The Shift Online: What to Expect

Sometimes the unexpected happens. I know you will have many questions in the coming weeks, so I have put together this guide to address some of your concerns. Of course, you can email me at any time. In the meantime, check out Joy Harjo reading "A Poem to Get Rid of Fear." 

This blog will serve as the online discussion forum for Principles of Literary Study, in lieu of in-person class meetings. I will post a new "Discussion Post" based on the readings every Tues. You will write two comments responding to my post by each Friday at 11:59pm. The first is due Fri Mar 27.

What to expect in the coming weeks: 

• Flexibility and understanding. We are figuring this out as we go along!
• Extensions on remaining presentations and on your final paper.
•  A streamlined reading list. 
• A new blog post from me every Tues, with 2 comments from you due every Fri at 11:59pm.
• Virtual Office Hour every Thurs from 1:10-2:30. I encourage each student to sign up for a 10min slot before the end of the semester.
• Updates via email with additional changes and announcements.

Edit: As of 3/19, the University has declared we will not return to campus. In light of this news:

• We will have at least one or two of our April meetings via zoom during our regular class time, Tues or Thurs at 110-230pm, dates TBA.
• We will discuss flexible options for presentations and final assignments to adapt to the changing situation.

FAQs

• Does this blog take the place of SAKAI? No. Think of the blog as a classroom.  You’ll still access the readings on SAKAI, and the blog will be a forum for discussion about those readings.
• When can I expect new posts? I will publish a “Discussion Post” every Tues starting March 23.
• What does a Discussion Post entail? An overview of the readings, brief context, and discussion questions for you to respond to in the comments.
• What should comments entail? Your first comment should respond to the prompt I provide in the discussion post. Extra points for quoting the reading in your response. Your second comment should respond to something another classmate has written. This means you’ll likely have to visit the blog a couple times per week to read what others have written. 
• How long should comments be? 1 paragraph (4-5 sentences.)
• When will blog comments be due? Anytime after the post goes up and before Fri at 1159pm. 
• Will the comments be graded? No. They will count as attendance and participation. 
• Do you have high expectations for the quality of these comments? Nope. This is a place to state your opinion and work out ideas.
• Where can I find a revised reading list? Click here.
• How will you take attendance? See above. Blog comments will serve as attendance and participation. 
• Where will I find the readings? The readings will be posted on Sakai.
• When should I do the readings? It’s up to you, but you’ll need to do the readings before posting your comment by Friday, so plan accordingly.
• How will I keep abreast of changing course policies? Check email as well as this blog.
• What if I don’t have frequent internet access? Email me when you can and we can work out an accommodation.
• What if I have internet access, but can’t access the blog to comment? Send me an email with your comment and I’ll post it.
• What if I am stressed and am having trouble completing the coursework? Email me, and we’ll talk about it.
• What if I have more questions? Again, email me! Or request to join my virtual office hour from 1:10-2:30 on Thursdays. 

Joy Harjo, A Poem to Get Rid of Fear