Professor Elam

Tuesday Sept 16, 2014

I do not normally use this space to discuss class but will do so today. 

Your failure to plan does not constitute an automatic emergency on my part

What is the relationship of the War of 1812 to attending TAMUSA as an accounting student?

The War of 1812 was between Britain and the USA. The cause was that Britain was forcing Americans into the British Navy by shangahai on the High Seas. 

Here at TAMUSA, we do not shanghai or kidnap you into servitude. You have volunteered. We lay out the requirements in a syllabus. Indeed as the article in the WSJ today states, one needs to lay out quiet time to read. Ditto, same for accounting. 

Now, some of you have been asking for me to post the answers to the homework problems. The answers to the homework problems are all available on MH Connect but only after you attempt to work the homework problems. You will never know what you do not know unless you attempt the problems first without looking at the answer. Then you will be prepared to take the weekend quiz. 

Now, excuses for not taking the quizzes on the weekend have included

I forgot

did not have time

were too busy

wre out of town

my computer was broken

Connect would not work for me

was with a relative or friend in the hospital

At this point it would be good to re read the first line of this article. The method of delivery is not going to change. You volunteered to take the class. The quizzes are on the weekend. I am not going to re set quizzes for any and every one who could not find time to do what they promsed to do  by enrolling in class. 

I believe that this sort of littany of excuses suggests some do not understand the purpose of the quiz. The purpose is for you to test your understanding BEFORE a more important exam. The purpose is not simply to accumulate some points in the class. By taking the quiz you and I both receive feedback on your proress. And there are quizzes on the spiceland web site. 

As one of my friends said about being on the credit commtte of a local bank. The most important word in the English language is NO. 

Now the vast majority of you are complying with the rules, thank you. 

Welcome to college, the ultimate test of self reliance.