The course format is Hybrid: Classes (online or in-person) and Field Trips (in-person or own your own).

Attendance Policy:

• Students are required to complete 19.25 course hours (80% of the 24 hours total). This is an FMNP policy and cannot be modified by the instructor.
• Any absences should be discussed with the instructor ahead of time. In case of emergencies, please notify the instructor as soon as possible.

Make-up Policy:

• If more than 4.75 hours (20% of course time) are missed, students must make up the missed time through an assignment or equivalent activity. This may involve completing up to 8 hours of additional work, as approved by the instructor.
• Make-up activities must be completed within one week of the missed session, as feasible
• If more than 8 hours are missed, make-up time will not be granted, and course certification will not be issued.
• Please note: missing more than 8 hours will result in disqualification from certification by the University of Florida.

Classroom Sessions:

• "Classroom" refers to either attending live Zoom sessions or meeting in person at designated locations.
• Zoom links will be provided by email before the first day of class.
• In-person classroom locations are listed in the course agenda. Please bring a sweater or jacket, as some indoor spaces may be chilly.

Class Materials:

• Students are required to bring a hardcopy of the course manual to each classroom session.
• Students who purchased the electronic PDF version must bring a charged laptop or tablet to access and follow along with the course material. (Note: power outlets may not be available.)

Course Schedule:

• Students are expected to attend and actively participate in both class sessions and field trips.
• The provided course schedule includes class sessions and field trips but does not account for travel time.
• Breaks are built into the schedule, but there may not be enough time to leave the area for food or drink, so please come prepared.

Schedule Flexibility:

• While we will adhere to the scheduled times for both class and field trips, some flexibility may be necessary due to group dynamics and unforeseen delays. Please plan accordingly.

Cell Phones:

• Students are expected to silence their phones and limit use during class sessions and field trips to respect both peers and instructors.
• Phone calls and texting are only permitted during designated break times, lunch, and before/after class.

Field Trips:

• Dates, times, and locations for field trips may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Students are responsible for verifying this information before each trip.
• Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from field sites.
• Field safety protocols must be followed, including wearing appropriate attire, such as sun protection and closed-toed shoes.

Hydration, Snacks, and Lunch!

• Students should bring their own water, drinks, snacks, and lunch.
• We encourage the use of reusable containers and ask that students avoid single-use disposable options like styrofoam and plastic.
• Breaks are built into the schedule, but there may not be enough time to leave the area for food or drink, so please come prepared.

Field Attire and Personal Supplies:

• Weather can be unpredictable, so students should dress in layers and prepare for varying conditions. Recommended items include long sleeves and pants for sun protection, closed-toe shoes, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Field conditions may range from wet and muddy to dry, so avoid see-through fabrics and consider bringing a change of clothes. A rain jacket is also advisable.
• Closed-toe shoes are required at all times in the field – NO EXCEPTIONS.
• Drinking water is required in the field – NO EXCEPTIONS. Please bring a reusable water container and extra water as needed for refills.
• Optional but helpful items include field identification guides, a notepad and pen, binoculars, insect repellent, and a towel.
• Check with the instructor before field trips for any site-specific requirements.

Additional/Other Field Recommendations:

• Always maintain situational awareness when in the field and be mindful of where you place your hands and feet.
• Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or perfumed lotions before field trips, as they may attract insects such as mosquitoes and flies. These scents can also cause discomfort or allergic reactions in others.
• Insects, spiders, and snakes may be present in the field. Students are responsible for bringing personal items like bug spray or EpiPens if they have known allergies. Please inform the instructor of any medical needs or concerns.

Carpooling:

• Carpooling is encouraged, but it is the responsibility of students to arrange carpooling with fellow participants.

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