Yesterday marked the beginning of Dead Week, an intensive five-day study period preceding the week of finals. But many students are unaware of the rules governing the week or what resources are available to them.
Dead Week is a period of time in which the University imposes limits on the amount of work that can be assigned and due during this critical time of preparation for final examinations.
According to Student Government Administrative Specialist Mary James, the rules of Dead Week are extracurricular student activities such as organizational meetings, social and athletic events are not allowed to be conducted, and no exams may be given during this time unless they are for lab courses.
If exams or quizzes are given, they cannot count for more than 10 percent of the students’ overall grade in the course.
The only class projects and presentations that are allowed to be due are those that were originally scheduled on the course syllabus given out at the beginning of the semester.
“Sometimes completing these projects in addition to papers that are due and take home tests can be hectic,” said theater senior Mary Sykes. “But they can all be accomplished.”
Communication studies freshman Ian Navarre said he has never had a problem with Dead Week violations because at the beginning of the semester he checks the syllabus so he can spot potential problems beforehand.
However, if violations with Dead Week do occur, they can be reported to either the SG office or the Office of Academic Affairs, James said.
“In the Student Government office, students fill out a concentrated study week violation form, which contains information such as the course, professor’s name, class date and test date,” James said.
Students do not have to provide their name on the form but can if they want.
James said after the form is completed it is signed by the SG official, who records the violation, and it is faxed over to the provost.
Residence halls also supplement the demands of Dead Week. Last night a 24-hour-quiet-policy week went into effect.
“The stress level of students is higher during final examination time,” said Residential Life Coordinator Rebecca Rogge. “We feel that the policy creates an environment that is conducive to studying.”
If a student has a problem with quiet hour violations, they are first encouraged to settle the dispute with the person in violation, Rogge said.
If the problem persists, students should contact their resident assistant.
“We try to have more of our RAs on duty during this time to accommodate our residents,” Rogge said.
Final review sessions that cover common courses are also available for residents during Dead Week.
“The sessions are available throughout the different halls on campus, and many students find that they are beneficial,” Rogge said.