College Communication
Part 1 Reading Your instructors want to be available and help you get the best education and college experience possible. However, some reasons to contact the instructor are better than others. The first rule of sending an instructor an email is, “Can my question/concern be answered by checking the syllabus?” The following are good and bad reasons to contact your instructor. Good Reasons You have a simple question not addressed in the syllabus that can be answered quickly in a few sentences—for example, clarification on instructions for an assignment. You are struggling in the class and are looking for direction and assistance. You need to discuss a topic that may be affecting your class performance—such as illness, change in work schedule, family issues, and so on. Bad Reasons You’re asking a question that is covered on the syllabus. Always check the syllabus first. You are turning in an assignment you were specifically instructed not to submit over email. As general reminder: Do not email your assignments to faculty at the University. Follow the designated assignment submission instructions. Ask your instructors if you have questions. You are asking for an extension without a valid reason—especially the day before the assignment is due. Any reason that will require an in-depth conversation. In these cases, it may be best to set up an appointment during office hours, in person, or over the phone. Class Issues Contacting your instructor with a problem or complaint regarding the class, an assignment; or class materials is a valid. However, remember that you are speaking with someone in a position of authority / experience. Before submitting any complaint consider these guidelines. 1. Is this a class problem or a personal problem? 2. Keep the message short and provide the circumstances of the issue. 3. Avoid heated or emotional language. 4. Describe any efforts you’ve made to resolve the issue yourself. 5. Explain why the problem can and should be solved by the instructor. 6. Offer suggestions, and be willing to particiapate in, a resolution. Write a 185-word response to the following scenario and questions: form the above reading. Scenario: Your class requires you to use a program that you must download on your computer. You have waited until day 5 of the week to download the program, and you need it for an assignment that is due in 2 days. Now you are having issues with the program. 1. How do you communicate with your instructor about your issues? 2. What strategies did you learn to avoid having any miscommunication with the instructor and class? 3. How can you make sure to avoid miscommunication in your future classes and careers? Part 2 Academic Integrity Write a 185-word response to the following questions: 1. What are at least 2 examples of violations of the Student Code of Academic Integrity? 2. Why is integrity important in both academic and professional life? How do you put integrity into practice in both your academic and professional life? 3. Discuss the resources on plagiarism available to you as student. Which is the most useful? Why? Part-3 College Writing Process Write a 185-word response to the following: 1. What are the five steps in the college writing process? 2. How would you apply those steps to write a research paper?
