Instructor: [name]
Date/Time/Location: [as appropriate]
Office Location and Phone: [as appropriate]
E-mail: [as appropriate]
Philosophy/Goal: The College Transition is designed to introduce new students to the University of Iowa, and help them feel comfortable with the experience of being a college student. As a group, we will examine the academic culture of a university and what it means to be in college, and look at ways to be successful at Iowa. Through interactive exercises and assignments, the group will discuss a variety of topics, including the transition to college life, goal setting, decision-making, study skills, time management, campus resources, diversity, and choosing/evaluating a major/career.
Readings: Skip Downing, On Course: Strategies for Creating Success in College and Life
(Available only at the University Bookstore.)
Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie (Available only at Prairie Lights Bookstore)
Class Grading: This course is graded Satisfactory/Fail (S/F). Grades will be based upon journal entries, written assignments, activity logs, completion of a self-assessment activity, and attendance/participation. You must earn 80 of a possible 100 points to receive a grade of ìSî. Points can be earned as follows:
| Ten Journal Entries @ four points per entry |
40 |
| Time Management Log |
5 |
| Meeting with an Instructor Report |
10 |
| Intolerance Log |
5 |
| Diversity Activity Report |
10 |
| Holland Self Assessment |
5 |
| Personal Expense Log |
5 |
| Final Paper |
20 |
|
------- |
| Total Possible Points |
100 |
Journaling: Journal responses will be assigned approximately once per week. These entries should be a minimum of one page in length, typed, double-spaced, and completed with depth and insight. (40 total points)
Written Assignments: There are three written assignments. The first is a one-page report describing an appointment you will make with one of your instructors. The second is a one-page report describing your experiences at a culturally diverse event. A 3-5 page final paper will be due near the end of class. For this assignment you will have several option/topics to choose from. All written assignments must be typed and double-spaced. We will discuss all of these assignments in greater detail as they emerge throughout the semester. (40 total points)
Experience Logs: Three times during the semester you will be asked to log your experiences related to time management, intolerance, and personal expenditures. Specific report forms and instructions will guide these activities. (15 total points)
Holland Self- Assessment: This assignment will require you to answer and score a set of questions designed to identify your personal preferences regarding major and career paths. The results of this exercise will facilitate our exploration of majors and careers. (5 points)
Late Work: All assignments must be turned in on time. Late work will not be accepted, unless you have contacted me BEFORE the due date and made prior arrangements. Please note: Missing a class session does not excuse you from completing any future assignment on time.
Attendance/Participation: Because the course is discussion and activity based, attendance is required in order to earn a Satisfactory (S) grade. If you have more than 4 absences you will fail the course. In order to get the most out of the course, your participation in class discussions and exercises will be important. Please come to class prepared to discuss any readings or assignments that have been given.
Important Deadlines:
| August 30 |
Last day to drop without a ìWî |
| October 18 |
Last day to drop with a ìWî |
Incivility/Class Etiquette: You are expected to exhibit courtesy and respect towards your instructor and fellow students. It is important to be tolerant of different viewpoints, values, and opinions, in order to create a positive learning environment for everyone. Additionally, you may not use your cellular phone or beeper during class. They must be turned off before class begins.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, all qualified students enrolled in this course are entitled to ìreasonable accommodations.î It is the studentís responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs before the end of the second week of class.
Plagiarism and Cheating: The University of Iowa prohibits dishonesty in connection with any University activity. Cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to the University are examples of dishonesty. Cheating or plagiarism can result in a student failing a course or expulsion from the University.
