Norfolk State University College of Liberal Arts Department of Interdisciplinary Studies Fall 2013

This is an ONLINE accelerated course (August 2013 October 04, 2013) INT 470.90: Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies Seminar (aka Senior Seminar) ONLINE
3 credit hours Dr. Khadijah O. Miller, Associate Professor & Department Head, Interdisciplinary Studies Office: C-110, Brown Memorial Hall Office: (757) 823-2864 INT Main: (757) 823-8198, C-108, Brown Memorial Hall Email: [email protected]* (this is the best way to contact Dr. Miller) Office Hours: (online and in-person) by appointment (please call and/or email to schedule) Course Description: (Prerequisites: INT 308, 322, 360, 375, 411) Senior level course providing a wide-range examination of the historical and theoretical developments that led to the evolution of interdisciplinarity; assessment of societal parameters impacting the proliferation of new areas of inquiry and their outgrowth as complementary or counteragents of particular institutionalized modes of behavior and thought; development of adequate descriptions and explanations for current and evolving social and cultural practices, some that contrast sharply with normative perspectives grounded in configured traditional thought. Course Rationale: Senior level culminating course preparing students for entry into the working/real world and an increased comprehension of Interdisciplinary studies as an academic area/field and its role in the real-world. Focus is on bridging the academic (theory) with work-place (practice) in preparing students for career acquisition and job placement. This course emphasizes, reinforces and applies the basic INT core principles of critical thinking, culture, language, research, and idea application. Course Goals and Measurable Intended Student Learning Outcomes: 1. Through a research activity, students will explore a specific subject in an interdisciplinary manner, asking and answering questions as well as demonstrating the interconnectedness of disciplinary knowledge. 2. Through a research activity, students will explore a specific subject, related to their career choice/aspirations in an interdisciplinary manner, asking and answering questions. 3. Via readings, discussions and/or group activities, students will be able to define, describe, explain and identify interdisciplinary studies, academically and at work in the real world. 4. By reviewing academic and non-academic sources, students will choose an issue of importance in their community to address by focusing on the core areas of importance in interdisciplinary studiescritical thinking, language/communication skills, research and writing skills, social, cultural and global awareness and sensitivity.

5. Via journaling and/or other reflective activities, students will demonstrate and apply major Interdisciplinary Studies core concepts to real life experiences and area(s) of interest. Course Materials/Required Text(s) and Supplementary Readings: 1. ONLINE readings (see READINGS folder). 2. American Psychological Association Manual (APA), 6th edition, October 2010 3. Students will read at least one national newspaper weekly (e.g., The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Atlanta Journal, et al.); utilizing the NSU Library database of current newspapers. 4. Students will have (purchase if necessary) and use an unabridged dictionary (including, etymologies and supplementary information) and a thesaurus. (A good source is the Oxford English Dictionary.) 5. Students will use internet resources responsibly and critically. Computer Literacy Requirements To successfully complete this course, students should: 1. Demonstrate at least an elementary knowledge of computers (understanding files and folders for the purpose of uploading and downloading course content are essential). 2. Demonstrate a good understanding of the use of Web resources such as the library and online research tools accessed through a Web browser. 3. Demonstrate familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Power point. 4. Demonstrate a good understanding of how to operate NSU email (this will ensure effective communication between both instructor and classmates. All students have been assigned an email account and will be required to access it regularly via the Web). 5. Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS) knowledge is essential for this course. (For students not familiar with Blackboard LMS, an online orientation can be accessed by self registration in Blackboard. The course name is Blackboard Student Training. Further assistance with Blackboard can also be obtained through the Blackboard Central Help Desk at [email protected] and by phone at (757) 8232328 (Monday Friday, 8am 5:00pm, EST). Primary Method of Instruction and Student-Engagement: As an online course, the primary method of instruction is self-directed. Yet, students will participate in discussion boards, group activities and assignments online. Students will also participate in fieldwork in an area of interest (first approved by Dr. Miller) and presentations. Related University-Wide and Course-Specific Requirements: The following competencies will be required and assessed in this course: (1) writing, (2) information technology literacy; and (3) critical thinking. As an online course, students should be able to write clearly, concisely, and analytically. Our main means of communication is through writing (weekly discussion board posts, live chats, papers and exams). Students writing should include demonstration of reading completion and comprehension, application of course concepts when necessary, and critical thinking (independent thinking, analysis, synthesis and argumentation). Students critical thinking abilities will be assessed on their presentation of ideas (others and their own), questioning, problem-solving capabilities,

synthesis, evaluation, and analysis and clarity of thought (including language use and comprehension). Distance Education/ONLINE course Testing POLICY (effective May 2012): (see attachment) Overview: All exams in the online environment are to be proctored. A proctored exam is one that is administered by an impartial individual (called a proctor) who monitors and supervises a student while that student is taking an exam. The proctor ensures the security and integrity of the exam process. Students will be required to submit an Online Course Proctor Identification Approval Form (attached) to each instructor. Once the proctor has been approved by the instructor, the students will be required to present their Spartan Identification Card and photo identification to the proctor prior to students receiving the exam. Students are responsible for arranging a proctor for their exam(s) and all costs incurred for this service. Also, see the Instructor and Student FAQ for Proctoring Exams for an Online Course attachment. Go to: http://www.nsu.edu/blackboard/ for more information. Departmental Policies Incomplete Grade Policy (NSU Revised Policy) To be considered for an Incomplete (I) grade in a course the following must be met: (1) the student must be passing the course; (2) the student must have completed at least 70% of all coursework; and (3) the student must have a legitimate reason for the request. Once these three requirements are met, it is at the discretion of the professor to approve or disapprove the students request for an Incomplete grade. Additionally, Incomplete grades are not merely given, but are requested by students, considered by professors, and are at the sole discretion of the professor, depending on each individual students situation/circumstance. The length of time to complete coursework for the removal of the Incomplete grade is no more than six (6) weeks into the next academic semester. It is the students responsibility to stay abreast of all requirements, timelines, and due dates. If the student does not comply with the stipulations set forth to remove the Incomplete grade, the Incomplete grade will turn into an (F) once the deadline has passed. If an Incomplete grade request is approved by the professor, the student is to complete the University Incomplete Grade Request Form. American Psychological Association Writing Manual Requirement ALL Interdisciplinary Studies courses require students to submit all papers, unless otherwise noted by the professor, using APA 6th edition (October 2010). The APA Manual is a required text for all courses, and students are to abide by that writing style. The APA Manual can be purchased from the University bookstore. Microsoft Word ALL Interdisciplinary Studies papers are to be submitted as Microsoft Word documents (.doc), unless otherwise noted by the professor. If students submit papers using other writing programs (i.e., WordPerfect, Microsoft works, MAC programs, etc.), they may lose points and/or not have their paper accepted/graded. It is imperative that students follow the guidelines and directions of each professor. Assignment Submissions: Course file format standards When submitting assignments/documents for your Interdisciplinary Studies courses, submit them in Microsoft Word.doc format and make sure that the document saved name does NOT include any special characters (i.e., ^%$#@!*()}[ or anything else similar.

DO NOT PLACE your RESPONSES, PAPERS, or ANSWERS in the Comment box/area in Blackboard. When submitting assignments, ALL assignments (unless otherwise directed by that course professor) are to be submitted as Microsoft Word attachments (doc.files) in Blackboard through the Assignment manager link. Course Expectations: Students are expected to enter the course site with respect for information and knowledge, even if it differs from their own beliefs, knowledge, etc. Students are expected to participate in all course site discussions (synchronous and asynchronous), readings, assignments, presentations and learning activities. Participation is imperative to class enlightenment, student development and understanding. Students are expected to prioritize this course; completing all assignments, readings, meetings, etc. PRIOR to due dates. Students are expected to complete all readings, discussion board posts, assignments, papers and exams on time. All assignments are due by the posted time (see assignments for specifics), and always Eastern Standard Time (EST). Students initial discussion board postings are due BEFORE MIDNIGHT Tuesday, EST; peer responses are due BEFORE MIDNIGHT Thursday. LATE Discussion Board Postings do NOT receive credit! LATE Papers are NOT Accepted & will NOT receive credit! Student assignments are due on the DUE DATE BEFORE 11:59pm, EST. It is imperative that students follow the specific directives for each assignment. Students can meet live online with the professor and class during the semester to discuss a topic related to course readings. These times will be announced on the course site and via NSU email. Course Policies/Requirements: This course meets the requirements of the following competencies: writing, information technology literacy, oral communication and critical thinking. Academic Integrity Standards: Attendance (Participation)/Tardiness Policy: As an online course, students are expected to visit the course site at least three (3) times per week. Students are to participate in the course site fully; meaning that assignments are completed and read BEFORE due dates of submissions and discussions. Attendance is recorded, based on students weekly assignments. Late assignments do NOT earn credit. Students are to be aware of and follow the attendance policy stated in the Student Handbook for the University and for the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. Weather Policy: In case of inclement weather, students should listen to major radio and television stations; visit the NSU website at www.nsu.edu; and/or call the University operator at 757-823-8600. As an online course, students are STILL RESPONSIBLE for all assignments, readings, submissions, even if the physical campus closes. Integrity/Plagiarism Policy: Students are expected to be truthful and to abide by a standard code of morals, ethics and integritythis is to be displayed in class conduct and evident in course assignments, materials and presentations made by students. Plagiarism is defined as using other peoples work as your own without crediting them, including but not limited to:

copying others notes, exams, essays and information, quoting and paraphrasing others ideas without giving them credit and proper documentation; using information from the internet without properly citing source, website (URL), author, date, etc. Plagiarism is a form of cheating and will result in an assignment grade of F and possibly an overall course grade of F. Students should follow the academic integrity policy of the University (see University Catalog and Student Handbook) and INT Dept. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement In accordance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, if you have a disability or think you have a disability; contact Supporting Students through Disability Services (SSDS) for information regarding programs and services to enhance student success. Location: Student Services Building, Suite 110D Contact Person: Beverly Boone-Harris, Disability Services Director Telephone: 757-823-2049 Email: [email protected] Let Dr. Miller know immediately of any special requirements, services, etc.within the first week of the course! University Assessment Statement: As part of NSUs commitment to provide the environment and resources needed for success, students may be required to participate in a number of university-wide assessment activities. The activities may include tests, surveys, focus groups and interviews, and portfolio reviews. The primary purpose of the assessment activities is to determine the extent to which the universitys programs and services maintain a high level of quality and meet the needs of students. Students will not be identified in the analysis of results. Unless indicated otherwise by the instructor, results from University assessment activities will not be computed in student grades. Success Policy: The best policy for success in any course is preparation, reading completion, time management and constant, consistent communication with the instructor. REQUIRED Course Assignments: Discussion Boards: 10 Quizzes (2 @ 10 each): 20 Autobiographical map: 10 Integrated Paper: 15 Concept Map: 15 Employment Preparation assignment: 5 Portfolio Preview: 5 Final Project (Paper and Portfolio): 20 TOTAL: 100 LATE ASSIGNMENTS DO NOT EARN CREDIT. TURN IN ALL ASSIGNMENTS BEFORE OR ON TIME.

Evaluation (Criteria)/Assessment Methods and Grading Standards: There are NO extra credit opportunities in this course. It is each students responsibility to earn the A grade by completing all assignments, participating in all course discussions, projects, assignments and presentations, and reading all assigned material, in an engaging and meaningful educational manner. Although a large content of the material for this course is subjective, an objective (or as objective as humanly possible) will be utilized for grading students. Grading criteria includes: (1) engagement with materialthis means that students will read, comprehend, actively think about, digest, evaluate and analyze the materialasking and answering questions as well as application; (2) writing, articulation and expression this means that students will be able to clearly convey their thoughts (spelling, vocabulary, grammar and content); (3) scope/comprehensivenessthis means to what extent is the student able to analyze and synthesize course material/information, this can include consideration of patterns, biases, caveats, allusions, assumptions, etc.; (4) submission timeliness---this means that assignments are submitted before or on time; and (5) correctness/accuracythis means that Dr. Miller will subjectively assess whether students responses are on a spectrum of correct analysis in regards to general course content; of course, this includes bias, but there is a line of distinction between on the right track and totally off base. Grading Scale: 100-95 = A 94-90 = A89-86 = B+ 85-82 = B 81-79 = B78-75 = C+ 74-71 = C 70-68 = C67-65 = D+ 64-62 = D 61-59 = D58 & below = F Note: As part of the INT Core/major, students must earn a grade of C or better in order to gain credit towards graduation and receipt of B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies. It is the students responsibility to read the syllabus. It is a contract between the Professor and the Student regarding the responsibilities and expectations of the professor and the student for this course. Amendments can be made to the syllabus at the discretion of the professor and it is the responsibility of the student to maintain awareness of any such changes, amendments, additions, adjustments, etc. By accepting the syllabus, the student agrees to abide by the information therein.

Course Outline/Calendar: The course outline can change at the discretion of the professor and/or depending upon the progress of the class. It is the students responsibility to stay abreast of all changes, amendments, deletions and additions and respond, act accordingly. For this course, the week begins on Monday, regardless of HOLIDAYS. Week One August 19th IntroductionsReview of syllabus, course requirements, expectations, assignments, readings, conduct, policies, etc. What is INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES? What is the ROLE of INT in the real world? How can I use it? Begin reviewing class notes from former INT courses (i.e., INT 308, INT 322, INT 360, INT 375, INT 411) of key terms, concepts, ideas and theories. Post introductory post. BEGIN preparing Autobiographical Map (see week folder for particulars).

Week Two August 26th

What is INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES? Am I an interdisciplinarian? (Review Interdisciplinary traits). How do I define Interdisciplinary Studies for myself and for others? Explanations, Discussions, Etc. Review weeks folder. READ: Online Readings (see Readings Folder) Submit Autobiographical Map no later than the end of the day, Thursday, August 29, 2013 via the assignment link in week two folder.

Week Three Sept. 02nd

Components of Interdisciplinary Studies: Critical Thinking, Language awareness, Philosophical ideas, Theories, Integration, Disciplines, and more. Review weeks folder. READ: Online Readings (see Readings Folder). Complete and submit Quiz #1 Thursday, September 05th. Components of Interdisciplinary Studies continued: Interdisciplinary Studies at work and life. Review weeks folder. READ: Online Readings (see Readings Folder). Prepare response to readings/discussion boards. Prepare and submit your Employment Preparation Assignment (professional resume, cover letter and job description) to Dr. Miller via email Assignment link by the end of the day Monday, September 09th. SIGN up for mock phone interview with Dr. Miller (via Blackboard). Submit Concept Map no later than the end of the day, Thursday, September 12th. Applying Major Concepts in INTGlobalization, Philosophical Ideas, and Researching Interdisciplinary Studies; Advantages and Disadvantages of Interdisciplinary Studies. Review weeks folder. Read ONLINE readings. Begin working on final paper and portfolio components. Complete your mock telephone interview with Dr. Miller. Submit Integrated paper no later than end of the day, Thursday, September 19th. Begin scheduling individual virtual Portfolio preview sessions with Dr. Miller.

Week Four Sept. 09th

Week Five Sept. 16th

Week Six Sept. 23rd

Actualizing Interdisciplinary Studies: This is my major and this is what I will do with it Review major newspaper to locate Interdisciplinary Studies at work. Complete mock telephone interviews with Dr. Miller. Complete and submit Quiz #2 Thursday, September 26th. Actualizing Interdisciplinary Studies: Wrap upanswering the question: what is Interdisciplinary Studies? What type of Interdisciplinarian am I? Review weeks folder. Final paper and portfolio due no later than end of the day, Thursday, October 03rd.

Week Seven Sept. 30th