Policies

Participation

Attendance and participation are a crucial part of this course. Although science is (arguably, at times) not opinion-based, the way we use the data and numbers is quite subjective. We will practice making sound scientific arguments to discuss each energy-related topic.

Classroom Community

The ideals of Whittier College include respect and inclusion of all. Everyone is welcome and will be expected to remain respectful of one another. We will be talking, using the chat function, and working on shared documents. You can use a pseudonym or your real name, as long as the instructor is aware of your identity.

Academic Integrity

All assignments for this class are to be one’s own work unless specifically stipulated by the instructor. Be sure to reference any material you cite or use in your assignments and avoid plagiarism. When in doubt, add a citation!

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

All assignments for this class are to be one’s own work unless specifically stipulated by the instructor. Although AI can be a useful tool in some cases, it is often incorrect. AI is not all-knowing — it is based on information it found online, some of which is wrong, and it learns circularly, embedding incorrect information that becomes very hard to remove.

Most assignments require answers drawn from the readings we do or your own opinions. If answers on assignments do not represent the readings, they will receive a grade of zero, even if they are correct in other contexts. This is usually the red flag for misuse of AI.

A note relevant to this course: don’t forget the energy and water cost of every AI query — those supercomputers need to be powered and cooled.

Accommodations

Whittier College is committed to making learning experiences as accessible as possible. If you experience physical or academic barriers due to a disability, you are encouraged to contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS) to discuss options.

Student Accessibility Services
Ground floor of Wardman Library
Email: sas@whittier.edu · Phone: 562-907-4825

Digital Citizenship

Please be respectful of one another’s work and comments as we are using interactive digital platforms. Use the hand-raise function and mute yourself when not speaking. I would appreciate cameras on — aimed at either you or your workspace — but I will not require it. Please be prepared to say your name during roll call so I can verify attendance.

Title IX

Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual misconduct — harassment, domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. We understand that sexual violence can undermine students’ academic success, and we encourage anyone dealing with sexual misconduct to talk to someone about their experience so they can get the support they need. Confidential support is available through the Whittier College Counseling Center.

Late Policy

Extensions on assignments can be granted on a case-by-case basis as necessary, but only if you contact me before the assignment is due. Please let me know if you need any assistance as soon as possible.

Otherwise: 10% of the grade is removed for each day late.

Course Materials

The textbook for this class can be purchased, but we also have access to the digital version via the library (see our Moodle page).

📖 Energy and Society: An Introduction, 2nd ed.
by Harold H. Schobert