Attendance is not required except, of course, for exam days and for reporting on outside reading. Note, that you are responsible for any information presented in class. That includes material I or students present that is not in the book. It also includes changes in exam dates or assignments. I and my colleagues have found a strong correlation between class attendance and grades. I urge you to show up for class.
The Tests: Notice that I have scheduled 4 tests and a final exam. Each test will cover the chapters assigned for that section of the course as well as outside readings and in-class material. The final will be the same format and length as the other tests, but will be comprehensive (i.e. cover the whole course). Each test will have about 10 identification items and 2-4 brief essay items.
Your Grade: If you take all five tests (the four tests plus the final) your final test grade will be based on the average of your 4 highest scores. That is, I will drop your lowest test grade. Participation in discussion and reporting of assignment will represent ~15 percent of the final grade.
This implies that if you are satisfied with your grade after taking the four tests, you need not take the final. It also implies that you cannot hurt (lower) your grade by taking the final.
If you miss a test, the final will be the make-up.
Help: If you find that your performance in the class is not up to your expectations, do not wait and hope that it will get better. Get help as quickly as possible! Find someone who is doing well in the course and get help from them. Find a psychology major who can help you. Go to the student success center. Come to see me. If you do come to my office, bring your notes and your test papers. I can often get a clue by looking at these items.
Academic Honesty: All students are expected to know and adhere to New Mexico Tech's Academic Honesty Policy. This policy can be accessed at: Student Policies