and discuss specific needs with the professor, preferably during the first week of class. The Office for Students with Disabilities determines accommodations based on appropriate documentation of disabilities. The goal at the OSD is to open doors, remove barriers and assist you in any way they can. The key to success is matching your needs to the services provided. Please discuss your individual needs with your instructor. Valencia’s OSD can be found online at http://valenciacollege.edu/osd

OSD contact information per campus:

East: Bldg. 5, Rm. 216, Ph: 407-582-2229, Fax: 407-582-8908, TTY: 407-582-1222

West: SSB, Rm. 102, Ph: 407-582-1523, Fax: 407-582-1326, TTY: 407-582-1222

Osceola: Bldg. 2, Rm. 102, Ph: 407-582-4167, Fax: 407-582-4804, TTY: 407-582-1222

Winter Park: Bldg.1, Rm. 212, Ph: 407-582-6887, Fax: 407-582-6841, TTY: 407-582-1222

For Lake Nona appointments, please call OSD East Campus.

Student Support Services:

Here are some links that you can use for additional help in areas that affect your learning experience at Valencia, such as advising, registration, financial aid, and others:

Answer center: Student Services Office - Valencia College

Career and educational goals: LifeMap - Valencia College

For general information on all student and academic services: Students Directory

For assistance with planning your class schedule, please visit with an academic advisor (if you are seeking an Associate in Arts degree) or with a Career Program Advisor (if you are seeking an Associate in Science degree).

Student Assistance Program:

Valencia College is interested in making sure all our students have a rewarding and successful college experience. To that purpose, Valencia students can get immediate help with issues dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse, time management as well as relationship problems dealing with school, home or work. BayCare Behavioral Health Student Assistance Program (SAP) services are free to all Valencia students and available 24 hours a day by calling (800) 878-5470. Free face-to-face counseling is also available.

FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

FERPA is a Federal law that is administered by the Family Policy Compliance Office in the U.S. Department of Education (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). FERPA affords eligible students certain rights with respect to their educational records. Valencia College has a firm commitment to protecting the privacy rights of its students. For further information on FERPA see:   http://valenciacollege.edu/ferpa/default.cfm#whatis

Title IX

Valencia College strives to be a place free from all forms of discrimination. Title IX protects students from discrimination based upon sex including protections against sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking. This also includes protections for students who are pregnant or may become pregnant. If you experience sexual violence, domestic violence or stalking and would like assistance there are several options available to you. Valencia partners with the Victim Service Center of Central Florida which is a confidential resource available 24/7. They can be reached by calling 407-497-6701. If you would like assistance on campus, you can go to http://valenciacollege.edu/eo or contact Valencia College’s Title IX and Equal Opportunity Officer, Ryan Kane, by emailing rkane8@valenciacollege.edu. If you would like to report to law enforcement, you may visit Campus Security or call 911.

Please note that there are no confidential resources on campus. As your professor, I am required to report any information mentioned in this statement to the appropriate campus resources. This will include your name, and detailed information shared with me. We take privacy very seriously at the College and only those who have a legitimate need to know the information will be provided with this information. If you have more questions about Title IX or the College’s response, please visit http://valenciacollege.edu/eo.

Course Completion:

Students enrolled in the same college-level course at Valencia more than two times shall pay the full cost (100%) of instruction fee (you will have to pay out-of-state tuition after your second attempt). Please see a counselor or advisor if you must repeat a course for the third time.

Valencia Student Feedback on Instruction: Near the end of the term, you will receive an invitation through your Valencia email account asking you to complete the Student Feedback on Instruction (SFI). This survey provides us with feedback on your experience in this class and helps us improve the course. The results are released only after grades are submitted. Student names are not included in the results - your responses will be anonymous. You will get an email from Valencia informing you when the SFI survey will open. 

Disclaimer:

Changes in the syllabus, course topics and contents, teaching/learning procedures and requisites, weekly schedule, course material guide, assessment and evaluation procedure, homework assignments, worksheets, and/or any other document or instruction provided or assigned by the professor may be made at any time at my discretion. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to find out what, if any, announcements or changes have been made.