10 things you should know before the semester begins:

1. In-Person Format: Most of our classes will be held in fully in person, without a virtual option. There may be a few days during the semester when we can't meet in person, but I'll provide asynchronous lessons for you to complete on your own time. All graded assignments in the course are completed online, but a portion of your exam scores will be based on activities and discussions that only happen in class. 
   
   
2. Graded Participation: Active participation is an important component of being successful in this course. We will use the iClicker Cloud app to keep track of participation during class time. Unlike some of your other courses, physical iClicker remotes will not work in our class. However, iClicker Cloud access is included with purchases of new physical remotes. You’ll need a laptop, phone, or tablet to participate in these interactive assignments.
   
   
3. My Teaching Style is Different: My section of Econ 2005 is unlike the other sections at Virginia Tech. We all cover the same material, but I place a stronger emphasis on frequent, small-stakes assignments. I'll let you learn some of the easy stuff on your own so that our class time can focus on problem-solving and activities. 
   
   
4. Expect to Think, Not Memorize: This course focuses on learning to think differently about problems. Throughout the semester, you’ll be asked to analyze data and evaluate real-world issues from an economic lens. Most questions I ask will require critical thinking rather than straightforward recall. If you’re used to “plug-and-chug” math problems or multiple-choice tests that reward memorization, be prepared for a different kind of challenge. Engaging with the material regularly will make this much easier!
   
   
5. Weekly Assignments Matter As Much As Exams: Instead of relying on a few high-stakes exams during the semester, this course uses multiple weekly assignments to reinforce learning. It's important to stay ahead of due dates. The Canvas calendar does not always list everything, so consider using a planner to stay organized.
   
   
6. MyLab Platform: Your textbook, study resources, weekly assignments, and exams are all hosted on Pearson’s MyLab platform. The lowest price is available through Pearson’s website (about $130) because the campus bookstore charges around $160 for an access code. If you prefer to read from a physical copy of the book, I recommend purchasing a used copy of an older edition on Amazon before the semester begins. You’ll be able to pay and register for MyLab once Canvas opens.
   
   
7. Save Money on Books & Course Materials: Most course material (for our course and others) is cheaper online than at the campus bookstore. Before buying anything for your courses, check to see if older editions work for your other professors. Amazon offers a student version of Amazon Prime, which provides several benefits and 3-day shipping of items directly to your dorm.
   
   
8. Canvas is Your Central Hub: We will use multiple online platforms this semester, but Canvas is the central hub for most course materials and announcements. I recommend configuring your Canvas preferences for daily digests and setting up email forwarding if you don’t regularly check your VT email. When you register for class-related sites, be sure to always use your VT email so that your grades sync correctly. This is true for all your courses!
   
   
9. No Late Work or Make-Ups for Technical Issues: Technical issues happen to all of us, and our course has accommodations already built into the grading for occasional problems. As such, no late work or make-up assignments will be given. If you run into technical issues during the semester, there are public computers on campus, or you can rent a laptop from the library.
10. I Love Economics (And Hope You Will Too!): I’m passionate about economics and education, and I bring that energy to every class. I write a weekly newsletter connecting economics to current events and pop culture that you might find interesting. You are welcome (but not required) to follow my social media accounts for additional insights or discussions outside of class.