Welcome to REL 2011 - Religion: Analysis and Interpretation. My name is (Professor's name) and I am very excited to share this semester with you. You might stumble somewhat over my name due to a few unfamiliar characters. The reason is that I am born and raised in (insert country here).
Despite my roots, I have strong ties to FIU after living in Miami for four years and eventually graduating as a proud Panther with a Master of Arts in Religious Studies, focusing on early Christianity, early Islam, and comparative studies. I find the study and practice of religion truly fascinating and hope that you will come to share my passion and respect for the diverse beliefs and practices found within the different world religions.
Most, if not all of your questions regarding this course can be answered by simply reading the syllabus - please read it carefully. I would also like to emphasize the following points:
• The best way to contact me is through the blackboard email. I will respond to your email within the same day, or the next day at the latest. Make sure to include all details in the first email so we do not waste unnecessary time emailing back and forth. If you would like to have a more interactive discussion via Blackboard online chat, you are more than welcome to email me to schedule a meeting.
• Please check your blackboard email regularly and read the course announcements. I will use the announcements primarily to communicate important information and reminders for the course.
• Make sure you have the correct edition of the class textbook (6th edition). The first three chapters are available under Course Content - Section 1, and therefore you do not have to worry if you are not able to buy the textbook yet.
• You will complete six time-restricted, online quizzes throughout the semester, with the first one due in week 3. The quizzes cover the material from the assigned readings, PowerPoints presentations, and audio recorded lectures.
• You are expected to participate in at least 10 out of the 13 discussion topics that will be posted throughout the semester, with at least 3 substantial posts in total for each topic.
• The essay assignments are submitted to turnitin through the assignment dropbox in Blackboard. More detailed instructions for each essay will be provided at a later stage.
• Please note that quiz resets will not be allowed. Furthermore, you have to contact me regarding extensions prior to the deadline with a valid excuse (sickness, emergency, technical difficulties, etc.).
• During this first week, please familiarize yourself with the course material and setup in Blackboard. In addition to reading the first chapter, you should post a short introduction about yourself in the discussion board.
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me.
Good luck!
Kind Regards,
Professor's Name
{This was taken from an online course's introductory post by one of FIU's instructors. Some information has been omitted due to privacy concerns}
