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J-Term 2011
Independent Study

General INFORMATION for all Courses in Design

Important Links

Classroom Environment

The classroom should be an environment that ultimately fosters learning. Participation in class discussion and asking relevant questions during lectures is strongly encouraged. Students are also encouraged to help one another (This doesn’t mean doing someone else’s work).

A few rules are in place to enhance the classroom environment. No food or drink in the computer lab. Excessive chatting, inappropriate language, or the belittling of other students will not be tolerated. No music players, cell phones, or other handheld devices should be used during class unless specifically allowed by the instructor. During classroom time students should apply their full attention to the task at hand. That means no random internet surfing.

Deadlines

Graphic Design is a deadline-driven business. The importance of completing work on time cannot be overstressed. “I’m just not feeling it [creativity]” is a common utterance of designers. Just as writers get writer’s block, all designers eventually encounter a roadblock to fresh ideas.

At any rate, deadlines do not cease to exist. To prepare for the “real world” it is the policy of this class that all work must be submitted at the beginning of class on the due date. Work handed in later will be welcomed if it gives you some sense of closure, but it will still earn you a zero.

Attendance

There is a strong correlation between high attendance and good performance—not to mention you or someone is paying for your education. However, there is some built-in extrinsic motivation for you to be in class.

For a Tuesday, Thursday class:

7 or more misses = automatic fail

4 or more misses = deduction of 5 points from final grade for each class missed

For a Monday, Wednesday, Friday class:

11 or more misses = automatic fail

6 or more misses = deduction of 5 points from final grade for each class missed

Certain things such as project submission, presentations, in-class exercises, and tests must be completed in class and cannot be made up, unless in the case of an excused absence.

Excused absences must be approved by the instructor and would include things such as illness, OBU activities, a death in the family, and being caught in a bear trap. Missing class because you are in Wisconsin doesn't count. “I had to work” doesn’t count. “I’m trying to discover who I am” doesn’t count.

Make a point, if possible, to inform the instructor by email prior to your absence. Note: A grade of incomplete is only given in extreme circumstances.

Labeling Work

All work should be labeled on the back with the following information:

your name
class name
project name
professor name
semester (e.g., fall 09)

For 3D and package design work, alternative label placement will be necessary.