Learning Goals

We have four primary learning goals, as per the Mason Core requirements.

1. Students will be able to use technology to locate, access, evaluate, and use information, and appropriately cite resources from digital/electronic media.
2. Students will understand the core IT concepts in a range of current and emerging technologies and learn to apply appropriate technologies to a range of tasks.
3. Students will understand many of the key ethical, legal and social issues related to information technology and how to interpret and comply with ethical principles, laws, regulations, and institutional policies.
4. Students will understand the essential issues related to information security, how to take precautions and use techniques and tools to defend against computer crimes.

Phones and Computers

It is impossible to complete a class like this without use of technology. Your computer will be used for class, and I expect that you will be using it for class work only. If you use your computer or phone for purposes outside the class, you will lose your participation grade for the day.

Attendance

It should go without saying, but you have to come to class if you want to do well. In order to understand the technologies and discussions we will be covering, you have to be in the class. I will need documentation for any absences.

Late Work

All assignments must be turned in at the date and time they are due. Late assignments will drop a letter grade. (A to a B)

If you do have a documented emergency and cannot turn in your assignment, please contact me. I can try and accommodate you.

Grades

I will not change final grades. If you have an issue with your grade, please speak to me before the final. After grades are submitted, there is no changing that grade.

Office Hours

My office is Robinson Hall B 226C, and I will be in the office from 3:30-4:25 the day of class or by appointment. If you need to contact me, the best way to reach me is email. That’s amcdivit@gmu.edu

Honor Code

Don’t plagiarize. The George Mason Honor Code states that students pledge to not cheat, steal, or lie in your academic work. All violations will be turned into the Honor Committee for review.

Disabilities

Any student who requires special arrangements in order to meet course requirements should contact me to make necessary accommodations (as soon as possible, please). Students must present appropriate verification from the Office of Disability Services (SUB I, Room 4205; 703-993-2474). All academic accommodations must be arranged through that office.

Acknowledgments

This course has been taught by many professors at George Mason before me, and I owe a lot to Erin Bush and Lincoln Mullen.