• BE PREPARED.

  Intelligent participation requires that you have read and thought about the assignment.
  

• BACK UP STATEMENTS WITH EVIDENCE.

  Evidence can consist of facts or statistics from the literature and/or specific observations or experiences.
  

• CONTRIBUTE.

  Your perspective is unique. It is your responsibility to give the class the benefit of your point of view, even if you believe that others may disagree. Practice demonstrating the courage of your convictions.
  
  If you feel uncomfortable expressing your point of view in class, please discuss this with me outside of class. We may be able to discover something in the atmosphere of the class that is making free speech difficult.
  

• SHOW RESPECT.

  It is absolutely necessary for us to treat one another with respect. This includes those whose opinions we agree with, and those with whom we do not agree. Each person's point of view should be heard, and disagreements should be openly voiced. However, this should be done WITHOUT attacking or belittling individuals. Listen with respect and an open mind before responding. Non- verbal as well as verbal ridicule will destroy the open atmosphere needed for free speech to take place. Only by allowing ourselves this space can we overcome our own biases and truly learn.
  
  If you notice that someone in the class is not being treated with respect, please bring this up in class or let me know at another time. Remember, we can learn more from those with whom we DO NOT agree than from those with whom we agree.
  

• TAKE YOUR TURN.

  After contributing to a discussion, wait until everyone else who wishes to contribute has had a turn before speaking again.

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Last updated: Monday, January 20, 1997: 9:28 pm
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