Adjunct Faculty Manual

Adjunct Faculty Manual
Prepared by the Adjunct Faculty Development and Support Task Force
Updated August 2014. The most up-to-date version of the manual can be found by visiting
the Benedictine Springfield homepage >>> Academics >>> Adjunct Faculty Handbook.
Direct link: http://www.ben.edu/springfield/academics/upload/Adjunct-Faculty-Handbook.pdf
Benedictine University Adjunct Faculty Member,
This Adjunct Faculty Manual provides general information and answers basic
questions to support the work of faculty at Benedictine University. Please use this
document as a reference for procedures and policies at the university.
As a faculty member, you play a most important role in the education of
Benedictine students. Your expertise complements the strengths of the university.
Your wide variety of talent provides an excellent education for our Benedictine
students.
We trust that this document will be a useful resource for you.
Welcome to Benedictine University at Springfield.
The Adjunct Faculty Development and Support Task Force
Sylvia Fromherz, Assistant Professor, Natural Sciences
Brian Hickam, Assistant Director of the Library
Frank Houston, Assistant Dean, Instructional Technologies
Jan Kirby, Associate Dean, Graduate and Adult Programs
Amy Lakin, Task Force Chair, Associate Professor of English
Barbara McDonald, Adjunct Faculty Member, Business
Deanna Tebrugge, Assistant Professor of Mathematics
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Benedictine University Adjunct Faculty Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Profile of Benedictine University at Springfield
3
2. Campus Buildings and Map
5
3. Phone Directory
7
4. Faculty Expectations and Responsibilities
8
5. Faculty Resources/Where to Go for Help
11
6. MyBenU and Desire2Learn
22
7. Student Life
26
8. Student Conduct Expectations
32
9. Student Services
34
10. Academic Information
39
11. Grading and Evaluating Students
46
12. Syllabi
54
13. Library Services
55
14. Safety and Security, Emergency Guide
58
15. Building Evacuation Procedures
64
16. Utility Emergency
66
17. Weather Emergency and Inclement Weather
67
18. Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Policies
69
19. Campus Security and Crime Reporting
70
20. Academic Honesty Policy
72
21. Confidentiality of Student Records
75
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1. PROFILE OF BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY AT SPRINGFIELD
Benedictine University at Springfield provides lower division and upper division
educational opportunities, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and is
a member of the North Central Association [www.ncahlc.org; (312) 263-0456]. The
institutions hold membership in the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and
Universities, have full recognition from the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and
are certified by the State Approving Agency for Veterans’ Education.
The information and provisions in this manual are not to be considered final, nor do
they constitute a contract between the student and the College nor the adjunct or
the college. The College reserves the right to change any procedures, provisions, or
requirements contained herein at any time and as the institution deems necessary.
Benedictine University is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity institution in
programs, activities, services, and employment regardless of race, color, religion,
sex, age, sexual orientation, marital status, national or ethnic origin, disability, or
veteran status.
History of the Springfield Campus
Mother Barbara Klaholt and a small group of Ursuline nuns with the support of
Bishop James A. Griffin opened Springfield Junior College during the worst
depression in U.S. history. The College was the first coeducational junior college
sponsored by a Catholic Order in the United States.
Springfield Junior College was incorporated under an Act of the Legislature of the
State of Illinois on March 7, 1929, with full power to confer degrees. On Monday,
September 8, 1929, thirty-two full time students registered for classes on opening
day. More than 100 students enrolled part-time for evening classes, paying tuition
of $150 a year. Upon incorporation, the College immediately borrowed money to
build a new administrative building. Dedication ceremonies for the Main Building
were held on September 7, 1930.
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At the September 1967 meeting of the Lay Advisory Board, the word “Junior” was
officially dropped from the College’s name. The Board adopted Springfield College in
Illinois as the official name. In the 1960s, the campus expanded to add the Ira
Weaver Science Building and Charles E. Becker Library. To answer the housing
needs of our students, the Village and Dockson Plaza were also built.
History was made again in January 2003 with the announcement of a permanent
partnership between Springfield College and Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois
to bring bachelor and master degree programs to the campus. As the year 2011
rolled into being so did the full recognition and transition to Benedictine University
at Springfield.
Mission
Benedictine University at Springfield dedicates itself to the education of
undergraduate and graduate students from diverse ethnic, racial and religious
backgrounds. As an academic community committed to liberal arts and professional
education - distinguished and guided by its Roman Catholic tradition and
Benedictine heritage - the University prepares its students for a lifetime as active,
informed and responsible citizens and leaders in the world community.
The University's mission reflects devotion to assisting students in becoming
responsible persons who will make positive contributions to society. The
Benedictine community provides instruction, counsel and life experiences that help
students to acquire enduring knowledge and cultivate skills to:
•
Communicate effectively, across cultural boundaries
•
Reason and make informed judgments
•
Identify and solve problems independently and cooperatively
•
Develop a sense of intellectual curiosity and a desire for lifelong learning
•
Understand the content, methodology and interrelationships of specific areas
of study
•
Pursue and communicate the truth
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•
Confront and resolve ethical issues and contribute to the work of social
justice
•
Benefit from diversity of opinions and cultures
•
Value the interdependence of cultures and nations
•
Exhibit stewardship toward self and environment
•
Strive for a life lived in balance
•
Foster appreciation and individual development of creative expression
2. CAMPUS BUILDINGS AND MAP
Angela Hall – Campus Police, Gym, Classrooms, Science Labs, “The Pit” Fitness
Center
Beata Hall – Administrative and Faculty Offices, Campus Ministry, Chapel,
Conference Room
Charles E. Becker Library – Library, Resource Center, Faculty Offices, Presidents’
Room Auditorium
Brinkerhoff Home – Administrative Offices and Conference Room
Dawson Hall – Classrooms, Business Offices, Mail Room, Faculty Offices, and The
Dog House (campus store and coffee shop).
Hanlon and Mueth Hall – Residence Halls
Hayley Hill and Ridgley Place – Student Apartments
Ira A. Weaver Science Building – Science Labs, Classrooms, Faculty Offices
Mueller Hall – Residence Hall and Main Dining Room (cafeteria)
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N
<W
E>
S
Mueller Hall
Becker Library
Brinkerhoff Home
Dawson Hall
Weaver Hall
Angela Hall
Beata Hall
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3. PHONE DIRECTORY
Main Line: 217-718-5000
Administrative Offices and Support Staff
Ron Boris, Chief of Campus Police, rboris@ben.edu, 217-717-9251
Sonja Bowers, Coordinator of Special Services, sbowers@ben.edu, 217-717-9253
Pamm Collebrusco, Public Services Librarian, pcollebrusco@ben.edu, 217-718-3475
Brian Hickam, Assistant Director, Library, bhickam@ben.edu, 217-717-3532
Josh Hoff, Web/IT Specialist, jhoff@ben.edu, 17-717-3533
Frank Houston, Associate Dean, Instructional Technologies, ghouston@ben.edu,
217-717-3534
Carl Kielar, Support/Network Technician, ckielar@ben.edu, 217-717-3538
Mary Jo Rappe, Executive Assistant to the Dean of Academic Affairs,
mjrappe@ben.edu, 217-718-5260
Vicki Reese, Personnel Resources Coordinator, vreese@ben.edu, 217-718-5262
Joanna Beth Tweedy, Dean of Academic Affairs, jbtweedy@ben.edu, 217-718-5292
CAMPUS POLICE
Non-Emergencies: 217-306-8031
Call 911 for all life-threatening emergencies
Office located in Angela Hall
To access a full directory, go to ben.edu/springfield >> Faculty and Staff >>
Faculty and Staff Directory
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4. FACULTY EXPECTATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
•
Provide resume, official transcripts, current telephone number, home address
and email address to the Academic Affairs office and your Division
Chair/Program Director.
•
Adhere to syllabus template to ensure consistency of practice.
•
Work with your Division Chair/Program Director to ensure that the appropriate
textbooks are ordered, when applicable.
•
Electronically submit syllabus to the Division Chair/Program Director by the due
date, and make syllabus available for students at the first class session.
•
Commit to attend all class sessions according to the University schedule and
fulfill entire class time specified.
•
Begin and end each class on time. It is not appropriate to continually let your
classes out early. Also, another class may be scheduled in your room, so do not
go over your class time.
•
Meet in the classroom that you are assigned. Do not change classrooms
without the approval of the Executive Assistant to the Dean of Academic
Affairs (217-718-5260).
•
Take attendance at each class and keep attendance records.
•
Make reasonable accommodations outside of class to meet or talk with students,
to answer questions and to respond promptly to email.
•
Provide a careful review, evaluation and timely feedback of student work.
•
Ensure the classroom is left in orderly condition.
•
Regularly check your Benedictine University email account (ben.edu email
account).
•
Use the Early Warning System (EWS) about at-risk academic student
performance and excessive absences, as described in syllabus.
(http://ben.edu/springfield/ews.cfm)
•
Comply with Benedictine University’s Academic Honesty Policy.
•
Obtain approval from the Division Chair/Program Director for any guest
speakers.
•
Submit course evaluations as set forth by the Academic Affairs office.
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•
Submit final grades via MyBenU by the deadline set by the Registrar’s office (see
section 18).
•
In keeping with the Benedictine hallmarks and values, our faculty members
actively engage in the growth of the entire campus community: students, staff,
fellow faculty, and guests. An integral part of our community relationship
is civility* at every level. All faculty members are expected to model civil
interaction with others.
•
Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct at all times.
•
Do not charge fees or collect funds.
•
Disclose conflicts of interest.
•
Participate in professional development opportunities, as scheduled.
*P.M. Forni, cofounder of the John Hopkins Civility Project, believes that “Courtesy,
politeness, manners, and civility are all, in essence, forms of awareness. Being civil
means being constantly aware of others and weaving restraint, respect, and
consideration into the very fabric of this awareness” (9).
Forni, P. M. Choosing Civility: The Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct. New
York: St. Martin’s, 2002. Print.
End of the Semester
The following must be turned in at the end of the semester to the Administrative
Assistant for the Dean of Academic Affairs in order to tie up all the loose ends and
so we can have the requisite information on file to handle grade appeals (should
they occur) in a timely fashion. Grades must be submitted electronically or via the
printed grade roster by the appropriate date.
•
Building keys (office, classroom and lab keys) if not scheduled to teach next
semester.
•
Books and ancillary materials, if not scheduled to teach the same course(s)
next semester.
•
Current telephone number and email address
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Course Evaluations
Each semester students evaluate their courses and instructors. Part-time faculty
must have all their courses evaluated every semester. The evaluation forms will be
distributed to you approximately three weeks before the end of the semester so
that you can distribute them to the students enrolled in your course. Instructions
on proper procedures to follow when evaluating a course are included with the
evaluation forms. After the student surveys have been processed, you will receive
a copy of the students’ evaluations.
Faculty Observations
Faculty members may be formally observed during the course they are teaching.
Observations will be conducted by the Division Chair or Faculty Peer Reviewers from
the Division. The faculty member will be notified prior to the observation.
Observation outcomes will be used to determine faculty strengths and to identify
potential needs that can be addressed through professional development initiatives.
This observation will support the student evaluations completed at the end of each
course.
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5. FACULTY RESOURCES/WHERE TO GO FOR HELP
Technical Assistance:
If you are having trouble logging on to MyBenU, your email account, or D2L, first
try resetting your password (see below). If that doesn’t work, contact
helpdesk@ben.edu for assistance.
If you are having problems with the classroom technology, you can contact the IT
department at 217-717-3533 or 217-801-7379.
Password Reset:
Go to the campus homepage: www.ben.edu/springfield. Click Login (upper righthand corner). The password change selection is just below the email login link for
faculty and staff.
Benedictine University at Springfield Police
Escorts
Benedictine University at Springfield Police will escort students, faculty, staff,
or guests from a building on-campus to their vehicle or another building as
requested.
Lost & Found
Campus Police will attempt to return all found property to its rightful owner.
When the owner can be determined, Benedictine University at Springfield
Police will attempt to notify the owner by telephone or by mail giving
instruction on where to claim the property. Property is maintained for 180
days (6 months). Property not claimed within 180 days may be disposed of in
accordance with written procedures. If you have lost anything, contact the
Benedictine University at Springfield Police at 217-306-8031. Persons
claiming lost property will be required to show proper identification and sign
for all items returned.
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Unlocking Doors
Benedictine University at Springfield Police can provide access to locked
areas if needed. You may be required to present your Benedictine University
at Springfield ID before access will be granted.
Additional Services
Additional services offered by Benedictine University at Springfield Police
include vehicle unlocks, vehicle jumpstarts, crime prevention, safety
education and awareness, criminal investigations, and all police services.
The BenCard (ID card)
All students, faculty, and staff must obtain an official photo identification card. This
ID card will contain a library bar code used to access databases via the library’s
webpage and to check out material from the Benedictine University Libraries, as
well as other college and community libraries in Springfield. You can obtain your
BenCard from the Business Office in Dawson Hall.
Email
All faculty members will be assigned a Benedictine University email account. You
are expected to read and respond to all university emails in a timely manner. To log
into your BU email, go to the campus webpage (www.ben.edu/springfield), click
login at the top of the page, and click on Faculty/Staff E-mail under the
Faculty/Staff column. Please contact your Division Chair/Program Director or Carl
Kielar if you have any questions.
Parking
Parking Stickers: Applications for parking stickers are available through
Benedictine University at Springfield Student Accounts office in Dawson Hall 217717-3536. All permits are issued free of charge. Information needed for the
application includes the year, make and model of the car, and license plate number.
A sticker is needed for each car you drive. Additional permits are available for
persons having more than one vehicle. The owner must have a regular parking
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permit. The parking sticker must be visible and properly displayed on the left top
side of the windshield. Any permit displayed elsewhere will be ticketed for improper
display of permit.
Parking Regulations: In order to ensure an orderly and efficient use of available
campus parking areas by students, employees and visitors, regulations have been
adopted to comply with local fire ordinances, police regulations, and state
requirements. The responsibility of finding a legal parking space rests with the
vehicle operator. A legal parking space is defined as a space between two
designated painted lines; all other unmarked, un-designated areas are considered
throughways or fire lanes. The registration of parking permits does not ensure the
availability of a parking space but grants the privilege of parking on-campus.
Faculty and Staff Parking: Parking spaces that are designated for faculty and staff
are enforced Monday through Friday: 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. After 5:00 p.m., there
is open parking.
Photocopiers
Photocopiers are located in all buildings and are accessible via a five-digit code.
Please ask your Division Chair/Program Director for the code.
Adjunct Faculty Offices
Adjunct Faculty members can use two faculty offices: one located in Beata Hall
116 and the other located in Dawson Hall 227.
The Dog House and On-Line Bookstore
The Dog House campus store, located in the lower level of Dawson Hall, sells
Benedictine University apparel, pens and pencils, and other small items. The Dog
House also sells sandwiches, pizza, smoothies, soup, coffee, and other food items.
The Dog House is open until 7:00 pm most evenings while classes are in session.
Students order their textbooks via the online bookstore, MSB Direct:
http://bookstore.mbsdirect.net/benuspringfield.htm.
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Computer Labs
Benedictine University at Springfield has 20 public computers in the Resource
Center and 85 lab-accessible computers located throughout the campus. Please
note that the computer labs are considered classrooms, and faculty members must
reserve use of computer labs with the Academic Affairs office (217-718-5260).
Wireless Internet
The entire campus is accessible to wireless internet. Use of the wireless internet is
free to Benedictine University at Springfield students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Audio Visual Equipment
Most classrooms have permanently installed equipment which includes a computer,
DVD/VCR player, a ceiling-mounted projector, and document camera (a quick
reference guide is included at the end of this section). Making AV work is the most
challenging part of Information Technology. It requires the cooperation of every
faculty, student, and staff. If equipment is broken, report it immediately to the IT
department or your division chair. Do not "borrow" equipment from another room.
AV equipment is intended to assist teaching, not to replace it. Therefore, it is
never acceptable to cancel class because the AV equipment isn’t working.
Always have a “back-up” plan.
If you need to reserve AV equipment, provide the IT department with the following
information:

Your name

Your telephone number and email address

The room and building where the equipment is needed

The START and STOP times of your class or event
Resource Center (RC)
The Resource Center is located in the lower level of the Becker Library building.
Page | 14
Faculty should be aware of the services provided by the RC in order to encourage
their students to use them.
The mission of the Resource Center is to support students' academic, personal, and
professional development through resources and services which serve to maximize
their academic success, enhance their student experience, and better prepare them
for further study or the workforce. The RC engages students by providing support
for academic work as well as co-curricular activities and professional goals. The
Resource Center's services include:
•
Academic support and tutoring functions
•
Accommodations services for students with disabilities
•
Academic support for students on academic probation and continuing
probation
•
Learning Success Plans
•
Supplemental education and service learning
•
Comprehensive career development services, including assessment,
internship services, career education programs, job search functions and
career resources
•
Orientation programs
Academic Support Services
The Resource Center provides a variety of academic support services for all student
groups.
Learning Specialists and Tutors
Students may arrange for individual appointments with onsite learning
specialists and tutors in various subject matter, including all levels of
through Calculus, statistics, writing skills, writing assignments,
math
including
topic development, organization, writing style, citation and revisions, and
also study habits, time management and test preparation strategies that are
applicable to all classes.
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Study Sessions
As part of the Collaborative Classroom (in cooperation with the academic
departments), the Resource Center offers sessions for a variety of classes
that are held each semester. These sessions help students clarify difficult
concepts and prepare for quizzes and exams. They are led by learning
specialists or tutors who have successfully completed the course and have
been identified by faculty members as individuals who possess both content
knowledge and the ability to communicate that knowledge to fellow students.
Subject areas that are typically supported by a study session include
statistics, biology, English as a second language, and basic writing, but all
subjects are open to study session formats. The availability of and times of
study sessions vary by semester. Contact the RC for current information.
Online Tutoring Options
All students have access to unlimited online tutoring via SMARTHINKING (ST)
and are automatically given an account when they enroll with the university.
Access through the Benedictine at Springfield website or direct at
www.smarthinking.com. All students must have a Benedictine email account
to access ST. Students login to ST with their unique 7 digit “b” number (exp.
b1234567) and the same password for all students is (abc1234). Students
have the option to change their password once they login. SMARTHINKING is
a 24/7 online option which also allows the faculty member to view the
student’s session. Faculty can contact the Resource Center at ext. 320 with
any questions or requests for application training.
Online Writing Lab at Purdue University - http://owl.english.purdue.edu/
Accommodation Services
Students with documented physical or mental disabilities may be eligible for
special accommodations through the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is the
legal responsibility of each eligible student seeking accommodations and
services from Benedictine University at Springfield to provide written,
comprehensive psycho-educational and/or medical evaluation verifying the
Page | 16
condition. This documentation must be current and submitted to the office of
Disability Services in the Resource Center.
The academic accommodations available to students are related directly to
the student’s diagnosis, as supported by professional recommendations in
the documentation provided. The most commonly granted academic
accommodations include:
•
Extended time for testing in a quiet test environment
•
Designated note taker in class
•
Modified or enlarged classroom / reading materials
•
Books on tape
•
Preferential classroom seating
Faculty members must respect a student’s need for academic
accommodations as outlined by the Resource Center. If you have questions
or concerns about student accommodations, contact Disability Services at
springaccess@ben.edu or 217-717-9253.
In the event of an injury or emergency, accommodations may be granted on
a temporary basis. For more information, please contact Sonja Bowers,
Coordinator of Special Services, sbowers@ben.edu, 217-717-9253
Career Development Services
The Career Development Office is part of the Resource Center team.
The
Career Development Office offers comprehensive services to assist students
and alumni in developing, implementing, and evaluating career and life
plans.
Services for students and alumni include:
•
Individual career counseling
•
Assessments
•
Career Resource Library
Page | 17
•
Internships
•
Alum Net
•
Resume Referral
•
On-campus recruiting
•
Job fairs
•
Interviewing, cover letter, resume development
Campus Ministry
University Ministry is an integral part of student development and campus life at
Benedictine University at Springfield. We attempt to form a faith community in
which each student can appropriate his/her faith tradition. We assist our students in
developing an informed Christian conscience while respecting the religious diversity
that is present on-campus, facilitate personal development, and encourage
leadership and justice. These goals are partly accomplished through opportunities
for private and communal prayer, retreats, discussion groups, pastoral counseling,
spiritual direction, and community service. All are welcome and highly encouraged
to become involved in the many opportunities in ministry.
The Main Dining Room
The Main Dining Room, offering several entrees, hamburgers, deli sandwiches,
salad bar and desert in an all-you-can-eat (cafeteria) format, and the Benedictine
Grill, a made-to-order, a-la-carte restaurant, are located in the first floor of Mueller
Hall. The full menus and all options are listed on the Campus website under
student life and the current hours are located at
http://www1.ben.edu/springfield/student-life/sodexo/index.html.
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Directions for Using the Classroom Technology
I. Turning the System On and Using the Equipment
Step 1 –
Turn the
document
camera on
Step 2 –
Turn the
projector
on
The document camera is the main controller of all the
classroom technology. It must be powered on.
The large circular POWER button glows blue when on and
red when off.
Press and hold the Ppw button for a few seconds. This will turn the
projector on. (Ppw = projector power) The Ppw button is a small oval
button on the bottom row.
IMPORTANT: When you are finished using the projector, you must turn the
projector off. Press and hold the Ppw button for a few seconds until
the projector powers off. You may then turn the document camera off
(button should be red).
Using the If you would like to project an image on the document camera, locate the
document four circular buttons to the right of the power button.
camera
The top left button should glow blue. If the button is green or red, press
the button until it glows blue.
Using the If you would like to show a PowerPoint presentation or anything else via the
computer classroom computer, locate the four circular buttons to the right of the
power button.
The computer
tower is
located in the
podium.
The top left button should glow green. If the button is blue or red, press
the button until it glows green.
You may need to turn on the computer as well. Press the power button on
the front of the computer.
See section II for information regarding the volume.
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Using the
VCR or
DVD
player
The VCR/DVD
player is
located in the
podium
If you would like to show a VHS video or DVD, locate the four round buttons
to the right of the power button. The top right button should glow green.
If the button is blue or red, press the button until it glows green.
You may need to turn on the VCR/DVD player as well. Press the power
button on the far left side of the player.
See section II for information regarding the volume and section III for more
information on using the VCR/DVD player.
II. Adjusting the Volume
The receiver box controls the volume for the VCR/DVD player and the computer.
The receiver is located in the podium underneath the VCR/DVD player. The
receiver has several knobs that are labeled
PC
DVD
AUX
AUX
MAIN VOLUME
POWER
1. Make sure that the receiver power is on (button on the far right, a small blue
light will glow).
2. The PC knob and DVD knob control the volume for either the computer or
DVD/VCR player.
3. The MAIN VOLUME knob on the far right side controls the volume for all sources.
Still no volume?
Click on the speaker icon
in the lower right hand corner
of the computer monitor (a narrow box will appear with an arrow that you can slide
up and down).
If this symbol
appears, then the speakers are muted. Click the speaker icon at
the bottom of the box to “un-mute” the speakers. Also, you can raise the slider bar
up to increase the volume.
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III. Using the VCR/DVD player
The VCR/DVD dual player is located in the podium. You may need to turn the
VCR/DVD player on. The power button is located on the far left side of the player.
The dual player functions as either a VCR player or a DVD player. Push the
VCR/DVD button (located in the middle of the player) to switch between the two
players. As you push the button, you will see either “VCR” or “DVD” in the window
to the left of the button.
Once you’ve selected VCR or DVD, it will function like a typical VCR or DVD player.
A remote control is attached to the player.
See section II for information regarding the volume.
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6. DESIRE2LEARN AND MYBENU
To access, Desire2Learn, MyBenU, and your campus email account, click on Login
at the top of the campus webpage (www.ben.edu/springfield).
Desire2Learn, Faculty/Staff email, password reset, BenUConnect, and How to Use
BenUConnect are all available under the Faculty/Staff column.
Desire2Learn (D2L)
D2L is an online Course Management System (CMS), and all Benedictine courses
are automatically linked to D2L. You can maintain your grade book and attendance
via D2L which is available to students 24/7. All instructors are required to
activate their courses on D2L and to use D2L when courses are cancelled due to
instructor illness or inclement weather. You can also upload documents such as
your syllabus, class notes, assignments and links to other websites.
Tutorials are available in your course site on D2L. The tutorials are available under
“Learning Environment Basics.”
Page | 22
Frank Houston is the current D2L coordinator for the Springfield Campus. Frank
can be reached at ghouston@ben.edu, 217-717-3534.
You can access D2L at www.ben.desire2learn.com or via the Springfield Login page.
MyBenU
The online application MyBenU allows you to view your semester schedule, class
rosters, enter class attendance, and view student records at any time. All faculty
will also submit final grades via MyBenU. MyBenU uses PeopleSoft software, so you
may notice that MyBenU is referred to as PeopleSoft.
Logging on to MyBenU
Step 1: To access MyBenU, you must enter via the BenUConnect link on the
Springfield Login page.
Step 2: Enter your username [preceded by ben\] and password. This is the same
username and password you use for network and email.
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Step 3: Now select the MyBenU link.
Step 4: Login to MyBenU with the same username and password, but without the
ben\. Notice that this page also has “How To” links at the bottom.
Page | 24
After you enter your ID and password, the administrative system homepage opens:
DO NOT use the web browser forward and back arrow keys to navigate in
the system. To print a class roster, attendance sheet, grade roster, etc., always use
the printer icon on the web browser. When you complete your work, please log out
of the system and sign out of BenUConnect.
If you experience technical difficulties accessing MyBenU from off-campus, please
check the following items:
•
You will need to be connected to the Internet via BenUConnect using
broadband or dial-up when off-campus. The preferred browser to use is
Microsoft’s Internet Explorer.
•
You will need to temporarily disable your web browser’s pop-up blocker or
add the Benedictine University website to the list of “Allowed Sites.”
•
When prompted to log in, use the same username and password you use for
the network, email access, BenUConnect and MyBenU.
Problems? Contact the Helpdesk at (630) 829-6684 or helpdesk@ben.edu if you
have issues with access or system performance.
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7. STUDENT LIFE
Adjunct faculty should be aware of student life opportunities in order to encourage
student participation in extra-curricular activities. Many organizations and
opportunities outside the classroom are open to faculty participation and
advisement.
Student Affairs
The Student Affairs Office of Benedictine University at Springfield is committed to
the enhancement of student learning and personal development. Emphasis is
placed on the values of community responsibility, diversity, social justice, human
dignity, and our Benedictine heritage by modeling and providing programs that
foster fairness, wellness, cooperation, and leadership.
Student Affairs interacts with students through organized services and programs to
create a campus responsive to individual student needs. We are interested in the
whole well-being, development, and success of all our Benedictine students, both
residents and commuters.
Campus Recreation
Campus Recreation encompasses a wide variety of activities including intramurals,
group fitness classes, open recreation hours, adventure activities, and sports clubs.
All of these activities give students, staff, and faculty the opportunity to connect
with the university, meet new people on campus, and have fun.
Career Development
The Career Development Office offers comprehensive services to assist students
and alumni in developing, implementing and evaluating career and life plans. Their
goal is to promote personal and professional development by utilizing a holistic
approach to achieve their career goals, provide them with a foundation to become
self-directed learners, and educate them through the career planning process.
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Residence Life
Benedictine University at Springfield maintains and operates residence halls and
apartments as an integral part of academic life, as educational experiences are not
solely contained in the classroom, laboratory, or library. The residence halls and
apartments provide an opportunity for students to combine academic life with social
development. Students must establish and test their own values, develop social
skills, determine priorities, and learn to organize their time.
Benedictine University at Springfield offers dormitory-style campus housing for
Benedictine students without children. Mueller Hall is a co-educational residence
hall, primarily for upper-class students, that offers carpeted bedrooms, private
bathrooms, and immediate access to the campus cafeteria. Hanlon Hall is a female
residence hall that offers 27 single rooms with sinks and mirrors in each room while
Mueth Hall offers male students 13 rooms—a limited number have semi-private
bathrooms. All facilities include common rooms, free use of the laundry facilities,
free cable and free access to wireless internet. Students may reserve rooms by
placing a housing deposit and signing a housing contract.
Student Activities
Student Activities is charged with helping students with their growth and
development beyond the classroom as well as assisting in the area of program
content and purpose. Student Activities oversees many annual campus programs
and events such as Spring Fest, Fall and Spring Quad Day, and Intramural Sports.
Student Activities also plans special lectures, seminars, and cultural events
throughout the calendar year.
Student Activities fosters a sense of pride and commitment in our students. In the
Benedictine tradition, we encourage the ideal of a life lived in balance through
expanded intramural, extracurricular, and academic support activities.
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Student Organizations
Alpha Sigma Lambda/Lambda Delta
Alpha Sigma Lambda is the largest chapter-based national honor society for
full and part-time adult students. The organization recognizes adult students’
academic achievements. Currently enrolled students aged 24 and above that
have a minimum of 24 Benedictine University graded credit hours, a GPA of
3.2 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher, and are in the highest 10% of the class are
eligible for membership.
Class Representatives – Adult Accelerated Program
A predetermined number of adult accelerated classes will have a class
representative designated as a liaison between students and administration
to communicate information, suggestions and concerns. There is one class
representative meeting each academic session. The meeting is usually held
from 5:00 pm–5:50 pm the third week of the academic session. To learn
more about the class representation system, please see the Department of
Professional and Continuing Education.
Education Forum
The Education Forum is an opportunity for all Elementary Education majors
to engage in professional development and community outreach outside of
regular coursework, have access to resources to supplement coursework and
future teaching positions, and improve communication as well as support in
elementary programs.
The Green Club
The Green Club raises environmental awareness on campus with the Reduce,
Reuse, and Recycle campaign as well as through activities and events on
campus and in the community. The Green Club hosts street cleanup days and
has worked on campus beautification projects.
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Health Sciences Club
The Health Science Club provides its members with a deeper foundation and
background on their proposed discipline by exposing them to various
experiences within the health field and general sciences. Members will also
investigate various career opportunities including teaching and research with
hands on methods for both science and health fields.
International Club
The International Club provides international and local students with
opportunities to gather socially and to raise international awareness on
campus. The club offers opportunities for students, faculty, and staff
members to interact with international students and to learn about many
aspects of different cultures.
Investment Club
The Investment Club’s mission is to educate the membership in the field of
trading securities, to create a group-oriented environment conducive to
learning, and to provide a balanced appreciation of the investment club’s
portfolio. The club meets regularly to discuss the portfolio’s progress and to
make group decisions on investment strategies. Everyone is welcome to
learn this practical and fun skill.
Fine Arts Club
Our mission is to expose all students, regardless of major, to the wonder of
Fine Arts. We are an organization for students interested in visual arts,
literature, and writing, and for those students who simply want to enjoy
creativity in a fun, relaxed environment. We visit art museums throughout
the mid-west, host poetry readings and plays, and support our campus and
local community through children's art activities, textbook drives, and fund
raisers. Membership is limited to students, but faculty, and staff
participation is welcomed and encouraged.
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Student Government
The purpose of Student Government is to represent the traditional student
body and provide an example of leadership and involvement in the
community, school, and decision making process. Meetings are open to all
students; however, only representatives may vote. Representatives are
elected every semester and are required to have completed at least one
semester at Benedictine University at Springfield with a minimum grade point
average of 2.0.
Umoja-Nia
The purpose of Umoja Nia is to strive for and maintain unity in family,
community, nation and race and to make our collective vocation the building
and developing of our community in order to maintain our campus’ traditional
greatness.
Intercollegiate Athletics
The mission of the athletic program at Benedictine is to educate students in habits
of health and recreation and in the ideals of good sportsmanship and self-discipline.
Athletics at Benedictine introduce and foster an element of competition with its
value in the development of leadership, courage, and cooperation. Athletic
activities must, in all cases, be consistent with the primary intellectual and spiritual
aims of the college. Benedictine University at Springfield is committed to providing
equal opportunities for its students in sports and recreation regardless of gender.
Men’s sports include in soccer, baseball, and golf. Women’s sports include softball,
volleyball, and soccer.
Athletic Participation—Academic Eligibility and Status
Scholar athletes at Benedictine must be enrolled as full-time students and satisfy all
academic progress policies as defined. For more information regarding athletic
eligibility, contact Nikki Bull-Eguez, Athletic Director, at nbull@ben.edu, 217-7183470
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Intramural Sports
Benedictine University offers its students, faculty, and staff opportunities to
participate in intramural sports events. Competitive sports held in the past include
foosball, pool, flag football, basketball, volleyball, and dodge ball. Seasons are
scheduled to last from one day to several weeks, depending on the sport and
student participation. See the Student Affairs office for more information.
Campus Ministry
University Ministry is an integral part of student development and campus life at
Benedictine University at Springfield. We attempt to form a faith community in
which each student can appropriate his/her faith tradition. We assist our students in
developing an informed Christian conscience while respecting the religious diversity
that is present on-campus, facilitate personal development, and encourage
leadership and justice. These goals are partly accomplished through opportunities
for private and communal prayer, retreats, discussion groups, pastoral counseling,
spiritual direction, and community service. All are welcome and highly encouraged
to become involved in the many opportunities in ministry.
Volunteer Services
Whether you are volunteering for the first time or have volunteered before,
Benedictine University supports the value of community service and wants to assist
you in finding an experience that matches your interests and talents. Our
encouragement and celebration to anyone giving only one hour a week of time can
provide a positive change for agencies, individuals, or animals in the surrounding
community. For assistance in searching out volunteer opportunities, contact Father
Steve Janoski, Campus Ministries, sjanoski@ben.edu, 217-717-3537.
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8. STUDENT CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS
Any community, including Benedictine University, must develop standards of
conduct to serve as guidelines for fostering a healthy living environment. All College
students and housing residents are expected to:
• Recognize that academic and personal developments are the primary
reasons for being a part of this community;
• Respect the physical and emotional rights of all members of the
Benedictine community;
• Recognize and respect the educational mission of Benedictine and the need
for students to maintain a climate that supports this mission;
• Use residential facilities, College buildings and College property with due
care; and
• Accept responsibility for their actions at all times.
Serious Breaches of Conduct Standards
The following are considered serious breaches of student conduct standards and will
result in disciplinary actions:
• Destruction of property;
• Theft;
• Academic dishonesty;
• Plagiarism;
• Possession or use of a firearm;
• Sexual assault, abuse, or misconduct;
• Possession, use or distribution of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs in any
residential facility on campus property or at College sponsored events;
• Misuse of College computers, labs and other technologies, including, but
not limited to gambling, pornography, hacking, plagiarism, obscenities, and
harassment;
• Lighting any fire or tampering with a fire alarm or fire/safety equipment;
• Littering or intentionally marring the appearance of College property;
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• Violation of visitation or escort policies;
• Disorderly or disruptive behavior, especially that which disturbs other
students;
• Failure to obey a proper order of a College official acting in accordance with
College regulations;
• Violation of local, state or federal laws;
• Creating, encouraging or participating in a situation detrimental to the
health, safety or welfare of the College community and its members.
The Disciplinary Process
Benedictine University’s disciplinary process applies to all rules adopted by the
College as well as violations of the student conduct expectations. The Disciplinary
Process is initiated when an incident report is submitted to the Dean of Student
Affairs. Incident reports are available in the Student Affairs Office and any member
of the campus community can complete the form. Incident reports should be
submitted to the Student Affairs Office within five business days of the incident to
ensure timely attention to the alleged infraction.
When a notice of violation has been received, the Dean of Students will contact the
student(s) accused for a disciplinary conference. A student’s failure to attend the
disciplinary conference will lead to a decision to be made by the Dean of Student
Affairs based on the information presented.
The accused student(s) have a right to request a hearing of the Dean’s Judicial
Board which will be appointed by the Dean of Student Affairs and include at least
three faculty or staff members and two students. The Dean of Student Affairs will
attend the Judicial Board meeting as an observer. Decisions made by the Dean’s
Judicial Board will be recommendations to the Dean of Students on the type of and
severity of disciplinary actions to take, if any at all. For more detailed information
about the disciplinary policy, please contact Holly Rae Blandford, Dean of Student
Affairs, hblandford@ben.edu, 217-717-9227.
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9. STUDENT SERVICES
Faculty have the most contact with students, so faculty members need to be aware
of student services in order to direct students in need of assistance to the
appropriate office.
Campus Dining Services
The College offers a selection of meals and foods at our campus dining room in
Mueller Hall and Café Ala Carte located in the Student Lounge, lower-level of
Dawson Hall. Mueller Hall dining room will serve breakfast and lunch Monday
through Friday and dinner Sunday through Thursday. Café Ala Carte will be
available for students Monday–Thursday 7:30 am–8:30 pm, Friday, 7:30 am–6:00
pm and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 am–1:00 pm. Times are subject to change
based on student usage.
Campus Store, The Dog House Café, and On-Line Bookstore
The campus store, located in the lower level of Dawson Hall, sells Benedictine
University apparel, pens and pencils, and other small items. The Dog House Café is
located inside the campus store; the café sells sandwiches, pizza, smoothies, soup,
and other food items. The Dog House is open until 7:00 pm most evenings while
classes are in session.
Benedictine University at Springfield has an on-line bookstore, MSB Direct, rather
than a physical bookstore on campus. The benefits of ordering textbooks and
supplies from MSB Direct include:
• The nation’s largest inventory of used books.
• All orders shipped in a timely manner.
• Multiple payment options.
• 100 percent return policy for 14 days.
• Outstanding U.S.-based customer service by phone or email.
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Parking and Parking Permits
All parking is available for non-campus residents in the lot at the corner of Sixth
and Keys streets. Free parking permits, obtained from the Student Affairs Office,
L16, must be displayed on vehicles parked in the parking lot or on roads adjacent
to the College. An additional parking lot is located at the corner of 7th and Keys.
Parking is also available on the streets near campus; however, Fifth and Sixth
streets are designated “Snow Emergency Routes,” and cars may not be parked on
them during declared snow emergencies. Handicapped parking is available in the
Circle Drive near Dawson and Weaver Halls for those students who have an
appropriate state-issued tag or license plate. Vehicles parking at anytime in
unauthorized areas can be ticketed and possibly towed away at the owner’s
expense. Tickets can be issued by the College to vehicles that are illegally parked in
campus parking lots. College-issued tickets must be paid in the Student Accounts
Office. Unpaid tickets will result in a hold on academic records. State and Local law
enforcement personnel also have the authority to issue parking citations.
Student Assistance Program (Counseling Program)
The Student Assistance Program (SAP) provides highly confidential and professional
services to students who are experiencing personal problems while enrolled at
College. The goal of the SAP is to help students identify the nature of their
problems and locate community resources that can assist in resolving them. The
SAP can help students with family and relationship issues, alcohol and drug
problems, stress management, adjustment issues, money problems, and many
more. Benedictine University students can utilize the SAP services free for up to
eight visits by calling 744-2255.
The BenCard
All students, faculty, and staff must obtain an official photo identification card. This
ID card will contain a library bar code used to access databases via the library’s
webpage and to check out material from the Benedictine University Libraries, as
well as other college and community libraries in Springfield. You can obtain your
BenCard from the Business Office in Dawson Hall.
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Academic Advising
Each student at Benedictine University is assigned an advisor for academic
counseling and for guidance in planning academic work. While advisors are
available to assist students in all aspects of academic planning, students are
responsible for knowing and meeting degree requirements and for identifying
courses that are required by their intended program of study.
Students in the adult accelerated program will initially meet with an advisor and are
encouraged to continue meeting with their advisor to register for future classes. In
extenuating circumstances, students in the adult accelerated classes may fax or
email their registration requests to the Adult Program Director. The student’s
name, address and social security number must be provided when registering by
fax or e-mail. Adult accelerated students will be able to access their course syllabi
two weeks prior to the start of classes. All students are highly encouraged to meet
with an advisor.
Registration Procedures
Registration takes place in the student’s advisor office or on-line. All financial
accounts with the College must be in good standing for registration to be
processed.
Lost and Found
All items found on campus should be reported to the Chief of Campus Police, Angela
Hall, 217-717-9251. Property is kept in the office of Campus Police for 180 days (6
months). Items left in campus housing after students have moved out will also be
held for 3 days before the items become property of the College and can be
discarded.
Expenses/Financial Policy
Benedictine University is a non-profit corporation. The annual income from a
student’s fees covers only a portion of the cost of his or her education. Therefore,
to meet its educational objective, and in fairness to all students, the College must
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insist on the following regulation: Payments or financial arrangements must be
made prior to the first day of each term, session or module.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy and Prevention Information
Benedictine University will provide educational programs discussing prevention and
education of alcohol and other drugs and their effects. Additionally, the College
provides confidential counseling services (The Student Assistance Program – SAP)
to students who are experiencing alcohol or drug abuse problems. For more
information about counseling services or to set up an appointment, students call
744-2255, see the Dean of Student Affairs, or talk to their academic advisor.
Students, including those of the legal drinking age, are not permitted to use,
possess, or cause to be brought onto College-owned property alcoholic beverages
or illegal drugs. Students are also not permitted to be present on campus or at a
campus-related activity under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Students who
violate this policy are subject to penalties imposed by the College including possible
expulsion from the college and referral to local authorities for prosecution.
Students who are aware of alcohol or drug abuse by other students have a
responsibility to report such activity to the Dean of Student Affairs.
Illegal use, possession or distribution of alcohol or other drugs leading to
prosecution by city, county or state officials can result in legal sanctions as well as
fines and/or incarceration. In addition, students found to be in possession of illegal
drugs may be jeopardizing the access to financial aid sources.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Benedictine University at Springfield provides individuals with disabilities reasonable
accommodations to participate in educational programs, activities, and services.
Students with disabilities requiring accommodations to participate in campussponsored programs, activities, and services, or to meet course requirements,
should contact Disability Services office: Benedictine University at Springfield
provides individuals with disabilities reasonable accommodations to participate in
educational programs, activities, and services. Students with disabilities requiring
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accommodations to participate in campus-sponsored programs, activities, and
services, or to meet course requirements, should contact the Resource Center as
early as possible: springaccess@ben.edu or 217-717-9253.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Benedictine University is an Affirmative Action Employer ensuring equal
opportunities in programs, activities, admission and employment regardless of race,
religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, color, disability or veteran
status.
Smoke-Free Policy
Smoking is prohibited in all interior space on the Benedictine University at
Springfield campus; on all outside property or grounds of the Benedictine University
at Springfield campus; in all Benedictine University at Springfield transportation
vehicles; and in all indoor and outdoor athletic facilities owned by Benedictine
University at Springfield.
Posters and Announcements
All posters and announcements must be approved by the Dean of Student Affairs
before posting. The poster should promote a student activity or event, or benefit
the College community in some manner. The poster should also positively represent
the person or organization that is sponsoring the poster. Posters that are outdated,
or deemed inappropriate will be removed by the College. For a list of approved
posting areas and posting restrictions, see the Dean of Student Affairs.
Cellular Telephones and Pagers
Cellular telephones and audible pagers must be turned off during all classes and
laboratories. Failure to respect the rights of other students with repeated offenses
will result in disciplinary action.
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Children on Campus
It is the express policy of our College to be sensitive to the diverse needs of all
students, faculty, and staff. In the interest of assuring a non-disruptive learning
environment for all students, the College does not permit the presence of any minor
children in classrooms, laboratories, the library, or left unattended elsewhere on
campus.
10. ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Academic Freedom
Each faculty member will promote a situation of fairness wherein all students have
equal access to information and are evaluated under appropriately identical
conditions. With respect to teaching activities, you are expected to conduct each
course in such a manner as to provide a climate of free and open inquiry in which
academic honesty is encouraged and academic dishonesty is penalized.
Academic Standards
Faculty are expected to challenge their students intellectually, to model a sense of
excitement about learning, and to provide an opportunity for all students to work at
their highest potential. Student work and performance should be evaluated
consistently, fairly, and directly against the measures (goals/objectives) outlined in
the syllabus. A faculty member should never feel pressured to issue a higher grade
than the student earned. It is advisable to communicate this message clearly and
often to students: a student will receive the grade that he or she earns,
which may not necessarily be the grade that he or she wants or demands.
Academic Calendars
Please check the Master Academic Calendars for dates when classes and/or
university offices are closed as well as for pertinent deadlines (e.g. last day to
withdraw from courses). The Academic Calendars are located at
http://www1.ben.edu/springfield/academics/calendar.html
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Meeting Dates of Scheduled Class
Classes must meet on the days they are scheduled to meet. Faculty members
cannot change the day and time that courses meet. Immediately contact your
Division Chair/Program Director if you cannot attend the days the class is
scheduled.
Class Cancellation (What Should I Do If I Cannot Make It To a Class?)
If you are aware ahead of the term or class meeting, contact your Division Chair for
a replacement or additional assistance. If an illness or emergency occurs in which
you cannot make a scheduled class, contact the Executive Assistant to the Dean of
Academic Affairs (217-718-5260) and your Division Chair/Program Director
immediately so he/she can post the class cancellation at the classroom and an
attempt can be made to contact the students.
Use the class’s D2L page to announce what the students should do in your absence.
Course Cancellation
Unfortunately, due to low course enrollment, courses may be cancelled. Please feel
free to talk to your Division Chair about expected course enrollments.
Classroom Location
You can find the most updated location for your class on your class roster. You can
find your class roster on MyBenU (see section 6). You cannot change your
classroom location once it has been assigned. Do not move your class to another
classroom, even if that room is empty.
If you desire a specific classroom or lab for your class, make the request to your
Division Chair/Program Director as soon as possible. It is best to make these
requests months prior to the start of the term, when the term course schedule is
being prepared. If there is no specific room request, the Office of Academic Affairs
will assign a room based upon enrollment expectations and equipment needs. If
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upon meeting with your class you desire a classroom change, contact the Executive
Assistant to the Dean of Academic Affairs (217-718-5260).
Class Rosters
To access the class roster for your class, you need to access MyBenU (see section
6) or Desire2Learn. It is very important to make sure that all students who sit in
your class appear on your class roster. Check the accuracy of your class roster
often during the first week of the term. Students whose names do not appear by
the end of the first week and who have not registered may not attend class; they
will not receive a grade. If a student’s name appears on the class roster but the
student does not attend the course during the first week of the session, please
notify the Registrar’s Office. All students on the grade roster must receive a grade.
Taking Attendance
You are required to take attendance for all of the courses you are teaching and
keep those records for one year. Your attendance policy must be included on your
syllabus. You may use MyBenU, D2L, or another method to keep track of your
class attendance.
Tardiness
Because of the limited time available to conduct in-class activities, punctuality is
necessary. If consistent tardiness is observed, faculty members may take action
they deem appropriate. If you have a Tardiness Policy, it should be stated in your
syllabus.
Administrative Drop Policy
It is always and ultimately the student’s responsiblity to officially notify the
institution (either by signing a drop form or sending an email to his/her advisor) of
his/her intent to drop a course. However, nonattending undergraduate students
may be dropped from a class for nonattendance during the firs week of the
semester if the class has a waiting list and if the drop is requested by the division
chair to the Registrar’s Office during the first week of class and is approved by the
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Registrar. The primary intent of the Administrative Drop Policy is to ensure full
enrollment in classes in which demand for seats exceeds supply. The purpose is to
free seats held by non-attending students in such classes so that students who wish
to take the class may be able to do so.
Procedure:
• To avoid being administratively withdrawn from a class, a student must
request permission to remain in the course. Permission must be requested
from the Division Chair prior to the first class meeting. Such requests must
be made in writing (by email using the student’s University email account)
and must specify which dates during the first week of class will be missed
and the reason for the proposed absence. It is the student’s responsibility to
ensure that the request has been received.
•
Upon receipt of the request, the Division Chair (or instructor) shall notify the
student as to whether his/her request has been granted. This notification will
be made to the student’s University email address by the end of the first
week of the class.
•
The Division Chair shall notify the Registrar of all administrative drops for
his/her division prior to the end of the first week of the class.
•
The Registrar shall drop the student from the class and notify the student
and the student’s academic advisor of the administrative drop. Notification
will be made to the student’s University email address.
Enrollment in Closed Classes
Students may request to get into your class even though the class is full/closed.
Your Division Chair/Program Director has the authority to override the class size
limit if he/she believes that it is necessary. After consultation with the student
seeking enrollment in a closed class, you may wish to authorize approval or refer
the student to your Division Chair/Program Director.
Late Enrollments After Add/Drop Week (for Traditional Undergraduate
Courses)
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If a student wants to register for a class after the first week of the semester (after
Add/Drop Week), the following procedure must be followed. The student must
complete an “Add Course After Add/Drop Week” Form and obtain the following
approvals:
1st
Approved by the Instructor, with signature
2nd
Approved by Division Chair in which the course is offered, with
signature. As appropriate, the Division Chair may provide a course
PIN Number to a student.
3rd
Approved by the student’s Advisor, with signature
4th
Student will then submit approved Add Course After Add/Drop Week
Form for processing to the Registrar’s Office.
The Add Course After Add Drop Week Form can be found in the Registrar’s Office.
Withdrawal Policy (Grade of “W”)
It is the student’s responsibility to officially withdraw from a course by completing
the appropriate form with appropriate signatures, and returning the completed form
to the Advising Office. Students should refer to the Student Handbook for important
financial information related to withdrawals.
Notification of the official course withdrawal will be forwarded to the course faculty
member by Benedictine University. The transcript and grade report will show a
grade of “W.” Students who do not withdraw properly will receive the letter grade
of "F".
Returning Students’ Work
It is your choice as to whether or not to keep students’ final papers, tests and
projects. Instructors who return these materials should make arrangements with
their students before the class ends; materials being returned to students should be
returned to students within one week of the conclusion of the course.
According to FERPA regulations, graded student work may not be left in a pile for
students to pick up (see section 21 for more information about FERPA). Papers
must either be returned in person to each student or, if it is the end of the
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semester and you know you will not see the student in the near future, you may
ask that students who wish to receive their work back give you a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. You can mail the work product to the student when you have
finished grading it.
If not returned to the student, it is recommended that you retain all graded student
work for one year. If you do not have space to store these materials at home,
please speak with your Division Chair/Program Director about possible on-campus
storage.
Updating Tests
Instructors who write tests with quantitative measures should remember that there
can be a relatively easy transmittal of materials from students semester to
semester. Despite the University’s commitment to academic integrity, student
cheating may occur. To help ensure an accurate measure of student progress,
instructors who write quantitative tests are encouraged to modify their tests at the
end of each term.
Audits
A course cannot be changed from a graded course to an audited course or vice
versa after the first week of class. A student who is auditing your class will be
reflected on your class roster with zero (0) credits and as an "audit" for the grade
basis. Record the grade of "AU" for an audit when recording grades on your grade
roster.
Course Repeats
For courses taken at Benedictine University, undergraduate students, both degree
seeking and students-at-large, may repeat a course no more than two times, in
which they received grades of W, D, or F. Students may not repeat any course in
which they receive a grade of C or better. When a course is repeated for credit, the
earlier earned grade remains on the student's permanent record and will appear on
all transcripts. Only the last enrollment and earned grade will be used in computing
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the cumulative grade point average and awarding of credit. If a student wishes to
repeat a course originally taken at Benedictine University and in which an earned
grade was received, the repeat must be a course at Benedictine University. A
repeat may not be by independent study or by study at another institution. The
Academic Standing Committee may provide exceptions to this policy. An earned
grade is a grade of A, B, C, D, and F.
Students who have graduated may not repeat a course for credit in which they
previously earned a grade of A, B, C, or D. A student who has graduated may only
audit a course in which they previously earned credit.
Undergraduate Final Exams
If a final examination of any type is given in a course, it must be given at the time
that examination is officially scheduled during the final examination period (this
policy does not include summer courses or adult accelerated courses). No final
exams may be given during the last week of class. Decisions not to give a final
examination must have been approved by the Division Chair.
No student should be expected to take more than three final exams on the same
day. Any student who is scheduled for more than three finals on the same day
should arrange a more suitable schedule with his/her instructors prior to the final
examination period.
Graduate Final Exams
Graduate course final exams are given within the regular instructional period and
should be announced in the syllabus.
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11. GRADING AND EVALUATING STUDENTS
Students are concerned about their performance and need timely feedback of their
work, including suggestions on ways they can improve. It is the responsibility of
the instructor to set the grading scale for their course and to communicate it to the
students at the beginning of the course. Following these guidelines will reduce the
need for end-of-course discussions and time-consuming grade appeals.
Offer a Variety of Assignments and Exams
Instructors are encouraged to use a variety of devices to evaluate student progress.
Presentations, papers, and exams are appropriate for some courses. Critiques of
papers, articles, projects, etc. are all useful devices.
As a general rule, students benefit more from several smaller evaluation devices
than only two, especially if the two are each weighted at 50 percent (e.g., a written
paper for 50 percent and an oral presentation for 50 percent).
Provide Timely Feedback
Students succeed when they are given many opportunities to perform and when
they receive timely and specific feedback. If a student is doing well, point out
his/her strengths and encourage the student to continue to do well. If a student is
not doing well, explain specifically what skills he or she needs improve and how he
or she can go about improving (ie visit a tutor in the RC, turn in assignments on
time, make an appointment to meet with you, etc).
Whatever devices you chose
to use, all homework, tests, quizzes, projects, etc. must be graded and returned to
students in a timely manner.
Define How Grades Are Calculated
Grade appeals are rare, but each one is taken through the University grade appeal
process, of which your class syllabus is the starting point. Be clear about your
grading expectations. Whether you use percentages or apply points to your grading
rubrics, make sure students are clear about the grading guidelines.
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Maintain an Accurate Grade Book
Whether you choose to use a traditional hard-copy grade book or an electronic
format, all faculty members are expected to retain their grade book for one
semester following the completion of a class in the event of a grade appeal.
Faculty members may be asked to supply copies of their grade book to their
Division Chair/Program Director or the Academic Dean.
Final Exams
Final exams must be given at the time that examination is officially scheduled
during the final examination period. Decisions not to give a final examination must
have been approved by the Division Chair/Program Director.
Academic Standards
Faculty are expected to challenge their students intellectually, to model a sense of
excitement about learning, and to provide an opportunity for all students to work at
their highest potential. Student work and performance should be evaluated
consistently, fairly, and directly against the measures (goals/objectives) outlined in
the syllabus. A faculty member should never feel pressured to issue a higher grade
than the student earned. It is advisable to communicate this message clearly and
often to students: a student will receive the grade that he or she earns,
which may not necessarily be the grade that he or she wants or demands.
Example Grading Scale
Grading scales can vary greatly from course-to-course. An example is provided
below.
A 93 - 100%
B 85 - 92%
C 77 - 84%
D 69 - 76%
F 68% and below
Letter Grades’ Qualitative Significance
A: A student’s performance is excellent. Students may have unusually sharp
insights into material and initiates thoughtful questions and discussion; see many
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sides of an issue; articulate well; write logically and clearly; integrate ideas
previously learned from this and other disciplines; and anticipate next steps in a
progression of ideas. Example: ‘A’ work is of such a nature that it could be put on
reserve for all students to review and emulate.
B: A student grasps the subject matter at a level considered good to very good.
Students may be an active listener and participant in class discussions; speak and
write well; accomplish more than the minimum requirements; and produce work of
high quality. Example: ‘B’ work indicates a high quality of performance and is given
in recognition of solid work. A ‘B’ is a high grade.
C: A student demonstrates a satisfactory comprehension of the subject matter.
Students may accomplish the minimum requirements; display little or no initiative;
communicate orally and in writing at an acceptable level for a college student; and
demonstrate an acceptable understanding of basic concepts. Example: ‘C’, work
represents average work for the student in the program or class. A student
receiving a ‘C’ has met the requirements, including deadlines, of the course.
D: The quality and quantity of the student’s work in and out of class are below
average and barely acceptable. Example: ‘D’ work means passing by a slim margin.
F: The quality and quantity of the student’s work in and out of class are
unacceptable. Example: ‘F’ work does not qualify the student to progress to a more
advanced level of work.
Evaluating Written Assignments
A: Superior/Distinguished
Appearance: Typed double-spaced, error-free, neat, professional looking,
proper documentation (if applicable), pages numbered.
Organization: Introduction is clear and interesting; body is well-developed
with a clear main point, supporting points, smooth and effective
transitions/connections between ideas; uses concrete details and examples;
correct documentation is provided when needed; paragraph development is
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logical; pattern of development is appropriate; paragraphs are united and
coherent; and conclusion is clearly related to the introduction.
Content: Complete, accurate, supported and thorough.
Grammar: Correct English grammar is used, including punctuation, spelling,
pronoun use, verb tenses and complete sentences.
Style: Sentence clarity, sentence variety, word usage, title page with title,
student’s name, course, faculty member’s name and date.
Overall: Followed directions, showed awareness of reader and achieved the
purpose.
B: Above Average
A paper that has enough information but contains a few easily correctable
errors in appearance, grammar, punctuation and/or spelling.
C: Average/Acceptable
A paper that has adequate information but contains quite a few errors in
appearance, organization, grammar, punctuation and/or spelling that require
substantial revisions.
D/F: Below Average/Unacceptable
A paper that either does not have enough content, contains major errors or
contains an excessive number of errors.
Evaluating Oral Presentations
A: Superior
Content: Interesting facts used appropriately, easy to follow. Logical
organization, structure. Main point clearly identifiable, important, relevant,
incredible. Smooth transition, reasoning. Introduction is attention getting.
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Purpose is clearly stated: The conclusion summarizes information, restates
main point, refers to introductory information, draws appropriate conclusions
and is based on content shared.
Delivery: Facial expressions are varied, congruent with speech, pleasant;
gestures are appropriate and descriptive; eye contact is made with whole
audience, is sincere and natural; movement and posture are relaxed and
natural, not sloppy; pitch is varied appropriately with speech content. Rate of
speech is appropriate and varied where appropriate; quality is pleasant,
smooth and clear; loudness is appropriate for the audience and room and is
varied; language (grammar and word choice) is fluid; pronunciation is
accurate and practiced; articulation is distinct; enunciation is dear, precise,
free from mumbling and sloppy word formation.
Overall: Followed directions (format, etc.); awareness of audience (poised);
achievement of purpose; use of visual aids to enhance presentation;
prepared for presentation (talked to audience, avoided overuse of notes).
B: Above Average
A presentation that has good content. Above average but contains a few
errors in delivery, introduction or conclusion.
C: Average/Acceptable
A presentation that has adequate content but contains a few errors in
delivery, the introduction or the conclusion.
D: Below Average/Unacceptable
A presentation that lacks content, contains major errors or an excessive
number of errors in delivery, the introduction or the conclusion.
Submitting Final Grades
All enrolled students must be graded. Submit final grades via MyBenU. Record your
grades using the A, B, C, D, and F scale. It is very important that grade deadlines
be observed. College Deans have stipulated that it is the responsibility of faculty to
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turn their grades in on time. If you have any questions about grade due dates,
please contact the Registrar or ask your Division Chair/Program Director.
Student Grade Reports
Grade reports are available to the student upon completion of each course through
MyBenU. Final course grades are reported as full letter grades, without pluses or
minuses. Grade reports indicate the course completed, credits received, and grade
assigned.
Incompletes (I)
Incompletes (I) are issued to students who cannot finish the semester's coursework
due to extenuating circumstances. "I" grades are to be issued sparingly! It is
the student’s responsibility to initiate the Incomplete process. Do not automatically
assign an Incomplete grade for a student who has not contacted you first. Please
consult your Division Chair/Program Director before agreeing to issue an
Incomplete.
To be eligible for an incomplete, a student must be in good academic standing (not
on probation), must be performing at a satisfactory level in the course (that is, "B"
or better for graduate and "C" or better for undergraduate), must have completed a
substantial portion of the course, and must have a clearly defined plan for
completion of the coursework with dates recorded on the Incomplete Request Form.
An "I" must be approved by you, the Division Chair/Program Director, and the
Registrar and must be arranged before the submission of final grades. If the
remaining coursework is not completed within 180 days, the grade is automatically
converted to an "F".
Added Students
If you have an instance where a student attended the class but is not on the roster,
please contact the Registrar. Except in rare instances, these students are not
registered students and have not paid for the course; they will not receive a grade
from Benedictine.
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Change of Grades
Grade changes are permitted only for a substantial and serious reason such as
clerical errors, transpositions, calculation errors, illegibility, re-evaluation of already
submitted course work, a successful formal grade appeal, etc. Acceptance of
additional class work after the end of the semester is never appropriate.
You are expected to be available to discuss a grade with a student, but once you
have submitted a final grade, you may not allow an exam to be retaken or a paper
to be rewritten. Should a change of grade be necessary resulting from instructor
error or a successful grade appeal, please complete a Change of Grade Form.
Grade Appeals (Student Protests the Final Grade for the Course)
If a student believes that the final grade is not deserved, the student can file a
formal, written Grade Appeal in the following sequence. Grade appeals must be
completed within 90 days of receiving the grade.
1. A student must appeal to his/her instructor in writing (e-mail is acceptable) and
provide specific reasons why his/her grade should be changed.
2. The instructor must respond to the student in writing (e-mail is acceptable)
within 10 business days and provide a copy to the division chair.
3. If the student wishes, he/she may then appeal to the division chair in writing (email is acceptable) and provide specific reasons why his/her grade should be
changed without the instructor’s permission. The student should understand that
overwhelming evidence must be presented to the division chair to prove that the
current grade is incorrect.
4. The division chair must respond to the student in writing (e-mail is acceptable)
within 10 business days and provide a copy to the academic dean.
5. If the student wishes, he/she may appeal to the academic dean in writing (email is acceptable) and provide specific reasons why his/her grade should be
changed without the instructor’s or the division chair’s permission. The student
should understand that overwhelming evidence must be presented to the academic
dean to prove the grade is incorrect.
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6. The academic dean must respond to the student in writing (e-mail is
acceptable). The academic dean’s decision is final.
You must retain all grading records for at least one semester after the completion
of a course.
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12. Syllabi
Every course must have a syllabus, and you are required to distribute a syllabus to
your students on the first day of class. Your Division Chair/Program Director will
provide you with a “universal” syllabus template; it is imperative that you follow
this template exactly.
You will also need to electronically send a copy of your
syllabus to your Division Chair/Program Director before the semester or term
begins (he or she will let you know the actual due date).
Learning is enhanced by the use of a university-written, detailed syllabus for each
course. The syllabus lists course objectives, planned classroom activities,
assignments and expected outcomes. In addition, the syllabus provides an outline
for the course, bringing consistency to the curriculum while maintaining flexibility
for instructors and respect for their expertise.
The material in the syllabus takes the uncertainty out of the academic classroom by
providing students with clear objectives and clear outcomes that are relevant and
aligned to state standards. Elimination of uncertainty will result in a better-focused
student able to accomplish his/her course of study.
It is especially important that the course outline, assignments,
requirements, policies, and expectations are stated clearly in the syllabus.
You should also remind students of your requirements and expectations throughout
the semester or term, and be consistent with your policies.
Do not change your syllabus after the start of class, if at all possible. We realize
that due to class composition or time-related issues, an assignment or quiz may be
dropped occasionally, but major changes to the syllabus should be avoided.
If a student disputes their final grade or your policies, your Division Chair/Program
Director will first look to your syllabus. If your requirements and policies are clearly
stated, then these matters are easily resolved.
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13. LIBRARY SERVICES
The Charles Becker Library Building, Circulation & Reference Desk: 217-7183475.
Hours: Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00
p.m.; Saturday 12 noon – 5 p.m.; Sunday 12 noon – 5 p.m. Watch for hour
changes during academic calendar breaks and holidays. Current hours are available
at http://www1.ben.edu/springfield/academics/library/index.html.
The Charles Becker Library (Benedictine Springfield library) provides more than
40,000 monographs, over 15,000 electronic journals, 30 current print journals &
magazines, over 100 back issues of bound periodicals, approximately 100 electronic
databases, and 1,000 videos for students, staff, and faculty. Becker Library also
provides access to RefWorks, a bibliographic citation manager, free of charge, to
capture and print citations in APA, MLA, and other academic styles. Reference
librarians offer numerous online and in-person tutorials and support services to
students. The Library offers group printers, reference materials, and inter-library
loan services needed for academic studies.
The Benedictine Libraries (Lisle and Springfield) provide research materials and
services for the entire Benedictine University community. Professional librarians are
available to assist patrons in solving research needs and in finding information for
class assignments, research, or personal interest in a wide variety of formats. The
journal and general circulating collections are built with the input of the faculty in
order to support the curriculum provided by Benedictine University. The Benedictine
Library in Lisle also serves as a partial depository of Illinois government documents.
Becker Library provides access to a wide variety of licensed electronic resources
(i.e. databases and online journals) which contain content that is not available via
Google, Yahoo!, or other Internet search engines. Go to www.ben.edu/library to
access these databases.
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Through our membership in CARLI, the online catalog known as I-Share provides
access not only to materials owned by the Benedictine Library but also those owned
by over 70 other academic libraries in Illinois. The Springfield Library is a member
of the Rolling Prairie Library System (a lending consortium), which provides access
to additional resources at various public and academic libraries. Many of the online
databases provide access to periodical article citations and the full-texts of articles.
Most databases are available from off-campus but require authentication with a
valid Benedictine ID number (found on your BenCard).
Online tutorials of library resources for faculty, staff, and students can be found at
http://libguides.ben.edu/browse.php?o=s.
Library Instruction Services
The librarians at the Becker Library provide instruction for students that can be
tailored to a field of study, a course, a subject, or a specific assignment. The
instruction can range from an in-class presentation to small group instruction to
one-on-one instruction. In-class presentations are generally arranged by the
instructor with the librarian conducting the presentation in the classroom or in a
computer lab. Small group or one-on-one instruction is generally done in the library
in a hands-on environment. Presentations are geared to the specific subject matter
of the course. To request a library instruction session, contact Brian Hickam 217717-3532. Requests must be received at least two weeks prior to the desired
date. Session generally range from 20 minutes to one hour.
Borrowing Privileges
All faculty members and students are eligible to check out materials from the
Benedictine Library collection. Your Benedictine ID card will also permit in-person or
remote check out of materials from all the CARLI member libraries. Interlibrary loan
service is also available at no cost.
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Placing Items on Reserve
Becker Library will hold single or multiple copies of materials on Course Reserve for
instructors, providing all Reserve and Copyright policies have been met. Certain
items can be scanned and made available online. Requests must be delivered to
the library at least two full business days before the items are expected to be
available (i.e., Monday by noon will be available by Wednesday noon). Please
inform students of this processing time if reserve items are assigned before they
have been placed on reserve. Processing time at the beginning of the semester may
be longer due to the volume of requests. To request a Course Reserve or for
additional information about Reserves, please contact Pamm Collebrusco, 217-7183475 or pcollebrusco@ben.edu.
Reserve items, at the Circulation desk or online, are kept for the current term only.
Instructors would need to place another request should they wish to have such
items available for another term. Items can be placed on Reserve for the following
time increments: Library-use-only (2 hour reserve), overnight, one day, three day,
or one week. Items may only have one loan period (it cannot change throughout
the class term). Be aware that students are fined for overdue reserve items. Fines
accrue at the rate of $1.00 per hour.
Unsupervised Copying
Becker Library posts the following notice on all unsupervised copying machines and
workstations.
Notice: the copyright law of the United States (Title 17 U.S. Code) governs the
making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The person
using this equipment is liable for any infringement.
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14. SAFETY AND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY GUIDE
Benedictine University at Springfield Campus Emergency Response
and Recovery Plan can be found at
http://www1.ben.edu/springfield/about/download/emergency_guide082008.pdf
At Benedictine University, we take the safety and security of our campus, our
students, our faculty and staff, and our visitors very seriously. This guide has been
designed to provide you with practical knowledge that will be helpful before, during,
and after emergencies. All classrooms on campus have an emergency guide. We
encourage you to read this guide and keep it handy.
Emergency Notification System
During an emergency or disaster, several methods can be used to alert the
community. These include 1) a campus-wide broadcast email with “Importance
High” sent to all faculty, staff and students, 2) broadcast voicemail that leaves a
message on all voicemail accounts, and 3) a page sent to every cell phone on
campus submitted to our database. The University website springfield.ben.edu will
displays announcements on the main page, the switchboard provides a recorded
message, and members of the Emergency Response and Recovery Team provide
verbal notifications by walking around to all campus buildings. Fire alarms are
installed in all campus buildings.
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EMERGENCY GUIDE
Medical Emergencies
• Call 911 immediately, and then notify campus police.
• Do not attempt to move the victim unless he/she is in danger of further injury.
• Properly trained individuals should begin CPR for an unresponsive victim who is
not breathing normally.
• Properly trained individuals should commence first aid while awaiting an
ambulance, particularly to stop heavy bleeding.
• If alcohol poisoning is suspected, keep the person awake.
First Aid/Bodily Fluid Kits Locations:
•
Business Office/Dawson Hall
•
Campus Police/Beata Hall.
•
Athletic Office/Dawson Hall.
•
Bookstore/Dawson Hall
•
Becker Library/Dawson Hall
•
Campus Ministry/Beata Hall
•
P.I.T. (Lower level Angela Hall)
•
Campus Police Squad Car
Mental Health Emergencies
In the event of overtly threatening behavior constituting an immediate threat to self
or others, call 911, and then call campus police. In non-emergency situations,
refer students to the Student Assistance Program at (217) 744-2455 and notify the
Dean of Students at 217-717-9227.
• Express your concerns directly to the individual
• Make referral in the presence of the individual and offer to accompany them.
• Watch for changes in behavior, including:
1. Significant changes in academic or work performance;
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2. Changes in hygiene, speech, attentiveness or social interaction;
3. Excessive drinking or drug use;
4. Severe loss of emotional control;
5. High levels of irritability
6. Impaired speech or garbled/disjointed thoughts;
7. Excessively morbid, violent or depressing themes in written
assignments
8. Verbal expression of suicidal or violent thoughts
Menacing Behavior
• Stay calm and unhurried in your response to the person.
• Be empathetic and show your concern.
• Try to sit down with the person, as sitting is a less aggressive posture than
standing or moving around.
• Be helpful. Schedule an appointment for a later time, take notes.
• Provide positive feedback such as, “We can get this straightened out,” or “I’m
glad you’re telling me how you feel about this.”
• Stay out of arm’s reach.
• Limit eye contact.
• Do not argue, yell or joke.
• Do not touch the person.
If the individual’s level of agitation increases, attempt the following:
• Leave the scene.
• Call 911
• Alert co-workers using an agreed-upon code word to indicate trouble.
• Do not allow menacing behavior to go unreported. Contact the Chief of Campus
Police at 217-717-9251 or (217) 306-8031.
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Violent Crime in Progress
If exiting the building is possible:
• Exit the building immediately.
• Notify others as you exit the building.
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Call 911 immediately upon reaching a safe location.
If exiting the building is not possible:
• Go to the nearest room or office.
• Close and lock the door.
• Cover the door windows.
• Keep quiet and act as if no one is in the room.
• DO NOT answer the door.
• Call 911.
• Place a window card in the outside window: Green-if all in the room are ok;
Red-if someone has an injury.
• Wait in the room until a campus or law enforcement official gives you the
OK to leave the room.
Explosions
• Call 911, then call Chief of Campus Police, 217-717-9251.
• Take cover under sturdy furniture or evacuate the building if directed to do so by
authorized emergency personnel.
• DO NOT use cell phones or any electrical device that could spark further
explosions.
• Signal for help by shouting or hanging an article of clothing from a window, but
do not linger by windows.
• If possible, move away from the site of the hazard to a safe location.
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Suspicious Mail/Packages
• Do not use a cell phone as it can trigger an explosive device.
• Do not move, open, cover or interfere with the package.
• Move away from the suspicious items.
• Notify campus officials or call 911 from a safe location.
• Follow police instructions.
Bomb Threat
All bomb threats are to be taken seriously. Call 911 immediately.
If you receive a bomb threat by telephone, remain calm, write down the caller’s
exact words and note the time of the call. If possible, check for caller ID
information. Ask the caller:
• When is the bomb going to explode?
• Where is the bomb?
• What does it look like?
• What kind of bomb is it?
• What will cause it to explode?
• Did you place the bomb?
• What is your name and address?
If you receive a bomb threat in written form:
• Notify the Chief of Campus Police at 217-717-9251, 381-6861 (cell)
• Do a quick visual inspection of your area. Do not touch or move any suspicious
objects.
• Do not use radios, pagers or cell phones as they can trigger an explosive device.
• If you are told to evacuate the area by authorized emergency personnel, take
your notes about the call with you.
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• Follow your class’s evacuation procedures.
Fire
• Alert people in the immediate area of the fire, and evacuate.
• Confine the fire by closing doors as you leave.
• Activate a fire alarm by pulling on an alarm box.
• Call 911 or use an emergency phone to report the location and size of the fire.
Always call from a safe location.
• Evacuate the building. Do not use elevators unless directed to do so by authorized
emergency personnel.
• Do not re-enter the building until authorized emergency personnel give the “all
clear” signal.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door
closed.
• Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the window.
• If there is a telephone in the room, call 911 to alert authorities of your situation.
• Report all fires, even those which have been extinguished, to campus officials.
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15. BUILDING EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Leave your building immediately when an alarm sounds or if you are instructed to
do so by authorized emergency personnel or college official.
• Notify others on your way out.
• Turn off equipment.
• Take important personal items.
• Close doors behind the last person out.
• Walk quickly to the nearest safe exit.
• Do not re-enter the building until authorized emergency personnel give the
“all clear” signal.
• Report any missing or trapped persons to authorized emergency personnel.
• Move away from the building.
• Go to your evacuation meeting site. Even if you were not in your building
when it was evacuated, go to your evacuation meeting site so you will be
accounted for.
If you are required to leave the building immediately but are unable to
(because of a physical disability, injury or obstruction):
• Go to the nearest area where there are no hazards.
• Call 911.
• Signal out the window to emergency responders if possible.
• Remain calm, responders will arrive.
Evacuating Persons With Disabilities
Instructors and supervisors should be proactive and be aware of people who will
need assistance.
Assisting Blind/Visually Impaired:
• Clearly announce the type of emergency.
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• Offer your arm for guidance.
• Tell the person where you are going, and alert him/her to obstacles along
the way.
Assisting Deaf/Hearing Impaired:
• Turn lights on and off to gain the person’s attention.
• Indicate directions with gestures or a written note.
Assisting Mobility-Impaired/Wheelchair Users:
• Elevators should not be used to move people with disabilities.
• Seek volunteers to assist students/personnel with physical disabilities to
the nearest enclosed stairway or designated areas for rescue assistance.
• One individual should remain with the person(s) if it can be done without
unreasonable personal risk.
• Others should advise emergency personnel of the location so that the
evacuation can be completed.
• If an imminent danger situation exists and the person requests assistance
in evacuation before emergency personnel can arrive, assist in finding
volunteers to evacuate the person per his/her instructions.
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16. UTILITY EMERGENCIES
In the event of a major utility failure during regular business hours, go to a safe
location and notify the Physical Plant Staff at 217-718-3469. After 4:30 or on
weekends or holidays call 306-8035.
Electrical Outage
• Evacuate the building if the fire alarm sounds or upon notification by authorized
emergency personnel.
• In laboratories, fume hoods to not operate during a power outage and the
laboratory should not be used until the ventilation is properly restored.
Gas Leak/Unusual Odors
• Cease all operations immediately.
• Do not use cell phones or other electronic equipment.
• Do not switch lights on or off.
• Evacuate as soon as possible.
Flooding/Plumbing Failure
• Cease using all electrical equipment.
• Avoid contact with the water.
• Evacuate the building.
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17. WEATHER EMERGENCIES AND INCLEMENT WEATHER
All campus buildings are equipped with a weather radio which broadcasts news of
severe weather watches and warnings.
Tornados
In Illinois, tornadoes are most likely to occur during April, May, and June. While the
majority of tornadoes occur in the Midwest, a twister can strike almost anywhere
and at any time. When a tornado is coming, you have only a short amount of time
to make life-or-death decisions. Advance planning and quick response are the keys
to surviving a tornado. One of the most alarming aspects of tornadoes is their
randomness. Your best defense is to be alert and prepared.
Below is the list of refuge areas by building.
•
Becker Library – The Lower Level/RC.
•
Dawson Hall - The Lower Level (away from any basement windows).
•
Angela Hall - The basement area.
Faculty and staff need to be aware of additional options that can be taken for
refuge. Please review the following options to determine what other actions you
may need to take when a tornado warning has been given. The best thing to
remember is to put as many walls between you and the outside and to get to the
lowest level of the building.
Based on an individual’s or classroom situation:
•
Go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room without windows, such as a
bathroom or closet.
•
Get away from the windows.
•
Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to
attract debris.
•
Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench, heavy table or
desk and hold on to it.
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•
Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias and large
hallways.
Thunderstorms
• Stay away from windows.
• Draw shades or blinds to reduce injury from flying glass.
• Minimize use of electric appliances.
School Closings Due to Inclement Weather
A decision to have a delayed opening will be made by 6:00 a.m. A decision to
cancel morning classes only or all morning/afternoon/evening classes will be made
by 6:00 am. The decision to cancel afternoon classes only or all afternoon/evening
classes will be made by 10:00 a.m. (this applies to classes beginning at 12:15 p.m.
or later). A decision to cancel evening classes only will be made by 2:00 p.m. (this
applies to classes beginning at 6:00 p.m. or later at the Benedictine University at
Springfield’s campus and all cohort classes beginning at 4:00 p.m.).
The University will notify the following media with Emergency Closing information:
Radio Stations
TV Stations
Websites
WMAY AM970
WICS ABC Channel 20
www.wics.com
WTAX AM1240
WAND NBC Channel 17
www.springfield.ben.edu
WTAX FM107.5
WDBR FM103.7
Contact your Department Chair/Program Director regarding making up missed
classes.
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18. SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARRASSMENT POLICIES
Sexual Assault is any type of sexual activity that is unwanted by someone to whom
you have not given your consent. A sexual assault may include the use of physical
force, threats, or intimidation. Sexual assault is a crime and will not be tolerated at
Benedictine University by any members of the campus community, including
students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Sexual harassment in any form will not be tolerated in any form at Benedictine
University. Sexual harassment includes unwanted sexual advances, and any
physical or verbal statements that cause another member of the campus
community to feel uncomfortable, or cause interference with another student’s
academic success, and causes an uncomfortable living or working environment.
Using a position or information as leverage for sexual favors is harassment and will
not be tolerated.
Additionally, the College will not tolerate any retaliation against any individual who
reports an instance of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment can take several
forms including verbal, non-verbal or physical. Examples of verbal harassment may
include asking personal questions about social or sexual life or turning discussion
towards sexual topics. Non-verbal harassment can include staring, sexual or
derogatory comments, pictures of men or women on posters or coffee mugs, or
making sexual gestures with hands or body movements. Physical harassment can
include unwanted massaging, pulling on a person’s clothing, or touching the
person’s clothing, hair or body.
Sexual harassment should be reported within 24 hours of the time of the incident to
the Division Chair or Academic Dean’s Office to help ensure the incident can be
appropriately investigated and addressed. Students should report incidents of
sexual harassment to the Dean of Student Affairs or their academic advisor.
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19. CAMPUS SECURITY AND CRIME REPORTING
The College works to provide a safe environment for all members of the Benedictine
community. An emergency post is located in the main parking lot. In the event of
an emergency, push the emergency button on the post. The emergency posts are
connected to a central security surveillance system that will dispatch a member of
the College community to the post as soon as possible. The college will provide
evening patrols on a daily basis. Additionally, during the day, college officials and
campus police patrol the campus property. The College cannot be held responsible
for lost or stolen items.
All members of the campus/college community can contribute to campus safety. To
ensure your safety and the safety of your guests and
fellow members of the community, please remember the following
points:
1. Never leave items in your vehicle in plain view or leave your windows open
unattended;
2. Always lock your car;
3. Report suspicious activity to members of the Physical Plant and the Chief of
Campus Police.
Any alleged crimes occurring on campus or in the immediate surrounding
area must be reported to the Dean of Student Affairs. Victims of crimes on
campus are also encouraged to notify the Springfield Police Department and
Benedictine University at Springfield, in compliance with the Jeanne Cleary Act of
1974, will collect and submit all crime information to the Department of Education
as well as the Benedictine community.
Jeanne Cleary Campus Security Report
Benedictine University is in compliance with the Jeanne Cleary Disclosure of
Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, as amended in 1998.
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This federal law mandates the timely annual disclosure of information about
campus crime and security policies.
All current students and employees will automatically receive information regarding
the report by October 1. Prospective students and employees may request a copy
of the report through the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs. A copy of the report
will be available for inspection in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs.
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20. Academic Honesty Policy
Purpose of the Academic Honesty Policy
The search for truth and the dissemination of knowledge are the central missions of
a university. Benedictine University pursues these missions in an environment
guided by our Roman Catholic tradition and our Benedictine heritage. Integrity and
honesty are therefore expected of all University students. Actions such as cheating,
plagiarism, collusion, fabrication, forgery, falsification, destruction, multiple
submission, solicitation, and misrepresentation are violations of these expectations
and constitute unacceptable behavior in the University community.
Student's Responsibility
Though there is no formal honor code at Benedictine University, students are
expected to exhibit academic honesty at all times. Violations against academic
honesty are always serious and may result in sanctions that could have profound
long-term effects. The final responsibility for understanding the Academic Honesty
Policy of the institution, as well as the specific policies for individual courses
normally found in syllabi, rests with students. If any doubt exists about what
constitutes academic dishonesty, students have the responsibility to talk to the
faculty member. Students should expect the members of their class to be
academically honest. If students believe one or more members of the class have
been deceitful to gain academic advantage in the class, students should feel
comfortable to approach the faculty member of the course without prejudice. A
student has the right to appeal a sanction. In all instances, the appeal process
begins with the faculty member of the course. Details concerning the appeals
process are given below. Written documentation must accompany an appeal
explaining why the student finds the decisions made by the faculty member
unsatisfactory.
Responsibility and Authority of the Faculty
In the classroom, faculty members are responsible for establishing an environment
that promotes honest and ethical behavior. Faculty members will utilize the course
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syllabus as a vehicle for informing students about the Academic Honesty Policy.
Faculty members should also explain course-specific rules and consequences, which
will be included in the syllabus. Emphasis should be placed on educating students
on proper academic techniques for work, study, authorship, and test taking.
Violations
The following actions are viewed as violations of the Academic Honesty Policy.
Beyond these specific violations, any action expressly forbidden in a course syllabus
will be treated as a violation of this policy. The syllabus for a course will detail
specific actions encouraged, permitted, and forbidden in that course. Discussions
between faculty members and students on this topic are healthy and encouraged.
•
Cheating - using or providing unauthorized materials, information, study aids
in an academic exercise, or copying from other students,
•
Plagiarism - in an academic exercise, adopting, reproducing, or representing
the ideas or statements of another as one's own, without proper
acknowledgement,
•
Collusion - working together with another on an academic exercise when that
is not permitted,
•
Fabrication - using made-up information or sources in an academic exercise,
•
Forgery - knowingly using another person's signature in an academic
exercise, or on any academic document,
•
Falsification - altering or misrepresenting information related to academic
research or assignments, internships, clinical experiences, portfolios and
other academic records,
•
Destruction - knowingly removing, destroying, or concealing academic
materials belonging to the University, faculty, staff or student,
•
Multiple submission - using previously completed work to meet a requirement
of a course, or using the same paper or project in more than one course,
without permission from the faculty member(s) teaching the course(s),
•
Solicitation - asking another to assist in an act of cheating, plagiarism,
fabrication, falsification, forgery or destruction related to an academic
exercise, document or record, or offering to do so for another, and
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•
Misrepresentation - knowingly altering or misstating facts for the purpose of
gaining an extension of time or deadline related to an academic assignment
or to influence an appeal related to a grade, course withdrawal, waiver or
academic standing.
Reporting and Communicating
If you suspect a student has violated the Academic Honesty Policy, copy any
assignments, essays, or exams, document the occurrence, and contact your
Division Chair immediately
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21. Confidentiality of Student Records
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The teacher-student relationship is a confidential one. No information is to be
released about a student to another student, external person (best friend,
parents, spouse), or agency without the student's written consent. You
must be aware of and comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
(FERPA), also known as the Buckley Amendment, which defines what confidential
information is and how it can be released with or without the student's consent.
This issue comes up most frequently in the context of parents wanting to know
"how their son or daughter is doing." FERPA, which is a federal law, gives the
student the right to control the disclosure of information from education records,
and this includes a student's current grade. The only way for an instructor to
disclose a student's grade to parents (or to anyone else) is for the student to sign a
form that authorizes the release of this information. It specifies who the information
can be released to and what information can be released. Even if a student has
signed a release form, it is highly recommended that you do not give
information to anyone via phone or email because there is no way to
guarantee that the person on the other end is who they claim to be. It is
recommended that you meet with the student and the third party in person
to discuss any questions. Confidential Release Authorization forms are available
in the Registrar’s office and online at
http://www.ben.edu/advising/documentation/universal/confidential_release.pdf. To find
out if a student has completed a Confidential Release Authorization Form, contact
the Registrar’s Office.
According to FERPA regulations, graded student work may not be left in a pile for
students to pick up. Papers must either be returned in person to each student or, if
it is the end of the semester and you know you will not be seeing the student in the
near future, you may ask that students, who wish to receive their work back, give
you a stamped, self-addressed envelope. You can mail the work product to the
student when you have finished grading it.
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The following information is from
http://www.ben.edu/advising/understandingferpa.asp
Basics of FERPA
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, also known as the Buckley
Amendment, addresses the issue of student privacy. Although there are many
regulations that must be adhered to, FERPA permits some flexibility with regard to
how it is administered. Through the enactment of FERPA in 1974, guidelines were
established prohibiting institutions from releasing student information to anyone
without expressed written permission from the student.
Why comply with FERPA? IT IS A FEDERAL LAW!
The law gives students the following rights:
•
The right to inspect and review education records.
•
The right to seek an amendment to education records.
•
The right to control disclosure of information from educational records.
•
The right to file a complaint with FERPA in Washington D.C.
What are educational records?
The "Act" applies to all education records maintained by a postsecondary institution
or by a party acting for the institution, which are directly related to a student.
Records containing a student's name, social security number or other personally
identifiable information are covered by FERPA, unless defined as "directory
information." Any information provided by a student to the University for use in the
education process is considered the educational record.
What is directory information?
FERPA permits the release of directory type information to third parties outside the
institution without written consent of the student provided that the student has
been given the opportunity to withhold such disclosure.
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Directory information is defined as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Student's name
Address
Phone Number
Date and place of birth
Major and minor fields of study
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Dates of attendance
Degrees and awards received
Most recent education institution attended
Email address
Full-time/part-time enrollment status
Photo ID/s
Directory information cannot include the following identifiable elements:
•
•
•
•
Student identification numbers, or social security numbers
Race/ethnicity
Nationality
Gender
Benedictine University has the policy of not releasing directory information to
outside agencies, such as vendors, requesting student directories with address
information. In compliance with the Solomon Act, directory information is provided
to the Military Services, if requested.
Who is protected under FERPA?
FERPA applies to the educational records of persons who are or have been in
attendance in postsecondary institutions. There is no age which prohibits FERPA, as
long as the person is or was enrolled at a postsecondary institution. FERPA does not
apply to records of applicants for admission who are denied acceptance, or if
accepted, do not attend an institution.
How is the annual notification communicated to students?
Students are notified of FERPA rights annually by publication in the Student
Handbook, the University Undergraduate, and Graduate Catalogs, and Course
Schedule publications.
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How do I withhold directory information?
Currently enrolled students may withhold disclosure of directory information listed
in part III. The form for this purpose of non-disclosure of designated directory
information is available in the Registrar’s office, and in the forms section of
"Advising Matters". A request to withhold information will remain in effect until the
individual withdraws the request.
Who has access to student information?
Students and former students have rights to impact their education records.
University officials, defined as faculty, administration, and professional staff, may
access student information without prior consent of the student. Access is
permissible if it is demonstrated that the University official is acting in the student's
"legitimate educational interest".
What is a third party release authorization?
A student may provide for release of identifiable, non-directory information to a
third party by signing a "Confidential Release Authorization" form. The form is
available in the Registrar’s office.
How do I obtain further information on FERPA?
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave, SW
Washington D.C., 20202-4605
Or, access FERPA regulations via http://www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco/index.html
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