Class Preparation Notes

Class Schedule: Class will start exactly at 10:40, and it's advised to arrive ahead of time to maximize working time.
Exam Preparation: Preparation is crucial to avoid surprises; the exam will be difficult without adequate preparation.

Guidelines for Preparation: A handout with preparation guidelines is provided.
Canvas Setup:
- Class notes are posted weekly, organized in the Canvas page by weeks.
- Class assignments and slides contain answers to previous class assignments.
PowerPoint Slides:
- Students are strongly encouraged to read PowerPoint slides, as they include vital content not covered in the textbook.
- The textbook serves as a supplementary guide providing detailed analyses.
Syllabus Access:
- The syllabus can be downloaded from the syllabus tab, which includes page numbers for the textbook.

Exam Handout: A checklist of concepts related to the exam has been uploaded under "week six". It includes key focus areas.
Calculator Requirement: Students must bring calculators for calculations, as phones are not allowed during the exam.
Tutoring Availability:
- No tutoring in Alpin or on the 6th, but day tutors are available.
- The instructor is available to review concepts before the exam; reach out for any assistance.

Event Attendance: An extra credit assignment is available for attending the Clemens lecture and the discussion session scheduled during class.
No Extensions: There will be no extensions for extra credit assignments; attendance is required.

Due Dates:
- The group project is due in December but involves individual deadlines on October 22 and November 10.
- Students are advised to start early to avoid last-minute stress.
Grading Policy: Not all group members will receive the same points; individual contributions will be assessed.

Submission Timing: Data journal submissions will follow the exam and will be discussed later.
Tracking Prices Assignment:
- The deadline for the tracking prices assignment is set to October 15.
- Students should ensure they are aware of item selections and deadlines.

Grading Rubric: Graded data assignments will include a rubric with comments.
Connecting Data: Students must connect unemployment rate data with forced participation data.
- Avoid using absolute numbers for comparisons; rates or percentages should be used instead to make meaningful comparisons.
- For instance, understanding that a demographic group may have larger unemployment numbers due to sheer size rather than actual rates is crucial for accurate data interpretation.

Peer Communication:
- Students are instructed to gather with peers to discuss their insights from the state data.
- Groups should consist of specific combinations of students who are encouraged to collaborate and share observations.
- Designate one person per group to take notes during discussions.
- Additional group configurations were suggested to facilitate interaction.

Focus on Exam: Students should concentrate on preparing for the upcoming exam and other immediate assignments.
Collective Engagement: The instructor promotes collaborative learning and emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge among peers before the exam.