NOTE WELL: This course is *really* a discussion class:

• I'm not going to lecture, nor lead the discussions.
• I expect students will do the readings and drive the discussion.
• You MUST participate in the discussions to do well.
• I expect students will be asking *and answering* questions about terms, ideas, concepts that are unfamiliar to them.
• This course always has students from many disciplines, so in general some students know (or can quickly learn) about one or another of the topics we cover. I expect students to share their knowledge with the rest of the class as the opportunity and need arises!
• Also remember: make browsers your friends! you can easily find short intro's to most topics we cover with a quick search.

Also note: this course is always A Work in Progress!! It is designed to meet as many of the above goals/needs as possible---with *your* help! Thus *suggestions on readings* are always welcome!

Grading:

• Discussions -- seriously!!
  Includes leading the discussion for some class sessions, attending regularly and participating in the discussions (with questions,comments).
  ** Attendance matters!
  ** Participation matters more!! Ask questions, answer questions, make comments.
• Paper presentation
  (Summary/commentary/critique of readings, some from class, but most covering material not read in class.)
• Project Presentations
  We will also use a few classes for students to briefly present a summary of their mid-term papers (eg 10-12 minutes each). Students have enjoyed this very much, as it gives them a chance to learn what is of interest to others in the class, and it gives them a chance to learn about areas not covered in class. These presentations have led to very useful interactions.

  borrowed from CSCS 501: Basic Readings in Complex Systems of U. Michigan