2023/24 Environmental Sciences Student Handbook

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Environmental Sciences

2023-2024
[STUDENT
HANDBOOK] LAKELAND COLLEGE
i TABLE OF CONTENTS A. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................................................1 B. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES STAFF..............................................................................................................................2 C. ROLE OF STUDENTS AND FACULTY ..............................................................................................................................3 D. ACADEMIC PROGRAMS ...............................................................................................................................................4 1 Environmental Sciences Programs • Environmental Science Diplomas................................................................................................................................. • Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management (B.App.Sc:EM) E. ACADEMIC REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES ...............................................................................................................7 1. Laboratory & Field Trip Safety 2. Attendance Guidelines (official guidelines are in your course outline) ........................................................................... 3. Travel in Inclement Weather 4. Assessment Guidelines 5. Missed Exams .................................................................................................................................................................. 7. Grading System 8. Grade Points .................................................................................................................................................................... 9. Marks 10. Graduation Requirements............................................................................................................................................... 11. Honours and Distinction Standing 12. Bursaries, Awards, and Scholarships 13. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition ................................................................................................................... 14. Supplemental Evaluation Request and Procedures 15. Examination Date Change ............................................................................................................................................... 16. Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management – Capstone Extension Request 17. Course Selection Change 18. Course Overlap Form 20. Repeat of a Course 21. Student Appeal Policy...................................................................................................................................................... 22. Student Discipline 23. Rights and Responsibilities .............................................................................................................................................. 24. Academic Probation ........................................................................................................................................................ 25. Academic Suspension 26. Student Messages ........................................................................................................................................................... 27. Financial Hold 28. FOIP (Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy).............................................................................................. 29. FOIP Procedures for Handling of Student Marks/Assignments/Exams 30. Employee/Student Records Reference Request 31. Electronic Device Use ...................................................................................................................................................... F. CLUBS/TEAMS-IT.......................................................................................................................................................18 APPENDICIES – APPENDIX I – GUIDELINES FOR LABORATORY USE (LABORATORY RESPONSIBILITIES) ...............................20

A. INTRODUCTION

This handbook provides important information to students enrolled in Environmental Sciences programs. Students are responsible to read the handbook and be aware of the policies and procedures.

Students must select their program before the beginning of their first year of study. Due to program quotas, transfer between majors or programs is subject to seat availability. Students who transfer must meet entrance requirements and must have applicable prerequisite courses to continue in a new diploma/degree stream. Students wishing to transfer programs or majors must meet with the Department Chair ideally, at or before the Christmas break, or alternatively at or before the end of their first year in order to transfer majors or programs.

Lakeland College offers environmental sciences programming in the following:

Certificate (one-year)

o General Environmental Sciences

Diploma (two-year)

▪ Environmental Sciences with the following majors:

o Land Stewardship and Conservation (LSC)

o Environmental Conservation and Reclamation (ECR)

o Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation (WFC)

o General Environmental Sciences Diploma (GES)

o Renewable Resources Reclamation (RRR)

▪ Agricultural Sustainability Program (2- year diploma)

Applied Degree (two semesters post-diploma of academic, plus two semesters industry practicum)

▪ Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management

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B. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES STAFF

Marilyn

Lab

WIL

Pesticides

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Woodhouse – Dean AL221C 780 853-8741 Environmental Sciences
James
Sommer-Administrative Assistant To the Dean Environmental Sciences AL221 780 853 8457
Faculty Cass Gnyra- Chair AL221D 780 853 8623 Christopher Nzediegwu AL220B 780 853 8582
Krys AL220C 780 853 8587 Laurel Thompson AL208F 780 853 8442
Ranger AL219C 780 853 8551
Frost AL219B 780 853 8643
Nadorozny AL224 780 853 8584 Sandy Van Dijk AL220D 780-853-8658
Kathnelson AL224 780 853 8615 Brendan Ganton AL208G 780 853 8735
Academic
Kaylie
Mike
Lukas
Nicole
Sandra
Technicians Thomas McAleer AL214 780 853 8708 Marie Morrill AL214 780 853 8492
Coordinator AL219A 780-853-8537
Andrea Kastendieck (Coordinator – Pesticides) MM137 780 853 8565 Cara Van Tighem (Administrative Assistant) MM137 780 853 8645 Deanna Krys (Administrative Assistant) MM137 780 853 8647 Mikala Gunderson MM137 780 853 8652

C. ROLE OF STUDENTS AND FACULTY

Achieving a good working relationship with Faculty members is an important factor in being a successful student. Part of the responsibility for achieving such a relationship rests with you, the student. How is this done?

The answer is not, of course, to simply try to please the instructor at all times without considering the quality of the teaching offered or its relation to your individual needs. Students need to feel free to respond positively or with constructive criticism to an instructor in order to be active in their learning, and instructors need feedback from their students about both the successful and unsuccessful aspects of their teaching activities. In this regard, you will be asked to complete teaching evaluations for each of your instructors for each of your courses.

Courtesy and frankness are necessary in initiating and maintaining a satisfactory and productive relationship. Instructors are approachable and welcome feedback from students (they often don't get enough of it, especially when it is clear that the student is interested in learning). If you really liked something the instructor did or their approach to teaching - TELL THEM. Likewise, if you feel something isn’t working or might be improved on - SUGGEST IT. Instructors are here to teach you and to do so in the most positive way possible. Your input, so long as it is constructive, can be of great help.

Here are a few of the matters about which you may wish to speak to an instructor:

• Your suitability for a particular course. Do you have enough background in it? Will it be the kind of information you want?

• Uncertainty about the purpose or nature of a course. Are you still wondering about what you are supposed to be learning or what problems the course is trying to provide answers to?

• Difficulties with individual topics. Is there something you could be reading to help you with it?

• Confusion about an assignment. Could it be explained more fully? Could the instructor give you an example of the kind of work expected?

• Uncertainty about a test or exam. What would be the best kind of preparation? What sort of things will you be expected to be able to do?

• Difficulty in understanding comments or grades on an essay, paper, or exam. Can you get further clarification? If you are still puzzled or feel unjustly treated, will the instructor mark it again?

Note: If you are dissatisfied with the explanations you receive on an assignment, you should certainly request clarification Remember, though, that you should avoid making blunt complaints of dissatisfaction, confusion, or injustice. Problems may arise, however, because the expectations of students and instructors are not clearly defined, and individuals have widely varying ideas of what comprise these expectations. The following may help you:

You can expect your instructor to

• provide a detailed course outline.

• explain in advance the purpose, scope, and objectives of a course.

• give a clear schedule of material to be covered and the assignments to be done.

• make clear the purpose and scope of each lecture or class.

• explain assignments fully and clearly.

• specify evaluation procedures and stick to them as far as possible.

• evaluate students on how well they have mastered what has been taught.

• mark tests, papers, and assignments, bearing in mind that the marking should provide the students with a further important learning experience, and return it within a reasonable time (on some occasions, assistant markers may be used).

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• give students an opportunity to respond to his or her teaching through questions and comments, and to answer all reasonable questions conscientiously and courteously.

• assist students in preparing for tests and exams.

• be available for consultation, via fixed office hours or arranged appointments.

• give students a sense that their educational progress is important.

Your instructor will expect you to

• attend all classes, laboratories, and field trips.

• provide an explanation and/or the appropriate documentation for any absences (in advance for labs and field trips).

• do all the assigned readings to prepare for classes.

• hand in assignments on time or be prepared to explain any difficulties in doing so (and request extensions, if available) well in advance of when the assignment is due Many instructors assign a mark of zero for late assignments. Otherwise, be prepared to provide appropriate documentation as to why the assignment is late.

• seek clarification of what is not understood in classes or assignments and ask for further information as required.

• use returned assignments or tests to learn about your progress and performance.

• show interest in the subject, as all the courses within your program have been selected for their relevance to what employers expect graduates to have a grasp of and motivate yourself to study it.

Other Points to Remember

• If you feel that an instructor is not giving you a fair hearing, courteously let him or her know. If your personal relations with the instructor have deteriorated to the point where this is not possible, please see the Department Chair.

• You should feel free to establish personal contact with your instructor to give him or her feedback. Talking directly with your instructor also helps to maintain your interest and motivation in a particular course.

• If a dispute cannot be resolved informally (it usually can), you may need to go to a formal appeal procedure. Details of appeal procedures are given in the Calendar (see under Academic Regulations) and can be discussed with your Department Chair or the Registrar. Progressive appeals would involve the Dean – Environmental Sciences, and the Vice-President, Academics, Research and Innovation

D. ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

1. Environmental Sciences Programs

• Environmental Sciences Diploma

The two-year Environmental Sciences Diploma provides options for training in nearly all aspects of environmental sciences and natural resource management. The first- year courses help develop the technical skills applied to the specialized courses in the second year of the program. The combination of second year courses related to the Major of choice will enhance the chosen skills, and lead to exciting career opportunities in environmental sciences.

Students applying to the Environmental Sciences Diploma will select one of five Majors, depending on interest and career goals. (Land Stewardship and Conservation Major, Environmental Conservation and Reclamation Major, General Environmental Services Major, Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Major, Renewable Resources Reclamation Major)

The first- year courses develop core knowledge in a common set of competencies including soils, plant identification, ecology, aquatic systems, mapping and GPS, and environmental sustainability to name a few. Students gain extensive hands-on experience during field labs and develop the skills industry is looking for.

▪ Land Stewardship and Conservation (LSC) Major (Dipl: Env Sci)

Develop the technical skills required to design and implement effective restoration and conservation strategies for natural and disturbed ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on resource management

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techniques that minimize or correct disturbance from industrial development, agricultural services, and other land-use impacts. Students may apply their knowledge towards habitat restoration, habitat conservation and management, invasive species management, and species at risk conservation in disturbed and natural areas.

Applied Skills - Field Botany & Plant Inventories, Ecological Sampling Techniques, Soil Classification & Conservation, Ecological Health Assessments, Wetland Management, Wildlife Habitat Conservation, Land Restoration/Reclamation, GIS & GPS Mapping Skills, Phase I & II Site Assessments, Industrial Vegetation Management

Career Opportunities - Graduates may find employment with private environmental consulting firms; forest companies; the oil and gas industry; land and resource management branches of municipal, provincial, and federal governments; non-government conservation organizations; and other land stewardship agencies. Job responsibilities will focus on the conservation, management, and restoration of wetland, grassland, and forest habitats.

Continued Learning - Graduates can transfer credits to obtain both a Diploma and a Degree in four years. Many graduates find a competitive advantage in the conservation and restoration field by combining the practical skills from this Diploma with courses from a Degree program. In turn, Degree graduates can take Diploma courses to obtain practical skills, and to qualify for an Environmental Sciences Diploma.

▪ Environmental Conservation & Reclamation (ECR) Major (Dipl: Env Sci) Obtain the technical skills required to plan, inspect, coordinate and implement reclamation and soil conservation projects. Program studies provide practical training through the use of specialized field and lab equipment, and working field trips to oil and gas facilities, agricultural lands, forests, grasslands, and water bodies that are impacted primarily by the oil and gas industry.

Applied Skills - Reclamation Techniques, Drilling Waste Management, Revegetation Methods, Phase I & II Site Assessments, Wellsite Reclamation Criteria, Soil Classification & Conservation, Plant Identification, GIS & GPS Mapping Skills

Career Opportunities - Opportunities exist in environmental consultancies, government agencies, and industry positions. Graduates may find employment in the petroleum, mining, forestry, and agriculture sectors. Positions include reclamation technician, reclamation contract supervisor, drilling waste technician, environmental consultant, and soil conservation technician.

Continued Learning Strategies - Graduates can transfer credits to obtain both a Diploma and a Degree in four years. Many graduates find a competitive advantage in the conservation and reclamation field by combining the practical skills from this Diploma with courses from a Degree program. In turn, Degree graduates can take Diploma courses to obtain practical skills, and to qualify for an Environmental Sciences Diploma.

▪ General Environmental Services (GES) Major (Dipl: Env Sci)

General Environmental Services emphasizes water quality protection, a growing area of employment and environmental concern in Canada in general and in Alberta and Saskatchewan in particular. Students will learn how to protect and sustainably manage both water and land resources through field procedures and best practices such as protecting surface water and riparian habitats. Whether on a field trip or in a lab, hands-on training uses modern field equipment to learn how to conduct full environmental monitoring, field surveys and protection programs for water, soil, sediments and other media. Employable skills could be developed in environmental sampling, site assessment and waste management including surface water, ground water, air, vegetation and soil monitoring and sampling techniques, field techniques in biomonitoring and habitat assessment, and phase I and II site assessments in upstream oil and gas, commercial and industrial settings. Students also receive important industry

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certifications such as Spill Response, First Aid, Boat Operation and Water Safety. There is an everincreasing demand on water conservation and management at local and global scales, with growing employment opportunities in a diverse and interesting variety of Government and private sector institutions.

Applied Skills - Water, vegetation and soil sampling and monitoring techniques, Environmental sampling, quality assurance, and control, GIS and GPS mapping skills, Phase I and II Site Assessments, Biomonitoring and toxicity testing, Global understanding of resources and resource protection

Career Opportunities - Environmental consultants, industry and government seek our graduates for employment. Graduates typically work within a team of professionals as field and laboratory technologists in the areas of water and soil sampling and analysis, environmental monitoring, and determining compliance with water, air and soil health and safety regulations. Career opportunities are diverse and include positions with private environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and industries involved with oil and gas, forestry, pulp and paper, petrochemicals, and water and wastewater treatment.

Continued Learning Strategies - Graduates can transfer credits to obtain both a Diploma and a Degree in four years. Many graduates find a competitive advantage in the monitoring and protection field by combining the practical skills from this Diploma with courses from a Degree program. In turn, Degree graduates can take Diploma courses to obtain practical skills, and to qualify for an Environmental Sciences Diploma.

▪ Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation (WFC) Major (Dipl: Env Sci)

Studies focus on wildlife and fisheries biology, identification, ecology, management and field sampling techniques. Considerable emphasis is also placed on terrestrial and aquatic habitat conservation and management. Hands-on learning is highlighted throughout the program, as students spend considerable time in forest, grassland, mountain and aquatic ecosystems. These field exercises are supplemented by laboratory and classroom learning opportunities.

Applied Skills - Wildlife and Fisheries Identification, Wilderness Survival, Electro-fishing, Wilderness

First Aid, ATV and Snowmobile Operation, Radio Telemetry, Bird Identification and Songs, Motor Boat Operation, Water Sampling, GPS Data Collection, Small Engine Repair, ArcGIS Mapping, Aerial Photo Interpretation, Timber Cruising, Plant Identification, Aquatic Invertebrate Identification, Soil Classification, Chainsaw safety, Orienteering, Map Interpretation

Career Opportunities - This program prepares students to work as field specialists in wildlife, fisheries, forestry, watershed, and habitat conservation positions. Graduates work for Resource Industries, Consultants, Conservation Organizations and Governments.

Continued Learning Strategies - Graduates can transfer credits to obtain both a Diploma and a Degree in four years. Many graduates find a competitive advantage in the wildlife and fisheries field by combining the practical skills from this Diploma with courses from a Degree program. In turn, Degree graduates can take Diploma courses to obtain practical skills, and to qualify for an Environmental Sciences Diploma.

• Agricultural Sustainability

This two-year diploma program is designed for students that have a passion for agriculture industry as well as an appreciation for stewardship and sustainability. This collaboration between the School of Agricultural Sciences and the School of Environmental Sciences delivers well developed course material in common agricultural production practices, foundational plant, soil and livestock science, ecology and habitat management and monitoring technologies. Practical, hands-on experience will be a focus to produce students able to critically think and problem solve in order to meet the challenge of global food production while considering economic, social and environmental sustainability.

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• Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management (B.App.Sc:EM)

The Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management (B.AppSc: Environmental Management) program focuses on the monitoring, reclamation and remediation sectors of environmental protection. The curriculum has been designed to satisfy industry demand for technical and scientific personnel who are skilled in the area of remediation and reclamation or environmental monitoring and protection. All students receive cross training in communications, and project management. Students typically complete 16 consecutive months of study, which includes eight months of classroom and laboratory/field instruction followed by eight months of practicum.

Practicum - Students are required to complete two sixteen-week practicums. Through the Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management Practicum Coordinator, the college assists, but does not guarantee placement of students in paid practicum positions with industry and government agencies. Students must also be active in finding their practicum positions. Students are responsible for their own travel and accommodation during these periods.

Career Opportunities - Graduates of this program have well-developed technical/scientific skills and knowledge in the reclamation/remediation or the monitoring/environmental protection industry. Supplementary training also provides graduates with strong communication, and project management skills. Career Opportunities exist in: Consulting: Site Assessment and Characterization, Contaminant Remediation, Reclamation Supervision, Air Quality Services, Industrial Waste and Wastewater Management, Project Management. Government: Monitoring, Inspection, Auditing, Compliance. Industry: Environmental Health and Safety Departments in Oil and Gas, Pulp and Paper, Mining, Forestry and Wildlife

E. ACADEMIC REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES

1. Laboratory & Field Trip Safety

Students have the responsibility to conduct themselves in a safe and appropriate manner during all laboratory activities The possession of and/or consumption of alcohol and/or illicit drugs are not permitted during field trips and/or laboratory activities. Students must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct (Article 5.11 – Student Policies & Procedures) and to the Student Rights & Responsibilities (Article 5.73 – Student Policies & Procedures), or else be subject to disciplinary action (Article 5.57 – Student Policies & Procedures). For a first offense, the Department of Environmental Sciences will recommend expulsion from the specific course in which the infraction occurred. A second offense will receive a recommendation of expulsion from Lakeland College. All decisions for disciplinary action will be finalized through the Office of the Registrar.

2. Attendance Guidelines (official guidelines are in your course outline)

Classroom and laboratory attendance is considered vital to the learning process and as significant to the students' evaluation as examinations and reports. Therefore, absenteeism will be recorded.

a. Students having a combination of excused and/or unexcused absence of 20 percent or higher for the scheduled course hours can be required to withdraw and would then automatically receive a "RW" (required withdrawal) for the course, regardless of any other evaluation results. (RW is a failing grade.)

b. An unexcused absence is an absence that is not verified with your instructor prior to the absence or the next class day following the absence.

c An excused absence is one that is verified with your instructor prior to the absence or the next class day following the absence. Verification of the absence may take the form of a note from your doctor/College nurse regarding illness, or a note from another instructor regarding a field trip or other activity, or authorization by your instructor following an in-person meeting. Be sure to contact your instructor and ask what they will require from you as verification for each absence.

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NOTE: Any exceptions to the above attendance policy (e.g. timetable conflicts, work-related issues) must be approved in writing by the Department Chair prior to the beginning of the course.

It is the students’ responsibility to know their own absentee record.

Normal hours are 8:30 am to 6:30 pm, with potential for evening courses or extended field trips. Students are expected to be available for classes during these times.

Action

a. Weather and road conditions are reviewed by the instructor, in communication with the Service Centre Staff, prior to departure. A decision may be made to cancel the field trip by the Service Centre or the instructor.

b. Students are expected to dress appropriately for conditions expected during travel or field trips.

If the instructor decides to continue with the trip plans, then the following may apply

c. Conditions are monitored throughout activity.

d. Activity may be modified based upon monitoring.

e. If the weather becomes unsafe to return to Lakeland College the instructor is authorized to seek local accommodation and reasonable expenses will be covered by the School of Energy and Environmental Sciences.

f. Where students refuse to participate once a decision is made to proceed, the instructor may advise the student of the following options:

• the student will forfeit their marks for that activity, as per the course outline.

• the student will be assigned an “unexcused” absence.

• the student will be responsible for obtaining content material.

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3. Travel in Inclement Weather

4. Assessment Guidelines

The following apply to all situations where students are being tested or examined on course material.

1. Students can be required to leave an exam if dishonesty is suspected. The Chair will be notified in writing. A grade of zero will be assigned and students may face academic discipline as per Student Discipline Procedure “STU 5.57.” A copy of this procedure is available on the website.

2. Normally, students are only allowed to have pens, pencils and erasers with them while writing the exam

3. Other materials may be required at the discretion of the instructor (e.g. calculators, textbooks).

4. Students are NOT permitted access to nor have in their possession any other items during an exam (eg. notes, cell phones, electronic equipment, hats, coats, etc.). Students that are found to have study notes on their possession during an exam (except when expressly allowed) will receive a zero and face Student Discipline up to and potentially including suspension from College

5. Once in the exam room, the following rules will apply to all students:

• Students are not allowed to communicate with other students during an exam

• Students are not allowed to leave an exam before they are finished.

• Bathroom breaks are normally not allowed during an exam.

6. Students will only be allowed into an exam late if no other student has already completed and left the exam room. Students arriving after another student has left the exam will be deemed to have missed the exam.

7. Students missing an exam will receive a mark of zero.

5 Missed Exams

Students missing an exam will normally receive a zero. In some situations, students may miss an exam due to extreme circumstances (e.g. medical, bereavement). Students who will miss an exam must request and receive an excused absence for the exam from the course instructor prior to missing the exam, unless extenuating circumstances arise. The course instructor will be the judge on whether the circumstances were extenuating. Course instructors may or may not offer the opportunity to write a supplemental exam. Students may be requested to submit documentation of the reason for the absence.

6. Assignments

Typed assignments are required and should be submitted on or before the due date. Penalties may be assessed for illegible, poorly written, or late assignments. Requirements for assignment will be clearly specified in class. If you are unsure, clarify the assignment expectations with the instructor.

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7. Grading System

For the complete procedure, refer to the College’s website, Campus Life tab, Student Policies and Procedures https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/grading-system

Final marks will be submitted to the Office of the Registrar by your instructor in the form of a Letter Grade. This grade will be assigned according to your achievement in a course.

Environmental Programs Grade Conversions

Normally a minimum grade of D is required to pass a course. A grade of D is considered a Minimal Pass with a grade point of 1.00. Your instructor will inform you if a higher minimum grade is required to pass any course. Environmental Science students must maintain a cumulative average grade of C (GPA 2.00) to qualify for graduation. Generally, students in Environmental Sciences with a cumulative GPA of less than 1.00 face suspension, and students with a cumulative GPA of less than 2.00 are placed on academic probation. Students in these situations should see the full Academic Probation and Academic Suspension procedures as found on the website as well as see their appropriate chairperson so that they can assist you in your academic success. Students may be allowed the opportunity to repeat minimal pass courses, or to undertake a maximum of one special project per year, to achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.00 based on the following criteria:

If the student has one course below 2.00, he/she may be able to do a special project or exam to improve the final mark in that course upon consultation and agreement with the instructor involved. Alternatively, if the student has more than one course below 2.00, he/she must retake the courses and achieve grades sufficient to meet the overall GPA graduation requirements.

Grade points earned for a subject are determined by multiplying the credit value of the subject by the grade earned in that subject.

9. Marks

A transcript of marks will be available to students via MyLakeland. Students are responsible for ensuring the Registrar’s Office has their correct mailing address. Official transcripts bear the Lakeland College seal and the signature of the Registrar or designate. To obtain an official transcript, contact the Registrar’s Office.

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8. Grade Points
Example Credit Grade Grade Point Earned Total Grade Point Earned BI 205 – Limnology 3 C 2.0 6.0 SO 210 – Introductory Soil Science 3 B 3.0 9.0 ZO 214 – Ornithology 3 A- 3.7 11.1 2.9 9 1 26 3 3 3 1 11 0 9 0 6 Taken Subjects of Values Credit Total Earned Points Grade Total Average Point Grade = = + + + + = =
Grade F D D+ C- C C+ B- B B+ A- A A+ % Range 0-49 50-52 53-56 57-59 60-64 65-69 70-74 75-79 80-84 85-89 90-94 95-100 Points 0.00 1.00 1.30 1.70 2.00 2.30 2.70 3.00 3.30 3.70 4.00 4.00

10. Graduation Requirements

1. Students must successfully complete with a passing grade all prescribed course work and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0.

2. Students must apply in writing to the Registrar's Office to be considered for graduation (see the College website).

3. Students must complete the requirements for graduation within five years of commencing the program unless the graduation requirement specifically states otherwise.

11. Honours and Distinction Standing

Lakeland College recognizes the high academic achievement of its students by the following.

Recognition at Graduation

1. Students graduating with an Applied Degree, Diploma, Associate Diploma, Certificate, Associate Certificate, or Secondary Diploma, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 to 3.79 inclusive will graduate "With Honours."

2. Students graduating with an Applied Degree, Diploma, Associate Diploma, Certificate, Associate Certificate, or Secondary Diploma, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.80 or higher will graduate "With Distinction."

3. The designation "With Honours" or "With Distinction" will appear on the credential (eg. Diploma, Certificate, Degree) and the student's transcript of marks

4. The grades from all required courses for the program will be calculated in the cumulative grade point average, except for PASS/FAIL grades. Where a course has been successfully repeated, only the higher grade will be included in the cumulative GPA calculation.

5. Students graduating "With Honours" or "With Distinction" will have their names added to the Honour Roll Board at the campus from which they graduated.

Recognition by Term

Students who achieve a GPA of 3.50 and above at the end of a term will be recognized in the form of a personal letter from the School's Dean, and have their name published on the "Dean's Honour Roll" which will be displayed by each school.

Recognition by Year

Students who achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.80 and above at the end of an academic year will be recognized in the form of a personal letter from the President, and have their name included on the "President's Honour Roll" which will be published in the media.

12. Bursaries, Awards, and Scholarships

A good GPA will not only benefit you in your future pursuit for employment but may also benefit you financially while here at Lakeland College. Students with an appropriate GPA are eligible for various monetary awards towards their education. PLEASE, look over the section on Bursaries, Awards and Scholarships in the Lakeland College Calendar to see what awards you may be eligible for AND APPLY!

13. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Lakeland College recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies acquired through formal and informal education, or work experience and training. Lakeland College supports the guiding principles and standards for prior learning developed by the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer (March 1997). Descriptions of transfer credit, advance credit and residency requirements can be discussed with the Department Chair or the Registrar’s Office.

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14. Supplemental Evaluation Request and Procedures

(Including Re-Examination/Re-Evaluate/Special Project) (Refer to Procedure 5.90)

1. The student obtains the “Re-Examination/Re-Read/Special Project/Challenge Examination Request” form from the Office of the Registrar or the Environmental Sciences office and completes the “Personal Information” and “Course Information” sections of the form. Students requiring assistance in the completion of this form are advised to consult an Academic Advisor or the Registrar.

2. The student takes the form to the course instructor and Department Chair who will review the student’s request. The decision of the instructor and Department Chair will be recorded on the form. If the student is not satisfied with the decision, he/she has the right to appeal that decision.

3. If the request is approved, the instructor, in consultation with the student, establishes a date and time for the re-examination, re-read, or challenge exam and records this on the form. Timelines for special projects are also set and recorded on the form. In the case of special projects, a page outlining expectations, contents, assignments and grading process is attached to the form.

4. The student returns the completed form (all three copies) to the Office of the Registrar and pays the cashier the appropriate fee. The Office of the Registrar indicates payment to the instructor.

5. After marking the exam or project, the instructor indicates the FINAL mark for the course on the white instructor copy of the form and returns the original of this form to the Office of the Registrar.

6. The Office of the Registrar sends the student an updated unofficial transcript.

7. If supplemental evaluation is requested to bring your GPA to a 2.00, you may redo a course or arrange for supplemental Evaluation as per Procedure: Student 5.90.

8. If supplemental evaluation is requested to clear a course deficiency the following will apply:

a) For a Re-Evaluation see Procedure: Student 5.91 (see below).

b) For a Re-Exam/Special Project the student will normally be allowed only one per year. To be eligible for a Re-Exam the course mark must be within 2% of a passing mark. If the course mark is less than this a special project may be used. The maximum mark for either of these is a minimal pass (i.e. “D”) or a mark increase of one full letter grade.

c) The decision for the eligibility of independent offerings, special projects and rewrite exams will be made once all final course grades have been turned in.

Re-Evaluation of an Assigned Mark

If students feel a formal re-evaluation is necessary, the student should first discuss the matter with the instructor.

• Normally, requests for formal re-evaluation should be made within five (5) days of receiving the grade.

• If the instructor is not available or if the student is not satisfied with the instructor’s review, the student should complete the appropriate form and submit it to the Chair for review.

• If the request is approved, the student is required to pay the appropriate fee.

• If the student is not satisfied with the decision at any stage, they may appeal that decision through the College’s student appeal procedure.

Challenge Exams

Lakeland College recognizes that many students enter the College with work and other experience that may reflect subject matter of courses offered for credit at the College. A procedure of challenge examination is a method of recognizing the experience and fulfilling graduation requirements. Students who believe that they are entitled to such credit have the right to apply for credit by examination.

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15. Examination Date Change

An examination date change is not encouraged but may be granted for special circumstances. A date change form is required and MUST be approved by both the instructor and Department Chair prior to the original exam date, except in extreme circumstances, as judged by both the instructor and Department Chair. Please contact the Department Chair to arrange details.

If approval is granted, there is a fee charged to the student. If approval is granted, but the instructor is unable to proctor the exam, alternative arrangements will be made by the instructor.

16 Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management – Capstone Extension Request

Refer to the Bachelor of Applied Science handbook.

17. Course Selection Change

a. Adding a Course

You may add a course before the deadline for each term by completing a Course Selection Course form (see dates below). Course Selection Change forms may be picked up at the Registrar’s Office or the Environmental Sciences office. You must obtain the approval of the instructor for the course, as well as the Department Chair. A re-assessment of your fees will occur.

b. Dropping a Course

You may drop a course from your selection prior to the deadline specified below by completing a Course Selection Course form. No record of you being enrolled in this course will appear on your transcript. A reassessment of your fees will occur.

Following are the deadlines for adding or dropping courses:

Withdrawal from a Course

If you continue to attend a course past the last day to drop (see “Dropping a Course” above), you may withdraw from the course before the 5/8 point in the term (see Academic Schedule for specific dates) and receive a “W” grade. You must submit a completed form and obtain the approval of the instructor for the course, as well as the Department Chair. Failure to follow this process will result in an “F” grade. This form must be submitted even if a student is advised by the instructor or counsellor to withdraw from a course.

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Term Classes Begin Deadline to Last day of Classes Add Course Drop Course Change from Credit to Audit Withdraw from courses (“W” grade) Semester 1 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 25 Nov. 6 Nov. 6 Dec. 8 (finals Dec 11-15) Semester 2 Jan. 3 Jan. 9 Jan. 24 Mar 13 Mar 13 Apr. 12(finals April 15-19) Fee Payment/Refund Schedule Semester 1 Semester 2 Deadline to pay program semester fees Aug 14, 2023 Dec 8, 2023 Full Fee refund (less tuition deposit) September 25, 2023 January 24, 2024

The change is not processed until the form is received at the Office of the Registrar. A “W” grade is assigned. Failure to withdraw before the deadline will result in a failing grade (WF).

18. Course Overlap Form

Occasionally students need to take a course, which conflicts with portions of another course(s). This form will give instructors a chance for input into the decision. In the event you are enrolled in two overlapping courses, please see the respective instructors and Department Chair to acquire the course overlap form and permission to attend the courses.

19 Auditing

You may audit a course providing space is available and you have obtained the consent of the instructor. While regular attendance is required, you are not evaluated in the course, and no credit is earned. Audited courses are not included in the calculation of a student’s credit load. You may switch from Credit to Audit any time prior to the 5/8 point of the term. You may also switch from Audit to Credit within the first week of the term. You must complete a Course Selection Change form and submit the form to the Environmental Sciences office. The cost to audit a course is the same as the regular course tuition fee.

20. Repeat of a Course

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

21. Student Appeal Policy

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

22. Student Discipline

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

23. Rights and Responsibilities

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

24.Academic Probation

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

25. Academic Suspension

https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/rules-regulations-and-forms

26. Student Messages

Urgent messages for students will be delivered immediately. For non-urgent messages, a note will be passed along to one of the student’s instructors for delivery.

27. Financial Hold

The Financial Affairs department will notify the Registrar's Office, using the Financial Hold Request form, for any outstanding fees.

The library will use standardized forms from the Dynix system for notifying students. The Financial Hold Request form will be used to notify the Registrar's Office.

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For any other funds owed to the College, the appropriate collecting department will notify a student in writing using a letter.

Timelines between notifications may be established by the appropriate department, with the exception of the collection of tuition, program specific and comprehensive fees. These timelines have already been established in the student fee policy.

If the student fails to respond following the notice and the department wishes to place the student on financial hold, a copy of the notice must be sent to the Registrar's Office. In situations where the department decides that the debt should be turned over to Financial Affairs to collect, a copy of the instructions to Financial Affairs to invoice the student must also be forwarded to the Registrar's Office. At this point the financial hold code on the student records system will be changed to Financial Affairs.

If a student pays fees owing, the department must fill in a Financial Release form and forward it to the Registrar's Office so that marks or documents, may be released.

Each April and December, the Registrar's Office will produce a list of the financial holds to be sent to the appropriate department. This list should be reviewed carefully to ensure that no student release has been missed.

Students’ concerns about the financial holds will be referred to the department placing the hold.

28. FOIP (Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy)

FOIP is provincial legislation with which Lakeland College must comply. Lakeland College supports the right of the public to access information about the College and the right of individuals to the privacy of their personal information. If you have any questions about the collection, use, or disclosure of your personal information or on any matters of access or privacy, please feel free to contact one of the following:

Dean,

Sciences Office: AL221C

Phone: 780 853 8741

29. FOIP Procedures for Handling of Student Marks/Assignments/Exams

Marked exams and major assignments will be returned to students during class time. Marks will be placed out of direct view as practical to do so.

Instructors will post final or interim mark for courses by randomized student I.D. numbers at a specified location. You have the option of making other arrangements with the instructor if you do NOT want marks/assignments/exams returned in this manner. It is the student’s responsibility to complete the “Student Marks/Assignments Consent Form” for minor assignments, and to arrange with each instructor for an alternate method to return marks/assignments/exams.

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Employee/Student Records Reference Request

The Employee/Student Records Reference Request must be completed and signed by students when requesting references from instructors and employees of Lakeland College. Copies may be obtained from your instructor or from the Environmental Sciences office.

Policy on the Use of Information Resources

Use of the computer and information resources at the College will be restricted to registered students and staff of the Lakeland College, including those who may be contracted to use these facilities from time to time, for the purposes for which they are intended, and users shall be held accountable for any misuse.

Guidelines

SCOPE: These guidelines and procedures shall apply to all members of the Lakeland College community who have been authorized to use any of the computer and information resources of the College, including students (full-time, part-time, continuing education), staff (full-time, part-time, contract and wages) and members of the general public.

1. All clients are required to:

a) use the facilities provided for the purposes for which they are intended, staying within the limits of their personal authorization for use

b) accept responsibility and accountability for use of the facilities provided including accepting that Accounts are provided for the use of the account owner only and that it shall be considered a violation of these guidelines to provide personal passwords or account access to third parties;

c) respect and maintain the confidentiality of personal information;

d) recognize the public nature of shared facilities or services and take care not to display in such facilities or services images, sounds or messages which could create an atmosphere of discomfort or harassment of others;

e) respect and protect the integrity of data and programs to which access is provided, copying only from pre-authorized sources, never deleting or changing information without the consent and permission of its holder and taking all reasonable and practicable precautions to protect passwords and data files to which access is provided.

2. All clients are specifically prohibited from:

a) engaging in such activities as software piracy, including copying of copyrighted software, and use of College facilities for unauthorized profit-making activities;

b) attempting to subvert the protective/security mechanisms of any College system or service;

c) attempting to gain access to others’ personal accounts, files or information;

d) attempting deliberately to degrade performance or capability of a workstation or the network;

e) attempting to modify the workstation set-up. The workstation set-up is determined by the academic needs. Since the college is running a large variety of software on their workstations, the set-up is very complicated. If unauthorized changes to the set-up or unauthorized software installed, the workstation may cease to function properly. The workstation is not your personal computer; hence, no personalization of the desktop is permitted.

f) attempting to use e-mail as a vehicle to harass/abuse others. Electronic mail privileges shall be used in a manner reflecting the same high ethical standards of mutual respect and civility as any other communication medium. Users shall not harass others by sending annoying, threatening, libellous, sexually, racially or religiously offensive messages. Users of e-mail are reminded that messages saved on the computer are not a secure medium;

g) attempting to break/hack into the network;

h) attempting to install or create software that is considered to be a virus on College workstations or the network;

i) attempting to damage services, software or intellectual property of others, and

j) using unlicensed or otherwise unauthorized software or services on College facilities or equipment or services.

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3. Lakeland College will treat client data and programs as private and confidential and will examine said data only with just cause (see guideline 4) and will not disclose that information to a third party unless it is for use in a disciplinary, criminal or civil proceeding.

4. Lakeland College reserves the right to:

a) deny or withdraw service privileges at any time in the best interest of the College;

b) monitor and record the use of any facility, service or system if abuse of the facility, service or system has been reported and to use any information thus gained in disciplinary or criminal or civil proceedings;

c) inspect, copy, remove, or otherwise alter data files, system resources, or client files in the regular conduct of its duty to maintain efficient and effective service operations or in the conduct of an investigation of suspected misuse, and

d) institute disciplinary, criminal or civil proceedings, as appropriate, in the event of an apparent violation of these guidelines.

5. Where a client has access to information resources which permit the user to add to or modify data or information in the system, including access to electronic mail services, he or she shall be required to sign a client agreement reflecting the conditions stated in these guidelines to obtain and to continue such access.

6. In addition to all of the above provisions, the user shall be bound by the terms of any additional special network access agreement accepted by the College. These terms will be summarized in a supplemental client agreement, which the client will be required to sign and follow.

7. Clients should be aware that electronic records (including e-mail) are considered legal documents.

Penalties for Violations

Depending upon the severity of the offence, any of the following penalties may be invoked:

1. Verbal or written warning/reprimand: This would be for minor first-time infractions of the foregoing guidelines as warranted, and usually the complaint will not proceed beyond this point. College personal could issue the warning/reprimand or a committee convened to investigate the infraction and assess the appropriate penalty.

2. Suspension of user’s network and account privileges: This may be invoked for infractions ranging from minor to more serious and would likely occur for repeated infractions where previous warnings had been issued, or where some specific impropriety is suspected such as (but not exclusively limited to) the use of unauthorized software, suspected hacking, abusive transmissions, etc., pending further investigation or gathering of additional evidence.

3. Ejection from the classroom with possible suspension from the program. This will be invoked for more serious offences such as vandalism, harassment, annoyance or threats to other users, or refusal to surrender computer, or identification card upon request.

4. Fines may be invoked for repeat infractions. The maximum fine would not exceed $300.00. The amount of the fine would be determined by the seriousness of the infraction(s).

5. Assessment for expenses incurred maybe billed to the user when significant time is required by college personal to correct the computer and information resources affected.

6. Suspension or expulsion from the program or college: This would be for very serious offences such as attempting to break into the network, repeated offences and criminal offences.

31. Electronic Device Use

https://lakelandcollege.ca/campus-life/get-connected/wireless-access/

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CLUBS/TEAMS/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Participation in College Clubs and Teams is strongly encouraged as they provide a healthy component to your student life and to your leadership development. As far as leadership development is concerned, leadership in clubs, teams and student government, etc. often play an important factor in the decision for many scholarships at Lakeland College. Check out the Club and Team information on our website https://lakelandcollege.ca/campus-life/recreation-andclubs/clubs and https://lakelandcollege.ca/athletics-overview/default.aspx

In accordance with Procedure 5.12 (https://lakelandcollege.ca/current-students/student-policies-andprocedures), academic integrity is expected at all times.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

IT (Information Technology) is located in The Commons in Alumni Hall on the Vermilion campus and Room 2067 beside the Library on the Lloydminster campus to assist you Monday to Friday 8:15 am to 4:30 pm.

Remember to bring your student ID card with you when coming for assistance. We require photo identification to make changes to student accounts.

When using a Lakeland computer, please remember to save all your work to either your Microsoft OneDrive or to external storage such as a USB stick. Anything saved to the computer’s hard drive is erased when you log off the computer. This includes areas such as the C: drive and Desktop.

Before accessing the Computers or WIFI (LLC-BYOD) you will have to log in with your Lakeland College student email account which was created for you already when you signed up to be a student.

• The account will be firstname.lastname@edu.lakelandcollege.ca

• The password will be LLC! followed by the last 4 digits of your student ID number (example: Student ID 00001234’s password would be LLC!1234)

After you log in the first time, the system will prompt you to change your password. Your password has the following requirements:

• Minimum 7 characters

• Capital letter

• Special character

• Neither your first nor last name

After this is complete you now have access to College computers and WIFI (LLC-BYOD) with your username and selected password. Once you set a unique password, you will also have access to Lakeland Learning platforms, D2L and Microsoft Teams.

Printing Services

You start the year with $5 in printing credits on your account. You may use these when printing from the computer labs and library computers. Additional credits may be purchased form the bookstore. These credits are non-refundable so be sure not to buy too many at a time.

Media Services

The Media Services department offers fully equipped graphics workstations available for student use, laminating, color printing and computerized editing equipment. With valid instructor authorization, equipment may be borrowed free of charge for class projects. It may also be rented for personal use.

Accessing D2L

D2L is the main portal for all your course materials, content, resources, quizzes and instructor communication. https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/campus-life/get-connected/d2l/ The login to D2L will be the same as your Teams and student email.

• The account will be firstname.lastname@edu.lakelandcollege.ca

18 F.

• The password will be LLC! followed by the last 4 digits of your student ID number (example: Student ID 00001234’s password would be LLC!1234)

To access college offsite, IT have implemented this MFA system, please see attachment:

365 Multi Factor Authentication Guide v1.1.pdf

Accessing Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is used for our Live lectures and recordings. Accessing Teams at Lakeland is a simple process.

It starts by downloading and installing the Microsoft Teams App on your personal device (PC, Mac) which you can access here – https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/microsoft-365/microsoft-teams/download-app and on your iDevice or Android in the app store.

The next step is logging in with your Lakeland College student email account.

• The account will be firstname.lastname@edu.lakelandcollege.ca

• The password will be LLC! followed by the last 4 digits of your student ID number (example: Student ID 00001234’s password would be LLC!1234)

After you have successfully signed in, you can add yourself to your classroom Team using the Link or Team code your instructor has provided to you via your course on D2L. From that point on, you will use your Lakeland College Edu email to access your Teams live lectures and recordings through the installed program on your device.

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Appendix I – GUIDELINES FOR LABORATORY USE (Laboratory Responsibilities)

1. Students are responsible for passing a safety exam which includes information on W.H.M.I.S., lab etiquette and lab safety.

2. A compliance form is to be signed by all students. The form will draw attention to safety aspects of the course. The signed forms are to be given by the instructor to the Department Chair. Repeated violations of safety conditions will result in failure or termination of the student.

3. Every student must acquire a pair of safety glasses and wear them in the laboratory at all times. Contact lenses are not a substitute for safety glasses and can be particularly dangerous if a chemical gets in the eye. Prescription glasses should have side guards.

4. Lab coats are mandatory and must be worn at all times.

5. Hair must be tied back in a neat and tidy manner. Hats are not to be worn in the labs. All jewellery should be removed prior to the commencement of labs where hazardous products are being used.

6. No food or drink is allowed in the lab.

7. No street coats or extra books are allowed in the lab; these items will be placed in designated areas prior to class.

8. All safety precautions and laboratory procedures must be followed as instructed.

9. No unauthorized experiments are allowed.

10. Students must be aware of location of fire extinguishers, emergency showers, eye wash fountains, first aid kits, chemical spill kits and broken glass containers.

11. Certain chemical reagents must be used under the fume hood. Watch for instructions in the experimental procedures and follow them closely to safeguard your health and the health of others.

12. Bottles containing concentrated acids and bases are stored under the fume hood. Handle these with care and do not carry them to your bench.

13. Chemical reagents are stored in labelled bottles. Read the label carefully before removing material. Do not take more material than is required. Do not, under any circumstances, return unused material to the reagent bottle. When you have finished, return the bottle to its proper place and clean up any spilled material.

14. At the end of each period, it is the students’ responsibility to clean all glassware and equipment used during the lab period. Labs must be kept clean and tidy. Experiments lasting more than one laboratory session must be safely stored and labelled to the satisfaction of the Department Chair.

15. Students will know how to access M.S.D.S. information on paper in computer data base format.

16. Avoid burns and be aware of lit Bunsen burners. Gas to Bunsen burners should be shut off at the end of each usage.

17. No equipment, cultures or reagents may be removed from the laboratory.

18. At the end of each laboratory session, wash your hands with the soap supplied at each sink.

19. All centrifuging is done with covered tubes and with the centrifuge lid down. The centrifuge must come to a complete stop before the lid is opened. If spills occur, the centrifuge must be cleaned and disinfected before used.

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APPENDICES

20. All broken glass is to be disposed of in the glass disposal box.

21. Be sure all lockers are locked at the completion of the laboratory period.

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