Learning Contract

The outline reviews the overall approach to the educational dynamic of this course; it is designed to be highly interactive, with substantial student engagement in and out of the classroom.

Learning objectives have been established for each class session; students should be familiar with these expectations, and guide their personal preparation efforts in order to achieve those objectives.

Reading assignments are specified for each class meeting, with the assumption that students will have read the materials and be prepared to critically analyze them in class, as well as to apply the principles in practical exercises. Students are encouraged to contribute suggestions concerning relevant readings during the conduct of the course.

Course participants are expected to attend each class; in the event that class attendance is not possible, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain from other students, lecture notes, discussion materials and handouts from the class.

Course participants are expected to participate constructively in class discussion, contributing to the learning of others through the sharing of relevant insights from professional experience, reading or discussions.

The instructor's primary responsibility lies in obtaining and structuring learning materials for the personal growth of each participant. The instructor is also responsible for evaluating each student's progress toward the attainment of the specified learning objectives. This evaluation will be conducted collaborative with the student, with frequent opportunities for constructive feedback on student progress. Primary sources for evaluation of student performance will be written project reports, and the quality of class participation. Grades of A (+/-) will be awarded only for superior performance.

Students are referred to the University policy on cheating and plagiarism. It will be the policy in this course to discourage cheating; in fairness to all, cheating will be treated severely wherever it occurs. Because a large part of the learning experience comes form interaction with peers, students are encouraged to discuss assignments with each other. Materials submitted for grading must, however, be the product of individual effort.