Interpersonal Communication Syllabus for 2023-2024
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Instructor Information

Office Location

<p>Parcells Hall 204P&nbsp;</p>

Office Hours

~ S T U D E N T      H O U R S ~

Contact me through the Messages area within Blackboard.  These types of messages are best for situations where you're having difficulty understanding how to submit something or have a quick question about an assignment.  From these messages, I have easy access to your grades within the course (and I don't need to seek clarification on what course you're enrolled in).

More in-depth questions about your class performance, and/or grades should be discussed during a student/faculty appointment.

Please schedule an appointment with me here.  My 2025 Spring I Office Hours are Tuesday & Thursday, 10:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

All meetings can be held via Microsoft Teams or in person in Parcells Hall, Suite 204, Office P. If I have someone in my office, please let our departmental administrative assistant, Shauna Jefferson (Parcells Hall, Suite 204, Office F), know you're here to see me for an appointment and then have a seat in our lobby area. Please do not assume that you may interrupt other conversations.  We practice what we teach.

With all of that out of the way, know I love getting appointments from you.  When I do, I know I can focus directly on you and you alone.  Otherwise, it's a first-come, first-served world and I may miss out on an opportunity to understand what it is you need.  Appointments come first!

Please make an appointment to visit with me. Don’t see a time that matches your world? Please let me know via Blackboard Messages or email! My job is to enhance your learning experience. I am glad to meet with you at a mutually convenient time and coach you to success.  

Course Information

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

SPCH-1318-025 Interpersonal Communication

Prerequisites

Course Description

Application of communication theory to interpersonal relationship development, maintenance and termination in relationship contexts including friendships, romantic partners, families and relationships with co-workers and supervisors.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

This course will use a free OER text called Interpersonal Communication: A Mindful Approach to Relationships.  The book can be accessed through a web page or PDF. In addition, there is a student study guide.

Supplies

Supplies

  • Reliable access to the Internet (all assignments for this course are completed/submitted online)
  • Reliable computer/laptop

Skills*

*If you find you do not know how to do any of these skills, please reach out to me as quickly as possible so I can get you in contact with the correct tutoring center.

If you're on any Amarillo College campus, you may access the college's free WiFi.

WIFI PASSWORD: AmarilloCollege

Student Performance

Course Description

Application of communication theory to interpersonal relationship development, maintenance, and termination in relationship contexts including friendships, romantic partners, families, and relationships with co-workers and supervisors.

After studying the material presented in this course of study, the student will be able to do the following as evaluated by the faculty in the department/program.

Learning ObjectiveTHECB SkillAssessment(s)
Exhibit understanding of interpersonal theories and principles.Communication (written)/Critical ThinkingAssessed through in-class discussions, course text/assignments and exam questions
Demonstrate ability to analyze and critique verbal and nonverbal interactions in mediated and face-to-face contexts.Critical Thinking, Communication (written)Assessed through group activities, and paper/activities.
Identify perceptual processes as they relate to self and others.Communication (written)/Critical ThinkingAssessed through paper and projects.
Demonstrate critical thinking ability by effectively researching, evaluating, and applying communication theories in oral and/or written assignments.Communication (written/verbal)Assessed through a paper, and in-class discussions.
Demonstrate understanding of the relevance of cross-cultural, co-cultural, gender and age influences on human communication.Communication (verbal)Assessed through in-class discussions, course readings, and group activity.
Demonstrate ability to identify, evaluate, and apply conflict styles and conflict management techniques in dyads and/or groups.Team WorkAssessed through group work assignments.
Identify types of and barriers to effective listening.Communication (written/visual)/Critical ThinkingAssessed through paper and class discussions.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Welcome to the Ship

Ahoy, buccaneers of communication! Buckle your swashbuckling belts, because we're setting sail on an 8-week treasure hunt for interpersonal gold – and it'll be over before you can say "Yo ho, yo ho, a communicator's life for me!"

Sure, some may shiver at the thought of condensed terms and juggling commitments, but fear not! Before you dive headfirst into a "too much work!" krakens of despair, let's chart a course that's both booty-licious and balanced.

This online adventure packs a punch! There's a lot to do. But I am here to support your success.

Think of it as a treasure map leading to hidden gems of knowledge (aka mastering the course material). To unearth these riches, you'll spend some time each week on things like:

  • Digging into assigned readings and resources: These are your spyglasses and compasses, helping you navigate the tricky waters of communication.
  • Practicing what we explore through the content: This is your sword-fighting practice – honing your skills and solidifying your understanding before facing the open sea (aka assignments and projects).
  • Tackling assignments and projects: Your trusty shovels and nets, help you unearth and refine your knowledge like a seasoned pirate sifting through gold dust.
  • Engaging in online discussions and forums: Join a crew of fellow adventurers! Sharing insights and learning from each other can lead to even bigger buried treasures.

Now, how much time exactly will your treasure hunt take? Remember that credit hour guide? For each one (this course is three), expect around 4-6 hours of out-of-class digging per week. So, that's roughly 12-18 hours for this course. But hold your parrots! Don't let the numbers scare you off. We're covering the same material in a shorter time frame, making each week an exciting sprint towards discoveries. And remember, I'm sailing alongside you teaching four classes this 8 weeks. I'm the Captain Ahab of hybrid courses!

But is this all set in stone like Davy Jones' locker? Not! This is your learning journey, and the pace depends on your strengths, learning style, and other commitments. Some weeks might be stormy, others calm as a mermaid's lagoon. The key is to be strategic with your time, seeking help when needed (who wants to hunt for treasure alone?).

Speaking of help, remember, early adjustments mean smoother sailing, so if you're lost in the fog of reading or need clarification on an assignment, don't hesitate to raise your Jolly Roger for help! Amarillo College is a veritable shipwreck of resources: me, tutoring centers, online tutors, and even a place called "The Underground" that sounds positively piratical!  Here's some information about all of the places to receive help:

Early exploration leads to smoother journeys, so be a proactive treasure hunter, not a reactive castaway. We'll build bridges of support, not walls of panic! Remember, I'm here every step of the way with office hours, online resources, and friendly check-ins. Let's make this an enriching adventure, even if it's a bit condensed. Onward to the knowledge goldmines!

And don't forget, buccaneers, factor in time for breaks and self-care! Learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, prioritize your well-being, and you'll conquer this ocean of information with ease. Now, raise your tankards, let loose a hearty "arrr!", and prepare to embark on this epic learning journey! I'm excited to set sail with you all!

So, how can you engage with me and your classmates?

Get ready to dive into a fantastical journey through the world of communication! Forget boring textbooks and dusty lectures – this course is an adventure where you'll be the star, exploring captivating characters, enchanting stories, and the magical power of expressing yourself.

  • Call me Courtney! "Professor" sounds too stuffy for this crew. Remember that day you signed up for this class, picturing yourself conquering it with a flourish? That's the spirit! My mission is to guide you to victory, so buckle up and prepare to unleash your inner communicator!
  • Engagement is our pixie dust! Ask questions, share your thoughts, and join in the discussions – even if you haven't found the answer yet. This is a team effort, and your unique voice is the missing piece of the puzzle. Remember, sometimes even Tinker Bell needs a little push to shine!
  • Brain over brute force! Sure, AI might be a fancy gadget, but it's no match for your brilliant mind. We'll sharpen your critical thinking skills and discover the power of your own unique voice – trust me, it's way more rewarding than any spell cast by Maleficent.
  • Life's a tangled mess, but you're not alone! If you hit a snag, whether it's a tricky assignment or a personal hurdle, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to connect you with helpful resources, from Merlin-like tutors to supportive disability services. Remember, we're all in this together, and no challenge is too big for our team spirit!
  • Kindness is our compass! As we explore the diverse landscapes of emotions and perspectives, let's treat each other with the same respect Bambi shows Thumper. A gentle word, a listening ear, a helping hand – these small acts build bridges of understanding and make our journey truly magical. Kindness isn't a weakness – it's the key that unlocks the beauty of human connection.
  • Neurodiversity is our rainbow! We come from different corners of the world, each with unique experiences and ways of thinking. Let's celebrate this neurodiversity like Mickey Mouse welcomes friends from every land! Embrace the different ways we learn, express ourselves, and navigate the world. When we value every thread, our tapestry of learning becomes richer, more vibrant, and a true masterpiece of collaboration.
  • Present like Poppins, focused like Mulan! Leave the headphones and distractions at the door. This is a space for connection, growth, and shared discovery. Let's give each other our full attention, like Belle listening to the Beast's story, and watch the magic unfold.
  • Your roadmap to success! I wouldn't send you on a quest without a map, would I? Check out the rest of the syllabus – it's your detailed guide to everything you need to know, from technology requirements to due dates and exciting bonus adventures. Treat it like your personal Genie, granting wishes for academic achievement!
  • Get ready to explore, share, and discover! This journey promises to be filled with more laughter than Dumbo's feather, more wisdom than Merlin's beard, and more excitement than a firework show over Cinderella's castle. Can't wait to see what amazing things we'll achieve together!

Communication Channels: Let's Stay Connected!

Open communication is your secret weapon in this course. To ensure timely responses (faster than a magic carpet!), I prefer these channels:

Preferred:

  • Blackboard Ultra Messaging: Like sending a message in a bottle, it's directly linked to your coursework, making it easy for me to understand your needs and offer the perfect spell of advice.

Alternatives:

  • Watermark: I check this occasionally, but it's not as reliable as a talking cricket.
  • Email: If you must, use this owl post with care. Include your full name, course name + section number (like a secret decoder ring!), and a clear subject line. Remember, without the section number, it's like navigating Neverland without a map!

Speaking of Sections:

Think of your section number as a magic password that unlocks my ability to help you. Knowing it helps me answer your questions faster than Aladdin summoning Genie! So, include it in all your messages, and watch the communication magic flow.

Remember: Clear communication is our golden carriage, whisking us toward academic victory! By working together, with open dialogue and a dash of section-number wizardry, we can conquer any challenge and reach the summit of success! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, need clarification, or feel lost in the jungle. I'm here to guide you through every step of this adventure, and open communication is the first

Grading Criteria

Unlocking the Secrets of Communication: Your Quest Guide

Ready to embark on an adventure through the realms of communication?

Course Requirements: Your Magical Toolkit

  • Assignments (35%): Complete weekly assignments before the Fairy Godmother's clock strikes midnight (11:59 PM) on their due dates!
  • Weekly Quizzes (25%): Show off more than the Emperor's dance moves with these weekly reading quizzes. 
  • Major Assignments (25%): "The Way We See Me" - Discover your unique voice and explore how others perceive you in this enchanting exploration of self-awareness.
  • Final Exam (15%): Put your newfound communication skills to the test in a grand finale worthy of a fireworks display over Cinderella's castle!

Assignment Submissions: Follow the Pixie Dust

  • Acceptable File Types: Stick to the approved file types (listed in the "Additional Information" section below) to ensure your work shines like Tinker Bell's light.
  • Dropbox Delivery: Submit all assignments to the designated dropbox to receive your well-earned grades! No emails, Google Drive links, or Pages files, please.
  • Questions? If you're unsure about the submission policy, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with me — my door is always open!
  • Join the Conversation: Your participation in class discussions is more valuable than a wishing star! Share your thoughts, cite sources, and bring the conversation to life.
  • In-Class Adventures: We'll embark on in-class activities to deepen our understanding and boost your grade. Be present to experience the magic—these moments can't be recreated!

Readings: Unleash the Magic of Knowledge

  • Unlock New Chapters Each Week: Dive into a wondrous array of Interpersonal Communication topics, drawn from our enchanted textbook.
  • Read Before You Leap: Always consult the readings before tackling assignments — it's like consulting a wise wizard for guidance!

Major Assignments: Dream Big, Write Bold

  • "The Way We See Me": This paper is your mirror, reflecting your unique qualities and how others perceive you. It's a journey of self-discovery, where you'll uncover the magic within!

Final Exam: The Ultimate Test of Courage

  • Face the Dragon: The final exam is a timed, comprehensive challenge that will test your mastery of communication skills. But remember, you've got the strength of a Disney hero!

Late Work: Finding Your Way Back to the Path

  • Week 1 Grace Period: New to the kingdom? If you stumble in the first week, let's chat face-to-face to find a solution. It's like consulting with the Fairy Godmother!
  • Beyond Week 1: Late work won't be accepted after Week 1, but remember, I'm always here to listen and support you. Reach out proactively, and we'll navigate challenges together.

Pathways to Success: A Little Help from Your Friends

  • Face Challenges Together: Remember, you're not alone on this journey! If life throws you a curveball, like it did for "The Amazing Maria," reach out for support. We'll work together to find a path that leads to your success.
  • Flexibility and Fairness: I'm committed to helping you navigate challenges while ensuring fairness for everyone. Let's communicate openly and explore solutions that work for both of us!

Earning Your Grade: Your Happily Ever After

  • No Grade Recovery: Your grade reflects your true mastery of the material, just as a hero's journey reveals their true character.
  • Grading Scale: Unleash your potential and aim for the stars! Here's the grading scale to guide you:
    • A: 90-100
    • B: 80-89.9
    • C: 70-79.9
    • D: 60-69.9
    • F: 59.9 or below
  • Withdrawals: It's your responsibility to make decisions about your journey. If you choose to withdraw, request a form from me. To do this, please schedule an appointment (link found at the beginning of this document and within the course).

Attendance

Engaging in the Journey: Attendance and Participation

Ahoy, adventurers! Buckle up for a magical voyage through communication land, where your active participation and attendance are the fuel that keeps the pixie dust flying!

I know this is an online course, so absences shouldn't be a thing, but there are times when you may be affected by life.  What that said, think of this course as a thrilling quest through Aladdin's lamp, with each lesson a hidden treasure waiting to be unearthed. Your presence and contributions are the enchanted jewels that fill our treasure chest and make the journey truly magnificent!

But hey, even Mickey Mouse gets knocked out by Merlin's magic tricks sometimes. Life can throw unexpected curveballs, from Ursula's evil schemes to a nasty case of the Beast's sniffles. Don't fret, brave heroes! If anything hinders your ability to join the full-fledged fun, don't hesitate to send me a trusty carrier pigeon (aka email) ASAP! We'll work together to find solutions and keep your adventure rolling.

Excused Absences: Your Golden Ticket to Academic Triumph!

  • Campus-Sponsored Activities: Are you representing Cinderella's Ballroom Dancers at the Inter-Kingdom Tournament? No sweat! An email from your club coach or event sponsor is your golden ticket to an excused absence. Just remember, if it's a blanket announcement ("All-AC" style), a quick heads-up helps me track your heroic feats.

Ahoy, chimney sweeps! Fear not if a spoonful of sugar isn't enough to chase away those "ack-spittal" sniffles or chimney soot sneezes. Sometimes, even a spoonful wouldn't mend what ails you!

  • Short-Term Squalls: If you're only out for a day or two, fret not! A quick "chim chim cher-ee" via email is all it takes. We're all chimney sweeps here, after all, and I trust you to take a spoonful of rest and a good cup of tea to mend your soot-smudged spirits. No need for fancy doctor's notes – just follow your inner Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious intuition and get yourself shipshape!
  • Extended Gales: But if the wind keeps you grounded for longer than a week, then a doctor's note becomes a jolly good kite to navigate the choppy waters of your absence. Think of it as your trusty compass, helping me chart a course to keep you on track for academic sunshine. Remember, dear sweeps, even Mary Poppins needed a chimney sweep now and then!

So chin up, chimney sweeps! Whether it's a spot of soot-induced laryngitis or a bout of Jolly Holiday hiccups, a simple email for short absences and a doctor's note for longer storms will do the trick. And remember, just like a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, a dash of communication makes navigating these unexpected detours a breeze! Let's keep this journey jolly and spiffing, with open communication and a touch of Poppins-esque understanding!

The Magical Power of Excused Absences:

It's not just about escaping homework like mischievous Chip & Dale! Excused absences are your trusty companions on this academic journey, offering fairness and flexibility like Pocahontas navigating the forest:

  • Peace of Mind: No need to stress about missed lessons or falling behind. An excused absence lifts the weight of worry, so you can focus on recovering like Simba reclaiming his kingdom.

  • Catching Up: Missed assignments and quizzes? Excused absences open a window to negotiate deadlines, ensuring you don't fall into any academic chasms. Think of it like Aladdin rewinding the magic carpet to grab your forgotten backpack!

  • Support and Understanding: Whether it's battling a case of Maleficent's green flu or cheering on your Quidditch team, an excused absence acknowledges life's unexpected detours and opens the door for collaboration. Just like Ariel making a deal with Ursula, it allows us to find creative solutions and keep your adventure on track.

  • Maintaining Good Standing: Nobody wants a pile of unexcused absences dragging down their grades like Gaston's ego! Excused absences are your compass, ensuring you stay on track for academic glory and avoid any Ursula-style setbacks.

Remember, communication is key! The sooner you let me know about an unavoidable absence, the sooner we can work together like Simba and Timon Hakuna Matata-ing our way through any obstacles. This journey of learning and growing is much more fun when we face it together, even when life throws a few Cruella de Vil curveballs our way!

So, adventurers, let's set sail on this exciting voyage of communication, with your active participation and attendance as the sails propelling us forward! Together, we'll uncover hidden treasures of knowledge, navigate any academic whirlpools, and emerge from this course victorious, ready to conquer any communication challenge like true Disney heroes!

Calendar

Additional Information

As we embark on this journey of learning, let's make sure our communication channels are crystal clear. While email serves as our trusty map, it has a few limitations when it comes to assignments. Here's the scoop:

  • No file sharing magic tricks: My digital compass can't decipher files from the land of Macintoshes, nor does it understand the language of Google links or other mysterious portals. So, to ensure your hard work reaches its destination, please submit all assignments directly through Blackboard. Think of it as a secure treasure chest for your academic gems!
  • Documents, not detours: While text in emails is fine for quick questions or updates, actual assignments need to be submitted as proper documents or files. This helps keep everything organized and avoids any unexpected glitches in the grading process. Think of it as building a smooth path to academic success, one well-formatted document at a time.

If you have any questions or encounter any roadblocks on your submission journey, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to support you and ensure your hard work shines through.

Accepted File Types

For all assignments in this class, I accept the following file types:

  • .docx (Examples: The Way We See Me)
  • .pdf (Examples: The Way We See Me)
  • .ppt 
  • .jpg (Examples: The Way We See Me Worksheet pages, Infographic)

I cannot grade Google Docs or Slides files.  If you only have access to Google Drive and its tools, don't worry.  You have options.  The video below works in Google Slides as well (instead of downloading as a .docx you download as a .ppt file).

 

Navigating the Information Oasis: Citing Sources and AI Tools

As we journey through this vast intellectual landscape, we inevitably encounter a wealth of information. It's crucial to remember that this knowledge isn't ours alone – we stand on the shoulders of giants, borrowing wisdom from those who came before us. That's where citing sources comes in, like a trusty compass guiding us through the information jungle.

In this course, we'll be utilizing the APA style for citations, ensuring clarity and academic integrity. Think of it as building a map to knowledge, acknowledging the voices that shape our understanding of the world.

Citing the Textbook: Interpersonal Communication: A Mindful Approach to Relationships

Alright adventurers, here's how to cite the textbook for this course, Interpersonal Communication: A Mindful Approach to Relationships, according to APA style:

Basic In-Text Citation:

  • Use the authors' last names and publication year when mentioning the textbook in your writing. For example:

Wrench et al. (2023) emphasize the importance of active listening in healthy relationships.

Full Reference List Citation:

  • Include the following information in your references list:

Wrench, J. S., Punyanunt-Carter, N. M., & Thweatt, K. (2023). Interpersonal communication: A mindful approach to relationships. Milne Publishing.

Additional Notes:

  • If you're referencing a specific chapter, article, or section within the textbook, you can add more detail to your citation. For example:

See Wrench et al. (2023), Chapter 3, for a discussion on mindfulness in communication.

  • If you're accessing the textbook online, you can include the URL in your citation, but the basic format remains the same.

Remember, consistency and accuracy are key when citing sources. If you're unsure about how to cite something, don't hesitate to ask! We're all on this academic adventure together, and helping each other navigate the citation jungle is part of the journey.

Now, some of you might be tempted to explore the ever-evolving frontiers of AI tools. They can be valuable companions, offering insights and assisting your research. However, when using AI-generated content, remember:

  • AI is a tool, not a source: Treat AI-generated text like a helpful discussion partner, not a definitive answer. Always verify the information it provides against other reliable sources and apply critical thinking.
  • Transparency is key: If you incorporate AI-generated content in your work, consider mentioning the tool you used in your references. This builds trust and ensures credit goes where it's due.
  • Focus on originality: Your unique voice and critical analysis are what truly shine. Use AI as a springboard, not a substitute for your intellectual exploration.

While the APA format is still evolving to handle citations for AI-generated content, there are a few options you can consider, depending on the specific context and nature of your interaction with AI.  In the examples below, we will focus on Bard.

1. Personal Communication:

This option is suitable if you're referencing a specific conversation or exchange you had with Bard. The format would be:

(Author, personal communication, Month Day, Year)

For example:

(Bard, personal communication, October 26, 2023)

2. Algorithm's Output:

This option is appropriate if you're citing a specific text or creative content generated by Bard. The format would be:

(Author, Algorithm's output, Title of generated content, Month Day, Year)

For example:

(Bard, Algorithm's output, Poem on the beauty of nature, October 26, 2023)

3. Software:

If you're referring to Bard as a tool or software overall, you can cite it as:

Google AI. (Year). Bard: A large language model for research and dialogue. https://www.projectpro.io/article/chatgpt-vs-google-bard/815

Important Notes:

  • These are just a few suggestions, and the specific format may vary depending on the requirements of your assignment or journal. It's always best to consult your instructor or publication guidelines for specific instructions.
  • Transparency is key! Regardless of the chosen format, mention prominently in your work that you used an AI tool like Bard and be specific about how it was used and what content it generated.
  • Remember, AI-generated content should be used responsibly and critically evaluated alongside other sources. Your own intellectual analysis and original contribution remain essential for academic integrity and meaningful learning.

Remember, navigating the information ocean requires both respect for existing knowledge and the courage to explore uncharted waters. Embrace the power of citations to acknowledge your intellectual debts, and use AI tools wisely to enhance your research, not replace your own critical thinking. Let's embark on this academic adventure together, building a map of knowledge with integrity and intellectual curiosity as our guiding stars!

Syllabus Created on:

01/15/24 4:01 PM

Last Edited on:

01/15/24 4:11 PM