Texas Tech University

Frequently Asked Questions

 

I would like to add this course after the add - drop date.

Unfortunately, we have a strict policy, which states that no student may add POLS online courses late, after the regular add-drop deadline.

I am trying to login to Blackboard, but, I get "Runtime error".

These are problems with TTU's Blackboard and your browser and/or internet connection. Many students have overcome such problems by using a different browser or computer.
If these tips do not work, contact Blackboard as soon as you can:

1) https://www.depts.ttu.edu/lms/

2) https://www.depts.ttu.edu/elearning/blackboard/student/

What should I do to get an Access Code?

Directions are available on the course home page once you can login to the course.

I have an Access Code from the previous semester. Do I have to purchase a new one?

Yes! Access Codes are good for only a limited time, and you have to purchase a new access code for the new semester.

What is the late work policy?

We have a strict late work policy, and we do not extend deadlines.

Can I retake quizzes or assignments?

No! We have a strict policy that does not allow students to retake quizzes, assignments, etc.

Can I submit assignments before their due dates?

Yes! In fact, we encourage you to do so! All the materials are available to the students as soon as the semester starts. You can take quizzes and submit assignments whenever you want as long as it is before the due date.

How do you calculate grades?

Please, see the "Grade Distribution" section just below the "Deadline Calendar" on your Course Home Page.

Do you round grades?

Please, read the syllabus about this issue.

Where do students typically run into the most problems in the course?

Most students run into problems with the deadlines. We do not extend any deadlines. We strongly encourage students to work a week ahead in case any technical issues arise.

What are the best ways for me to succeed in this class?

Make sure you read all the materials thoroughly. You are allowed to use your notes, the lectures, and the videos when taking the quizzes. Work at least one week in advance.

Can I ask for a letter of recommendation from my instructor?

Thank you for asking for a letter of recommendation. However, since these classes are online, it would be best to ask a professor you have had for a face-to-face class.

I am having technical difficulties.

If you are having technical difficulties, please try the Technical Difficulty Tips on your Blackboard Course Home Page.

What are the instructors' office hours?

That information is available on Blackboard and in your syllabus.

Can I submit my assignment on the due date, but after 5:00 pm?

No! All assignments are due at 5:00 pm Central Time.

Do we have midterm exams or a final exam?

There are no midterm or final exams in this course.

Where can I find detailed information about each type of assignment?

You can find assignment descriptions in your syllabus.

What is the policy for plagiarism?

Plagiarism is not tolerated in this course. Your syllabus has detailed information about cheating and plagiarism.

What am I going to learn in this course?

Your syllabus has "Student Learning Objectives".

Where is my syllabus?

You can find your syllabus on Blackboard.

I cannot watch the mandatory welcome video.

If you are having problems watching the videos (and clicking on the video just kicks you back to the Blackboard page), this is usually because of slow internet connection. You can either watch the videos with a faster internet connection, or you can go to this link, and try to find the video under Political Science: https://mediacast.ttu.edu/Mediasite/Catalog/catalogs/default

Department of Political Science

  • Address

    Dept. of Political Science, Texas Tech University, 113 Holden Hall, Boston & Akron Streets, Lubbock, TX 79409-1015 Fax: 806.742.0850
  • Phone

    806.742.3121
  • Email

    pols.webmaster@ttu.edu