Course Overview: Accommodations, Policies, Resources, and Week 1

Accessibility and Accommodations

KSU provides accommodations through the Student Disability Services (SDS). If you had accommodations in high school or think you might need them, contact SDS early so they can be on file and inform your professors. Accommodations (e.g., extended time) are not retroactive, so address them at the start of the semester to ensure proper support.

Instructor Availability and Contact

Office is on the Fourth Floor of Kennesaw Hall. Meetings can be in person on the Kennesaw or Marietta campus or via Teams. Office hours are by request; email to arrange a link or a meeting place. No textbook is required; the course relies on D2L and online resources.

Course Platform and Tech

D2L is the primary platform for course materials, quizzes, and feedback. A guide from UICS is available for technology issues; download the app for quick access. Attendance quizzes happen weekly in D2L; be prepared to access D2L quickly.

Course Outcomes and Program Details

You will compare engineering disciplines, focusing on majors offered at Kennesaw campus. Available: aerospace (but not chemical, nuclear, or biomedical engineering). Minors exist in biomed and nuclear. Emphasis on technical concepts, study and time-management skills, teamwork, and awareness of university-wide and college resources (Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology).

Attendance and Grading

Attendance and assignments each account for 50% of the final grade. Missing a class can be dropped; a makeup assignment is available for missed work. Absences and makeups follow strict guidelines, with exceptions for legitimate circumstances (e.g., military, athletics). Personal excuses like oversleeping are not considered valid.

Communication and Academic Policy

VQL handles feedback and grades; midterm grades are posted there, and you’ll also receive KSU emails with reminders. Institutional policies prohibit the use of AI on graded assignments. Check KSU resources for additional policies.

Resources and Support Centers

SMART Center (university-wide) and XS squared Center for Student Success (located in Building Q) provide tutoring and advising; SMART Center is in Norman Hall. Utilize these centers for help with coursework, study strategies, and success coaching.

Week 1 and Weekly Activities

Week 1 covers TeamWeeks with a video and slides. The virtual scavenger hunt includes eight one-word answers and one three-word answer; use the provided template and verify answers if any are marked wrong. A practice quiz is available to familiarize everyone with the process.

Practice Quiz and Attendance Protocol

Every week, quizzes are opened by the instructor for a short window to confirm your identity. Go to Quizzes and look for Attendance Quiz One. Arrive on time and stay for the entire class, as the quiz window may close at any moment. If you miss it, don’t panic—the quiz may be reattempted or a makeup policy may apply depending on the situation.

Guest Speakers and Engagement Opportunities

Occasional guest speakers from student organizations will present opportunities (e.g., aerospace teams). An introduction will be posted in discussions with flyers and links (via Owl Life). Engagement outside class helps with teamwork, networking, and resumes when applying for jobs.

Encouragement and Support

If you’re struggling, reach out early; I can connect you to relevant resources. Asking questions in class is encouraged to support your understanding and performance, since your transcript reflects your overall performance and GPA over time.