We have assigned a primary research paper for each topic to serve as a center of discussion. Lectures will provide context for the assigned papers and are designed to clarify and highlight important concepts. Often lectures will include material not covered in the text, so attendance is important. You are encouraged to ask questions. If you are confused chances are others in the class are as well.
Active participation is essential to learning the material presented.
Discussion sections are primarily opportunities to clarify questions concerning the lecture and reading material or to explore topics in more depth. The final will be cumulative in the sense that the course material builds on concepts established at the beginning of the course, but the final will emphasize material in the second half of the course. Make-up Exams generally will not be given except for cases of illness, family emergency, or religious observances. We may ask you to document the situation. They will not be given for things like weddings, vacations, or to avoid conflicts with other exams.