LAMAR STATE COLLEGE ORANGE SYLLABUS

PTAC, 1432, Process Instrumentation I, 10A

COURSE INFORMATION

Instructor Name	Tony Bramblett
Building/Office Number	Wilson Building (WB), Room 104
Office Hours	7:00 until 8:00 am Monday Through Friday
Virtual Hours	None
Office Telephone	(409) 882-3021
Email Address	Tony.Bramblett@lsco.edu
Course Schedule	Building: Wilson Building (WB), Room: 0000134, Dates: 8/25/2025 - 12/16/2025, Days: MTWRF, Times: 8:00am - 9:00am
Course Description	Study of the instruments and control systems used in the process industry including terminology, process variables, symbology, control loops, and basic troubleshooting.

Required Textbook & Materials

Upon registration for classes, LSCO students are automatically charged $14 per semester credit hour for access to all required textbooks, lab manuals, lab codes, and electronic books on the first day of class through the Gator Book Pack. Information about the LSCO Gator Book Pack as well as responses to common FAQs can be found on LSCO's webpage. ALL STUDENTS WILL HAVE UNTIL THE SECOND DAY OF THE SEMESTER TO OPT-OUT OF THE GATOR BOOK PACK.

Every student MUST have access to the required textbooks by the week of class. The student will be responsible for all assignments given. Failure to have a text may result in being dropped from the class. Failure to follow instructions (written or oral) will result in penalties.


Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)

Upon successful completion of this course, students will acquire the following course learning outcomes:

Core Objectives

Course Level: Introductory

Course Description: Study of the instruments and control systems used in the process industry including terminology, process variables, symbology, control loops, and basic troubleshooting.

End-of-Course Outcomes: Explain the function of the various instruments used in the process industry; diagram the process control elements in a control loop; utilize terms and symbols in instrumentation; and interpret process flow diagram and piping and instrumentation drawing.

Lab Recommended

CIP Code Description: 41.0301 (Chemical Technology/Technician)

Effective Date: September 1, 2022

 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
Introduction to Instrumentation	1. 2. 3.	Discuss the evolution and importance of process instrumentation to the process industries. Explain the importance of monitoring process variables. Discuss the operator’s leadership role, in relation to safety, when monitoring process variables.
	4.	Explain the importance of process instrumentation to a process technician: Eyes and ears of the process technician Tool for monitoring and troubleshooting process control Effective communications with instrument technician for troubleshooting and repairs
	5.	Define terms associated with instrumentation: local remote indicating recording pneumatic electronic process variables controlling analog digital o      DCS (Distributive Control Systems) o    PLC (Programmable Logic Control) control loop differential (delta ∆) split range
	6.	Describe the major process variables controlled in the process industries and define their units of measurement: Flow (gallons per minute, pounds per minute, pounds per hour, barrels per hour, etc.) Pressure (psig, psia) Temperature (Fahrenheit, Celsius) Level (percent, inches of water column, interface) Analytical (ppm, percentage, ratio, pH, etc.) Other (vibration, variable speed control, proximity switches, amp-meter, etc.)
	7.	Explain the relationship between common process variables: What happens to the pressure in a closed container when temperature increases/decreases? ï‚·What happens to the temperature in a closed container when pressure increases/decreases? What happens to vessel bottom pressure when height of liquid increases/decreases? What happens to boiling point of a material when pressure increases/decreases? What happens to the volume of a material when temperature increases/decreases? What happens to the density of a material when temperature increases/decreases?  What happens to the differential pressure when the flow increases/decreases?

 

TOPIC

OBJECTIVES

Process Variables, Elements and Instruments - Pressure

Define units of measurement associated with pressure and pressure instruments: PSIG (pounds per square inch gauge) PSIA (pounds per square inch atmospheric) bars Inches H2O Inches Hg (mercury) mm Hg Abs Inches Hg Vac atmospheres Discuss the formula used to calculate pressure and identify the three components that affect the force exerted by molecules:  ï‚·Speed (temperature) ï‚·number of molecules mass (liquid) Identify common types of pressure-sensing/measuring instruments used in the process industries: gauges differential pressure cells manometers strain gauge Describe the purpose and operation of pressure-sensing/measuring instruments used in industrial settings. Given a standard calculator and conversion formulas convert between the following pressure scales: pounds per square inch gauge (psig) and pounds per square inch absolute (psia) inches of mercury (in. Hg) and inches of water (in. H2O) psi (pounds per square inch) and inches of water column

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Topic		Objectives
Process Variables, Elements and Instruments – Temperature	1.	Define units of measure associated with temperature and temperature instruments: ï‚·differential (delta) ï‚·temperature scales oFahrenheit oCelsius/Centigrade
	2.	Describe the effect heat energy has on the movement of molecules.
	3.	Identify common types of temperature-sensing/measurement devices used in the process industries: ï‚·resistance temperature detector (RTD) thermometer thermocouple temperature gauge bimetallic strip
	4.	Describe the purpose and operation of various temperature sensing/measurement devices used in the process industries.
	5.	Given a standard calculator and conversion formulas, complete Fahrenheit and Celsius conversion
Process Variables, Elements and Instruments - Level	1.	Define terms associated with level and level instruments: ullage (outage) innage interface level direct/indirect measurement meniscus
	2.	Identify common types, purposes, and operation of level-sensing/measuring devices used in the process industries: gauge/sight-glass (reflex or clear glass) differential pressure cells floats displacer bubblers nuclear devices ultrasonic devices tape/ball radar
	3.	Discuss hydrostatic head pressure in relation to level measurement.
	4.	Describe the level control as it relates to the temperature, density, and volume of liquid.

           

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
Process Variables, Elements and Instruments – Flow	1.	Define terms associated with flow and flow measuring instruments: fluids (gases and liquids) metered displacement laminar turbulent differential pressure weight/mass measurement
	2.	Identify the most common types of flow-sensing and measuring devices used in the process industries and their purposes and operation: orifice plate venturi tube flow nozzle pitot tube multiport pitot tube (Annubar)  rotameters magmeter turbine meters mass flow meter (Coriolis) vortex meter ultrasonic meter others
	3.	Describe the purpose and operation of flow-sensing/measurement devices used in process industries.
	4.	Explain the difference between total volume flow and flow rate.
	5.	Explain the difference between mass flow and volume flow.

 
 
 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
Process Variables, Elements and Instruments – Analytical	1.	Define terms associated with analytical instruments: pH (acid/base) and ORP (oxidation reduction potential) conductivity Optical Measurements Chromatography Combustion TOC (total organic carbon)
	2.	Identify the most common types of analytical devices used in the process industries: ï‚·gas/liquid chromatograph ORP (oxidation reduction potential)/ pH meter conductivity meter Color analyzers optical analyzers turbidity analyzer/meter opacity analyzer/meter TOC (total organic carbon) analyzer spectrophotometers UV (ultraviolet)/VIS (visible) IR (Infrared) O2 analyzer LEL (lower explosive limits)
	3.	Explain the purpose of analytical devices used in process industries.
	4.	Explain how analytical data affects the role of the process technician.
	5.	Review the difference between online versus laboratory analysis.

 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
Miscellaneous Measuring Devices	1.	Define terms associated with miscellaneous measuring devices: ï‚·load cells density vibration rotational speed amperage decibels
	2.	Identify common types of miscellaneous measuring devices: Vibration meter load cells proximity sensors (pickups for speed) ï‚·Amp meters. decibel meters, etc.
Introduction to Control Loops (Simple Loop Theory)	1. 2.	Explain the function of a control loop.  Describe process control loop elements: Process Variables (PV) measuring means (primary element/transmitter) controller (set point) final control element (valve or louvers)
	3.	Explain signal transmission: Pneumatic Electronic analog Discrete Digital mechanical
	4.	Classify the functions of a control scheme: Sensing Measuring comparing transducing (converting) controlling
	5.	Review the differences between “open” and “closed” control loops.
	6.	Explain the purpose of instrument air systems.

 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
	7.	Describe the various types of instrument air systems: Instrument air Nitrogen Process gases
Control Loops: Controllers	1.	Explain the terms associated with controllers: direct acting reverse acting set point auto/manual switch local/remote switch tuning oproportional band/gain ointegral/reset oderivative/rate
	2.	Given a drawing or actual device, identify and  explain the operation of the following: local controller remote controller split-range controller ratio controller Cascade/Remote Set Point (RSP) controller
	3.	Identify an application which would require the following devices: ï‚·local controller remote controller split range controller ratio controller Cascade controller
	4.	Explain “bumpless” transfer of auto to manual control.
	5.	Explain the “bumpless” transfer of manual to auto control.
	6.	Explain the process for switching from auto control to manual control on a local controller.
	7.	Explain the process for switching from manual control to automatic control on a local controller.
	8.	Demonstrate various control skills, such as: make set point adjustments on a local controller operate a local controller in manual mode make set point adjustments on a remote controller switch from manual to automatic control on a remote controller without bumping the process
TOPIC	OBJECTIVES
Control Loops: Primary Sensors, Transmitters, and Transducers	Explain the function of measuring instruments (pressure, temperature, level, and flow) and review their role in the overall control loop process. Explain the purpose and operation of the transmitter (D/P Cell) in a control loop. Compare and contrast the transmitter input and output signals (communication). Discuss differential pressure cell (D/P) in relation to the transmitter signal. Explain the function of a transducer (signal converter): I (current) to P (pneumatic) P (pneumatic) to I (current) Compare and contrast the relationship between air (3 psig to 15 psig) and electric signals (4 ma to 20 ma). Given an example of a process control scheme, demonstrate how a control loop functions.
Switches, Relays, Alarms	1.	Explain the purpose and function of a switch.
	2.	Explain the purpose and function of a relay.
	3.	Explain the purpose and function of an alarm.
	4.	Review placement and use of a switch within a control loop (open and closed).
	5.	Review the placement and use of a relay within a control loop (open and closed) and in a process unit.
	6.	Review the placement and use of an alarm within a control loop (open and closed) and in a process unit.
	7.	Identify switches, relays, and alarms on a Piping & Instrumentation Diagram.
Instrument Air Systems	1.	Discuss potential causes of instrument air failure: Compressor shuts down Wet/dew point (dryers) Plugging (scale, rust) Backup air failure Regulator failure Incorrect manifold alignment
	2.	Discuss corrective actions for each of the following scenarios: Compressor shut down Wet (dew point) Plugging Backup air failure Regulator failure Incorrect manifold alignment

 
 
 
             

TOPIC	OBJECTIVES
Control Valves and Final Control Elements	1. Explain the purpose and operation of the following: ï‚·control valves othree-way valve ogate valve o   globe valve (needle valve) o      butterfly valve

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
	2.	Explain the purpose and operation of the following: valve positioner manual operation (hand-jack) transducer (converter)
	3.	Define terms associated with valves and other final control elements: “air to close” (fail open) “air to open” (fail closed) fail last/in-place/as is double-acting diaphragm valve actuator double-acting piston valve actuator solenoid variable speed motor
	4.	Given a drawing or actual device, identify the main components of a control valve: Body Bonnet Disc Actuator Stem Seat Spring Valve positioner Hand-jack
	5.	Illustrate three types of final control elements and provide an application for each type: control valve – manipulates a process flow (liquid/gas) in response to a control signal damper/louver – manipulates an air flow to control draft setting or temperature setting motor – start, stop or variable speed in response to a control signal
	6.	Explain the role of the final control element as it relates to the process and the control  loop.
	7.	Given a drawing or actual instrument, identify and describe the operation of the following: instrument air regulator louver, damper, final control element variable speed motor used as a final control element
	8.	Review reasons why the action of a valve actuator may not correspond with the action of the valve: ï‚·         Calibration

 

TOPIC	OBJECTIVES
	Valve stroke Direct versus indirect action Incorrect air supply pressure / contamination ï‚·   Sticking valve Transducer operation Review actions for troubleshooting the items in number 7. Compare and contrast a spring and diaphragm actuator to a cylinder actuator. Explain the purpose of a valve positioner and describe its operation. Review the function of each of the three gauges located on a pneumatic valve positioner: Air supply Signal Output signal to actuator Given a signal pressure from an I/P determine what the valve position should be for the following: ï‚·Fail open Fail closed
Interlocks and Safety Features	1.	Explain the purpose of interlocks: Safety Process
	2.	Review the purpose of safety features: ï‚·Interlocks and valve actions ESD (Emergency Shutdown Devices) Limit switches (proximity, permissive) Redundant instrumentation Fail safe position Overspeed
	3.	Discuss potential consequences for bypassing or ignoring any of the safety features listed above.
Symbology; Process Diagrams – Part 1	1. 2.	Review the types of drawings that contain instrumentation that an operator might use. Explain the lettering and numbering standards based on ISA (Instrumentation Society of Automation) instrumentation symbols. (Legend)
	3.	Demonstrate how to determine the instrument type from the symbol information.
	4.    5.	Draw the standards for instrument line symbols: Electrical Pneumatic Digital Using a legend, correctly identify instrumentation on a drawing.

 

TOPIC		OBJECTIVES
Process Diagrams – Part 2	1. 2.	Compare and contrast P&IDs and PFDs. Given a PFD, trace process flows on the drawing and/or in the field locating major equipment.
	3.	Given a P&ID with a legend, locate and identify the components:
Instrumentation Sketching	1.	Given a P&ID, with a control loop, explain the relationship of one piece of instrumentation to another.
	2.	Given a process flow diagram of a major system, illustrate/draw control loops for the following variables: ï‚·Flow Level Temperature Pressure
	3.	Using training resources (process simulator, training unit, etc.) sketch instrumentation control loops.
Monitoring Process Variables	1. Given a P&ID identify key process variables that should be monitored.
Instrumentation Troubleshooting	Review the extent of an operator’s role when troubleshooting problems with process instruments (i.e., identify and not repair, which may vary between sites). Discuss hazards and consequences of deviation for operating outside normal control range of process variables. Identify typical malfunctions found in primary sensing elements and transmitters. Explain the importance of process knowledge in troubleshooting. Illustrate the proper use of equipment related to process troubleshooting. Discuss safety and environmental issues related to troubleshooting process instruments. Describe the symptoms of incorrect instrument calibration: Variation between local sight glass and level transmitter Variation between local pressure gauge and pressure transmitter Inconsistency among instruments How do process changes affect accurate measurement? o       Flow rate Density/specific gravity (composition) Temperature o  Pressure Given a scenario, demonstrate proactive action for correcting an abnormal process variable. Given a simulator or actual device, determine whether a control loop is in or out of control and identify the information used to make the decision.

 




Course Topical Outline


 

Week of	Day	Topic
8/25	M-F	Introduction To Process Tech 1302.  Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental
9/01	M-F	Introduction To Process Tech 1302.  Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental
9/8	M-F	Introduction To Process Tech 1302.  Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental
9/15	M-F	Introduction To Process Tech 1302.  Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental. 9/17 Start Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech 1 Equipment 1410
9/22	M-F	Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410
9/29	M-F	Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410
10-6	M-F	Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410
10/13	M-F	Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410, 10/15 Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314.
10/20	M-F	Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314.
10/27	M-F	Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314.
11/03	M-F	Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314.
11/10	M-F	Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314.
11/17	M-F	Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438.
11/24	M-F	Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438.
12-01	M-F	Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438.
12-08	M-F	Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438.
		Last Class Day; Review for Final Exam
		LSCO Graduation

 
 




Major Assignments Schedule

Class will include 4 tests, four Labs.
 Classes will consist of Lecture and equipment demonstrations.
Test weeks are identified in chart above.


Final Exam Date

October 14, 2025 - 8:00 AM   Through  October 14, 2025 - 10:00 AM


COURSE POLICIES

Academic Honesty

Faculty who suspect violation of academic honesty, cheating, plagiarism, collusion, or abuse of resource materials may assign an academic penalty.

Incidents of academic dishonesty are a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. An academic appeal process is afforded to students who desire to dispute a grade or any decision that affects the student's ability to complete and earn a grade for the course provided it is not related to a violation outlined in the LSCO Student Code of Conduct, including academic dishonesty.



Electronic Communication

LSCO students are required to use either their LSCO Blackboard account or their LSCO email account (Office 365 / Microsoft Outlook) for all electronic communication. In order to ensure the privacy and identity of the student communicating via electronic methods, LSCO faculty will direct students to use their LSCO email accounts rather than personal accounts. If a student has trouble accessing their LSCO email account, they should contact the LSCO Help Desk at (409) 882-3033 or helpdesk@lsco.edu.




Attendance Requirements

Federal regulations require students who receive financial aid to have begun "attending" and participate substantially in each course for which they are enrolled on or before the official census reporting date outlined on the LSCO Academic Calendar. Students documented as "not attending" a course upon the census date are assumed (for financial aid purposes) to have not begun attendance for that course, negatively affecting their financial aid eligibility and disbursement.

Attendance in an ONLINE course is verified by substantial participation in the course on or before the census date published in the LSCO Academic Calendar. Substantial participation in this online course is defined as logging in and completing/participating in at least one requirement of the course. Note: Simply logging in to your online course does not constitute attendance.

Hybrid classes are a mix of face-to-face and online environments. Students will be expected to attend a certain number of classes as required by the instructor. (Include the policy on absences and tardiness.) In addition to classroom attendance, your weekly active participation in the online component (Blackboard and/or homework software) will be considered and expected.




Make-up Work Policy



Absences: With an absence, Labs and Exams Grades will have a ZERO Grade recorded in the Grade Book until the missed Lab or missed exam is made up. If the exam is not made up by the next Exam date, the grade will remain a ZERO Grade. Any Lab that is missed will require the student to complete an additional assignment for a make-up grade.


Classroom Etiquette


Exam Policy

If an exam is missed, it can be made up during regular office hours. If the exam has not been made up by the next exam date it will be counted as a ZERO Grade. Students that want to take a Make Up Exam, must make a request in writing the date in which they want to take the exam. This can be done via email.


Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Students should use AI technology responsibly and ethically. This includes refraining from using AI to engage in harmful or unethical activities, such as generating false information, spreading misinformation, or engaging in malicious behaviors. The use of AI should align with the principles of academic integrity, honesty, and respect for others. Students are responsible for adhering to LSCO's Academic Honesty policy found in the Student Handbook. LSCO's full AI policy can be found at AI Policy | Lamar State College Orange (lsco.edu)


Expected Time Requirement for this Course

For every hour in class (or unit of credit) taught in a 16-week session, students should expect to spend at least two to three hours per week studying and completing assignments. Example: For a 3-credit hour class taught in a 16-week session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 6 to 9 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in a 10-week summer session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 10 to 15 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in an 8-week session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 12 to 18 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in a 5-week summer session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 20 to 29 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments.


Grading and Evaluation Method

 A = 90 - 100%, B = 80 - 89, C = 70 - 79, D = 60 - 69, F = Below 60

Instructor Response Time

The instructor will respond to emails within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. On weekends and holidays, the instructor will respond to emails from students within 24 hours of the first business day following the weekend or holiday.


Participation Requirements

Weekly participation and engagement in the courses are critical for student success. Assignments should be completed by the due date. Students should also refer to the instructor's attendance policy for additional information. (See LSCO Student Handbook, Class Attendance.)


Review of Test Grades

If the student has an issue with his/her grade, the instructor must be contacted no later than three (3) days after receiving the grade.


Student's Responsibility

This syllabus contains information, policies, and procedures for a specific course. By enrolling, the student agrees to read, understand, and abide by the rules, policies, regulations, and ethical standards of Lamar State College Orange as those contained in the current LSCO Catalog and schedule of classes.


Syllabus Content

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to this syllabus if deemed necessary. All changes will be provided to the students orally or in writing before the implementation of the change.


Textbook and Required Materials Access

Every student MUST have access to the required textbooks by the second week of class. The student will be responsible for all assignments given. Failure to have a text may result in being dropped from the class. Failure to follow instructions (written or oral) will result in penalties.


STUDENT SUPPORT RESOURCES

Mental Health Resources

TimelyCare is a virtual health and well-being platform that is available 24/7 for all non-dual credit enrolled LSCO students. There is no cost to eligible students for this service. TimelyCare’s providers offer emotional support, mental health counseling, health coaching, psychiatry, and basic needs support. Non-Dual Credit students enrolled in classes can log in to the TimelyCare website or app available at timelycare.com/LSCO.


Advocacy Information

Any student who faces challenges securing their food or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is encouraged to contact the advising office for guidance on how to identify possible resources. Please notify the instructor of your circumstance if you are comfortable doing so.


Equal Opportunity to Educational Programs

Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is an equal opportunity educational institution and does not discriminate against any person regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status, in admissions, educational programs, student activities or employment. For further information about this policy, contact the Accessibility Coordinator at (409) 882-3393.


Title IX of the Education Amendments

LSCO prohibits discrimination, including sexual harassment and retaliation, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Any student who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited conduct or believes that another student has experienced prohibited conduct should immediately report the alleged acts to the Title IX Coordinator, Rebecca Gentry, at Rebecca.Gentry@lsco.edu.


Blackboard Resources

LSCO students will access Blackboard through the MyGator portal. Login credentials will use the following format: username@my.lsco.edu and Password. For help in identifying your Username/Password, visit https://www2.lsco.edu/sspr/.

Blackboard student resource videos and help-sites are available at https://www.lsco.edu/distanceed/blackboard-student.asp.


Career Coach

Lamar State College Orange provides career advising services to all students and alumni through Career Coach, an online career planning tool. Career Coach assists students through all phases of developing, initiating, and implementing career plans.

Information regarding employment opportunities and career options are provided along with access to live local job postings. Full-time and part-time employment opportunities, as well as internships, are available through Career Coach. Visit https://www.lsco.edu/advising/career-planning.asp for more details on how to use LSCO's Career Coach to plan for and learn more about your future career.


Gator Assistance Services

Lamar State College Orange provides currently enrolled technical students support for daycare costs as well as other services.

Visit https://www.lsco.edu/advising/gator-assistance.asp for details on assistance services.


OASIS (formerly) Gator Success Center

Students are encouraged to make an appointment or walk in to receive tutoring, support services, or access to an open computer lab. Face-to-face and online supplemental instruction sessions are available to help students through any LSCO course. Reach out to learning.center@lsco.edu for more information on how students can receive academic support.


Library Services

Students are encouraged to visit library.lsco.edu to find the library's current operating hours, access the catalog to locate print materials, and access GatorSearch to explore the vast electronic collection. The library provides over 77 electronic database collections that include eBooks, newspapers, magazines, academic journals, and streaming video. The physical library contains a specialized collection of research materials specifically chosen to support the degrees and courses offered. Additionally, Students with research questions or questions about library services are encouraged visit the library in person, call 409-882-3352, access the chat on the library webpage, or to email their question to lscolibrary@lsco.edu.


Student with Disabilities

Under the Texas State System, Lamar State College Orange complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, pertaining to the provision of reasonable academic adjustments/auxiliary aids for students with disability. We strive to provide reasonable academic adjustments/auxiliary aids to students who request and require them.

Students who believe they have a disability requiring an academic adjustment/auxiliary aid are encouraged to contact the Accessibility Coordinator at (409) 882-3393 or visit the Advising Office. Students are encouraged to apply before the start of the semester when at all possible. The Accommodation Request Form and details regarding the appropriate documentation needed can be found here: https://www.lsco.edu/advising/disability.asp. Once approved, the signed accommodation form provided by the Special Populations Advisor must be submitted to the instructor at least two business days in advance of need.

Students with questions about the accommodations they receive in class should contact their instructor or the Accessibility Coordinator.


Upswing 24/7 FREE Tutoring Services

Lamar State College Orange provides currently enrolled students with access to online tutoring through a partnership with Upswing, an online tutoring platform. Tutors are available 24/7 online in almost every subject.

Visit https://www.lsco.edu/tutoring/online-tutoring.asp for details on how to log-in to the FREE services.


INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES

Campus Closure

In the event of an emergency campus closure in excess of three class days, Lamar State College Orange's classes will continue via the use of Blackboard. In such an instance, the college website, www.lsco.edu, will have information concerning the event and anticipated re-opening plans.


Civility

Please be considerate of other classmates' feelings, ethnic background, cultural differences, situations, and level of maturity. Students will be asked to leave the course if disruptive or inappropriate behavior is exhibited in any of the course requirements. If your instructor feels that you have not contributed appropriately to course requirements, your final course grade may be reduced accordingly.

The instructor reserves the right to manage a positive learning environment and will not tolerate inappropriate conduct in the course. Rude correspondence (discourteous or impolite, especially in a deliberate way) in e-mails, telephone calls, in person, or comments made to other class members, the instructor, or the office staff.


Contingency Plans

Students should develop a backup plan should their computer system or their Internet provider fail. Computer or internet connectivity issues are not valid excuses for missing a deadline. The College provides many opportunities for using computer equipment, as do many public libraries. Refer to the LSCO website for operational hours of the Library and Success Center.


Credit Transfer

Students should check in advance with the institution to which they plan to transfer credit to confirm transferability. Refer to the LSCO Catalog for details on how to handle and resolve transfer disputes with public institutions of higher education in Texas.


Criminal Background Policy

LSCO awards some certificates and degrees in which a criminal history MAY disqualify candidates from becoming licensed, certified, and/or employed upon degree/certificate completion. Students with a criminal background enrolling in courses leading to a degree/certificate in Court Reporting, Criminal Justice, Cosmetology, Emergency Medical Technology, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Vocational Nursing (VN), Registered Nursing (RN), Pharmacy Technician, Real Estate, or Teacher Preparation program are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to discuss the certification and/or licensing regulations of the program with the program director listed in order to learn more about the current guidelines related to criminal history as well as the right of individuals to request a criminal history evaluation letter.


Drops and Withdrawals

Never attending or ceasing to attend classes DOES NOT constitute a drop or withdrawal. You remain registered until you request a drop from the instructor. Failure to act in a timely manner will result in an "F" grade for the course. It is the student's responsibility to follow up with the LSCO advising office to ensure that all drops/withdrawals are processed as desired.


Grade of "Incomplete"

The grade of "I" may be given when any requirement of the course, including the final examination, is not completed. Students seeking an incomplete should have completed at least 75% of the course requirements and be passing the course at the time of the request. Arrangements to complete deficiencies in a course should be made in advance of the end of the semester with the instructor. The instructor will process the Incomplete form online, and a confirmation will be sent to the student's LSCO email.

Incomplete work must be finished during the next long semester. If not, the Office of Admission and Records must change the "I" grade to the grade of "F." The course must then be repeated if credit is desired. An "I" grade also automatically becomes an "F" if the student registers for the course prior to removing the deficiencies and receiving a grade change. The instructor may record the grade of "F" for a student who is absent from the final examination and is not passing the course.


Grade Appeals (Complaints Related to Earned Grades)

Grade determination and awarding of grades in a course are the responsibility of the instructor and should be calculated according to college policy, procedures, and written details provided in the course syllabus. NOTE: Final grades are available to students within 48 hours of the instructor posting the grade in Banner. Students may view final grades by logging into MyGator and then accessing Gator Self-Service.

An academic appeal process is afforded to students who desire to dispute a grade or any decision that affects the student's ability to complete and earn a grade for the course provided it is not related to a violation outlined in the LSCO Student Code of Conduct. If an informal conference with the faculty member regarding an academic complaint fails to reach the outcome requested by the student, the student may initiate the formal process outlined below. Even after initiating the formal complaint process, students are encouraged to seek informal resolution of their concerns. A student whose concerns are resolved may withdraw a formal complaint at any time.

Refer to the current catalog or for details on the formal grade appeal process.


Institutional Educational Goals

Lamar State College Orange has identified seven educational goals to specify the knowledge and skills that students should gain from completing academic and technical programs with the College. These goals are:

1. Critical thinking (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to demonstrate creative thinking, innovation, inquiry, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information.
2. Communication (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to effectively develop, interpret and express of ideas through written, oral and visual communication.
3. Empirical and quantitative skills (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to manipulate and analyze numerical data or observable facts and create informed conclusions.
4. Teamwork (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to consider different points of view and to work effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal.
5. Social responsibility (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to recognize and acquire a sense of intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national and global communities.
6. Personal responsibility (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to connect choices, actions, and consequences to ethical decision-making.
7. Professional competency (Technical) - Students will be able to recognize or demonstrate skills and that depict professional values and employability. If the career has licensure or certification requirements, students may prepare for the licensure and certification in a capstone course and sit for the licensure or certificate at the end of the program.

MyGator and Log-In Credentials

Current students will access many LSCO applications through the MyGator portal. Login credentials will use the following format: username@my.lsco.edu/Password. For help in identifying your username/Password, visit https://www2.lsco.edu/sspr/.

It is a violation of College policy, state laws, and federal laws for anyone to gain or help others gain unauthorized access to MyGator or any LSCO application or service. All accounts shall be for use by a single individual - the person for whom the account was approved or assigned. This includes Blackboard accounts as well as any application within MyGator. Sharing or loaning accounts is strictly prohibited, can be construed as a form of cheating, and violates College policy, state laws, and federal laws.


Policies and Procedures

LSCO adheres to the policies and procedures established in the Texas Education Code, Texas State University System Rules and Regulations, LSCO Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual, LSCO Faculty Handbook, and LSCO Catalog.


Prohibited Items in the Classroom

No food or tobacco (including smokeless) products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. It is inappropriate for minor children to be on campus due to the potential liability to the College, the risk of harm to the children, and decreased employee productivity due to distractions and disruptions.


Student Complaints (excluding Safety, Harassment, or Title IX)

Student-Staff and Student-Instructor Complaint Process excluding Safety, Harassment, or Title IX

LSCO believes that all matters involving a staff member (non-instructor) OR an instructor are best resolved directly with the employee. Should it not be resolved at that level, access and complete the Student Complaint Intake form within five (5) business days from the date of the offense. The Student Complaint Intake Form can be found in any of these locations:

• LSCO Website (Current Students)
• LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints)
• MyGator Card
• Blackboard (Student Resources, Student Services, Student Resources)

After a student completes the Student Complaint Intake Form, they will be contacted by an LSCO employee unrelated to the offense and provided guidance on how to proceed with the Complaint process.

Refer to the LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints) for details on the complaint process.


Student Complaints (involving Safety, Harassment, or Title IX)

Student-Staff and Student-Instructor Complaint Process involving Safety, Harassment, or Title IX:

Students who have experienced a safety, harassment, or title IX event should access and complete the Title IX/Clery: Anonymous Reporting Form found in any of these locations:

• LSCO Website (Sexual Misconduct & Title IX)
• LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints)
• MyGator Card
• Blackboard (Student Resources, Student Services, Student Resources)

After a student completes the intake form, they will be contacted by an LSCO employee and provided guidance on how to proceed.

Refer to the LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints) for details on the complaint process.


Student Privacy

The privacy of all students, including Distance Education students, is protected through strict adherence to the rules of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act. LSCO's statement regarding the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act can be found in LSCO's Catalog. Additional information regarding privacy for Distance Education students can be found in the Distance Education Handbook.