On what date does the course begin? The course begins on January 15, but I recommend logging onto the course Blackboard a week before the class starts.

How long is the class? This is a semester long, online course. I accept assignments and resubmissions through May 2. Final grades are due to the registrar by May 13.

What do I need to complete the first week? Module 1 in Blackboard. Becuase Monday January 17 is a holiday (MLK day), your assignments for the first week are best by Tuesday January 18. Besides the first week, all assignments are best by Mondays 11:59pm.

What if I need to submit something late? I have "best by" dates - the assignments work best when you submit by the due dates. In order for me to provide timely feedback to help you improve, build towards the next module, and interact with classmates. I advise submitting by the due dates on Blackboard or within one week. However, life happens. I will accept anything until May 2 (the Monday of finals week) except for first drafts and peer-review for infographics. I do not deduct points for late work. If links are expired, please email me. Late work may take longer to grade and contain less detailed feedback.

Are there live (online or in-person) sessions? No, this class is fully online. I will offer communal Zoom sessions throughout the semester. These are not scheduled and will not be required.

Is there a required textbook? There is no textbook. All reading material will be available in our Blackboard course.

What if I'm a survivor? First of all, welcome! You are not alone. Many students who enter victim studies have experienced victimization. I am trained in trauma-informed teaching and teach using survivor-centered approaches. This class will have heavy content. In Module 2, I provide detail on strategies for self-care and disclosing personal experiences. For many who've experiences trauma (including myself), college can be a space for introspection and getting connected to valuable resources that can help you! I want to support you in that journey. I am a mandated reporter, which means I must report disclosures of child abuse, elder abuse, and any sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking and is alleged to have been committed by or against a person who was a student enrolled at or an employee of the institution at the time of the incident. Disclosing can occur in assignments, discussions, or personal communications. To avoid triggering a report, leave out specific details, like time, location, names. If you say broadly "I'm a survivor of [domestic violence, sexual assault, etc]", that will NOT trigger a report.

What if I am overwhelmed with stress due to COVID or other social/personal issues? Your health and well-being come first. Communicate with me if you feel comfortable. I do not need to know details. Please note that I am a mandatory reporter, which means I must report harm and abuse that occurs on campus or during campus events as well as child and elder abuse. If you need to talk to someone confidentially, you can contact SHSU's Counseling Center directly and they offer free services for students. The SHSU Student Success Center is available to help you with academic issues. Other confidential resources include The SAAFE House (for sexual assault and family violence) 24-hour crisis hotline 936-291-3369 or 936-327-2513, National Domestic Violence Hotline, Montgomery County Women’s Center 24-hour crisis hotline 936-441-7273 and The 24-hour National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255. To report gender-based harassment, assault, or discrimination on campus and/or involving a student or employee, visit SHSU's Title IX Office.