GEO 207
NATURAL DISASTERS

TEXT | ORGANIZATION | REQUIREMENTS | POLICIES | GRADE | STRATEGIES

TEXT

• Keller, E.A. & Blodgett, R.H., Natural Hazards 2nd ed.

ORGANIZATION

• The class will be web-based and will take place in 2nd Life (seminars) and in BlackBoard as follows:
  • topics will be introduced in BlackBoard on Sunday and in 2nd Life on Monday of each week
  • students will research the topics and discuss them on BlackBoard via the "threaded discussion" and in 2nd Life as scheduled
  • the discussion will conclude on Friday of each week
  • students will submit written answers to the topic questions by Monday.
• 2nd Life Seminars are designed to offer you an opportunity to discuss weekly topics and lab exercises with me in in real time using the 2nd Life interface.
• Homework are assigned to assess comprehension of weekly topics. You should always submit your own work in your own words.

REQUIREMENTS

TEXTS | ORGANIZATION | REQUIREMENTS | POLICIES | GRADE | STRATEGIES

• CLASS PARTICIPATION: In order to check your understanding I will ask you questions about the material being covered. "I don't know" is commonly a favorite response to questions, but it is not acceptable in this course. I expect an honest attempt at an answer, even if it is incorrect
• TEXT: You are expected to read the text. If you read the text prior to attending seminar, you will be able to ask me for clarification about things you don’t understand.
• HOMEWORK & HAZARD CITY: Homework assignments should be submitted as indicated on the course schedule.  All homework must be submitted via the digital drop box or e-mail by the deadline indicated on the schedule.
• WEB DISCUSSION: You will be expected to participate in weekly on-line discussions.
• FINAL PROJECT: You will be required to apply the concepts learned in the class by researching two (2) hazards and presenting your findings as a term project and on-line. Do not panic, the main requirement will be for you to apply and share what you have learned. The project will be presented a term paper accompanied by a brief, on-line presentation (you may use 2nd Life, submit a Power Point, or create a web page). The specific minimum requirements and grading method are described on a separate page.
• ASSESSMENTS: I will occasionally ask you to assess my assignemnts and instruction and your preparation and progress. These assessments will not affect your grade.

POLICIES

TEXTS | ORGANIZATION | REQUIREMENTS | POLICIES | GRADE | STRATEGIES

• ATTENDANCE: You are expected to participate on-line each 4-5 days each week. You should notify me prior to missing class.
• WITHDRAWAL: I may withdraw you from the course at your request or at my discretion. I may withdraw you at my discretion for any of the following reasons:
  • lack of participation in class
  • failure to submit two homework assignments

  - note: If you want to ensure withdrawal, you should request it. Failure to request a withdrawal or complete the course may result in a grade of "F."
  - Waiver from this policy requires a written request to me and will be at my discretion based on the circumstances.
  - The last day to withdraw is XXXX.

• LATE POLICY:
  • Homework must be turned in prior to the date indicated on the schedule. Five points will be subtracted for each day late.
  • Nothing may be turned in after Friday, August 25.
• ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: You are encouraged to discuss class and lab work with other students; however, all assignments must be your original work in your own words. If you cheat on an exam, you will be given a failing grade for the exam and will be required to have a conference with me and the Division Chair.
• CONTACT ME: If you have conflicts, concerns, scheduling problems, study difficulties, test anxiety, a learning disability, or anything else that may interfere with your success in this class or if you have questions about the college, geology, your career path, or just about anything else, please stop by my office or send me an e-mail. I will do my best to help you.
• The student handbook and the college catalog should be reviewed to become familiar with all ISU policies.

GRADE

TEXTS | ORGANIZATION | REQUIREMENTS | POLICIES | GRADE | STRATEGIES

• Grammar & Spelling are worth 10% of all assignments and exams. Answers should be in complete, grammatically correct sentences. All words should be correctly spelled. If you need help you should ask me for assistance.

EXTRA CREDIT:

• Term Paper/Project: You may apply the concepts learned in the class by writing a term paper or presenting a project discussing a geologic topic in greater detail than presented in the class. You must have the topic approved by me. Points will be assigned based on the depth of knowledge expressed in the paper/project. You are expected to cite all references. The term paper must be typed and proper English and spelling must be used. If you are assigned a paper/project in another course and you choose a topic related to geology, you may be able to submit the paper to me as well. (just ask).  Writing term papers: http://www.mtsu.edu/~cdharris/term-paper-guide/

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS

TEXTS | ORGANIZATION | REQUIREMENTS | POLICIES | GRADE | STRATEGIES

• Attend all 2nd Life class sessions (and pay attention).
• Participate in the on-line discussion.
• Read the resource materials.
• Work on the assignments prior to class.
• Ask questions about the material. Talk to other students and to me.
• Stop by my 2nd Life office.
• Get to know some of your classmates and work on homework and the study guide with them.
• Ask more questions.
• Submit all work on time.
• Use proper English and spelling on all assignments (worth 10% of all homework).
• Don't rush through the assignments.