Procedures

Communication

In the online course environment, it is important that there is good communication between student and teacher. I should hear from you AT LEAST once a week. Let me know what you are working on, if you are having any problems with the lesson, and in general how things are going with you.

In addition, I will follow the COOLSchool policy of responding to you within 2 days every time you hand in an assignment, although I will do my best to respond sooner.

Assignments

Each lesson is designed so that it should not take more than two weeks to complete. I strongly encourage you to work on the course at least 8-10 hours a week and not to leave it all until the last minute. Assignments may be re-worked if you do not receive the grade you want, within the time period of the course. Be sure to save copies of all of your work.

Discussion Participation

A portion of your grade in this course will be determined by participation in class discussions. Each time you post to and respond to the discussion board, you will earn points. However, you will not earn points by answering just "yes" or "no." What I am looking for are thoughtful, articulate ideas and opinions, and responses to your fellow students should also reflect careful and critical thought. Part of the fun of taking a cybercourse is communicating your own ideas in a constructive, creative environment.

Quizzes

When you are ready to take a quiz in this course, I strongly encourage you to prepare thoroughly by making sure you have done the readings and by taking and using notes. Each quiz may be retaken ONE TIME only. You will need to let me know if you choose to retake a quiz.

Grading Policy

In each lesson, students will have several chances to demonstrate understanding of concepts and earn points towards their final grade. Final grades will be determined by accumulation of assignment, discussion, quiz, and project points out of total points possible. The following grading scale will be utilized:

• 90-100% = A
• 80-89% = B
• 70-79% = C
• 60-69% = D
• 59% and below = no credit

All assignments/projects are due within the ten-month (or less, as specified by your school) period. Consideration will be given to any student with special circumstances, within reason.

Technology Breakdown Procedure

We all know that every once in a while, something will go haywire - your computer freezes up, you can't remember your password, my e-mail bounces you out. Don't panic. Try to get in touch with me first, and be patient. I will not penalize you for things that are beyond your control. If all else fails, contact the COOLSchool tech support people at cs-support@coolschool.k12.or.us. If you do this, it is important that you clearly and fully explain the problem you are having and what you have tried to do to fix the problem.