Freshman Interest Groups

 



Florida State University Freshman Interest Group (FIG) Program



HUM 1920 FIGS COLLOQUIUM Fall Term, 1 credit


Course Objectives
FIGs COLLOQUIUM is designed to provide you a set of experiences that will introduce you to the academic culture at the Florida State University. The objectives for this course are as follows:
  • To reflect on the FIG topic and develop an understanding for pursuing it within the FSU scholarly community.
  • To learn how to identify and reflect on your in-class and out-of-class learning experiences and how to utilize your reflections for learning about yourself and planning for the future.
  • To reflect on your class experiences during your first semester and to learn about the different ways in which the FSU calls upon you to demonstrate your learning.
  • To reflect on your out-of-class experiences during your first semester and to learn how you can connect your identities and interests with the people and places of the FSU community.
  • To learn how to interact with your instructors and fellow students in ways which support your own goals and the values of the FSU community.
Course Structure
FIGS COLLOQUIUM course includes three essential components:
  1. Weekly Seminar: Our weekly class sessions will be conducted as a seminar. Each session will devote significant time in cross course discussion of the FIG related courses. Students are expected to come to class each week ready to participate in discussion and other activities of the day. The format of our weekly seminar will vary, but the principle of the class will remain constant: that we engage in dialogue with one another as a means to actively explore the FSU community and our place in it. Seminar topics will include
    • FIG related exercise based on scholarly readings, subsequent paper or presentation required.
    • Effective Modes of College Learning (cognitive psychology).
    • Exploration of curriculum and co-curriculum opportunities available in the university community related to the FIG topic.
    • Faculty guest speaker (at least one).
    • Academia; Building an Academic Plan.
  2. FSU/Tallahassee Excursions: In order to gain in-depth exposure to the FSU and its surrounding community, we will participate in a number of events and activities outside of class this semester. In particular, we will focus our attention on at least two such "excursions": (1) An "arts excursion," and (2) an "intellectual excursion". Ideally, we will attend the excursions as a group, but scheduling issues will arise so some students will have to complete this assignment individually or in smaller groups. The time dedicated to each excursion will likely range between two and three hours each. We will discuss the particulars of these in class.
  3. Portfolio Project: Throughout your first semester of college, you will naturally do a lot of thinking about your past, your present and your future. As a participant in the FIG program you'll initiate an "FSU Career Portfolio" (http://www.career.fsu.edu/portfolio/). The FSU Career Portfolio prepares students for the world of work through planning, reflection, skill development, and portfolio documentation.
Grading Policy
FIGS COLLOQUIUM is a one-credit course, S/U graded credit. In order to receive credit, you must actively participate in each weekly class session and complete all assignments. Emergency absences may be excused, but please notify me as soon as possible, preferably in advance of your absence.

Academic Honor Code
"The Academic Honor System of the Florida State University is based on the premise that each student has that responsibility to: 1) Uphold the highest standards of academic integrity in the student's own work, 2) Refuse to tolerate violations of academic integrity in the academic community, and 3) Foster a high sense of integrity and social responsibility on the part of the University community." Please note that violations of this Code will not be tolerated in this class. Specifically, incidents of cheating on tests, taking credit for other's work, or jeopardizing the standards set forth by the code will be rigorously pursued by the instructor. Please read and make sure you understand the "Academic Honor System" (as found in the FSU General Bulletin and the FSU Student Handbook) before the second week of class.

ADA Statement
If you qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act for accommodations that will allow you to learn and study more effectively, please contact me immediately. It is necessary for you to be registered with Disabled Student Services.