Memorandum of Understanding for ENGL 305

Dr. Fike

For the purposes of smooth operation, it will be very helpful if some basic guidelines are observed. For a fuller set of expectations, see the syllabus.

Punctuality: The class starts on time. Please be a few minutes early. If you happen to arrive late, speak to the professor after class so that he converts your absence to a tardy. Be sure to review the tardy and absence policies in the syllabus.

Reading: Do the reading in advance and bring the assigned material to class on a daily basis.

Electronic devices: In class, turn off and put away all cell phones and computers unless otherwise directed. Outside class, you must save your written work in more than one place. The professor does not accept excuses such as "My hard drive crashed" or "I couldn't get my paper to print." It is also a good idea to keep a hardcopy of your work in progress. Silence your watch.

Eating and drinking: While you are in this classroom (before, during, and after class), you may consume clear water with nothing in it (including ice, vitamins, coloring, sugar, fruit, and leaves) but nothing else. Please do not eat in the classroom at any time!

Comprehension: If you do not understand what the professor is saying, ask him a question about it.

Comments: Do not mistake constructive criticism--along with the professor's attempts to get you to think more deeply, to read and write more effectively, and to participate actively in discussion--for ill will, hostility, or some kind of intellectual coercion. He is simply trying to help you become a better reader, thinker, and writer.

Bathroom: You may go to the bathroom if you must, but you should understand that getting up, walking out, and then walking in again constitute a form of incivility in the classroom.  Organize your time properly so that you do not need to disturb the class.

Nontraditional/Post-traditional Students: Before you leave today, please make an appointment to see Dr. Fike this week.