Description

Computers & Writing is a substantial writing component course. It focuses on information technology and its impact on society and culture.

Textbook

CyberReader. Abridged edition. Victor J. Vitanza.

The readings from the textbook will be supplemented by online readings, which you will be able to find linked off of our schedule for each class session.

Grades

• Reality & Identity - response paper - 30%
• Character Sketch - research paper - 30%
• Technology & Culture - online discussion - 20%
• Forum responses - 14%
• Attendance - 6%

NOTE: Please be aware that all assignments must be submitted by their deadline. Late assignments will lose one third of a letter grade for each calendar day they are late.

Do not discard any drafts, notes, papers or research materials you produce during the semester until you receive a final grade. Consult the DRW Student Guide for a complete explanation of grading criteria in this course: Chapter 4.4: Grading and Grading Criteria.

Assignment Format

All papers must be typewritten. The first page should include the following information: your name, my name, course, date, and paper title. Double space the lines and use 1-inch margins all the way around the text. Staple your pages together. You should use MLA style for citing sources. You will submit papers electronically as MS Word documents in my teacher folder.

Attendance

Attendance is required. You are expected to attend class regularly, to arrive on time, to have prepared assigned reading and writing, and to participate in all in-class activities. If you have six absences or more you will fail the course: each absence leads to a loss of 1% of your final grade for the course.

Scholastic Honesty

Turning in work that is not your own, or any other form of scholastic dishonesty, will result in a major course penalty, possibly failure of the course. A report of the incident will also be made to the Office of the Dean of Students. Be sure you read and understand the DRW Statement on Scholastic Responsibility. I strongly encourage you to use the services offered by the Undergraduate Writing Center (FAC 211, 471-6222) and the Learning Center (JES A332A, 471-3614).

We will be covering the use of sources extensively in class. If you have any questions about the use you are making of sources for your assignments, see me before you turn in the project.

Computer Use and Availability

Computers are available to you in the Student Microcomputer Facility (SMF) on the second floor of the Flawn Academic Center (FAC). Some departments also provide computer labs, so check with your advisor. The CWRL has an open lab (PAR 102) for students who are taking classes in our computer classrooms.

Students With Disabilities

The University of Texas at Austin provides upon request appropriate academic adjustments for qualified students with disabilities. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259, 471-4641 TDD.