LAMAR STATE COLLEGE ORANGE SYLLABUS

Registered Nursing

RNSG, 1327, Transition Voc to Professional, 20

COURSE INFORMATION

Instructor Name Jennifer Trotter
Building/Office Number Nursing and Classroom Building (NCB), Room 104F
Office Hours Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 415-5:15 PM and by appointment
Virtual Hours Monday-Friday:  by appointment
Office Telephone (409) 882-3017
Email Address jennifer.trotter@lsco.edu


Course Description

RNSG 1327 ............................................ 3-2-4 Transition to Professional Nursing (51.3801) Content includes health promotion, expanded assessment, analysis of data, critical thinking skills and systematic problem-solving process, pharmacology, interdisciplinary teamwork, communication, and applicable competencies in knowledge, judgment, skills, and professional values within a legal/ethical framework throughout the life span. Prerequisite: Admission to the Registered Nursing Transition Program. RSNG 1300 Health Assessment RNSG 1311 Nursing Pathophysiology BIOL 2401 (2301/2101) & BIOL 2402 (2302/2102) Anatomy and Physiology I & II BIOL 2420 Introductory Microbiology ENGL 1301 Composition MATH 1314 College Algebra co requisite: RNSG 2261 Clinical I. To receive credit for RNSG 1327, the course must be successfully completed simultaneously with RNSG 2261


Required Textbook & Materials
Burkhardt, Margaret A., and Nathaniel, Alvita K. (2021). Ethics and issues in contemporary Nursing. Elsevier.
 
Silvestri, Linda A. (2020). HESI/Saunders Online Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination (2  
     Year Access Code), (2nd ed). Elsevier.
 
Townsend, Mary C., Morgan, Karyn I., (2020). Essentials of psychiatric mental health nursing.
     (8th ed.).Davis.

FA Davis 

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

In accordance with the mission of Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) and Texas WECM, this course develops in the student the particular skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed for success in the field of associate degree Nursing.  Upon completion of RNSG 1327, the student will have been given the opportunity to:
 

Course Level Learning Outcomes (WECM)		 Student learning Outcomes with Educational Competencies (EC) and Differentiated Educational Competencies (DECs) Associated Course Activities/Assignments/Projects
Differentiate between the roles of the professional nurse as provider of patient centered care, patient safety advocate, member of the health care team, and member of the profession, and other licensed health care providers in a variety of health care settings. Differentiate the difference between the roles of the professional nurse and other disciplines while providing safe/ethical care to patients and their families throughout the lifespan.
EC 1,5
DECs: I A 1a; II D 1b, c, d; III B 3a,c; IV A 4b, B 2b, 4, C 3		 Complete case studies, and patient care simulations with pre- and post-simulation activities which may include case studies, care plans, and review of journal articles for evidence-based practice. Participate in blogs or discussion boards. Exams
 
Utilize critical thinking skills in planning comprehensive care for patients and their families.
 
 		 Utilize critical thinking skills to plan comprehensive care for patients and their families throughout the lifespan. EC 1,5D
DECs: I B1a, c; II A1b, 3, B 2,4, C 1a, b, 3; III B 1a,b,c, C 2; IV B 1 a		 Complete case studies, and patient care simulations with pre- and post-simulation activities which may include case studies, care plans, and review of journal articles for evidence-based practice. Participate in blogs or discussion boards. Exams
 
Use a systematic problem-solving process in planning comprehensive care for patients and their families. Use a systematic problem-solving process in planning comprehensive care for patients and their families throughout the lifespan.
EC 4
DECs: I A 4; II A 1a, 2a, B 1,3, C 3, 4a, 6; III B 4; IV B 2a, C1		  Complete case studies and patient care simulations with pre- and post-simulation activities which may include case studies, care plans, and review of journal articles for evidence-based practice. Participate in blogs or discussion board.  Exams
Demonstrate skills for safe basic professional nursing care. Develop and demonstrate skills for basic safe practice of professional nursing and demonstrate the ability to ask for help when unsure of the process for performing the skill.
EC 1,3
DECs:  I B 7a, b, D1; II A 4, B 6,7,8,10, D 1a, 3a; III D 1a, b; IV C1, D 2, 3		 Complete case studies and patient care simulations with pre- and post-simulation activities which may include case studies, care plans, and review of journal articles for evidence-based practice. Participate in blogs or discussion boards. Exams
Apply therapeutic communication skills with diverse patients and families
 		 Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with other professionals and with patients and their families throughout the lifespan.
EC 1,3
DECs: I 7a; II B9, C 2a, b, E 2, III E 1a, 2, IV A 2 D 1a, b		 Complete case studies and patient care simulations with pre- and post-simulation activities which may include case studies, care plans, and review of journal articles for evidence-based practice. Participate in blogs or discussion boards. Exams
 
 
Upon completion of RNSG 1327, the student will have been given the opportunity to  
The Texas Board of Nursing has identified essential competencies to ensure that nursing graduates will enter the practice as safe and competent nurses.  These Competencies are organized according to four major roles of the nurse:  Member of a Profession, Provider of Patient-Centered Care, Patient Safety Advocate, and Member of the Health Care Team. AtthecompletionofRNSG1327thestudentwillhavebeenintroducedtothefollowingDifferentiatedEssentialCompetencies(DECs)for Diploma and Associate Degree Programs:
  1. Member of the Profession:                   A,B,C,D
  2. Provider of Patient-­­Centered Care:      A,B, C, D,E, F, G, H
  3. Patient Safety Advocate:                      A,B,C,D,E, F
  4. Member of the Health Care Team:       A,B,C,D,
 
Detailed differentiated competencies expectations are located in the course under Content.
 
Additional clinical behavior/judgments are outlined in RNSG 2261, the clinical component to RNSG 1327.
 




Course Topical Outline

COURSE TOPICAL OUTLINE

Transition concepts utilized by the A.D.N. include:

Professional Foundations of Medical Surgical Nursing

Foundations of Medical Surgical Nursing
Care of Special Populations
Ethical and Legal Issues
Concepts for Medical-Surgical Nursing
Relationship Development
The Nursing Process in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing

Growth and Development
Theories of Growth and Development
Developmental Stages
Care of the Older Client
Common Health Problems of Older Adults
Aging Individual 

Foundations of Care
System assessment
Fluids and Electrolytes
Acid-Base Balance
Vital Signs and Laboratory Reference
Nutrition
Intravenous Therapy
Oxygen Therapy, tracheostomies      
Health and Physical Assessment of the Adult Client, Geriatric Client,  Pediatric Client
Provision of a Safe Environment
Calculation of Medication and Intravenous Prescriptions/ Pediatric Medication Administration and Calculations
Assessment and Care of Patients with Pain
Perioperative Nursing Care
Positioning Clients
Assessment and Care of Patients with Pain
Care of Pre, Intra, and Post-Operative Patients
Oncological Disorders and Medications
Immune Disorders and Medications
Palliative Care
End of Life Concepts
Principles of Inflammation and Immunity
Care of Patients with HIV, Hypersensitivity, and Autoimmunity
Principles of Cancer Development
Care of Patients with Cancer
Care of Patients with Infection
Care of Patients with Eye and Vision Problems
Care of Patients with Ear and Hearing Problems
 

RN Transition Nursing Program   SCANS Skills


 
Course		 1
Reading		 2
Writing		 3
Arithmetic/
Math		 4
Speaking/
Listening		 5
Thinking Skills		 6
Personal
Qualities		 7
Workplace
Competencies		 8
Basic Use of
Computers
 
RNSG 1327
Transition from Vocational to Professional Nursing		 Text
Modules
Assignment
Tests
Websites
Equipment
Tools
Assessment
Homework		 Homework
Assignments
Documentation of Nursing Process
Tests		 Calculation of grades
Medication administration		 Lecture discussion
Small group work
Lab presentations		 Homework
Exams
Lab assignments		 Completion of course requirements,
Group work
Exams
Patient Care		 Skills lab completion
Exams and learner assessments		 Assignments,
Exams
Word processing
 
 


 




Major Assignments Schedule

See course calendar .
See Reading List posted in the course.

1. There are five instructor generated exams, two HESI exams (PN to RN and Pharmacology) and a  comprehensive instructor generated final exam.  The exams are administered on the computer to simulate state board exams.
2. There are 3 math quizzes. 
3. The final exam is a comprehensive instructor generated exam.
4. Targeted Study Plan: Students will complete the targeted study plan following each exam per course calendar.
5. Remediation as assigned following each HESI exam.
6. FA Davis/Davis Advantage assignments per course calendar.
7. Math 360 assignments per course calendar
8.Syllabus Quiz:  This quiz shows that you have read, understand, and will abide by the syllabus. 
9. Personal Introduction, time management discussion board.
10. Weekly lab assignments (completed during on campus lab time).




Final Exam Date

March 27, 2024 - 9:00 AM   Through  March 27, 2024 - 12:30 PM


COURSE POLICIES

Academic Honesty

Faculty who suspect violation of academic honesty, cheating, plagiarism, collusion, or abuse of resource materials may assign an academic penalty. Students must be notified of their right to appeal before the academic penalty is imposed.

Students subject to penalty due to academic honesty have the right to appeal the decision. Refer to the current LSCO Catalog for details on the appeal process.

Academic Integrity

Nursing students are held accountable for any form of academic dishonesty and will be withdrawn from the Nursing Program in the face of substantial evidence of said action. Students who are withdrawn under this policy are not eligible for readmission to the program. 
 
Academic dishonesty is defined as:  
Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following:  
(Refer to the LSCO Student Handbook, Academic Integrity, and the RN Transition Program Student Handbook for additional information).
 
According to the LSCO Student Handbook, any of these methods of academic dishonesty are grounds for immediate dismissal from the institution.  Unauthorized use of university computer account(s), computer data files, and/or computer facilities," is considered a breach of conduct, and "is not in keeping with the educational aims, purposes, and philosophy of the university and will subject student(s) to disciplinary action.  Students subject to penalty due to academic dishonesty have the right to appeal to the department director, division chair, and eventually to the dean and/or academic vice president before imposition of the penalty.  Flagrant or repeated violation of academic honesty may be referred to the Vice President of Student Services for further action.


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.

The most common form of personal communication outside the classroom is Microsoft 365.  Students are responsible for checking email on a daily basis, excluding weekends. The instructor will respond to emails within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). Under special circumstances (instructor absence), students will be notified of potential delays.
 




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.

Expected Time Requirement for this Course.

For every hour in class (or unit of credit), students should expect to spend at least two to three hours per week studying and completing assignments .For a 3-credit-hour class, students should prepare to allocate approximately six to nine hours per week outside of class in a 16-week session OR approximately twelve to eighteen hours in a 10-week session. All Online/Hybrid students should expect to spend at least as much time in this course as you would in the traditional, face-to-face class.
  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.

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 and 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. 




Make-up Work Policy

Students are strongly encouraged to take exams as scheduled.  However, in the event that an exam cannot be taken as scheduled, the student is required to notify the instructor BEFORE the originally scheduled exam date and give the reason for the absence.  A make-up exam may be scheduled at the discretion of the instructors.  In the event that a make-up exam is allowed, it must be taken within one week of the original exam date. All make-up exams, whether taken early or late, will receive a ten-point penalty deduction.  There will be NO exceptions to this rule.
 
The Final Examination must be taken according to the course calendar schedule with no provision for makeup or time and date change. 
 




Classroom Etiquette

Classroom behavior should not interfere with the instructor’s ability to conduct the class or the ability of other students to learn from the instructional program. During face-to-face activities on campus, there is no food or drink allowed in the classroom, computer rooms, skills lab, or simulation lab.  Unacceptable or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.  Students engaging in unacceptable behavior may be instructed to leave the classroom.  Inappropriate behavior may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from program.  Disciplinary action reports will be completed on any student caught in the classroom with food or drink. 
 
Electronic communication devices, such as tablets, smart watches, and cell phones, must be set to silent mode at all times in the classroom.  The use of electronic communication devices in any learning setting is to be limited to emergency situations only. If it is necessary to leave the classroom to respond to a text or call, the student may re-enter the classroom at the next break. Students may not use a cellular telephone in the classroom.
 


Exam Policy

There are five exams, two HESI exams, and a final exam.  The exams are administered on the computer to simulate NCLEX exams. The exams are administered during the assigned time. The use of outside resources during exams is not allowed. This includes notes, smart phones, smart watches, smart glasses, or internet browsers. Exams 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are instructor generated exams and are worth 7% each, and the HESI LVN to ADN exam worth 6% and the HESI Pharmacology 4%. There will be 3 math quizzes which will be worth 1%, 2% and 3% respectively.  The final exam will be the a comprehensive instructor generated exam and worth 20% of the course grade. These exams and quizzes make up 70% of the total course grade.

A combined weighted score of 78 must be obtained from a combination of instructor generated exams (at 7% each), HESI LVN to ADN (at 6%), HESI Pharmacology 4%, and math quizzes (at 1%, 2% and 3%),  and the Final Exam (20%), independent of all other graded assignments in order for additional course activities worth 30% to be included in the final course average.  

There will be NO ROUNDING  of the final course average.


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

Failure to obtain the 78% on the required combined weighted exam score will result in failure of the course.  FA Davis Advantage assignments, Dosage Calculation 360, targeted study plan, lab assignments, syllabus quiz, and personal introduction discussion, will be added in ONLY if the student achieves the combined weighted score of 78% to calculate the final course grade.
 
Formula for calculating:

Math 1                                 1%                          You make:     78   X    1% =0.78
Math 2                                 2 %                         You make:     78  X    2% =1.56
Math 3                                 2%                          You make      78   X   2% =1.56
VN to RN HESI Exam        6%                          You make:     78  X    6% =4.68
HESI Pharmacology            4%                          You make:     78    X   4% = 3.12
Exam 1                                7%                           You make:     78    X   7% =5.46
Exam 2                                7%                           You make:     78   X   7% =5.46
Exam 3                                7%                          You make:      78   X   7% = 5.46
Exam 4                                7%                          You make:      78  X   7% = 5.46
Exam 5                                7%                           You make:     78   X   7%= 5.46
HESI Final Exam                20%                       You make:       78   X 20% =15.6
 
                                                Total:  54.6 divided by 70% = 78
                                                You have achieved the required (passing) score
 
Formula for calculating:

Math 1                                     1%                     You make:    70   X   1% = 0.7
Math 2                                     2%                     You make:    70   X   2% = 1.4
Math 3                                     2%                     You make     70   X   2%=  1.4
VN to RN HESI Exam            6 %                   You make:    70   X   6 % = 4.2
HESI Pharmacology           4%                   You make   70  X  4% = 2.8
Exam 1                                     7 %                   You make:    70   X  7% = 4.9
Exam 2                                      7%                    You make:    75  X  7% =5.25
Exam 3                                      7%                    You make:    80   X  7% =5.6
Exam 4                                      7%                    You make:   70   X  7% =4.9
Exam 5                                 7%                  You make  74  X  7%= 5.18
HESI Final Exam                     20%                   You make:   70  X 20% =14
 
                                                            Total: 50.33 divided by 70% = 71.92  
                                                                        You did not achieve the required score
 
Davis Advantage,, Targeted Study Plan, Personal Introduction Assignment, Dosage Calc 360, lab assignments, and Syllabus Quiz percentages will be added ONLY if you have achieved a combined weighted score of 78% on the instructor generated exams (7% each), The HESI LVN to ADN exam (6%), HESI Pharmacology (4%), math quizzes (1%, 2%, and 2%) and the Final Exam (20%).  

 


Targeted Study Plan: Students will complete the targeted study plan per course calendar. This will be worth 5% of the course grade. The complete instructions and grading rubric will be posted to course contents. Remediation for exams is mandatory for all students no matter the grade.
 
Davis Advantage:  Assignments in Davis Advantage will be assigned weekly and will counts as 15%  of the course grade. No late or make up assignments will be accepted. 

Dosage Calculation 360 assignments:  will be assigned as per course calendar and will count as 5% of the course grade. No late or make up assignments will be accepted. 

Personal Introduction discussion board assignment :  will be assigned as per course calendar.  The student must submit an initial post and respond to two peers posts in order to receive full credit for the assignment.  A discussion board rubric will be used.  This counts as 2% of the course grade.

Syllabus Quiz:  This quiz shows that you have read, understand, and will abide by the syllabus. The syllabus quiz will count as 1% of the course grade.






Graded Activities		 Description Percentage of final course grade*
HESI HESI LVN-RN Transition 6%
HESI HESI Pharmacology 4%
Exam One Instructor generated 7%
Exam Two Instructor generated 7%
Exam Three Instructor generated 7%
Exam Four Instructor generated 7%
Exam 5 Instructor generated 7%
Math Quiz #1   1%
Math Quiz #2   2%
Math Quiz #3   2%
 Final Exam Instructor Generated Comprehensive  Exam 20%
  You MUST have a combined weighted score of 78, on the above graded activities, independent of all other requirements to pass this course.  
Davis Advantage Assignments in Davis Advantage, topic specific will be assigned  15%
Dosage Calculation 360
Assignment		 Assignments to assisted students with dosage calculation., will be assigned per course calendar. 5%
Personal Introduction Discussion Personal introduction and time management discussion board. 4%
Quiz Syllabus Quiz 1%
Targeted Study Plan A study plan designed assist students identify weak content areas, familiarize the student with the NCLEX test plan, remediation, and pre-class assignments preparation. 2%
Lab assignments Content specific lab assignments to be completed in class/lab 4%
TOTAL   100%
 

A final course grade of 78% is necessary for the student to pass this course.  The final course grade is calculated as follows:
A        90-100
B        80-89
C        78-79
D        70-77
F         0-69

There will be no rounding of the final course average.
 



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.)

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 and in writing before the implementation of the change.
 



 




Review of Test Grades

After ALL students have completed the exam and immediately after exam submission, missed items and accompanying feedback may be made available for review. If all students are not available to take the exam, review of missed questions and rationale will not be available until determined by faculty.

-The test is reviewed by the faculty after all students have completed the exam.
-Test statistics will be evaluated by faculty and test results adjusted if warranted.
-Students are informed of rationales for exam items that have been re-evaluated.
-Exams are available for additional review with instructors for one week only after the exam date.
-Additional review is available to any student per request. Students are expected to make an appointment individually within one week after the exam with one of the instructors. At that time the student reviews the exam and, with the assistance of the instructor, identifies strategies to improve exam performance.

Remediation/Retention  


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.


Affirmative Action

LSCO is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution which provides educational and employment opportunities on the basis of merit and without discrimination or harassment in full compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 503,504); Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; the Vietnam Era Veterans Assistance Act of 1974; Article 522lk V.A.C.S.; and Executive Orders 11246 and 11758.


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, Patty Collins, at patty.collins@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.


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 Special Populations Advisor at (409) 882-3393 or visiting the Advising Office located on the first floor of the Ron Lewis Library Building (RLB) room 113. 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.


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.


COVID Notification Policy

Students who have been diagnosed with COVID 19 are required to report their condition to their instructor and to the College via the COVID Notification Form. Guidance on how to proceed will be delivered to the student's email after completing the required notification form.


Credit Transfer

Students should check in advance with the institution to which they plan to transfer credit to confirm transferability.


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 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 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 and the Academic Grievance Process

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 Faculty Handbook, LSCO Student Handbook, and LSCO Catalog.


Prohibited Items in the Classroom

No food or tobacco 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 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 Student Handbook, page 70. Additional information regarding privacy for Distance Education students can be found in the Distance Education Handbook, appendix D.