Physical Science Energy and the Environment Fall 2010 Dr. John M. Pratte

PHSC 1014 is a course that satisfies the general education physical science requirement at Arkansas State University.  In the traditional format, this requirement is met with two courses (lecture and lab) that are taught at separate times by different instructors.  This particular course  is slightly different in that 1) the laboratory section will be integrated directly into the lecture , with activities occurring online and in the field and 2) rather than a generic covering of physical science topics, this combination will cover the basics of energy use and its impact on our society and environment. Students will be expected to compare energy sources and resources in terms of their environmental and economic impacts, social, and political concerns, as well as their sustainability and scientific attractiveness. Due to the online nature of the lab, the textbook, and examinations, students will be expected to have access to a computer and Internet connection.  A schedule of topics and reading materials is posted on the course schedule site.

This is a college-level science course.  You are expected to put in 6-9 hours each week on this course.  This means that you will need to do more than just read the online materials.  Each week's material and assignments will have objectives listed with them.  You will be expected to understand the material covered in these objectives and to synthesize it into coherent and rational statements.  This may require you to seek out additional sources of information in the library or on the Internet, or even call, e-mail, or come by to see the instructor.  Statements like "It was not covered in the textbook" will hold no weight with the instructor.

You should be taking this course because you are interested in learning more about the world around you and how it operates.  If you fully participate in this class, you will achieve this objective.  Remember, your instructor is here to help you in this goal.  If you are having trouble, come see me or call me as soon as the trouble starts.  Do not wait until later in the semester when things might have gotten worse for you.  You should also not be taking this course just because it is convenient to your schedule. 

Individual activities will be assigned during the course.  The due dates for these projects will be listed in the schedule.  Projects turned in late will be assessed a 10% penalty for each day past the due date. 

 

Evaluation:	2 one-hour exams@20%each	40%
	Weekly quizzes	20%
	Lab activities and projects	20%
	Final examination	20%
Grading:	A: 90.0-100.0
	B: 80.0 < 90.0
	C: 70.0 < 80.0
	D: 60.0 < 70.0
	F: Below 60.0

All quizzes and test will be given online.  You will have one week in which to complete these examinations. There are no make-up quizzes or tests. If some unforeseen illness or situation comes up that prevents you from taking the quiz or exam during the entire week, you must inform the instructor in a timely manner.  Failure to do so will result in a zero for the assignment.   
 

Important dates:	Hour exams - Listed on course schedule
	Last day to drop without academic penalty-See Registrar's website

Academic Honesty: Every ASU student is expected to follow the regulations regarding academic integrity as stated in the Arkansas State University Undergraduate Handbook. Plagiarism and cheating of any kind will not be tolerated.  A first infraction will result in a zero for the assignment.  Further infractions will result in a failing grade for the course and a recommendation for sanctions to be imposed on the student by the University.  

Withdrawal Policy: The withdrawal policy as stated in the Arkansas State University Undergraduate Handbook will be followed. For this semester, the last day to withdraw without academic penalty is listed on the Registrar's website. Make certain to follow all procedures if you decide to withdraw; failure to do so will result in your being assigned a grade of "F" for the course. 

Disability: Students with a documented disability and wish to receive academic accommodations need to meet with the instructor as soon as possible to discuss special needs. Students who require academic adjustments in the classroom due to disability must also register with ASU Disability Services (room 410 Chickasaw Building).

If, for some unusual reason, changes need to be made to this syllabus at a later date, announcements will be made in class, and changes made to the copy found on the class website.

For comments and questions, send messages to : jpratte@astate.edu