This course combines independent reading and research, class discussion and special
assignments. Students are invited to ask questions at any time in class, in online discussion or
via email.
Success in this course depends on participation. Come to each class prepared to question and
discuss the issues at hand. Assigned readings must be completed prior to class. Keep good notes -
it is your responsibly to be able to argue pro and con on the major discussion points.
To aide you in this, check out the online discussion
questions, the What
You Should Know Sections and the Analytic Questions for each
of the courses three segments. These questions will highlight some of the important aspects of
each topic keeping in mind our goal of understanding various ways of knowing about the world.
Late assignments, make-ups, retakes, and incomplete
If you have an emergency and cannot complete an assignment on time, discuss your need with the
instructor (preferably in advance). In general, no late assignments or make-ups will be allowed.
However, there are extenuating circumstances, so explain your situation. You must seek the
approval of your instructor in advance for an incomplete, and justify your request with a
validated medical emergency or a severe personal crisis. Incompletes are given if the student has
completed the majority of the work for the course, has been unable to complete all of it for a
valid reason, and will pass the course if they are given an opportunity to complete the required
work within a specified time period.
Changing Grades
No one is perfect. Sometimes test questions are ambiguous or wrong. Graders make errors. I
encourage you to challenge your grade on any assignment or test if you feel your efforts were
graded incorrectly, but you must do so within one week of an assignment's return date.
Special Needs
If you have a learning or physical need, please let me know about any
accommodations you would like me to make after the first class. CCD has support
services available to assist you in your academic success.