A study of the financial principles when managing financial affairs. Includes topics such as budgeting, retirement, property ownership, savings, and investment planning.  The purpose of this course is to provide students with informed choices related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing. Students will learn the foundation of long-term financial security.  Personal Finance is not just about textbook learning; it challenges students to use their critical/creative skills in all aspects of Business and Personal Finance, not just those covered in this course.

Note: This class uses various complex mathematical calculations throughout.  It is assumed that the student will understand algebra and general mathematical principles. 

Course instruction is online. Tests may also be taken online. Some tests may require proctoring. Students can access online proctoring on their own computer. Online courses eliminate geography as a factor.

• Personal Finance, 14th edition– Kapoor, Diabay, Hughes, McGraw Hill ISBN-13: 978-1264101597 ISBN-10: 1264101597.  Please do not substitute older editions or international versions as the content is different.
• Digital access to the McGraw-Hill Connect materials for this textbook.  ISBN : 9781266474170

• The text and materials for this course is part of the First Day Access (FDA) program at ACC.  These items are part of your tuition when you enroll in this course unless you opt out. It is NOT recommended that you Opt-Out, as these materials are required to complete the course. You can choose to Opt-Out on the first day of class, but you will be responsible for purchasing your course materials at the full retail price and access to your materials may be suspended. For more information and FAQs go to customercare.bncollege.com

  If you choose to Opt-Out please be advised that you are responsible for obtaining the material required for this course which has been customized to the specifications of this class.  During the course you will be required to complete multiple assignments using the Connect,  innovative online learning system that is integrated with the text and proven to help students achieve greater success.  Assignments completed in Connect will make up a significant portion of your total grade in this course, so you should arrange access immediately.  

Part 1 - Planning Your Personal Finances 
Identify the concepts associated with the time value of money
How to identify the differences among various savings and investment programs
Describe retirement and estate planning techniques 

Part 2 - Managing Your Personal Finances
Identify the differences among various classes of securities
Explain owning versus renting real property
Describe consumer protection legislation

Part 3 - Making Your Purchasing Decisions 
Explain owning versus renting real property In this section you will learn to:
Describe consumer protection legislation

Part 4 - Insuring Your Resources
Identify the options for insurance

Part 5 - Investing Your Financial Resources
Identify the concepts associated with Time Value of Money 
Identify the differences among various savings and investment programs
Describe retirement and estate planning techniques
Identify the differences among various classes of securities

Part 6 - Controlling Your Financial Future
Describe retirement and estate planning techniques
 

• Calculate time value of money to analyze personal financial decisions
• Analyze the process for making personal financial decisions
• Assess personal and economic factors that influence personal financial planning
• Describe activities associated with career planning and advancement
• Assess financial and legal concerns related to obtaining employment
• Relate money management and savings activities to achieving financial goals
• Create and implement a budget
• Relate money management and savings activities to achieving financial goals
• Describe the importance of taxes for personal financial planning
• Calculate taxable income and amount owed for  federal income tax
• Select appropriate tax strategies for various financial and personal situations
• Assess the costs and benefits of various savings plans
• Identify the factors used to evaluate different savings plans.
• Differentiate among various types of credit
• Assess your credit 
• Capacity and build your credit
• Describe the laws that protect you if you have a complaint about consumer credit
• Sources of Consumer Credit
• Determine the cost of credit
• Determine steps to take to resolve consumer problems
• Implement a process for making a consumer purchase
• Identify strategies for effective consumer buying
• Analyze the costs and benefits associated with renting.
• Analyze the costs associated with purchasing a home.
• Discuss the importance of property and liability insurance
• Explain the insurance coverage and policy types available to homeowners and renters
• Analyze factors that influence the amount of coverage and the cost of home insurance
• Identify the important automobile insurance coverage.
• Evaluate factors that affect the cost of automobile insurance
• Define health insurance and disability income insurance
• Analyze the benefits and limitations of the various types of health care coverage.
• Evaluate Private sources of health insurance and health care
• Recognize the need for disability income insurance
• Define life insurance and describe its purpose and principle
• Determine your life insurance needs
• Create a plan to buy life insurance
• Evaluate the payout options for the life insurance
• Describe why you should establish an investment program
• Assess how safety, risk, income, growth, and liquidity affect your investment decisions
• Explain how asset allocation and different investment alternatives affect your investment plan
• Recognize the importance of your role in a personal investment program
• Identify the most important features of common and preferred stock
• Analyze the numerical measures that cause a stock to increase or decrease
• Describe how stocks are bought and sold
• Explain trading techniques and short term speculators
• Describe the characteristics of a corporate bond
• Explain why investors purchase corporate bonds
• Discuss why federal, state and local governments issue bonds and why investors purchase government bonds
• Describe how to evaluate bonds when making an investment decision
• Describe the characteristics of mutual fund investments
• Classify mutual funds by investment objective
• Explain how to evaluate mutual funds for investment purposes.
• Describe how and why mutual funds are bought and sold
• Identify types of real estate investments
• Evaluate the advantages of real estate investments
• Assess the disadvantages of real estate investments
• Recognize the importance of retirement planning 
• Recognize your current assets and liabilities for retirement
• Estimate your retirement spending needs
• Develop a balanced budget based on your retirement
• Analyze the personal aspects of estate planning
• Appraise various types of trusts and estates
• Evaluate the effects of federal and state taxes on estate planning

SYLLABUS

SECTION SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Financial Literacy

BUSG-1304-001-54753

Spring, 2023, 16-Week Online Course

January 17, 2023 – May 14, 2023

Online accessible through Blackboard

Mandatory Online Orientation of Syllabus Quiz and Discussion Board “Self-Introduction” in Blackboard due January 20, 2023

This class is online only and will not have scheduled class sessions. Students will need a computer, laptop, or tablet, reliable internet access, and a microphone and camera. This class requires students to take online proctored exams. 

INSTRUCTOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION

• Job Hammond: Adjunct Professor of Finance and Real Estate
• Cypress Creek Campus, Rm. 2126
• 1555 Cypress Creek Road
• Cedar Park, Texas 78613
• Phone: (512) 223-1790 x22421 (M-F 9:00 to 6:00 PM – calls returned within 24-48 hours.)
• Office Hours: By Appointment either in person, phone call, or Zoom meeting.
• Email:  job.hammond@austincc.edu  - replies within 24 hrs. (This is the instructor’s preferred communication method)
• Departmental Web Site: https://sites.austincc.edu/rele/
• Departmental Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RELEatACC 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

• Credit Hours: 3
• Classroom Contact Hours per week: 3

 A study of the financial principles when managing financial affairs. Includes topics such as budgeting, retirement, property ownership, savings, and investment planning. Skills: R (Course Type W.)

COURSE RATIONALE

The purpose of this course is to provide students with informed choices related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing. Students will learn the foundation of long-term financial security.  Personal Finance is not just about textbook learning; it challenges students to use their critical/creative skills in all aspects of Business and Personal Finance, not just those covered in this course.

Note: This class uses various complex mathematical calculations throughout.  It is assumed that the student will understand algebra and general mathematical principles.  Support is available through ACC Learning Labs.

PREREQUISITES

None

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES & GENERAL EDUCATION COMPETENCIES

Common Course Learning Objectives/Outcomes

1.   Identify the concepts associated with Time Value of Money

2.   Identify the differences among various savings and investment programs

3.   Identify the differences among various classes of securities

4.   Identify the options for insurance

5.   Describe retirement and estate planning techniques

6.   Explain owning versus renting real property

7.   Describe consumer protection legislation

SCANS (Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills)

Course SCANS Competencies for BUSG 1304

Please go to http://irt.austincc.edu/ids/curriculum/scans.php for a complete definition and explanation of SCANS. This list summarizes the SCANS competencies addressed in this particular course.

Resources

1.2 Manages Money

Interpersonal

2.5 Negotiates to Arrive at a Decision

Information

3.1 Acquires and Evaluates Information

Technology

5.2 Applies Technology Task

Basic Skills

6.1 Reading

6.2 Writing

6.3 Arithmetic

6.4 Mathematics

6.5 Listening

Thinking Skills

7.1 Creative Thinking

7.2 Decision Making

7.3 Problem Solving

7.6 Reasoning

Personal Qualities

8.4 Self-Management

8.5 Integrity/Honesty

REQUIRED TEXTS/MATERIALS/SOFTWARE

Financial Calculator:  A financial calculator is required for this course.  The preferred calculator is the Texas Instruments BAII Plus.

Hardware/Software:

• A working webcam.  It can be an auxiliary webcam that you plug into your computer OR a built-in camera.
• Windows 10 for PC’s  or  Mac OS X for Mac’s. Please note: Microsoft 10 in “S” mode or Chromebooks will not allow proper access to the course or the exams.
• Download the Respondus LockDown Browser https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?id=999134577.
• Review the System requirements for the complete requirements. In addition to the brief informational video, a Student Quick Start Guide is also available.
• Microsoft Word or Google Documents

Textbook:

•  Personal Finance, 14th edition– Kapoor, Diabay, Hughes, McGraw Hill ISBN-13: 978-1264101597 ISBN-10: 1264101597.  Please do not substitute older editions or international versions as the content is different.
• Digital access to the McGraw-Hill Connect materials for this textbook.  ISBN : 9781266474170

The text and materials for this course is part of the First Day Access (FDA) program at ACC.  These items are part of your tuition when you enroll in this course unless you opt out. It is NOT recommended that you Opt-Out, as these materials are required to complete the course. You can choose to Opt-Out on the first day of class, but you will be responsible for purchasing your course materials at the full retail price and access to your materials may be suspended. For more information and FAQs go to customercare.bncollege.com

If you choose to Opt-Out please be advised that you are responsible for obtaining the material required for this course which has been customized to the specifications of this class.  During the course you will be required to complete multiple assignments using the Connect,  innovative online learning system that is integrated with the text and proven to help students achieve greater success.  Assignments completed in Connect will make up a significant portion of your total grade in this course, so you should arrange access immediately.  

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY

Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration. You must have access to the Internet and an email account. The primary framework for instruction is the Internet. The Interactive capabilities such as email and discussion boards, access to the library online, and office hours enhance and facilitate student-to-instructor communication 24/7.

You need to familiarize yourself with ACC's Blackboard page. This is the place you will go to watch the broadcasts, view Syllabus, grades, online discussion boards, announcements and assignments and other course requirements.   You will view web pages, send and receive email, take exams, download files, and upload files you have created using ACC’s Blackboard system. If you do not have an ACCeID you will need to activate it by going to the “First-time login” link at http://www.austincc.edu/acceid/step1.htm.  Go to http://acconline.austincc.edu/ for student entry into Blackboard.  You will need your student ID and password to log into Blackboard.  Blackboard access is available the first day of the semester.   We have a wonderful Blackboard staff always available to assist you with any problems or concerns.

We will communicate using Blackboard, e-mail and phone conversations.  You must be able to communicate with the instructor by email.  Because there is a significant amount of email traffic, please make sure that EVERY EMAIL you send me includes your first and last name and the term “BUSG-1304” on the subject line. You need an individual account, which is not shared with anyone else.  In EVERY email message you send me, the subject line must include BUSG-1304.  The instructor will only respond to messages from your ACC e-mail account.

Tests will be taken directly within Blackboard.  Quizzes will not require proctoring; however Exams will use Respondus LockDown Browser which will be best taken using devices running Windows 10 or Mac OS X or later. Additional information will be available in Blackboard.

As your instructor, I will monitor your progress and advise you as appropriate via email, telephone, or chat room discussions. You will be evaluated by means of tests, assignments, and projects.   Grades will be posted on Blackboard.

DISTANCE EDUCATION  

Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration. You must have access to the Internet and an email account. The primary framework for instruction is the Internet. The Interactive capabilities such as email and discussion boards, access to the library online, and office hours enhance and facilitate student-to-instructor communication 24/7.

You need to familiarize yourself with ACC's Blackboard page. This is the place you will go to watch the broadcasts, view Syllabus, grades, online discussion boards, announcements and assignments and other course requirements.   You will view web pages, send and receive email, take exams, download files, and upload files you have created using ACC’s Blackboard system. If you do not have an ACCeID you will need to activate it by going to the “First-time login” link at http://www.austincc.edu/acceid/step1.htm.  Go to http://acconline.austincc.edu/ for student entry into Blackboard.  You will need your student ID and password to log into Blackboard.  Blackboard access is available the first day of the semester.   We have a wonderful Blackboard staff always available to assist you with any problems or concerns.

We will communicate using Blackboard, e-mail and phone conversations.  You must be able to communicate with the instructor by email.  Because there is a significant amount of email traffic, please make sure that EVERY EMAIL you send me includes your first and last name and the term “BUSG-1304” on the subject line. You need an individual account, which is not shared with anyone else.  In EVERY email message you send me, the subject line must include BUSG-1304.  The instructor will only respond to messages from your ACC e-mail account.

Tests will be taken directly within Blackboard.  Quizzes will not require proctoring; however, Exams will use Respondus LockDown Browser which will be best taken using devices running Windows 10 or Mac OS X or later. Additional information will be available in Blackboard.

As your instructor, I will monitor your progress and advise you as appropriate via email, telephone, or chat room discussions. You will be evaluated by means of tests, assignments, and projects.   Grades will be posted on Blackboard.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Austin Community College provides free, secure drive-up WiFi to students and employees in the parking lots of all campus locations. WiFi can be accessed seven days a week, 7 am to 11 pm. Additional details are available at https://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Students who do not have the necessary technology to complete their ACC courses can request to borrow devices from Student Technology Services. Available devices include iPads, webcams, headsets, calculators, etc. Students must be registered for a credit course, Adult Education, or Continuing Education course to be eligible. For more information, including how to request a device, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Student Technology Services offers phone, live-chat, and email-based technical support for students and can provide support on topics such as password resets, accessing or using Blackboard, access to technology, etc. To view hours of operation and ways to request support, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

GRADING SYSTEM

This course is divided into 6 Parts.  Each Part will cover a specific set of chapters, at the end of each chapter there will be a SmartBook Chapter Homework Assignment that you will access using the McGraw Hill Connect software.  Additionally, each Part will contain a Discussion Board Topic that students will need to post to. There are 3 Case Assignments which will be accessed through the McGraw Hill Connect software. There are a total of 3 exams in the course.

• Welcome Quiz, 10 points
• Discussion Board Orientation, 5 points
• Chapter Assignments (1-19), 10 points each; 190 total possible
• Case Study Assignments (3), 45 points each; 135 total points possible
• Discussion Board Topic Participation (6), 10 points each; 60 points possible
• EXAM ONE, 200 points (Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
• EXAM TWO, 200 points (Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
• EXAM THREE, 200 points (Chapters 13,14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
• *Extra Credit* assignments (3), 50 points each; 150 points possible

Exams = 600 points, Welcome Quiz = 10 points, Chapter Assignments = 190 points,

Case Study Assignments = 135, Discussion Board Participation = 65 points

COURSE POLICIES

Incomplete Policy:  An incomplete (I) will be granted to a student in rare circumstances.  Generally, to receive a grade of I, a student must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent course completion that occur after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Attendance Policy:  All students are expected to attend classes.  Non-attendance will have an impact on the student’s grade.

Attendance/Class Participation

Regular and timely participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. The instructor may provide advance notice of class cancelation due to weather, pandemic, or other emergencies.  The student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor.

Withdrawal Policy

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is Monday,  April 24, 2023.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

Missed Exam and Late Work Policies

Recognizing that a large part of professional life is meeting deadlines, it is necessary to develop time management and organizational skills. Failure to meet the course deadlines may result in penalties. Keep in mind that all deadlines are set using Central Standard Time (CST). Late assignments will NOT be accepted.

Incomplete Policy

An incomplete (I) will only be granted to a student in rare circumstances.

Generally, to receive a grade of I, a student must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent course completion that occur after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W. A grade of I also requires approval by the Department Chair and completion and submission of the Incomplete Grade form signed by the faculty member (and student if possible.)

If a grade of I is given, the remaining course work must be completed by a date set by the student and professor. This date may not be later than the last day to withdraw from a course in the next semester, which is around three or four weeks from the end of that semester.

As soon as possible after the “personal circumstances that prevent course completion” occur, the student shall contact the instructor in writing explaining the situation.  The instructor or the student may request a meeting (which may be done virtually or in person) if desired in order to clarify the situation and the proposed plan to complete the course. All of this MUST be completed before the official end of classes for the semester. 

1. The instructor will report to the department chair the circumstances and the proposed plan to complete the work. This must be done no more than one day after the official end of the semester.   After discussion as needed, the Department Chair will inform the faculty member by email whether it is approved or not. The faculty member is responsible for retaining this email message.  
2. After receiving approval from the department chair, the faculty member will submit the grade of I at the time needed to ensure that class grades are submitted on time.  
3. The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.
4. The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  
5. Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  
6. When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline must be approved at several levels, including the Department Chair and others.  This is seldom granted.

COURSE OUTLINE/CALENDAR

This class schedule is strongly suggested as this class moves very quickly so adherence to this schedule is very important for your success. Please note that schedule changes may occur during the semester.  Any changes will be announced in class and posted as a Blackboard Announcement

COLLEGE POLICIES

Health & Safety Protocols

Operational areas of ACC campuses and centers are fully open and accessible through all public entrances.  The college encourages its staff, faculty, and students to be mindful of the well-being of all individuals on campus.  If you feel sick, feverish, or unwell, please do not come to campus.

Some important things to remember:

• If you have not done so, ACC encourages all students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available throughout the community. Visit www.vaccines.gov/ to find a vaccine location near you.

• Campuses are open to faculty, staff, and students.  The college and its departments and offices may invite internal and external guests to their events and activities, though access is still restricted for external parties seeking to host activities at ACC.  The college’s Appian Health Screening App remains available to everyone who visits campus. This continues to be a good way to check your own health before coming to class or work. 
• If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms, please get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible before returning to an ACC facility.  Testing is now widely available.  To find testing locations near you, click this link.

• If you test positive, please report it on the ACC self-reporting tool located here.

• ACC continues to welcome face masks on campus.  Per CDC guidelines, face masks remain a good way to protect yourself from COVID-19. 
   
• The college asks that we all continue to respect the personal space of others. We are encouraging 3 feet of social distancing.
   
• Please be sure to carry your student, faculty, or staff ID badge at all times while on campus.
   

Because of the everchanging situation, please go to ACC’s Covid website at https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus?ref=audiencemenu for the latest updates and guidance.

Statement on Academic Integrity

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations.  Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state, and federal laws. www.austincc.edu/srr

As a student of Austin Community College you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct 

Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements 

Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-clinical counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them.

If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus:  (512) 223-2616, or to schedule online:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling . 

While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options:  Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964;  compliance@austincc.edu .

If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up.

Student Complaints

A defined process applies to complaints about an instructor or other college employee. You are encouraged to discuss concerns and complaints with college personnel and should expect a timely and appropriate response. When possible, students should first address their concerns through informal conferences with those immediately involved; formal due process is available when informal resolution cannot be achieved.

Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction, college services and offices on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

Further information about the complaints process, including the form used to submit complaints, is available at: http://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-complaint-procedures

Statement on Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects confidentiality of students’ educational records. Grades cannot be provided by faculty over the phone, by e-mail, or to a fellow student. Grades may be reviewed within Blackboard.

Recording Policy

To ensure compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), student recording of class lectures or other activities is generally prohibited without the explicit written permission of the instructor and notification of other students enrolled in the class section.  Exceptions are made for approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Recording of lectures and other class activities may be made by faculty to facilitate instruction, especially for classes taught remotely through Blackboard Collaborate or another platform.  Participation in such activities implies consent for the student to be recorded during the instructional activity.  Such recordings are intended for educational and academic purposes only.

Safety Statement

Health and safety are of paramount importance in classrooms, laboratories, and field activities. Students are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies.  Emergency Procedures posters and Campus Safety Plans are posted in each classroom and should be reviewed at the beginning of each semester.  All incidents (injuries/illness/fire/property damage/near miss) should be immediately reported to the course instructor. Additional information about safety procedures and how to sign up to be notified in case of an emergency can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/emergency

Everyone is expected to conduct themselves professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual may be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity and will be referred to the Dean of Student Services for disciplinary action.

In the event of disruption of normal classroom activities due to an emergency situation or an outbreak of illness, the format for this course may be modified to enable completion of the course. In that event, students will be provided an addendum to the class syllabus that will supersede the original version.

Campus Carry

The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy. 

It is the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns at all times.  Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 512-223-1231.   Please refer to the concealed handgun policy online at http://austincc.edu/campuscarry

Discrimination Prohibited

The College seeks to maintain an educational environment free from any form of discrimination or harassment including but not limited to discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

Faculty at the College are required to report concerns regarding sexual misconduct (including all forms of sexual harassment and sex and gender-based discrimination) to the Manager of Title IX/Title VI/ADA Compliance.  Licensed clinical counselors are available across the District and serve as confidential resources for students.

Additional information about Title VI, Title IX, and ADA compliance can be found in the ACC Compliance Resource Guide available at:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xfmZHOPD_H1wgGKq1N7Irv6gvXxOXzbZ/view

Use of ACC email

All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify students of any college- related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account.  Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff.  Information about ACC email accounts, including instructions for accessing it, are available at:  http://www.austincc.edu/help/accmail/questions-and-answers

Use of the Testing Center

The Testing Centers will allow only limited in person testing and testing time will be limited to the standard class time, typically one and one-half hours.  Specifically, only the following will be allowed in the Testing Centers:

• Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Testing: All approved SAS testing
• Assessments Tests: Institutionally approved assessment tests (e.g., TSIA or TABE)
• Placement Tests: Placement tests (e.g., ALEKS)
• Make-Up Exams (for students who missed the original test): Make-up testing is available for all lecture courses but will be limited to no more than 25% of students enrolled in each section for each of four tests

• Programs incorporating industry certification exams: Such programs (e.g., Microsoft, Adobe, etc.) may utilize the ACC Business Assessment Center for the industry certification exams (BACT) at HLC or RRC

All course exams will be completed through Blackboard.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The success of our students is paramount, and ACC offers a variety of support services to help, as well as providing numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.

Student Support

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services.  Information on these campus services and resources is available at  http://www.austincc.edu/students.  A comprehensive array of student support services is available online at:

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/remote-student-support 

Student Accessibility Services

Austin Community College (ACC) is committed to providing a supportive, accessible, and inclusive learning environment for all students.  Each campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Students are encouraged to request accommodations when they register for courses or at least three weeks before the start of each semester they are enrolled, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed.  Students who have received approval for accommodations from SAS for this course must provide the instructor with the legal document titled “Notice of Approved Accommodations (NAA)” from SAS.

Until the instructor receives the NAA from the student accommodations should not be provided.  Once the NAA is received, accommodations must be provided.  Accommodations are not retroactive, so it is in the student’s best interest to deliver the NAA on the first day of class.  

Please contact SAS@austincc.edu for more information.

Academic Support

ACC offers academic support services on all of its campuses. These services, which include online tutoring, academic coaching, and supplemental instruction, are free to enrolled ACC students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects ranging from accounting to pharmacology. Students may receive these services on both a drop-in and referral basis. 

An online tutor request can be made here:

https://de.austincc.edu/bbsupport/online-tutoring-request/

Additional tutoring information can be found here:

austincc.edu/onlinetutoring

Library Services

ACC Library Services offers both in-person and extensive online services, with research and assignment assistance available in-person during limited hours of service. Although all college services are subject to change, plans include ACC students signing up for study space and use of computers at open libraries, extensive online instruction in classes, online reference assistance 24/7 and reference with ACC faculty librarians. In addition, currently enrolled students, faculty and staff can access Library Services online (also 24/7) via the ACC Library website and by using their ACCeID to access all online materials (ebooks, articles from library databases, and streaming videos). ACC Libraries offer these services in numerous ways such as: "Get Help from a Faculty Librarian: the 24/7 Ask a Librarian chat service," an online form for in-depth research Q and A sessions, one-on-one video appointments, email, and phone (voicemail is monitored regularly).

• Library Website: http://library.austincc.edu
• Library Information & Services during COVID-19: https://researchguides.austincc.edu/LSinfoCOVID19
• Ask a Librarian 24/7 chat and form: https://library.austincc.edu/help/ask.php
• Library Hours of Operation by Location: https://library.austincc.edu/loc/
• Email: library@austincc.edu

Student Organizations

ACC has over seventy student organizations, offering a variety of cultural, academic, vocational, and social opportunities.  They provide a chance to meet with other students who have the same interests, engage in service-learning, participate in intramural sports, gain valuable field experience related to career goals, and much else.  Student Life coordinates many of these activities, and additional information is available at http://sites.austincc.edu/sl/.

Personal Support

Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others:

• Food resources including community pantries and bank drives can be found here:

https://www.centraltexasfoodbank.org/food-assistance/get-food-now

• Assistance with childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center: http://www.austincc.edu/students/support-center.
• The Student Emergency Fund can help with unexpected expenses that may cause you to withdraw from one or more classes: http://www.austincc.edu/SEF.
• Help with budgeting for college and family life is available through the Student Money Management Office: http://sites.austincc.edu/money/.  
• A full listing of services for student parents is available at: https://www.austincc.edu/students/child-care

• The CARES Act Student Aid will help eligible students pay expenses related to COVID-19: 

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/cares-act-student-aid.   

Mental health counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns: http://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling .

If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help.  However, if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.

Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:

• Austin / Travis County 24-hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
• The Williamson County 24-hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
• Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
• Hays County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:   1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:1-800-950-NAMI (6264)