At Thunderbird, we are committed to fostering a vibrant, respectful, and inclusive academic environment that empowers all students to thrive. This page serves as your guide to essential policies, expectations, and resources designed to support your success. Whether you’re seeking clarity on classroom behavior standards, attendance policies, academic integrity, or resources for health, accessibility, and technical support, you’ll find everything you need here.

The content on this page is divided into three sections: 

  1. Class expectations;
  2. Student success and resources; and
  3. Technical requirements and support.

Explore the topics via the links to jump to that section of the page. We hope you will choose to stay informed and make the most of your Thunderbird experience.

Syllabus disclaimer

The content on this page serves as an extension to your course syllabus and is an educational contract between the instructor and students. Every effort will be made to avoid changing the course syllabus but the possibility exists that unforeseen events will make syllabus changes necessary. The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the syllabus (and content on this page) as deemed necessary. Students will be notified in a timely manner of any syllabus changes via email, or in the 'announcements' section in Canvas.

Policies and resources

Classroom behavior

Respectful and professional behavior is expected from all students at all times, both in person and online. This includes engaging in civil and constructive communication with peers and the instructor. Disruptive behavior, such as inappropriate comments or disrespectful language, will not be tolerated. By fostering a respectful and focused learning environment, we ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Threatening behavior

In alignment with Arizona State University’s policies, any threatening behavior, whether verbal, physical, or through other disruptive actions, is strictly prohibited in the classroom. Threatening conduct that interferes with the peaceful conduct of university business or creates a reasonable fear of harm is taken seriously. Incidents of such behavior must be reported to the ASU Police Department and the Office of the Dean of Students for assessment and action. Students should be aware that these behaviors can result in disciplinary measures, including removal from the course or campus, depending on the severity of the threat. ASU prioritizes maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment, and it is every student’s responsibility to uphold this standard.

For more information, visit Handling Disruptive, Threatening, or Violent Individuals on Campus.

Attendance policy

Attendance is required and will be monitored throughout the course. Students are expected to attend all class sessions and arrive on time. Accommodations will be provided for excused absences due to serious documented illnesses, the death of a family member, religious observances (as per ASU policy ACD 304–04), or university-sanctioned events (in accordance with ASU policy ACD 304–02). Students must contact their instructor in advance if they need to miss a class session for one of these reasons. While accommodations will be made, students are still responsible for all coursework missed and for making arrangements for make-up assignments.

Absent or late instructor

In the event the instructor fails to indicate a time obligation, students should wait for 15 minutes for class sessions lasting 90 minutes or less, and 30 minutes for sessions longer than 90 minutes. If a representative from the academic unit informs students that the instructor will arrive shortly, students may be asked to wait beyond these time limits.

Add/drop and withdraw information

Please refer to the ASU Academic Calendar for important dates related to adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses. This page provides critical enrollment deadlines and overall session dates.
For specific instructions, visit How to Drop, Add and Withdraw

Important: If you are considering withdrawing from a course or your full semester course load, it is essential to consult with the Financial Aid Office, as your financial aid eligibility and tuition charges may be affected.

Academic integrity and student code of conduct

Academic honesty is expected of all students in all examinations, papers, laboratory work, academic transactions, and records. The ASU Student Academic Integrity Policy is strictly enforced for students found in violation.  For more information, visit Student Resources on Academic Integrity. Arizona State University expects all students to adhere to the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) Student Code of Conduct. This code fosters an educational environment based on intellectual honesty, respect, and responsible behavior. Violations may result in disciplinary actions aimed at personal growth and maintaining campus order.

For more information, visit Student Code of Conduct and Student Rights and Responsibilities.

Students must refrain from uploading to any course shell, discussion board, or website used by the course instructor or other course forum, material that is not the student's original work, unless the students first comply with all applicable copyright laws; faculty members reserve the right to delete materials on the grounds of suspected copyright infringement. 

The course syllabus and all other class materials (slide presentations, handouts, assignments, digital recordings, exams, quizzes, etc.) are the intellectual property of Arizona State University and are not to be publicly distributed or otherwise commercialized since these materials are copyright protected. Such materials are for sole use in that designated semester. It cannot be used in any other form unless via a written statement of approval from the instructor.

For more information, visit Computer, Internet, and Electronic Communications Information Management Policy

Commercial note-taking services

Commercial note-taking services are prohibited in accordance with ASU policy ACD 304-06.

Third-party software and FERPA

During this course, students may be required to use public online services or third-party software applications, such as blogs or wikis. While some of these tools will be part of required assignments, students are not obligated to provide any personally identifying information on these platforms. Students should avoid posting or sharing any private information about themselves or their classmates. Where appropriate, a student may use a pseudonym or nickname. Although some assignments may involve personal reflections or public comments, these tasks will not require students to disclose sensitive or personally identifiable information. If a student has concerns, they should contact the instructor. 

Student success

To learn about resources available to Thunderbird students designed to help them succeed, including facilities, student clubs, housing, student advising, employment, internships, and events, visit Thunderbird Student Resources.

Time commitment

Your success in this class largely depends on the time you invest in attending lectures, studying independently, and completing assignments. Whether you enroll in a course for a full semester (15 weeks) or a half semester (7.5 weeks), the required time remains the same, but the weekly workload differs significantly. If you’re considering a half-semester course, be prepared for an intensive experience, as the accelerated schedule requires twice the weekly time commitment. Strong time management skills are essential. 

A full semester, 3-credit course will require approximately 9 hours per week, including both in-class time and out-of-class study and work. In contrast, a half-semester, 3-credit course will require approximately 18 hours per week.

Academic resources

ASU provides a variety of free services, both in-person and online, to help currently enrolled students succeed academically. These services include subject area tutoring, writing tutoring, review sessions, supplemental instruction, workshops, and more. For more information, visit Academic Support Network.

ASU Library

The ASU Library offers a wide range of services designed to support the academic needs of students, including information assistance, course materials, technology lendings, interlibrary loans, workshops, and study spaces.  For more information, visit ASU Library and ASU Libraries Tutorial.

Disability accommodations

Reasonable accommodations are determined on a case-by-case, course-by-course basis to mitigate barriers experienced due to a disability (SSM 701-02). Students with disabilities who require accommodations must register with the Student Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Services and submit appropriate documentation. Students must complete this process at the beginning of the term and communicate as appropriate with their instructor.

Mental health 

Students may experience a range of challenges that can interfere with learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, substance use, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These emotional health concerns or stressful events may diminish academic performance and/or reduce the ability to participate in daily activities. ASU Counseling Services provides counseling and crisis services for students who are experiencing a mental health concern. Any student may call or walk-in to any ASU counseling center for a same day or future appointment to discuss any personal concern. ASU's dedicated crisis line is available 24/7 for crisis consultation by calling (480) 921-1006.

Health services

Students have access to ASU Health Services dedicated to the well-being and educational success of each individual student by providing high-quality health care that is accessible, affordable and compassionate. 

Inclusion and culture

ASU promotes equal opportunity through affirmative action in employment and educational programs and activities. Discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, and qualified veteran status.

For more information, visit Advancing Inclusion and Culture and Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation.

Sexual violence awareness, prevention, and response

Title IX is a federal law that provides that no person be excluded on the basis of sex from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity. Both Title IX and university policy make clear that sexual violence and harassment based on sex is prohibited. An individual who believes they have been subjected to sexual violence or harassed on the basis of sex can seek support, including counseling and academic support, from the university. As a mandated reporter, instructors are obligated to report any information they become aware of regarding alleged acts of sexual discrimination, including sexual violence and dating violence. For more information, visit Sexual Violence Awareness, Prevention and Response.

Technical requirements

  • Desktop or laptop computer: Must be current within the last five (5) years for optimal performance. While the Canvas app is available for mobile devices its functionality is limited. For full access to course materials and functionality, use Canvas primarily on a desktop or laptop.
  • Stable, high-speed internet access: Consistent internet is essential for accessing materials, submitting assignments, and participating in discussions and tests.
  • Up-to-date web browser: Use the most recent version of a web browser. Chrome is the preferred browser for Canvas.
  • Audio equipment: Speakers or headphones (built-in or external) are necessary for multimedia content.
  • Webcam and microphone: An external or internal webcam with a microphone may be required for some course activities and exams.
  • Word processing software: You will need access to a word processing program. ASU students have free access to Microsoft 365 and Google Docs through their ASURITE account.
  • Smartphone or mobile device: A mobile device capable of downloading apps may be needed for specific tasks.

Please inform the instructor if any of the above presents a hardship for you. ASU may have some resources to help students in need.

Thunderbird technical support

The Thunderbird technical support team is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the fourth floor, Room 427. Additionally, a tech support station staffed by student workers is located on the third floor in Area 352. To contact the Thunderbird technical support team, call 602-496-7999 or email helpdesk.tbird@asu.edu.

ASU Experience Center

The ASU Experience Center is available to provide technical support 24/7, 365 days a year. Students may obtain personalized support via phone, live chat, or by submitting a request online. You may also obtain assistance by clicking on the Help tab in your MyASU portal. To contact the ASU Experience Center by phone, call 1-855-278-5080 or 1-480-965-6500. To contact the ASU Experience Center by live chat, visit ASU Experience Center Live chat. To submit a service request, visit Service Center.

Canvas help and resources

Regardless of modality, this course will require logging into Canvas via the ASU Canvas Dashboard or through MyASU and selecting the Canvas button. Students can contact the ASU Experience Center to obtain assistance with Canvas or contact the Canvas support team via the Canvas Live Chat

Additionally, the following resources may be helpful. These resources provide tutorials and support for navigating Canvas and completing course-related tasks.