Draft Syllabus: MGT 3003.01S (Internet), summer 2018Business Communication and Professional Development

(Updated August 12, 2018: All Dates & Times are U.S. 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 to UTSA websites, Blackboard assignments/exams, and McGraw-Hill Connect assignments/exams. (3) In the event of conflicting assignment information and/or associated deadline dates with this syllabus and other documentation/schedule, the information in this syllabus takes precedence. Find Blackboard Learn at http://learn.utsa.edu/.

WELCOME TO THIS COURSE..................................................................................................................................................1

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

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

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

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

STUDY RESOURCES................................................................................................................................................................3

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

MINIMUM TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS...........................................................................................................................4

ASSIGNMENT TECHNICAL SUPPORT......................................................................................................................................4

CAUTIONS ABOUT ONLINE CONNECTIVITY...........................................................................................................................5

COURSE FORMAT..................................................................................................................................................................7

GRADING INFORMATION......................................................................................................................................................7

COURSE SCHEDULE...............................................................................................................................................................8

GRADED ACTIVITIES.............................................................................................................................................................12

COURSE GRADING & SUBMISSION POLICIES.......................................................................................................................13

EXTRA-CREDIT (EC) OPPORTUNITIES...................................................................................................................................15

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)..............................................................................................................................15

ATTENTION: You must complete all 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.). 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.”

WELCOME TO THIS COURSE 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, meaning you will have to do advance planning regarding completing assignments and exams prior to their deadlines. Effective time management and meeting deadlines in a timely manner are valued and critical skills, both in this course and in the real world of work. Finally, you’ll note that some key grading policies are repeated throughout this syllabus in order to emphasize student responsibilities toward their success in this course.

1

Course Instructor Dr. Bennie WilsonWebsite: http://faculty.business.utsa.edu/bjwilson/index.phpOffice Hours: Daily via email and by appointment at Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu

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 CONTACTSROLE COURSE TEAM EMAIL ADDRESSES PHONE OFFICE HOURS

Professor Dr. Bennie Wilson

Email: Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu Point deductions Online Writing Lab (OWL) Point Deductions for late/absence

Email Message preferred

Email anytime – Will attempt to respond within 24 hours

Teaching Assistant (TA)

Dania Al-Rasheed Email: Dania.Al-Rasheed@utsa.edu Exam Proctor Blackboard Grade Posting

Email Message preferred

Email anytime – Will attempt to respond within 24 hours

Tech Support

McGraw-Hill Connect Blackboard

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

COURSE DESCRIPTION(3-0) 3 Credit HoursPrerequisites: 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.) 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

2

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

and the “Register for Connect Through Blackboard” link in the navigation menu 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.

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.

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 for more information.

REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS Text: 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 from 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 online (via the course Blackboard site) study management system.

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 navigation menu in the course on Blackboard for a tutorial on how to do this.)

COMPUTER SOFTWARE & HARDWARE: Ensure you have plug-ins for Firefox 35+, 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.)

3

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 (even these are vulnerable), 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 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.

MINIMUM TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS In order to participate in an online or hybrid course, students will need:

o PC or a Mac computero Windows 7 or latero Mac OS X or latero Webcam with microphoneo Internet accesso Supported browser: Run the UTSA Browser Check to check compatibility prior to accessing assignments.o Recommended Browsers: Firefox or Chrome o Word processing software: Office 365 is available for students through OITConnect.o Adobe Flash Player

ASSIGNMENT TECHNICAL SUPPORT In this course, there are no assignment “do-overs” for system reasons other than a systemic failure of Blackboard and/or McGraw-Hill Connect. It is the student’s responsibility to be knowledgeable of and proficient at using required computer hardware and software in completing all online assignments in an accurate and timely manner. Provide the following information to the appropriate office (see below) if you have issues with accessing online assignments. Provide the same information to the course professor.

For Blackboard-based Assignments (OWL, etc.): o If you cannot access Blackboard, email UTSA OIT Tech Support at OITConnect@utsa.edu and

Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu and provide the following information: Your name, email address, myUTSA ID (abc123) Details of your problem, name of module, quiz, etc., and the date and time access terminated. Details of your problem & the nature/type of connectivity to the Web/assignment, e.g., Wi-Fi, etc. Your course and section number, and the name of your professor Your computer’s operating system & version number, e.g. Mac OS X, Windows 7, Windows XP, etc. 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. If you used a UTSA-owned computer, provide your computer’s inventory/asset number

For Connect-based assignments (Quizzes, LearnSmart Assignments, etc.): 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 . Take one of the following actions, and provide the following listed information:

The specific online assignment with which you are having an issue. The nature/type of connectivity to the Web/assignment. Identify specifically which course and section you are referring to, e.g., MGT 3003.001 What are the specifics of your problem and the date and time of your issue? Record the incident reference number that the Connect tech support staff will provide you, and email that

number to our McGraw-Hill representative, Ashley.Hood@mheducation.com, to me at Bennie.Wilson@utsa.edu, and provide us both the technical support reference number and the user ID and password you use to access Blackboard.

4

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

CAUTIONS ABOUT ONLINE CONNECTIVITY On a weekly basis, you need to check and refresh your computer connectivity in terms of such things as (1) clearing

your browser cache, (2) running a browser check prior to opening online assignments, (3) resetting/rebooting your computer, cable box, and router at least once a week. The following online sites are tremendously valuable in helping you in using digital tools:o UTSA Online Technical Specifications (Tech Specs)

o UTSA Online Troubleshooting : List of troubleshooting steps

o Browser Checker (Blackboard) : Checks if Blackboard Learn supports your browser & Operating System

o Browser Checker (Connect) : Checks if Connect supports your browser & operating system, and verifies that you have Adobe Flash Player software to enhance connection to the McGraw-Hill Connect system

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.

o 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.

Reset/reboot s weekly for improved reliability and secure connectivity.

Run a browser check to ensure compatibility when accessing all online assignments for Blackboard and McGraw Hill Connect.

Periodically clear your browser 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 at least once a week.

o Do not use Wi-Fi connections for online assignments—use only hardwired computers such as those in UTSA computer labs, the library, and elsewhere on campus. AirRowdy and other wireless connections--particularly

5

those serving apartment complexes, dormitories, and other high-volume areas--are prone to disconnecting unexpectedly.

o Do not use multiple online tabs using one browser while accessing online assignments. Attempting to simultaneously access an assignment, the e-text, and other online reference materials in an attempt to engage in testing manipulation is a violation of the UTSA student code of conduct, and will also likely cause your online assignment to terminate prematurely.

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.” Accordingly:

Without overwhelming evidence to the contrary, the assumption is that systems problems with Blackboard and/or Connect that prohibit online access and/or creates outages on the assignment deadline date are the result of system overload created by an inordinate number of students attempting to access these assignments on the deadline date. Your attempt to complete online assignments during this period is at your own risk.

Bad weather such as electrical storms and the like that may result in computer disruptions.

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.

At the risk of causing quizzes to terminate prematurely, do not attempt accessing OWL modules or Connect-based content while connected to the assessment.

Do not set your computer to “time-out” during a level of inactivity that may “time-out” the quiz.

o During Each Assignment/Test: 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. Do not double-click the Start button while waiting for assignment/test to load, causing multiple instances of

it to open. Avoid using the scroll wheel on the mouse; doing so after clicking an answer choice may inadvertently

change your answer selection.

Important Note Regarding Student Online Assignment Connectivity (Delinquent Fees): 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 (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.

COURSE FORMAT Except for possible 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, 6

voluntary extra-credit opportunities may be conducted outside of class. See the course schedule and plan below for details.

Course Navigation Instructions: When you log in to Blackboard, you will arrive at the Course Content/Information page. Use the course menu on the left side of your screen to go to other locations in the course, e.g., registering for the McGraw-Hill Connect learning management system, accessing assignments through the list of assignment Modules, and accessing Connect assignments (LearnSmart, Connect quizzes, Challenge Cases, Online Writing Lab, etc.)

GRADING INFORMATIONYour semester grade will be based on a combination of the following assignments using the Course Grade Determination chart.

Required Assignments Contribution to Semester GradeFinal Exam 100 ptsResume Assignment (VMock) 100 ptsOWL Writing Assignments 200 pts total (4 core, 4 supplemental)Challenge Cases (both Connect-based) and Blackboard-based (via Bb Module links.)

10 @25 pts each = 250 pts

LearnSmart Lessons 50 points totalConnect Quizzes 100 points totalExercises 3 @ 10 points each (Modules 3, 4, 6)Total Possible Points (w/o Extra Credit) 830 possible points

Course Grade DeterminationBased on Max 830 Assignment Points plus Extra-Credit Points

(No Rounding)

7

Course Letter Grade Grade Points Course Points Between

A+ 4.00 802.02 – 830+A 4.00 774.39 – 802.01A- 3.67 746.66 – 774.38B+ 3.33 719.02 – 746.65B 3.00 691.39 – 719.01 B- 2.67 663.66 – 691.38C+ 2.33 636.02 – 663.65C 2.00 608.39 – 636.01C- 1.67 580.66 – 608.38D+ 1.33 553.02 – 580.65D 1.00 525.39 – 553.01D- 0.67 497.66 – 525.38F 0.00 0 – 497.65

COURSE SCHEDULE (The UTSA academic calendar can be found online)The table below shows a combined schedule with LearnSmart readings/activities, quizzes, exams, OWLs, VMock résumé assignment, etc.(Bb) - Blackboard-based assignments(Connect) – Connect-based assignments

Week Module/ Section

Title/Activities Points #

Questions

Time Limit

(Min.)

Date AvailableMonday

12:00 AM CT

Due DateSunday

11:59 PM CT

Week 1

Module 0: Online Writing Lab (OWL) (Bb)OWL English Mechanics QuizOWL Writing Composition QuizOWL Writing Style QuizOWL Critical Thinking QuizOWL Cover Letter QuizOWL Résumé Quiz OWL Email QuizOWL Presentation Quiz

200 [Avg.]

2020202010101010

101010105555

July 9 July 15

Week 2

Module 1: Employment Communications | Part 11.11.2

LearnSmart Chapter 16 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 16 (Connect)

510

–10

–5

July 16 July 221.3 Introduction: Résumé Project (Bb/VMock) – – – July 9 July 291.4 Thanking Your References (Optional) – – – – –

1.5 10 Phrases That Are Killing Your Résumé (Optional) – – – – –

1.6 Is a Two-Page Résumé Ever OK? (Optional) – – – – –

1.7 Job References: What Job Seekers Need to Know (Optional) – – – – –

1.8 The Right (and Wrong) Way to Ask Someone to Be a Reference (Optional) – – – – –

8

Week 2(Cont.)

Module 2: Establishing Credibility 2.1 2.22.3

LearnSmart Chapter 1 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 1 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)

51025

–107

–5

15July 16 July 22

Module 3: Active Listening, Team Communication, and Difficult Conversations3.13.23.33.4

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

2.5 ea.101025

–1016

–5

1015

July 16 July 22

Week 3

Module 4: Communicating across Cultures

4.14.24.34.4

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

5101025

–1055

–55

15

July 23 July 29

Module 5: Résumé Project

5.1 Résumé Project Video, Instructions, and Submission 100 – – July 9 July 29

Module 6: Creating Effective Business Messages6.16.26.36.4

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

2.5 ea.101025

–10106

–5

1015

July 23 July 29

Module 7: Email, Social Media, and Other Tools for Business Communication7.17.27.3

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

2.5 ea.1025

–106

–5

15July 23 July 29

7.4 – 7.9 (Recommended, but Optional) – – – – –

9

Module 8: Employment Communication | Part 2

8.1- 8.4 Required Assignments – – – July 23 July 29Week 3(Cont.)

8.5 Challenge Case (Bb) – Click title at Module 8 to access Challenge Cases 8.2 (Part I) & 8.2 (Part II)

25 – 30 July 23 July 29

8.6 – 8.11 (Recommended, but Optional) – – – – –

10

Week Module/ Section

Title/Activities Points #

Questions

Time Limit

(Min.)

Date AvailableMonday

12:00 AM CT

Due DateSunday

11:59 PM CT

Week 4&

Week 5

Module 9: Routine Business Messages9.19.29.3

LearnSmart Chapter 9 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 9 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)

51025

–108

–5

15July 30 Aug. 5

Module 10: Persuasive Messages10.110.210.3

LearnSmart Chapter 10 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 10 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)

51025

–107

–5

15July 30 Aug. 5

Module 11: Bad-News Messages11.111.211.3

LearnSmart Chapter 11 (Connect)Quiz Chapter 11 (Connect)Challenge Case (Connect)

51025

–107

–5

15July 30 Aug. 5

Module 12: Planning & Delivering Oral Presentations12.112.212.3

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

2.5 ea.1025

–107

–5

15July 30 Aug. 5

Extra-Credit (EC) Opportunities

EC-OWL Citation Quiz (via Blackboard OWL link) 5 10 5 July 30 Aug. 5EC-OWL Report Quiz (via Blackboard OWL link) 5 10 5 July 30 Aug. 5EC-Group Mock Interview (on Campus HSU 2.212) 10 – 90 N/A Aug 2Final Exam (Bb)

Final Exam (Bb) 100 50 50 Aug. 10 Aug. 12

11

GRADED ACTIVITIES

Except for the VMock 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.

o 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.

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

Online Writing Lab (OWL) Modules & Quizzes: You will complete OWL assignments online (see above Course Schedule) as linked at “OWL: Online Writing Lab” in the navigation menu of the course Blackboard page. Thoroughly read and comprehend the following links at that location: “OWL Presentation” (PowerPoint) outlining the nature and formatting of the OWL, “Why do the OWL” explaining its purpose, “Personal Goals” listing the benefits of completing the OWL, “OWL Quizzes” summarizing the nature and mechanics of the OWL quizzes, and the “Tutorial for Quizzes” explaining the quiz-taking process.

o 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: 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.

o 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

VMock 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. 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.

o Step One: Soon after the in-class briefing on the VMock process, 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. (NOTE: Do not use the public VMock site on the Web! The following is the proper CSPD VMock Link: https://www.vmock.com/utsacspd.)

o 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 three categories: (1) Presentation, (2) Impact, and (3)

12

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.

o 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. (NOTE: The last update you make will be the VMock résumé used for your grade.)

o Recommendation: Once your résumé is graded, you may upload your résumé to Handshake for review by potential employers. Handshake is the place where students, career centers, and recruiters come to meet, talk, and share opportunities.

“Connect LearnSmart” (LS) Lessons: These assist you in preparing for course quizzes, the midterm exam, and the final exam. There are 14 lessons—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.

Final Exam: The final has a time limit of 50 minutes and consists of 50 multiple-choice questions from the text chapters assigned, each question worth 2 points, for a total of 100 possible points.

Other Graded Activities: Please see instructions for the above and other graded activities, e.g., Challenge Cases, Module Tests, etc., at the various modules at the Blackboard site.

COURSE GRADING & SUBMISSION POLICIES Assignment Grading Protocols: Your semester grade is based on a combination of a final exam, résumé

assignment, module tests, challenge cases, checks for understanding, and other activities/exercises. (NOTE: Firefox and Chrome are the recommended browsers for using Blackboard at UTSA. The structure of the online grading process generally includes:

o 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 Week, whichever comes first.

o Blackboard quizzes and exams are timed. Once a graded assignment is opened, you must complete the assignment within the published time limit, at which time the assignment will be automatically graded.

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

o If technical issues occur while taking the quiz/exam: Close the browser (all tabs & windows); the timer will continue until the published time limit. Reopen the browser and log back in to resume the quiz/test for the balance of the time limit, if any. If you still have issues:

Clear the browser cache [see this link] (NOTE: Be sure to clear the cache for “All Time” or “Everything,” not the “past hour.”)

Close the browser completely (all tabs & windows). Log back in and resume the quiz/exam if any time remains.

As you can tell, this process takes precious time, which is why you should weekly (at a minimum) clear/reboot your computer, browser cache, associated cable boxes, and routers.

13

14

o There are no assignment “do-overs” unless there were Blackboard/Connect systemic outages. Accessing Quiz/Exam Feedback: Once the assignment due date has passed, feedback is available as

follows.o Click on GRADES in the course navigation menu.o Locate the item you wish to view.o Click on the linked score; If the score is not linked, feedback is not available yet.

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 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 (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 appropriate 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.

15

EXTRA-CREDIT (EC) OPPORTUNITIESYou 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 attend an extra-credit event, and for non-emergency reasons:(1) You withdraw your volunteer status without formally cancelling, 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 will be penalized the number of extra-credit points that the event is worth.

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

OWL Report Module Quiz (“EC-Report”) (1) 5 July 30 — Aug. 5OWL Citation Module Quiz (“EC-Citation”) (1) 5 July 30 — Aug. 5Group mock interview (2) (“EC-Group Mock Intv.”) ** 10 Thur., Aug. 2, 10am – 11:30am

Harris Rm (HSU 2.212)* See explanatory footnotes below** Limited number of slots available (42 students)

(1) Access the extra-credit OWL quizzes at the Blackboard Online Writing Lab link.

(2) Group Mock Interview: 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. To successfully earn this extra credit, you must (1) be on time for the mock interview, (2) be dressed in business professional attire (examples of business attire), (3) bring a completed résumé, and (4) be prepared to respond to typical interview questions (examples of such questions). 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, including whether or not you were dressed business-professional.

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.

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 the chairperson of the Department of Management 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). 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.

16

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.”

17