English Language Studies / English for Academic Studies

0389, 1324

Doon Campus

2016-2017 Student Program Handbook

Conestoga Language Institute

Conestoga College Institute of Technology and

Advanced Learning

Note: This is a companion document to the current

Conestoga College Student Guide.

Revised: April 25, 2016

Table of Contents

1) Program Handbook Guidelines ................................................................................... 3

2) WELCOME ................................................................................................................. 4

3) PROGRAM STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION ......................................................... 5

4) PROGRAM OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 6

4.1) Program Description ............................................................................................... 6

4.2) Program Learning Outcomes .................................................................................. 6

4.3) Program Curriculum Sequence/ Design .................................................................. 7

5) PROGRAM INFORMATION & REQUIREMENTS ...................................................... 8

5.1) Academic Assistance .............................................................................................. 8

5.2) Academic Dates...................................................................................................... 8

5.3) Academic Probation ................................................................................................ 8

5.4) Academic Standing and Promotion Requirements .................................................. 8

5.5) Attendance ............................................................................................................. 9

5.6) Awards.................................................................................................................... 9

5.7) Clearance of Academic Deficiency ......................................................................... 9

5.8) Communication ..................................................................................................... 10

5.9) Course Add/Drop .................................................................................................. 10

5.10) Credit Transfer/Exemptions ................................................................................ 10

5.11) Discontinuance ................................................................................................... 10

5.12) Equipment, Supplies and Texts .......................................................................... 10

5.13) Evaluations (deadlines, tests and examinations) ................................................ 10

5.14) Graduation .......................................................................................................... 11

5.15) Program Advisory Committee ............................................................................. 11

5.16) Program Transfer ................................................................................................ 11

5.17) Program Progression .......................................................................................... 11

5.18) Re-admission requirements ................................................................................ 12

5.19) Student Feedback ............................................................................................... 12

5.20) Student Representation ...................................................................................... 12

6) STUDENT SERVICES INFORMATION .................................................................... 12

7) FACILITY INFORMATION – PROGRAM PROTOCOLS ........................................... 13

8) SAFETY INFORMATION – PROGRAM PROTOCOLS ............................................ 13

9) CONESTOGA POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ....................................................... 13

10) PROGRAM HANDBOOK REVISION LOG ............................................................... 14

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 3

1) Program Handbook Guidelines

The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with program-specific details and

other important information. The material in this handbook is accurate at the date of

posting, and is applicable for the current academic year. Students will be informed of

handbook changes that occur, if any, through college email. Program handbooks are

updated yearly and students must check their program handbooks for the current edition.

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2) WELCOME A Message from the Dean, Language and Communications, and Liberal Studies

Welcome to Conestoga!

Congratulations on being accepted into the English Language Studies/English for

Academic Studies Program offered through the Conestoga Language Institute at

Conestoga College ITAL.

This program focuses on the development of the English language skills needed for

success in post-secondary education in Canada. You will also take General Education

courses which will give you an opportunity to use language within a variety of contexts.

Our faculty members are dedicated educators committed to providing a supportive

learning environment. A variety of current language learning methods and techniques are

used to encourage active participation in class and meaningful language practice to

enhance language learning and acquisition.

This handbook provides you with specific information related to the academic standards, guidelines and protocols related to the Program. If you have any additional questions please contact your faculty, your coordinator or contact me directly.

I wish you all the very best in your studies.

Sincerely,

Christine Buuck Dean, Language and Communications, and Liberal Studies

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3) PROGRAM STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION

Dean, Language and Communications, and Liberal Studies Christine Buuck Room: 2A139 (519) 748-5220 ext. 3675 Cbuuck@conestogac.on.ca

Administrative Assistant to the Dean Liliana Pereira Room: 2A139 (519) 748-5220 ext. 3751 Lpereira@conestogac.on.ca

Program Coordinator (Doon) Laura Stoutenburg Room : 2 E 20 (519) 748-5220 ext. 3896 Lstoutenburg@conestogac.on.ca

Professors Ahmad Hussain (519) 748-5220 ext. 3874 Ahussain@conestogac.on.ca

Lesline Smikle (519) 748-5220 ext.3433 Lsmikle@conestogac.on.ca

Faculty In addition to the full-time program faculty, a team of dedicated part-time faculty will work with you for the duration of this program. These include faculty from other Schools such as the general education courses. All faculty and support staff are available to assist you throughout the program.

Contact information for your teachers will be provided on the first day of the respective classes. Contact your teacher first, the coordinator second and then the Administrative Assistant in the event of an emergency or school-related issue.

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4) PROGRAM OVERVIEW

4.1) Program Description

Our four-level English Language Studies program focuses on the listening, speaking,

reading, and writing skills required for college/university studies. Students start at a level

determined by scores on an in-house placement test or an internationally-recognized

English language test such as TOEFL or IELTS. In levels 2 and 3, students reinforce

English skills through Canadian Perspectives courses as well as through core English

skills courses. Concurrent with English studies in Level 4, students take post-secondary

credit courses including Student Success for Higher Learning.

4.2) Program Learning Outcomes

Successful completion of this program will enable the graduate to:

1. Identify and correct his/her individual language difficulties.

2. Demonstrate competence in the use of complex grammatical structures in both

speaking and writing.

3. Differentiate between and produce the basic writing styles and formats used in

college/university courses.

4. Develop editing and proof reading skills.

5. Produce a portfolio of English language written material.

6. Develop a systematic approach to academic reading and vocabulary expansion.

7. Recognize and correct his/her pronunciation difficulties

8. Initiate and participate in group discussions.

9. Prepare and give a presentation/session.

10. Identify his/her own learning styles and develop individual learning strategies.

11. Utilize effective study skills techniques.

12. Utilize critical thinking processes and problem solving techniques.

13. Communicate effectively at a level appropriate to access further academic and

vocational studies.

14. Apply research techniques needed for English language post-secondary studies

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 7

(including Internet access).

15. Apply the basic techniques of career exploration to develop an academic/career

plan.

16. Outline the elements of Canadian culture, geography and history.

4.3) Program Curriculum Sequence/ Design

The following is the anticipated sequence of the program over its four levels of implementation beginning in September 2016. Occasionally, minor program design changes do occur and students are notified of these changes. The Conestoga English Language Studies In- house Examination will determine your level of entry into the program.

Course Name

Hours per Week

Academic Writing 6 hours (Level 1 has 8 hours)

Pronunciation 3 hours (Level 1 has 5 hours) (Level 2 has 4 hours)

Reading Comprehension 4 hours (Level 1 has 5 hours)

Listening and Speaking 4 hours (Level 1 has 5 hours)

Canadian Perspectives 3 hours (Levels 2 and 3)

Student Success for Higher Learning

3 hours (Level 4)

Program Electives Subject to availability

Business Computer Applications

IELTS/TOEFL Preparation

Wellness: A Better You

3 hours (Level 4)

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 8

5) PROGRAM INFORMATION & REQUIREMENTS

5.1) Academic Assistance

The program coordinator and faculty can advise you on specific program and course information. Access the Conestoga website for additional assistance through Accessibility Services and the Learning Commons. Accommodation Disclaimer Conestoga adheres to the Ontario Human Rights Code and is dedicated to promoting an equitable environment for students and employees and opportunities for members of the community to have access to and participate in all aspects of college life. The Program Handbook is intended to provide general information in regards to program expectations. Individual students may have accommodations that create exceptions. Please note: 1) We recognize that extenuating circumstances may apply. Consult with your Professor. All exceptions based on extenuating circumstances must be approved by the Chair. 2) Some students, who are registered with Accessibility Services and whose accommodations indicate the need, may occasionally receive accommodations for missed or late evaluations. 3) Students with a documented disability, who have already provided a related accommodation, are not required to provide an additional doctor’s note for a missed or late evaluation. Examples may include exceptional absences or extensions of absences. For information on Accessibility Services please visit our website or in person. Accommodations are made for students with disabilities, as determined by Accessibility Services.

5.2) Academic Dates

Program start and end dates, holidays and deadlines for course add/drop and withdrawals are located in the Student Guide on Conestoga's website.

Courses follow the instructional plans provided the first week of classes.

5.3) Academic Probation

Students at academic risk are tracked at midterm and supported with suggested strategies for academic success. Students who fail the same level twice consecutively are discontinued for one semester.

5.4) Academic Standing and Promotion Requirements

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Progression from Level 1 to 2 to 3 to level 4:

The following criteria must be met in order to progress to the next level:

1. Students must pass all core* courses – the minimum passing mark is 70%. 2. Students who fail (1) one or more courses must retake all core* courses at that

level.

3. Students who fail (1) one core* course may possibly be allowed to

continue at the discretion of the department.

Level 4: A pass of 70% in all core* courses admits a student to most diploma courses at Conestoga College, all colleges in Ontario, to the Math and Computer Science degree programs at the University of Waterloo, and to all undergraduate degree programs at Wilfrid Laurier University.

To enter ALL degree programs at Conestoga College, a student must have an average of 80% in all core courses with nothing below 75% (Check for exceptions with the department of the next program you wish to attend).

Level 4 students who fail two or more core* courses must retake all core* courses at level 4.

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 1

0

One core* course failed at level 4 must be retaken, and a maximum of two credits may be allowed in that semester in some diploma programs in the college.

*CORE COURSES:

Listening/Speaking, Pronunciation, Writing, Reading, Canadian Perspectives 1 & 2.

5.5) Attendance

The ELS/EAS program provides multiple opportunities to practice English skills for academic purposes. In order for you to benefit from these opportunities, regular attendance is expected throughout the program. Please inform your teachers of any absences and in the case of missed assessments, read the section “Evaluations”.

5.6) Awards

Apply using the online General Application available through your Student Portal to be considered for awards, scholarships and bursaries available through Conestoga.

Notifications and instructions to complete the application will be sent to all full-time Conestoga students’ email accounts in the Fall semester (Deadline: first Friday in October) and Winter semester (Deadline: first Friday in February). Visit the Financial Aid and Student Awards Office on Conestoga’s website for more information.

5.7) Clearance of Academic Deficiency

Supplemental Exams

Any student who has failed a course may apply for a supplemental in order to pass providing the student meets the eligibility requirements to complete the supplemental as outlined below.

It is the responsibility of the student to indicate to the course instructor and the Coordinator his/her intent to clear the deficiency. This must be done within five (5) working days after the final grade was posted. Within this time the course instructor, Coordinator, and student must complete the 'Supplemental Authorization and Terms' Form (RO 479) and the student must take this completed form to the Registrar's Office and pay the required fee.

Since the marks for the Fall semester are not released until just before the Christmas break, it may not be possible to give formal permission for the supplemental until the beginning of the Winter semester. In this case Form (RO 479) must be completed and submitted to the Registrar's Office and fees paid within five (5) working days from the beginning of the Winter semester.

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 10

To be eligible to write a supplemental the student must have a failing grade of not less than 65% in no more than one core language course in their level.

A successful completion of the supplemental will result in a final grade mark of 70% which is the minimum passing grade for the course.

5.8) Communication

Conestoga College email accounts will be used as the primary method of communication between instructors, the college and the students. You are expected to regularly check your email accounts for messages and updates.

5.9) Course Add/Drop

See Student Forms on the Conestoga website.

5.10) Credit Transfer/Exemptions

Refer to the Student Guide on Conestoga's website.

5.11) Discontinuance

In failing a level twice consecutively, a student will be required to withdraw from the program for one semester.

5.12) Equipment, Supplies and Texts

A list of textbooks and materials required for each level is provided on the first day of the semester.

5.13) Evaluations (deadlines, tests and examinations)

The following protocols for missed assignments will be followed:

1.A If a student contacts the teacher before the due date with a reasonable explanation, the teacher will set a new date in discussion with the student. The teacher will use his/her discretion to determine whether an explanation is reasonable. If the teacher determines that an explanation is not reasonable, section 1.B applies.

1.B If a student does not contact the teacher regarding a missed assignment or has not given a reasonable explanation for a missed assignment, an automatic 5% will be deducted for each day the assignment is late up to ten working days after the due date. After this time, the student will receive a grade of 0 for the missed assignment.

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 11

The following protocols for missed tests or exams will be followed:

2.A All tests and examinations are to be written on the dates and at the times scheduled. A student must notify the teacher before the beginning of class by email if he/she is not able to write a test in order to have one opportunity to write a make-up test without losing marks. Without prior notification, students will have one opportunity to re- take the test at a later date for a maximum grade of a pass.

2.B Instructors will make use of the test center for make-up testing for students in Level 3 and Level 4 or work together in consultation with the coordinator to provide proctoring opportunities. Instructors for Levels 1 and 2 will make arrangements with the coordinator for test make-ups.

If a student misses a mid-term or final exam, prior notification and/or appropriate documentation must be provided in order for the student to have an opportunity to reschedule. It is up to the faculty member to reschedule the exam for the student.

5.14) Graduation

ELS students are eligible to graduate upon successful completion of all academic requirements in their program of study. Students are expected to respond to their invitation through their Student Portal. Convocation ceremonies are held in the spring and fall of each academic year. Students who take longer than the advertised program length are responsible for completing any new or additional courses due to a program design change. Students who are discontinued or have withdrawn and then return to the college will be placed in the current program design and must meet all requirements to graduate.

5.15) Program Advisory Committee

Program Advisory Committees (PACs) are usually made up of industry and academic representatives, as well as alumni and current students. They meet to discuss future trends and any improvements that can be made to keep the program current.

5.16) Program Transfer

Prior to enrolling in their next program, it is recommended that the students meet with the program coordinator or academic advisor.

When a student moves from one Conestoga program to another and where course numbers/codes are identical or equivalent, automatic credit is given if passing grades are met.

5.17) Program Progression

Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the

ELS/ELAS Student Handbook 2016/2017 Revised April 25, 2016 12

designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Students who have been away from the program for longer than six months must be re- tested for placement purposes.

5.18) Re-admission requirements

Student are required to apply for re-admission when they have been absent from their program for one semester or longer unless an Intention Form RO#401 has been completed, or student has withdrawn or been discontinued. Upon readmission, students are placed into the current program design.

5.19) Student Feedback

Student feedback is an essential component of our continuous improvement process. Opportunities for student feedback include completing Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT) forms, attending forums and completing feedback forms.

5.20) Student Representation

CSI and Conestoga agree that a student has the right to invite a member of CSI to a student/faculty meeting, provided that 24 hours advance notice is given to faculty. This advance notice will ensure that all parties will have an opportunity to adequately prepare for the meeting.

6) STUDENT SERVICES INFORMATION

Refer to your Student Guide for Conestoga’s student services information: search “Student Guide” on Conestoga's website..

Orientation

Orientation and placement testing takes place in the week prior to the beginning of classes each semester. At this time, you have the opportunity to log into the college computer system, register for lockers and obtain student I.D. cards. A campus tour is also part of this session.

Within the first two weeks of each semester, the coordinator visits each class and reviews the student guide and program rules and requirements for the semester and for promotion to the next level.

Each semester, counselors from Counseling Services present a workshop on cultural adjustment strategies.

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Once a year, a series of workshops designed to empower students with information about issues related to safety and health in Canada is provided.

7) FACILITY INFORMATION – PROGRAM PROTOCOLS

Refer to the Student Guide for information on after-hours access, parking, and classroom & computer labs. Search “Student Guide” on Conestoga's website.

8) SAFETY INFORMATION – PROGRAM PROTOCOLS

Refer to your Student Guide for Conestoga’s Safety and Security services and procedures. Search “Student Guide” on Conestoga's website.

9) CONESTOGA POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Students are advised to review and follow all policies and procedures including the following:

Academic Dishonesty

Academic honesty is an essential aspect of academic studies. It means that a student submits his/her own work and gives credit when using the words and ideas of others.

Please note that academic dishonesty is not tolerated.

Plagiarism is one form of academic dishonesty. We are committed to helping you

prevent plagiarism BEFORE your work is submitted. Effective paraphrasing and

documentation skills are part of our curriculum and will be taught with ample opportunity

for instructor feedback. In addition, Conestoga College provides online assistance

through the LRC and access to 'Turnitin" software. Teachers are also available for

consultation outside of class so that students can get assistance with documenting

sources correctly BEFORE submitting assignments. Once an assignment is submitted,

however, the college considers that you are claiming it to be your own work. Note that

incorrect paraphrasing or documentation on any assignment handed in during the

learning process will simply be pointed out the first time it occurs. Subsequent instances

will be subject to the rules below, which deal with any instance of academic dishonesty.

With a first offence,

The student will meet with the instructor to document a plan of action using an Academic Offenses form. A copy of this form will be sent to the Registrar’s Office.

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The penalty will be decided by the instructor choosing from the list available on the Academic Offenses form.

After a second offence,

The student will meet with the Dean, who will complete an Academic Offences form and decide upon the penalty.

Should there be a third offence, the student will be discontinued. For a complete listing of Conestoga’s academic policies and procedures, search “Student Guide” on Conestoga's website.

10) PROGRAM HANDBOOK REVISION LOG

Revision Date Summary of Changes 04/25/2016 Program Information-Revised