Draft Syllabus: MGT 3003.003 [Internet], Spring Semester 2018Business Communication and Professional Development

(Updated Mar 14, 2018: All Dates & Times are Central Time Zone)

NOTE: (1) Only the online version of this syllabus is current. (2) Both PC and Mac users should use the Mozilla Firefox or Chrome browsers for full access UTSA to Web sites, to Blackboard-based assignments/exams, and to McGraw-Hill Connect-based assignments/exams. (3) In the event of conflicting assignment information and/or associated deadline dates with this syllabus or any other documentation/schedule, the information in this syllabus takes precedence. Find Blackboard Learn at http://learn.utsa.edu/.

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (B.B.A.) DEGREE PROGRAM GOALS........................................2

COMMUNICATION PLAN AND CONTACTS...................................................................................................2

COURSE DESCRIPTION.................................................................................................................................2

COURSE PREPARATION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3

REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS..................................................................................................................3

STUDY RESOURCES......................................................................................................................................4

TECHNICAL SUPPORT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4

COURSE FORMAT........................................................................................................................................5

GRADING INFORMATION.............................................................................................................................5

COURSE SCHEDULE......................................................................................................................................7

COURSE COMPUTER ACCESS POLICIES......................................................................................................10

GRADED ACTIVITIES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11

COURSE GRADING & SUBMISSION POLICIES…………………………………………………………………………………………. 12

EXTRA-CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..15

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ).....................................................................................................19

ATTENTION: You must complete many assignments in the course online. Because of their unreliability, using Wi-Fi computer connections are highly discouraged for completing course assignments. You do so at your own risk, without any assignment “do-overs.” Wi-Fi reliability increases when you open your connection in a “stable” environment that is quiet, stationary, free of distractions, and away from multiple users (dormitories, apartment complexes, etc.2). Better yet, use a hardwired computer, modem, and router, or a reliable Ethernet cable connected to your laptop. See below section on “Important Notes Regarding Online Assignment Connectivity.”

You probably remember the classic book and movie, The Wizard of Oz, in which Dorothy laments to her pet dog: “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” This course will take you out of “Kansas,” a metaphor for your experiences prior to entering the “real world” of professionalism. In doing so, it will challenge your time-management skills in order to complete time-sensitive assignments prior to their deadlines. Effective time management skills are valued and critical skills, both in this course and in the real world of work.

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Course Instructor: Dr. Bennie WilsonWebsite: http://faculty.business.utsa.edu/bjwilson/index.phpOffice Hours: TR: 12:30pm-1:30pm and by appointment

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (B.B.A.) DEGREE PROGRAM GOALS Students will be able to communicate, verbally and in writing, information and ideas pertinent to business

decision-making. (This course directly supports this goal.) Students will be able to use quantitative analysis and quantitative and non-quantitative reasoning to effectively

identify and solve business problems. Students will be able to use current information technology to support business decision-making. Students will be able to incorporate a global perspective in business decisions. Students will be able to identify ethical and legal issues in a business context and find alternatives that

demonstrate ethical values.

COMMUNICATION PLAN AND CONTACTS

COURSE TEAM EMAIL ADDRESSES PHONE OFFICE HOURSProfessor

Dr. Bennie WilsonEmail : Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu Point deductions Online Writing Lab (OWL)

Email Message preferred Wed.: 12:45 – 1:45pm

Thur.: 2:15 – 3:15pmand by appointment

Teaching Assistant (TA)

Dania Al-Rasheed

Email: Dania.Al-Rasheed@utsa.edu

Miscellaneous points Email Message preferred

Wed.: 12:45 – 1:45pmThur.: 2:15 – 3:15pmand by appointment

Tech SupportMcGraw-Hill Blackboard course

McGraw-Hill tech support; (800) 331-5094 (toll-free): Text, "Connect" UTSA Office of Information Technology (OIT) Tech Support: OITConnect@utsa.edu

Blackboard issue report form: Blackboard course navigation issues

COURSE DESCRIPTION(3-0) 3 Credit Hours. Prerequisites: COM 1043 or COM 1053, WRC 1023, and classified as a pre-business or declared major in the College of Business or approval of Department Chair and Dean of the College. This course examines basic interpersonal communication processes within written and oral channels, with practical applications for the business environment. We will focus on three areas: 1) planning, researching, organizing, writing, editing, and revising business-related documents; 2) planning, organizing, and delivering oral presentations in a business setting; and 3) preparing for professional success in the business world, including career planning, networking, job searching, résumé preparation, and job application and interviewing. The preparation of a resume is required. (Formerly MGT 3043; Credit for both MGT 3003 and MGT 3043 is not authorized.)

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Important Note: If you are a management major, you must earn a grade of “C-“ or better in MGT 3003 in order to stay in that major. Otherwise, you must either retake the course or change majors. If you are not a management major, please check the UTSA Course Catalog regarding similar provisions for this or other courses.

COURSE PREPARATION Access Course Blackboard site Perform a browser check (see “Browser Checker” in upper right-hand corner) Watch my welcome video! (Click on “COMMUNICATIONS” in the left-hand pane) Purchase and access your text through Blackboard using the instructions below under “Required Course Materials,”

and the “Register for Connect Through Blackboard” link on the left panel of the course Blackboard site Access and become familiar with the “OWL: Online Writing Lab” links on the left-hand panel of the course

Blackboard site, including the OWL PowerPoint presentation.

REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS Text #1 : Business Communication: Developing Leaders for a Networked World, 3rd ed., by Peter Cardon,

McGraw-Hill Publishing, in one of the following formats:

o Combination Loose-Leaf with Connect Access Card for McGraw-Hill “Connect” Learning Management System (cost approx. $149.00): ISBN−9781260240085 - available in the University bookstore.The Pre Pack includes: A hard copy, loose-leaf version of the text Access to the e-Book An access code to “Connect,” an online (via the course Blackboard site) study and assignment system

required for this course.o Connect Access Card Purchased via UTSA Bookstore (cost approx. $114): ISBN: 9781260232219 –

available in the bookstore (you will need the Connect code to access the online study modules including the eBook and Connect/LearnSmart content) Access to the e-Book An access code to “Connect,” an online (via the course Blackboard site) study and assignment system

required for this course.

o Online Blackboard Connect Access Purchase (cost $90.00): The direct student purchase through Blackboard includes: Access to e-Book and Connect (no printed book), an online study and assignment system required for this course. (NOTE: Do not purchase Connect access online through the McGraw- Hill web-site, or you will not have access to Connect assignments via Blackboard . See the “Register for Connect through Blackboard” link on the left side of the course Blackboard site for a tutorial on how to do this.)

Text #2 : Strengths Finder 2.0, by Tom Rath (cost approx. $20.00 purchased through UTSA bookstore): ISBN: 9781595620156 (includes an access code for the VMock résumé preparation program).

COMPUTER SOFTWARE & HARDWARE : Ensure you have plug-ins Firefox 35+ and Java SE7 and SE8. The primary software requirement for accessing UTSA networks is Microsoft Windows 7, 8, or 8.1. If you use a MAC computer, you must be able to produce documents that are compatible with Microsoft Office 2010 or 2013. (NOTE: Do not submit documents as zip files or files that are not compatible with Microsoft Office 2010 or 2013, e.g., Google docs, etc.)

Wireless Internet connections are inherently unstable and spotty, particularly in public locations. Never use Wi-Fi connections for any of the assignments—online or otherwise—in this course. You should access your assessments at home or work locations with a stable high-speed Internet connection, and with a physical wire running from the router directly to your computer's Internet port. An Ethernet cable is one of the most popular

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forms of network cable used on wired networks--they easily connect from your laptop to wired computers located in libraries, hotels, etc. in many metropolitan areas.

STUDY RESOURCES Study and Learning Assistance

o McGraw-Hill “Connect ”: This interactive eLearning and assignment program is available at the course Blackboard site, located at the links on the left side of each Blackboard page. It provides many extensive study and evaluation tools to assist your success in reading and understanding chapter materials in the text. These include practice chapter pre- and post-quizzes, simulation exercises, etc. In addition, this program is required to access Connect-based assignments. “Connect” also includes access to the following optional learning tools: LearnSmart “SmartBook ”: An adaptive reading system that creates a personalized reading process

whereby the student’s text reading continuously adapts by highlighting content based on what the student does and does not know.

LearnSmart “Achieve ”: An adaptive learning system that improves writing editing skills.

Tomás Rivera Center (TRC) : Learning Assistance Services for Undergraduate Students at the TRC provides one-on-one Academic Coaching, which can assist with many educational concerns, such as time management, overcoming procrastination, reading strategies, note taking, and study skills. Visit the TRC website (www.utsa.edu/trcss) for more information.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT: Follow the instructions below immediately if you believe there has been a systemic network outage affecting your access to Blackboard and/or McGraw-Hill Connect.

If Unable to Access Blackboard-based assignment (including the OWL) : Email OIT Tech Support at OITConnect@utsa.edu , and me at Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu, and provide the following information:o Your name, email address, banner ID/Usernameo Details of your problem, giving the name/numerical nomenclature of the specific assignment issueo The date and time you attempted to access the assignmento The type of internet/computer connection you used, e.g. Wi-Fi? Hard-wired computer, etc.o Phone number where you can be contactedo Your course and section number, and the name of your professoro Your computer’s operating system & version number, e.g. Mac OSX, Windows 7, Windows XP, etc.o The name and version of internet browser in which you are using blackboard, e.g., Safari version 5.1.2, Internet

Explorer version 8, Mozilla Firefox version 12, etc.o If you used a UTSA-owned computer, provide your computer’s inventory/asset number

If Unable to Access Connect Quiz or LearnSmart : First, access http://connect.mheducation.com/connect/troubleshoot.do to check the compatibility of your browser and verify that you have Flash Player software to enhance your connection to the McGraw-Hill Connect system. Phone or email McGraw-Hill technical support. Be sure to inform them that you registered on “Connect” via Blackboard, not via the McGraw-Hill Web site .

o Call Tech support at (800) 331-5094 during below times (Central Standard Time):

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. Monday thru Thursday: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 a.m. Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

o Email Tech support by accessing http://mpss.mhhe.com/contact.php.

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Complete “Your Information” on the form. Select “Connect” under “Product Name.” Click “Submit Question”

Identify specifically which course and section you are in Tell them the specifics of your problem and the date and time of your issue. Ask if there was a systemic Connect systems outage, and the date/times thereof. Record the incident reference number they provide you. Ask them to notify your professor of their findings at his/her email address

Whether or not McGraw-Hill tech support is able to resolve the issue, contact our McGraw-Hill representative, Melissa Lowry, at Melissa.Lowry@mheducation.com , and me at Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu, and provide both of us the technical support incident reference number they provide, and the user ID and password you use to access Blackboard.

COURSE FORMAT

Except for extra-credit opportunities, this course will be taught entirely online through McGraw-Hill Connect and Blackboard Learn. There will be no class meetings on campus; however, voluntary extra-credit opportunities will be conducted outside of class. See the course calendar and plan below for details.

Course Navigation Instructions: When you log in to Blackboard, you will arrive at the Course Content page. Use the course menu on the left side of your screen to go to other locations in the course.

GRADING INFORMATION: Your semester grade will be based on a combination of a final exam, resume assignment, module tests, challenge cases, practice sets, checks for understanding, and short activities/exercises.

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Required Assignments Contribution to Semester GradeFinal Exam 100 ptsResume Assignment (VMock) 100 ptsOWL Writing Assignments 200 points total

(4 core, 4 supplemental)Module Tests 11 @20 pts each = 220 ptsChallenge Cases 10 @25 pts each = 250 ptsLearnSmart Lessons 50 points totalConnect Quizzes 50 points totalExercises 3 @ 10 pts each (Modules 3, 5, 6) Total 100% [based on 1000 possible points]

Final grades will be based on students earning the following points out of a possible 1000+ points.

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Course Grade Determination(Based on Max 1000 Assignment Points plus Extra-Credit Points)Course Letter

GradeGrade Points Course Points Between

A+ 4.00 966.33 1000+A 4.00 933.00 966.32A- 3.67 899.66 932.00B+ 3.33 866.33 899.65B 3.00 833.00 866.32B- 2.67 799.66 832.00C+ 2.33 766.33 799.65C 2.00 733.00 766.32C- 1.67 699.66 732.00D+ 1.33 666.33 699.65D 1.00 633.00 666.32D- 0.67 599.66 632.00F 0.00 0 599.65

COURSE SCHEDULEThe table below shows a combined schedule with LearnSmart readings/activities, quizzes, exams, OWLs, and the resume assignment.The UTSA academic calendar can be found at http://utsa.edu/calendar/.

*Bb – an abbreviation for Blackboard

Week Module/ Section

Title/Activities

Points # Questions

Time Limit

Date AvailableMonday

12:00 AM CT

Due DateSunday

11:59 PM CTWeek 1 OWLs: Part I (Bb)

OWL English Mechanics QuizOWL Cover Letter QuizOWL Résumé Quiz OWL Writing Composition Quiz

100 (Averaged)

20101020

1055

10

Jan. 8, 2018 Jan. 14, 2018

Week 2 Module 1: Employment Communications | Part 1

1.11.21.3

1.4

LearnSmart Chapter 16 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 16 (Connect)Introduction: Résumé Project (Bb/VMock)Module Test (Bb)

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–

20

–10

–

20

–5

–

20

Jan. 15, 2018 Jan. 21, 2018Jan. 21, 2018Feb. 18, 2018

Jan. 21, 2018Week 3 Module 2: Establishing Credibility

2.1 2.22.32.4

LearnSmart Chapter 1 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 1 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

55

2520

–107

20

–5

1520

Jan. 22, 2018 Jan. 28, 2018

Week 4 Module 3: Interpersonal and Team Communication, and Difficult Conversations

3.13.23.33.43.5

LearnSmart Chapters 2 & 3 (Connect)Quiz Chapters 2/3 (Connect)Exercise (Bb)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

2.5 ea.5

102520

–1016

20

–5

101520

Jan. 29, 2018 Feb. 4, 2018

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Week Module/ Section

Title/Activities

Points # Questions

Time Limit

Date AvailableMonday

12:00 AM CT

Due DateSunday

11:59 PM CTWeek 5 Module 4: Communicating across Cultures

4.14.24.3

4.4.44.5

LearnSmart Chapter 4 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 4 (Connect)Exercise (Bb) Challenge Case (Bb)Module Test (Bb)

55

102520

–10107

20

–55

1520

Feb. 5, 2018 Feb. 11, 2018

Week 6 Module 5: Résumé Project

5.1 Résumé Project Video and Instructions 100 – – Jan. 15, 2018 Feb.18, 2018

Week 7 Module 6: Creating Effective Business Messages

6.16.26.36.46.5

LearnSmart Chapters 5 & 6 (Connect)Quiz Chapters 5/6 (Connect)Exercise (Bb)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

2.5 ea.5

102520

–10106

20

–5

101520

Feb. 19, 2018 Feb. 25, 2018

Week 8 Module 7: Email, Social Media, and Other Tools for Business Communication

7.17.27.37.4

LearnSmart Chapters 7 & 8 (Connect)Quiz Chapters 7/8 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

2.5 ea.5

2520

–106

20

–5

1520

Feb. 26, 2018 Mar. 4, 2018

Week 9 Module 8: Employment Communication | Part 2

8.18.28.3

Online Articles (Bb)Challenge Case Parts I & II (Bb)Module Test (Bb)

–2520

–6

20

–5

20

Mar. 5, 2018 Mar. 11, 2018

Week 10 SPRING BREAK Mar 12, 2018 Mar. 18, 2018

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Week Module/ Section

Title/Activities

Points # Questions

Time Limit

Date AvailableMonday

12:00 AM CT

Due DateSunday

11:59 PM CTWeek 11 Module 9: Routine Business Messages

9.19.29.39.4

LearnSmart Chapter 9 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 9 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

55

2520

–108

20

–5

1520

Mar. 19, 2018 Mar. 25, 2018

Week 12 Module 10: Bad News Messages

10.110.210.310.4

LearnSmart Chapter 11 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 11 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

55

2520

–107

20

–5

1520

Mar. 26, 2018 Apr. 1, 2018

Week 13 Module 11: Persuasive Messages

11.111.211.311.4

LearnSmart Chapter 10 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 10 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

55

2520

–107

20

–5

1520

Apr. 2, 2018 Apr. 8, 2018

Week 14 Module 12: Planning Presentations

12.112.212.312.4

LearnSmart Chapters 14 & 15 (Connect)Quiz Chapters 14/15 (Connect) Challenge Case (Connect)Module Test (Bb)

2.5 ea.5

2520

–107

20

–5

1520

Apr. 9, 2018 Apr. 15, 2018

Week 15 OWLs: Part II (Bb)

OWL Email QuizOWL Critical Thinking QuizOWL Presentation QuizOWL Writing Style Quiz

100 (Averaged)

10201020

5105

10

Apr. 16, 2018 Apr. 22, 2018

Week 16 Final Exam (Bb) 100 Date AvailableMay 4, 2018

Friday

Due DateMay 6, 2018

Sunday

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CAUTIONS ABOUT ONLINE ASSIGNMENT CONNECTIVITY

The University drops students from class if they are delinquent in paying University fees (tuition, fines, etc.). These students cannot access Blackboard, McGraw-Hill Connect, and cannot attend classes, submit course assignments or submit course assignments (either hard copy or online), either in advance or retroactively during the time dropped from classes, even if eventually the student pays his/her fees.

Computer systems are notoriously subject to unforeseen and uncontrollable situations that may cause them to crash. Failure to complete online assignments on time due to the following unfortunate events will not be a basis for deadline extensions or “do overs” of any assignments.

Lack of confirmed Connect or Blackboard systemic systems outages at the time assignment access is attempted.

o Remember, there is no such thing as a “highly reliable internet connection.” Three of the most important safeguards against faulty computer connectivity include the following prior to attempting to access all online assignment. If you do not know how to do these with your specific browser, then “Google It.”: Use a hard-wired computer via an Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi Run a browser check to ensure compatibility at

http://connect.mheducation.com/connect/troubleshoot.do and at https://en-us.help.blackboard.com/Learn/9.1_2014_04/Administrator/020_Browser_Support/Browser_Checke.

Periodically clear your cache (pronounced “cash”), which is a form of computer memory designed to speed up computer functions. It can also connect slowly or improperly to online files; thus, clear the cache periodically. Access wikihow.com to determine how to clear the cache associated with your specific browser.

o Use compatible browsers; Mozilla Firefox or Chrome.

Turn off pop-up blockers Clear your browser cache Start with a new browser session Use a wired connection; wireless connections can be interrupted by interference from other devices or due

to saturation of wireless access points in public areas. Close all other programs, e.g., movies, music, e-mail, anything not needed to run the test.

o Do not use Wi-Fi connections--including Wi-Fi connected routers--for online assignments. Use only hardwired computers such as those in UTSA computer labs, the library, and elsewhere on campus and in other home and work locations. AirRowdy and other wireless connections--particularly those serving apartment complexes, dormitories, and other high-volume areas--are prone to disconnecting unexpectedly.

o Whether or not you use a hard-wired computer, there are serious hazards involved in waiting until near the deadline time to complete online assignments. Risky high-volume times to complete assignments that might experience connection issues will not be a basis for a “do-over.” These include, for example:

Attempting to navigate through the assignment with the “Back” and/or “Forward” arrows of your Browser, rather than using the navigation tools within the assignment itself.

Without contrary evidence, wired or Wi-Fi systems connection problems that prohibit online access on the assignment deadline date are considered the result of system overload from an inordinate number of students attempting access on the deadline date. Your attempt to complete assignments during this

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period is at your own risk .

Bad weather such as electrical storms and the like may result in computer disruptions—do not attempt to complete assignments/test during such events.

Depending on the day and time of a computer systems crash, and waiting until the “last minute” to complete your online assignment, there is a high probability that there will likely not be timely support from the Blackboard or McGraw-Hill staffs to assist you with your technical issues.

Do not set your computer to “time-out” during a level of inactivity that may “time-out” assignments and tests.

During Each Assignment/Test

o Do not refresh the page, close the window, or click the browser's "Back" and "Forward" buttons/arrows; use only the navigation links/buttons displayed in the assignment/test.

o Do not double-click the Start button while waiting for assignment/test to load, causing multiple instances of it to open.

o Avoid using the scroll wheel on the mouse; doing so after clicking an answer choice may inadvertently change your answer selection.

GRADED ACTIVITIES

Except for the résumé assignment and the final exam, all graded Module assignments are available on the first day of the Module Week (Monday), and are due not later than 11:59:00 p.m. on the last day of the Module Week (Sunday). See the above “COURSE SCHEDULE” chart for all module and assignment availability and due dates.

Again, before attempting to access Blackboard and each Connect assignment, click on Check My Computer to see if your computer meets the compatibility requirements for Connect and Blackboard. If not compatible for listed reasons, e.g., outdated browser version, blocked cookies, pop-up blocker is on, etc., correct the issue, and troubleshoot again. If compatible, click “Connect Quizzes & Writing Assignment” at your Blackboard site, to access the assignment.

Access “Connect” assignments and quizzes through the Blackboard “Connect” link on the left side of the folder or by clicking on the title of the assignment itself. They are available from the start of the applicable Module Week that includes the various tests and assignments, as listed on the “Course Schedule” above.

There are no assignment extensions or “do-overs” under any circumstances unless the McGraw-Hill and/or Blackboard tech support staffs certify to the professor that there was a systemic Connect or Blackboard outage during the time you attempted to access a particular quiz consistent with the provisions of this syllabus.

Assignment/test points are not awarded unless students click the applicable “submit” button for each assignment by the assignment submission deadline.

o Online Writing Lab (OWL) Modules & Quizzes: You will complete OWL assignments online (see above “Course Schedule”) as linked on the left side of the course Blackboard page.

OWL Core Modules Assignment (Four Core OWL Modules) - The four core modules are (1) writing composition, (2) English grammar mechanics, (3) business writing style, and (4) critical thinking. Your grade for the OWL Core Modules assignment will be the average of the four post-assessment scores. For each of the four modules:

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Study the core module to learn the relevant facts, concepts, and principles for the subject. Complete a graded post-assessment to help measure your knowledge of the subject.

OWL Supplemental Modules Assignment (Four Supplemental OWL Modules) – Your grade for this assignment will be the average of the post-assessment scores for the following four supplemental modules: (1) résumé writing, (2) cover letter writing, (3) writing emails, and (4) presentation skills

Direct all questions regarding the OWL, including technical issues and concerns about quiz answers to Dr. Wilson at Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu. After the quiz submission deadline passes, you may re-access the quiz site for feedback by clicking on your quiz score. If you still have questions, provide Dr. Wilson the following:

The module quiz in question The specific quiz question being challenged The specific response you gave to the question The page number in the module where you believe the proper response is located.

o “Connect LearnSmart” (LS) Exercises: These assist you in preparing for course quizzes, the midterm exam, and the final exam. There are 14 exercises—assessed through “Connect” on Blackboard—some worth 5 points, some worth 2.5 points for a total of 50 points. LS is an adaptive, personalized reading regimen that highlights the most important concepts an individual student needs to learn within each text chapter. The student’s text reading continuously adapts by highlighting content based on what the student does and does not know. This ensures focus on the content he or she needs to learn, and promotes long-term retention of material. You may exit and re-enter LS until the due date.

o “Connect” Quizzes: There are 10 quizzes, each with 10 questions, and each quiz worth 5 points, for a total of 50 points. Assess each quiz through “Connect” on Blackboard. There are no extensions under any circumstances since these are available online for several days.

“Connect” generates quiz questions randomly for each student. You may access each quiz any time during the period between when its “available” and its “deadline.” Once you start a quiz, you have until the time limit to complete it—there are no “do-overs” or “extensions.”

Before attempting to access each Connect assignment (each quiz and the writing assignment), click on Check My Computer to see if your computer meets the requirements for Connect. If not compatible for listed reasons, e.g., outdated browser version, blocked cookies, pop-up blocker is on, etc., correct the issue and troubleshoot again. If compatible, click “Connect Quizzes & Writing Assignment” at your Blackboard site, to access the assignment.

Résumé : You will prepare a professional job résumé as part of the professional development portion of this course. The résumé grading rubric is at Résumé Grading Rubric. (Notes: [1] Do not start this assignment until after you watch the video instructions on résumé writing, [2] do not submit a cover letter with this assignment, and [3] do not submit this assignment in a format file that only a MAC computer can read.)

o Your résumé should be for a job or type of job you will likely be seeking--if you have no specific job or employer to refer to, refer to a job for which you might like to apply, and an employer for which you might like to work. The résumé must follow the CSPD résumé template at Résumé Template.

o Follow the below steps to complete the résumé Vmock preparation process, an online platform that is backed by

sophisticated analytics along with global best practices and recruiters’ perspectives that will make your résumé career-ready. Because VMock scores do not operate on a typical 0-100 academic grading scale, an adjustment of 20 points is applied to each VMock score to calculate the résumé assignment final grade based on a maximum grade of 100 points.

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Step One : On or before January 15, you will receive an email invitation (sent to your preferred email address in ASAP) from the CSPD with the subject line, “Get instant feedback on your résumé with VMock.” The email will have a link that says, “Click here to sign up on VMock.” Follow the link to sign up.

Step Two : Upload your completed résumé as a PDF file to the VMock program and receive instant feedback 24/7. Your score will be broken down into 3 categories: Presentation, Impact, and Competencies. You will receive a score in each category, along with detailed, customized feedback on how to improve your résumé. Once you receive your initial grade (this is not your final grade), you are encouraged to make any recommended changes to the résumé.

Step Three : Once you have made the changes you will upload your revised résumé to the VMock program and receive your new score. While you will have up to five uploads to improve your score, you do not need to use all five attempts. You may stop when you are satisfied with your score.

Recommendation: Once your résumé is graded it is recommended that you upload your résumé to Handshake https://utsa.joinhandshake.com/login for review by potential employers. Handshake is the place where students, career centers, and recruiters come to meet, talk, and share opportunities.

Final Exam : The final will be available for a specified period of time and consists of multiple-choice questions from the text chapters assigned.

COURSE GRADING & SUBMISSION POLICIES

Assignment/Exam Protocols : Your semester grade will be based on a combination of a final exam, resume assignment, module tests, challenge cases, practice sets, checks for understanding, and other activities/exercises. The structure of the online grading process generally includes:

o Module graded activities are available on the Monday of the appropriate Module Week, and once begun, must be completed by the designated time limit, or by 11:59:00 p.m. on the Sunday of that Module, whichever comes first.

o Only one attempt is available for each graded assignment.

o Randomized exam/test questions are presented one question at a time, without the ability to backtrack.

o After the due date, students may access grading feedback that is provided on the day after the assignment due dates.

Check Blackboard Frequently : It is your responsibility to check Blackboard at least twice a week for announcements, course messages, and posted grades. You must immediately report any perceived grade errors to the professor/TA. Failure to do so by the Tuesday following the applicable assignment Module Week will result in the questioned grade remaining unchanged!

Requirement to Meet All Online Assignment Deadlines : This syllabus and its associated class schedules are the primary and only source documents for determining assignment deadlines. It is the responsibility of students to meet these deadlines. Because of the unreliable nature of automatic digital notification software and systems, students who solely use the Blackboard “Daily Notification Dashboard Summary” to keep track of assignment deadlines do so at their own risk. Missed assignments based on these summaries will be graded “zero.”

Grades of Incomplete : A grade of incomplete requires that the student does not complete some part of the work for good reason and is making a passing grade (D- or above), while the rest of the student's work in the course

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was satisfactorily completed. A grade of incomplete is inappropriate when a definite grade is possible for the work done. The student must have completed at least three-fourths of the term assignments to receive a grade of incomplete.

Status of Grades :

o Challenging Grades: If you disagree with a grade you receive (either for a course assignment, for an extra credit event, or a deduction), bring the matter to my attention in writing (Blackboard Learn mail message, email, letter, etc.) within seven calendar days from the date I post the grade on Blackboard Learn. Otherwise, the grade will remain as is. It is your responsibility to check Blackboard at least twice a week for announcements, course messages, and posted grades.

o “Curved” Grades: There is no grading “on the curve” in this class for individual assignments. However, once grades are calculated after final exams are completed, if the average total points for the class reflects fewer than 699.66 points (“C−“), each student’s total points will be adjusted upward to reflect an average total score for the class of 699.66 points.

o Incomplete/Late Exams/Assignments: All assignments not completed and submitted on time are graded “zero.” Unless otherwise noted on the class schedule, all assignments are due no later than 11:59:00 p.m. on the deadline date.

Deadlines : Students who fail to meet the deadlines for submitting scheduled assignments, exams, and/or other committed obligations will receive grades of “zero” (or appropriated deduction if an extra-credit event) if the failure is not the result of an emergency or mandatory obligation as discussed below. There are no “make-ups” for these missed assignments; however, you may take and/or turn them in early with the approval of the professor or the TA.

Excused Absences: If you miss or are late for a class or committed extra-credit event for one of the below reasons, your absence is considered excused if you otherwise meet University policy for excused absence.

o Please refer to http://provost.utsa.edu/syllabus.asp for university policy regarding “Transitory/Minor Medical Issues”--which in this class are not considered “emergencies.”

o Absences for viruses that are preventable with appropriate immunizations, but for which you have not received the vaccination, do not automatically excuse absences.

o Hospital and doctors’ visits that are scheduled appointments do not count as emergencies since, by definition, they do not require immediate medical attention.

o Documented, verifiable medical emergencies of immediate family members. A verifiable, written documented emergency involves you or a member of your immediate family, i.e., spouse, parent, guardian, sibling, or other relative who resides full time with you, and is of the nature of a major issue, e.g., death, funeral, extremely serious illness, or injury, etc. “Significant others,” boyfriends/girlfriends, grandparents or other relatives are not considered members of your immediate family unless they currently reside full-time with you. Absences based on an appointment are not considered emergencies—appointments should be scheduled so as not to conflict with class attendance.

o Documented conflicting, mandatory UTSA obligations (for example, on UTSA athletic team, participant in Leadership Challenge program, etc.). To be eligible for this provision, an appropriate UTSA official must certify the UTSA mandatory obligation in writing and in advance of the date of the event. (NOTE: Registering for overlapping classes/labs is not eligible for this exception—students may not register for classes or associated labs that conflict with the days and times of other classes.)

o Documented conflicting, mandatory religious obligations prohibiting working during the time of a scheduled 14

class. You must provide each of your professors (whose courses take place during the absence) advanced written documentation and notification of your intention not to attend classes on the dates and/or times of mandatory religious obligation. Documentation is credible evidence of the mandatory nature of the absence.

o Written military mobilization orders, copies of which you provide each of your professors prior to the date of the mobilization.

o Written city, county, state, or federal order/subpoena, a copy of which you provide each of your professors prior to the day of the event, e.g., to report to court, jury duty, court witness, or other mandatory legal proceeding, e.g., immigration/citizenship proceedings, etc., on a specific date. (NOTE: Excluded here is traffic court in which you voluntarily decide to challenge or otherwise adjudicate a traffic ticket.)

o Non-class events, e.g., State and national professional association meetings and conferences, etc., with expenses paid completely or in part by UTSA, with a copy of the written UTSA approval provided each of your professors prior to the day of the event. Participation in events/activities under sponsorship of other classes and that conflict with attending this class, are not excused absences.

EXTRA-CREDIT (EC) OPPORTUNITIES

You have the opportunity to earn extra-credit points, using the following guidelines. This is to help ensure that you meet the commitments for which you volunteer and for which, as a result, you have a responsibility to meet—just as is expected in the real world of work.

If you volunteer to undertake an extra-credit event, and for non-emergency reasons:(1) You withdraw your volunteer status, or(2) You are late for the event or depart the event early, or(3) You otherwise do not meet the conditions for appropriately completing the event; you may be penalized the number of extra-credit points that the event is worth.

Extra-credit (EC) Items (Blackboard Learn label) * Extra-credit Points

Due Not Later Than

Career Action Program (1) (“EC-CAP”) [Business majors only] 50 Register for CAP Orientation by Jan. 31

Current membership in approved professional organization (2) ("EC-Prof Org") 5 Feb. 9

Etiquette Dinner (3) (“EC-Etiquette”] [non-CAP students only] 10

Feb. 275:30pm-8:00pm,

Denman BallroomUC 2.01.28)

Group mock interview (4) (“EC-Group Mock Intv.”) [non-CAP students only] 10

Apr. 192:00pm-3:15pm

Mesquite Rm(UC 2.01.24)

OWL Report Module Quiz (“EC-Report”) (5) 5 Apr. 22OWL Citation Module Quiz (“EC-Citation”) (5) 5 Apr. 22Guest lectures, conferences, meetings, workshops, seminars, etc. (6) (“EC-Lec”) 5 (each) As they occurJunior Achievement Finance Park (7) (“EC-Park”) 10 Apr. 16* See explanatory footnotes below

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(1) (CSPD and CAP PowerPoint Presentation) The Career Action Program (CAP) is a 15-hour, out-of-class College of Business professional development program under the Center for Student Professional Development (CSPD) and supported by H-E-B. The deadline for signing up for CAP is Wednesday, January 31, via the on-line registration portal or in the CSPD, BB 2.01.08.

The CAP program only accepts business students who are highly motivated self-starters who have a firm commitment to professional excellence. The College of Business finances the CAP program; therefore, only business majors may participate in the program. Volunteers who successfully complete the program will earn a certificate attesting to their accomplishments. CAP includes résumé writing, workshops, mock interviews, a full day professional development conference, and networking opportunities with the business community. The CAP VMock résumé requirement also satisfies the MGT 3003 VMock résumé requirement. The CSPD publishes the required CAP Orientation Session schedule.

The College of Business expends much time and financial resources to provide its students the very best professional support through the CAP program. Accordingly, once you have completed the CAP orientation session and have signed up for the CAP Conference, you assume a professional commitment to the program. Accordingly:

If you commit to attending the CAP Conference, but not attend, you are subject to a $50 fee to pay for the conference expenses and your commitment initiated.

If you fail to complete one of the mandatory CAP events (conference, mock interview, speed networking), you cannot earn CAP certification and the extra-credit points.

You may not retake the CAP program for extra credit unless you previously dropped from the CAP program without completing it; in which case you must retake all portions of the program.

(2) Membership in a Professional Organization: Use the extra-credit certification form—linked at http://faculty.business.utsa.edu/bjwilson/docs/ExtraCreditCertificationsForm.doc—to have a chapter officer certify initial membership (including as a potential “pledge,” etc.) or continuing membership—to include paying dues--in a qualified professional organization. Qualifying, non-academic credit professional organization/associations must relate to your academic discipline (Toastmasters International relates to all disciplines). The professional organization may be an on-campus or an off-campus association.

College of Business registered student organizations (RSO) (linked at http://business.utsa.edu/undergraduate/students/ldrdev_organizations.aspx) meet these criteria for business majors (other majors should check with me).

Outstanding organizations such as academic honorary societies, Student Government Association, and social and service fraternities/sororities do not qualify for extra credit because they generally are not geared to specific majors.

There is no additional extra credit for belonging to more than one qualifying professional organization. Finally, enrollment in ROTC programs does not qualify for extra credit because they are University courses leading to academic credit.

Submit your signed certification form as a PDF file as follows: Access the “Course Content” page on the course Blackboard site, scroll down and click the link

“Extra Credit Prof. Org. Certification.” Click “Browse My Computer,” locate your résumé review confirmation PDF file, and upload it to

Blackboard. Click “Submit”

(3) Professional Etiquette Dinner (non-CAP students only): You may participate in an etiquette dinner for extra credit by making an appointment through the University Career Center (UCC) “Handshake” at http://careercenter.utsa.edu/handshake-login/.

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Volunteers for the CAP program are not eligible for this extra credit since a professional etiquette luncheon is an inherent part of the CAP program under the Center for Student Professional Development (CSPD).

For this event, there is a $15.00 fee, refundable except for non-emergency no-shows. To successfully earn this extra credit, attendees must be in strict business professional attire and arrive

on time for the duration of the event; otherwise you will not receive this extra credit. (Note: Event sponsors will provide me a listing of my students who attend this event, including the names of those not in business professional attire.)

(4) Group Mock Interview (non-CAP students only): You may participate in a group mock interview with business people for extra credit by making an appointment through the University Career Center (UCC) “Handshake” at http://careercenter.utsa.edu/handshake-login/.

NOTE: Volunteers for the CAP program are not eligible for this extra credit since group mock interviews are an inherent part of the CAP program under the CSPD.

To successfully earn this extra credit, you must (1) be on time for the mock interview, (2) dress in business professional attire, (3) bring a completed résumé, and (4) be prepared to respond to typical interview questions (see examples of such questions at this link). Also, please review the mock interview guide. The folks in the UCC will notify me of the students who successfully complete the mock interview for this extra credit.

(5) Access this extra-credit OWL quiz at the Blackboard Online Writing Lab link on the Content page.

(6) Lectures, conferences, panels, meetings, workshops, or seminars annotated on the course schedule as extra credit. I will add these to the class schedule at my discretion and as they become available. Attendance slips or sign-in sheets will certify attendance at extra-credit symposia, lectures, or conferences.

(7) JA Finance Park: Both JA volunteers and non-JA volunteers may participate in this extra credit event—you may earn extra credit only once as a volunteer for this event. Junior Achievement of South Texas sponsors “Junior Achievement Finance Park,” a program for improving the personal finance skills of middle and high school students in the Bexar County area. It is a computer-assisted, mobile training center run by volunteers help mentor students on financial planning. The Finance Park Center is located in San Antonio at 6837 San Pedro Ave. 78216, adjacent to H-E-B on the southwest corner of San Pedro and Oblate. To volunteer for this extra-credit opportunity, complete and submit to the JA staff online the Finance Park “Volunteer Availability” registration form at http://bit.ly/2EYChJh. Please direct questions regarding Finance Park to Martin Longoria, at (210) 490-2007, x105. The JA staff will send you a confirming email to authorize your participation as a volunteer for a specific Finance Park event.

The JA staff will notify me when you complete your JA Finance Park duties. Remember; do not volunteer for a Finance Park event which conflicts with this or any other UTSA course. Finance Park volunteers must:

Report to the Finance Park Center on time and perform a one-time assignment from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with volunteer training provided from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., and students arriving thereafter.

Be able to work positively with young students, and possess real-world personal finance and budget experience.

Wear clothes that are casual but neat--no jeans, no shorts, no tee shirts, no tennis shoes or flip-flops.

Perform the Finance Park event for which they volunteered and for which confirmed by the JA staff to perform.

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Coming Extra-Credit Events:

Feb. 26: ) EXTRA-CREDIT EVENT (5 points): Global Business Club Guest Speaker: Mr. Viejo, VP for AT&T, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., McKinney Humanities Build. (MH 2.01.24) (Note: Event sponsors will provide me a listing of my students who attend this event.

Feb. 27: EXTRA-CREDIT EVENT (Non-CAP Students Only) (10 points): Professional Etiquette Dinner, 5:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m., Denman Room (UC 2.01.28), register online through “Handshake” at http://careercenter.utsa.edu/handshake-login/. There is a $15.00 fee, refundable, except for non-emergency no-shows. NOTE: Attendees must be in strict business professional attire and arrive on time for the duration of the event; otherwise you will not receive this extra credit. (Note: Event sponsors will provide me a listing of my students who attend this event, including the names of those not in business professional attire.)

Apr. 19: EXTRA-CREDIT EVENT (Non-CAP Students Only) (10 points): Group Mock Interviews, 2:00pm-3:15pm, Mesquite Rm (UC 2.01.24). NOTE: To earn these points, students must (a) be on time, (b) dress in business professional attire, and (c) be prepared to respond to typical interview questions such as those at this link. Sign up for this event on “Handshake” at http://careercenter.utsa.edu/handshake-login/. (Note: Event sponsors will provide me a listing of my students who attend this event, including the names of those not in business professional attire.)

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. If I previously took this course from Dr. Wilson (but I am retaking this course), must I again complete the regular and extra-credit assignments (if any) in order to again get credit for them? Yes.

2. May I email the assignments to you? No, there are upload processes for assignments sent in.

3. How do I appeal an assignment or course grade?

To appeal an assignment grade given or confirmed by the professor, you must meet with the professor and discuss the assignment grade. The professor’s decision regarding the assignment grade is final. The grade may be affirmed, or the professor may elect to re-grade the assignment personally, in which case the new grade—whether lower, the same, or higher than the original grade—will be final.

To appeal a course grade, you must appeal in writing to Dr. Robert Cardy, chairman of the Department of Management (Robert.Cardy@utsa.edu), within 90 calendar days from the end of the semester. You must have "compelling evidence" that your course grade reflects "discrimination, differential treatment, factual mistake, or violation of a relevant University policy" (reference appendix E of the UTSA Information Bulletin at http://www.utsa.edu/infoguide/appendices/e.html). You must include the following in your written appeal:

o The date of the appeal.o Your name, your Banner ID number, and your academic major.o Your full address, telephone number, and email address.o My name (Dr. Bennie Wilson) and your course and section number.o State specifically the grade you are appealing (exam, quiz number, etc.)o State specifically the action you want done regarding the grade.o Explain the rationale supporting your appeal and provide any supporting documentation. (NOTE: It is not

sufficient to state that you disagree with the professor’s judgment.)

“Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”

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