Frequently Asked Questions - POSTER (FAQs) by Ernesto Vasquez del Aguila

Q: Who can I talk to if I’m struggling with my mental health?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: These uncertain times challenge us to continue adapting to new situations. The wellbeing of students is at the centre of teaching and learning. Student Counselling Service of UCD provides a free and confidential service staffed by professionally qualified psychologists and counsellors: www.ucd.ie/studentcounselling

Q: Should I use footnotes/endnotes? Are they included in the word count?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Avoid the use of endnotes/footnotes in your case study. Make sure that your references are included at the end; not as footnotes or endnotes. If you include explanatory footnotes or endnotes, yes, they count as part of the assignment's length.

Q: Can I get samples of good past essays?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: I believe in students’ creativity and uniqueness. Every student and every assignment are different, and I expect you can use this module to explore your own ideas instead of following other classmates’ ways to approach the assignment.

Q: There are several texts which I have been reading, both within the recommended reading lists and beyond, that I have not been able to refer to within my assignment. Should I include such texts in my bibliography, or should I only include those which I have referenced directly?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Only bibliography/reference that are listed in the body of the assignment should be included as part of the reference/bibliography section.

Q: How should I approach the readings?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Most of the readings are based on empirical research, think of them as “case studies” that illustrate some concepts and theories that the authors are arguing. While reading, look at keywords, key concepts and definitions that can be useful for understand the module theoretical framework.

Q: What counts towards my final grade? (Class participation, attendance, etc.)

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Please see the handbook for detailed information about the assessment criteria and grading system.

Q: How do I submit my assignments?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Via Brightspace, under Assessment/Assignments you will find a folder with guidelines (e.g. Final Assignment)

Q: Is there a textbook for this class?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

There are no required textbooks to purchase for this class. All class materials have been posted on Brightspace. The UCD library has a wide-ranging support for materials related to this module, including books, journals, and databases. It also provides support and research training for students.

Q: What is plagiarism?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: You are expected to be familiar with all University College Dublin’s policies governing student affairs and conduct. Plagiarism is a serious violation of university codes on academic integrity, this includes plagiarizing material (without properly citing it) from the web, printed sources, other students’ work, generative AI, or any other source.

Q: What accommodations can be offered for me if I have a disability?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: I understand that each student learns differently. This model strives to be a space for inclusion by providing a learning environment for all regardless of background, personal circumstances, age, disability, or pace of study. If you are facing a barrier to access in my class, I invite you to talk with me about it. Any information disclosed will be treated with confidentiality and respect. You can also communicate your need for accommodation to the Access & Lifelong Learning Centre.

Q: What if I have to miss class due to unforeseen circumstances?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Class notes are available on Brightspace. Please review them and also read the required reading for the missing class. Additionally, please use office hours to raise your questions or concerns.

Q: Can I ask for an extension on my assignments?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: If you are facing difficult circumstances meeting the assignments deadlines, you should contact me as soon as possible. Generally there are two options: 1) Apply for an extension that can be granted locally, and you may be given extra time depending on your circumstances; 2) Apply for extenuating circumstances. This usually covers more serious cases, including ill health or difficult family circumstances. You must apply through your programme office.

Q: Is there any preference for citing references style?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: I recommend that you use a reference manager software to organise your bibliography/references. Endnote is available to download through UCD (https://intranet.ucd.ie/itservices/software/index.html) and there are also other software applications such as Zotero (www.zotero.org/download/). There is no requirement to follow a particular style (e.g. Harvard, Chicago, APHA, etc.). The only requirement is that once you choose your style, you follow it consistently throughout the entire paper.

Q: Can I get help while writing my essay?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

UCD Writing Centre provides free consultations on any aspect of academic writing to all undergraduate and postgraduate students. Bring an assignment you are working on, a paper that has been graded, or just a draft or an essay question, and the writing tutors will talk to you about your writing process and offer strategies for improving your writing skills. The Writing Centre is based in the James Joyce Library. They offer both in-person and online sessions, and you can book your place here: www.ucd.ie/writingcentre.

Q: Do references have to be on the one-page required or can I do a second page just for references?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

A: Your case study should be ONE page only. No additional pages will be graded.

For your references/bibliography: You can use a smaller font for your references or if needed, you can include a hyperlink or a QR code for your references.

QR Code: FAQs Poster

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:29:02 UTC

Q: Does it matter if my case study is horizontal or does it have to be vertical?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:40:31 UTC

A: Your presentation can be portrait or landscape.

Q: Do we have to provide an in-text citation and bibliography citation for the infographic/image?

ernestovasquezdelaguila — 2023-12-12 09:40:56 UTC

A: If possible, use images from free stock websites such as Pexels: www.pexels.com. If using a figure, include the source at the bottom of the image and no need to include the source in the Reference/Bibliography section.