Ocean

Course Orientation Notes: Oceanography

  • Context and setting

    • Class timing and scheduling: meets Monday and Wednesday; this section is specifically for Oceanography, with a 11:00 start time and typically runs until around 12:20 or 12:15 (goal to end around 12:15 but may run closer to 12:20 depending on engagement). 11:00 start; 12:20 end time (approx).
    • Instructor background and tone: long-time instructor from Ohio, with a sarcastic/pop-culture humor style; self-described as a sci-fi nerd and music nerd; uses humor (dad jokes) and may reference pop culture to illustrate points (e.g., Ferris Bueller).
    • Course aim: short, simple, and to the point; provide a comprehensive, structured overview of course setup, format, and expectations; emphasize engagement and practical understanding.

  • Canvas (Learning Management System) & technology

    • Purpose: Canvas is the central hub for materials, assignments, announcements, and grade tracking.
    • Access and familiarity: students should log into Canvas, navigate to modules, announcements, syllabus, and course home.
    • Syllabus in Canvas: digital-only; a syllabus quiz is required to acknowledge reading. The instructor emphasizes reading the syllabus thoroughly before taking the quiz.
    • Announcements: weekly announcements posted on the front page; usually two current-week announcements are visible; older announcements are archived to keep the page tidy. Announcements summarize weekly tasks, chapters, pages to read, and exam timelines.
    • Home button: use the Home button to return to the course front page if you get lost.
    • Schedule and calendar: a calendar is included in the syllabus and a separate file, outlining weekly tasks, chapters, pages, and due dates.

  • Textbook and reading materials

    • Textbook type: digital/eTextbook; publisher has shifted to digital only for this course; physical copies may be available only via bookstore leftovers or third-party sellers if at all.
    • Access and troubleshooting: eTextbook center link is provided; students who encounter paywalls or access issues should use the technical support link (Syngage Tech Support) for live chat help.
    • If you already paid tuition: access should be available; issues with paywalls indicate other problems.
    • Alternative access: PDF or direct textbook pages are available via the Information Page if access is problematic.
    • eBook access path: center for oceanography → textbook link; you may need to register or sign in with college email and create a password.

  • Course structure and types of assignments

    • Weekly rhythm: chapters are covered through a combination of lectures, textbook readings, and three main weekly activities: discussions, case study assignments, and quizzes.
    • Discussions: weekly discussion prompts about what students learned that week and one interesting or new element.
    • Case study assignments: articles related to the chapter content (e.g., waves, tides, currents). Students read each article and answer questions based on the article; question formats include multiple choice, True/False, select all that apply, and dropdown menus (no free-response for case studies).
    • Quizzes: short, timed quizzes (around 12-15 questions); time limits are enforced; students may use the textbook and/or notes on quizzes, but not on exams.
    • Exams: online exams through Canvas with Honorlock proctoring; no paper exams; no textbooks allowed during exams; notes may be used on exams but not on the final exam if policy changes