Western Governors University’s regulations regarding calculator use during assessments are designed to ensure academic integrity and a level playing field for all students. These regulations specify which calculator models are permitted for use in specific courses and assessments, often aligning with industry standards for professionals in those fields. For example, some courses may allow scientific calculators while others may permit graphing calculators or even require specialized financial calculators. Details about approved models and their functionalities are typically provided within each course’s syllabus or through dedicated university resources.
Standardized calculator policies are crucial for maintaining fair and consistent evaluation practices. By specifying permissible calculator models and their usage, the university aims to prevent unfair advantages and ensure that student assessments accurately reflect their understanding of the subject matter, not their ability to utilize advanced calculator functions beyond the curriculum’s scope. This approach also prepares students for professional environments where specific tools and technologies are standard practice. Historically, these policies have evolved alongside technological advancements in calculator technology and changes in pedagogical approaches.
The following sections will delve deeper into specific aspects of these regulations, including permitted calculator models for various programs, procedures for requesting exceptions, and resources available to students for understanding and complying with the university’s calculator guidelines.
1. Approved Calculator Models
Adherence to approved calculator models is a cornerstone of Western Governors University’s calculator policy. This aspect ensures equitable assessment and reflects professional standards within specific fields. Understanding permissible calculator types is essential for academic success at WGU.
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Model Functionality:
Approved calculators are categorized based on their functionalities. Basic calculators may be sufficient for some courses, while others might require scientific, graphing, or financial calculators. The permitted functionality aligns with the complexity and requirements of each course. For instance, a business course might allow financial calculators, while basic arithmetic courses might restrict functionality to simple four-function calculators. This ensures appropriate tool utilization without providing an unfair advantage.
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Program-Specific Requirements:
Specific programs often dictate permissible calculator models. This alignment with industry standards prepares students for real-world scenarios. A student in computer science might be allowed a programmable calculator, while a student in nursing might require a specific model for dosage calculations. Understanding program-specific requirements is crucial for proper assessment preparation.
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Proctoring Compatibility:
Approved models consider proctoring compatibility. Certain features, like internet connectivity or data storage, may be prohibited to maintain exam integrity. This ensures a controlled testing environment and upholds academic honesty. For example, calculators with built-in formula libraries might be disallowed.
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Accessibility and Accommodations:
While adherence to approved models is crucial, accommodations exist for students with disabilities. Alternative calculator options or assistive technologies are available upon request, ensuring equitable access to assessments for all learners. This reflects WGU’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in education.
By adhering to approved calculator models, WGU maintains academic integrity, prepares students for professional environments, and ensures equitable assessment practices. Consulting the university catalog and course-specific information is essential for understanding and complying with these requirements.
2. Course-specific allowances
Course-specific allowances represent a critical component of Western Governors University’s calculator policy. This nuanced approach recognizes the diverse technological needs across various disciplines. The policy acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach to calculator usage would be impractical and potentially disadvantageous to students. By tailoring permissible calculator models to the specific requirements of each course, the university ensures that students possess the appropriate tools for success while maintaining academic integrity. For example, a student enrolled in a basic mathematics course might only require a four-function calculator, whereas a student in a finance course might need the advanced functionality of a financial calculator. Conversely, a student in a statistics course might benefit from the graphing capabilities of a scientific calculator. These distinctions underscore the importance of course-specific allowances.
The rationale behind course-specific allowances stems from the desire to align academic assessments with real-world professional practices. In many professions, specific tools and technologies are standard practice. By allowing students to utilize relevant calculator models during their coursework, the university prepares them for the practical demands of their chosen fields. This approach bridges the gap between academic learning and professional application, ensuring that graduates possess the necessary skills and familiarity with industry-standard tools. Furthermore, course-specific allowances contribute to a level playing field within each course. By defining permissible calculator models, the university prevents students from gaining an unfair advantage through the use of more advanced calculators than necessary. This ensures that assessment outcomes accurately reflect a student’s understanding of the subject matter, not their ability to leverage advanced calculator functionalities.
Understanding and adhering to course-specific calculator allowances is essential for academic success at WGU. Students should consult the syllabus for each course or the university’s official policy documentation to determine the permissible calculator models. Failure to comply with these guidelines could result in penalties during assessments. Ultimately, course-specific allowances represent a practical and equitable approach to calculator usage, promoting both academic integrity and professional preparedness.
3. Proctoring Guidelines
Proctoring guidelines are integral to the efficacy of Western Governors University’s calculator policy. These guidelines ensure the policy’s objectives, primarily academic integrity and equitable assessment, are upheld within the context of online, proctored examinations. The intersection of proctoring guidelines and calculator policy creates a controlled environment where permitted calculator use enhances learning outcomes rather than compromising assessment validity.
One crucial function of proctoring guidelines is to prevent unauthorized calculator use during assessments. Proctors are trained to identify and address instances where students attempt to use unapproved calculators or utilize prohibited functionalities. For example, a proctor might intervene if a student attempts to use a calculator with internet access during a closed-book exam, or if a student attempts to access pre-programmed formulas on a calculator not authorized for use in that particular assessment. Such interventions uphold academic integrity by ensuring all students adhere to the same rules and regulations. This promotes a fair and consistent evaluation process across the student population.
Furthermore, proctoring guidelines provide clarity on acceptable calculator usage during examinations. Ambiguity regarding permitted functionalities is minimized through clear communication and consistent enforcement. For instance, guidelines might specify whether students can use the memory function on their calculators or whether certain pre-programmed formulas are allowed. This clarity ensures that students understand the boundaries of permissible calculator use and reduces the likelihood of inadvertent violations. This proactive approach minimizes disruptions during examinations and reinforces the importance of adhering to university policy.
In summary, the interplay between proctoring guidelines and calculator policy is essential for maintaining a secure and equitable online assessment environment. Proctoring guidelines reinforce the stipulations of the calculator policy, ensuring consistent application and preventing unauthorized calculator use. This combined approach supports WGU’s commitment to academic integrity and provides students with a clear understanding of expectations regarding calculator use during assessments. The synergy between these two components fosters a robust and reliable evaluation process within the university’s online learning framework.
4. Policy rationale
The rationale underpinning Western Governors University’s calculator policy is multifaceted, encompassing academic integrity, professional preparedness, and equitable assessment practices. This policy acknowledges the evolving role of technology in education and the workplace while safeguarding the validity and reliability of student evaluations. Understanding this rationale is crucial for appreciating the policy’s purpose and adhering to its guidelines.
A primary driver of the policy is the imperative to maintain academic integrity. By specifying permissible calculator models and functionalities, the university aims to mitigate the potential for unfair advantages during assessments. Restricting access to certain calculator features, such as internet connectivity or extensive formula libraries, ensures that student performance reflects genuine understanding rather than reliance on unauthorized aids. This levels the playing field, allowing for accurate evaluation of individual comprehension. For example, allowing programmable calculators in a mathematics course designed to assess fundamental algebraic manipulation skills could undermine the assessment’s validity. The calculator policy, therefore, acts as a safeguard against such compromises.
Furthermore, the calculator policy reflects a commitment to preparing students for real-world professional environments. In many fields, specific tools and technologies are commonplace. By aligning permissible calculator models with industry standards, the university equips students with the practical skills and familiarity necessary for success in their chosen professions. A finance student, for instance, benefits from using a financial calculator during coursework, mirroring the tools they will likely encounter in their future career. This practical alignment enhances the relevance of the curriculum and bridges the gap between academic learning and professional application. In conclusion, the rationale behind WGU’s calculator policy demonstrates a balanced approach to integrating technology in education. The policy strives to enhance learning outcomes while maintaining academic rigor and preparing students for the demands of their chosen professions. By understanding the underlying reasons for these guidelines, students can appreciate the policy’s value and contribute to a fair and effective learning environment.
5. Accommodation Requests
Accommodation requests represent a crucial component of Western Governors University’s calculator policy, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to education. These requests provide a mechanism for students with disabilities to utilize assistive technologies or alternative calculator models that meet their specific needs, even if those technologies deviate from the standard, course-specific allowances. This process ensures that students with disabilities are not disadvantaged by the standard calculator policy and can fully participate in assessments.
The connection between accommodation requests and the calculator policy lies in the balance between standardized procedures and individualized support. While standardized calculator allowances ensure a level playing field for most students, they may present barriers for individuals with certain disabilities. Accommodation requests address this potential conflict by providing a formal process for exceptions based on documented needs. For example, a student with a visual impairment might require a calculator with larger display fonts or auditory output, even if that specific model is not typically permitted for use in a particular course. Similarly, a student with a motor impairment might require a calculator with larger buttons or alternative input methods. These accommodations ensure that assessments accurately reflect the student’s understanding of the subject matter, rather than their ability to navigate technological barriers related to their disability.
Understanding the process for submitting accommodation requests is essential for students who require such support. Typically, this involves providing documentation of the disability and a clear explanation of the required accommodation. The university’s accessibility services department reviews these requests and determines appropriate accommodations on a case-by-case basis. Granting an accommodation request does not compromise academic integrity; rather, it ensures equitable access and allows students with disabilities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively. The provision of accommodations reinforces WGU’s commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed.
6. Disciplinary Actions
Disciplinary actions related to Western Governors University’s calculator policy serve as a critical component in upholding academic integrity and ensuring equitable assessments. Violations of this policy, whether intentional or unintentional, can have significant consequences, underscoring the importance of understanding and adhering to established guidelines. The connection between disciplinary actions and the calculator policy lies in maintaining a level playing field for all students. By implementing consequences for policy violations, the university reinforces the importance of adhering to established rules and regulations. This fosters a culture of academic honesty and ensures that assessment outcomes accurately reflect student knowledge and skills, rather than the ability to circumvent established procedures.
Several scenarios could lead to disciplinary action related to calculator use. Using an unauthorized calculator model during an exam, accessing prohibited functionalities like internet access or pre-programmed formulas, or attempting to share calculators with other students constitute potential violations. The severity of disciplinary actions typically aligns with the severity of the infraction. For example, using an unapproved but non-programmable calculator might result in a warning or a reduction in grade for the assessment, while using a prohibited programmable calculator to gain an unfair advantage might result in more severe consequences, including course failure or even expulsion. Real-life examples include students attempting to use smartphones as calculators or accessing online formula databases during proctored exams. Such actions undermine the integrity of the assessment process and necessitate appropriate disciplinary measures to maintain fairness and academic standards.
Understanding the potential consequences of violating the calculator policy is paramount for all WGU students. This awareness promotes responsible calculator use and contributes to a culture of academic integrity. Students must familiarize themselves with the specific calculator models and functionalities permitted for each course and adhere to proctoring guidelines during assessments. By taking these proactive steps, students can avoid potential disciplinary actions and maintain their academic standing. Ultimately, disciplinary actions, while undesirable, serve a crucial role in upholding the principles of fairness and academic honesty that underpin WGU’s calculator policy. These measures ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a controlled and equitable assessment environment.
7. Available Resources
Access to comprehensive resources concerning Western Governors University’s calculator policy is essential for student success. These resources provide clarity, enabling informed decisions regarding permissible calculator use and fostering adherence to university guidelines. The availability of these resources directly impacts a student’s ability to navigate assessments effectively and maintain academic integrity. A clear understanding of where to find relevant information empowers students to take responsibility for their compliance with the policy, reducing the likelihood of unintentional violations. This proactive approach benefits both individual students and the overall academic environment.
Several key resources contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the calculator policy. The university catalog typically outlines the overarching policy, providing a foundational understanding of permissible calculator types and general usage guidelines. Course syllabi offer more granular detail, specifying approved calculator models for each course. This course-specific information is crucial for students preparing for assessments. Dedicated webpages or online FAQs often address common questions and provide further clarification. These resources might include examples of approved and unapproved calculators, explanations of permitted functionalities, and guidance on requesting accommodations. For instance, a student unsure about the memory functions allowed on their calculator during a specific exam could consult these resources for definitive answers. This readily available information empowers students to prepare adequately and avoid potential policy violations.
In summary, readily available resources are integral to the effective implementation of WGU’s calculator policy. These resources empower students to understand and comply with the policy, fostering a culture of academic integrity and facilitating successful assessment completion. Utilizing these resources demonstrates a proactive approach to academic responsibility and contributes to a fair and transparent learning environment. Failing to consult available resources does not excuse policy violations, underscoring the importance of proactive engagement with these materials. By leveraging available resources, students contribute to their success and uphold the university’s commitment to academic excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Western Governors University’s calculator policy. Clarity regarding these frequently asked questions promotes proper adherence to policy guidelines and contributes to a fair and equitable assessment environment.
Question 1: Where can specific calculator model allowances for a particular course be found?
Course-specific calculator allowances are typically detailed within the course syllabus. Consulting the syllabus is recommended prior to acquiring or utilizing a calculator for assessments.
Question 2: What is the process for requesting an accommodation to use an alternative calculator due to a disability?
Accommodation requests should be submitted through the university’s accessibility services department, typically requiring documentation of the disability and a clear explanation of the needed accommodation. Timely submission is advised to ensure accommodations are in place before assessments.
Question 3: What are the consequences of using an unauthorized calculator during an assessment?
Consequences vary depending on the severity of the infraction. Unauthorized calculator use may result in assessment invalidation, grade reduction, or more severe disciplinary actions. Strict adherence to policy guidelines is essential.
Question 4: Are programmable calculators permitted for use in all courses?
Programmable calculators are not universally permitted. Allowances vary depending on the specific course and its learning objectives. The course syllabus outlines permissible calculator models for each course.
Question 5: Can a student use a calculator app on a smartphone or tablet during a proctored exam?
Calculator apps on smartphones or tablets are generally prohibited during proctored exams. Approved physical calculators are required to maintain academic integrity and ensure a controlled testing environment. Exceptions may exist for specific accommodations granted through accessibility services.
Question 6: If a course doesn’t explicitly mention calculator restrictions, can any calculator be used?
Absence of explicit restrictions does not imply unrestricted calculator use. Students should always confirm permissible calculator models with course instructors or refer to the university’s official calculator policy documentation to avoid potential violations.
Consulting official university resources, including the university catalog, course syllabi, and accessibility services guidelines, provides comprehensive information and promotes adherence to policy stipulations.
The subsequent section will detail examples of specific calculator models permitted and prohibited within various programs at Western Governors University.
Tips for Navigating WGU’s Calculator Policy
Successful navigation of Western Governors University’s calculator policy requires proactive engagement and a thorough understanding of its nuances. These tips provide practical guidance for adhering to policy stipulations, ensuring compliance during assessments, and maximizing academic success.
Tip 1: Consult the Course Syllabus: The primary source for course-specific calculator allowances is the course syllabus. Prior to purchasing or utilizing a calculator for assessments, review the syllabus carefully to identify permitted models and functionalities.
Tip 2: Verify Proctoring Compatibility: Ensure any intended calculator aligns with proctoring guidelines. Prohibited functionalities, such as internet access or extensive data storage, can lead to assessment disruptions and potential violations.
Tip 3: Explore University Resources: Utilize available resources like the university catalog, online FAQs, and accessibility services guidelines for comprehensive policy understanding and clarification regarding specific scenarios.
Tip 4: Initiate Accommodation Requests Early: Students requiring accommodations due to disabilities should initiate requests with accessibility services well in advance of assessments. This ensures timely implementation and avoids potential delays.
Tip 5: Understand Disciplinary Consequences: Familiarization with potential disciplinary actions associated with policy violations reinforces the importance of compliance. Understanding consequences promotes adherence to guidelines.
Tip 6: Confirm Functionality Requirements: Certain courses might require specific functionalities, like graphing or financial calculations. Ensure the chosen calculator meets these requirements while adhering to permitted model guidelines.
Tip 7: Practice with Approved Calculators: Prior to assessments, practice using the approved calculator to develop familiarity and avoid potential issues during timed exams. This minimizes disruptions and maximizes efficiency.
Adherence to these tips contributes to a smoother assessment experience and reinforces academic integrity. Proactive engagement with the calculator policy empowers students to navigate assessments successfully and maintain ethical academic practices.
The following conclusion summarizes the key takeaways regarding Western Governors University’s calculator policy and its importance within the broader academic context.
Conclusion
Western Governors University’s calculator policy serves as a crucial framework for maintaining academic integrity and ensuring equitable assessments. This exploration has highlighted key aspects, including approved calculator models, course-specific allowances, proctoring guidelines, the policy’s rationale, accommodation request procedures, potential disciplinary actions, and available resources. Understanding these components is essential for student success and contributes to a fair and transparent academic environment. The policy reflects a balanced approach to integrating technology while upholding academic rigor and preparing students for professional practices.
Adherence to the calculator policy benefits individual students and the broader university community. By promoting responsible calculator use, the policy upholds the value of academic honesty and ensures the validity of assessment outcomes. Continued awareness and proactive engagement with this policy are crucial for maintaining a robust and equitable learning environment at Western Governors University. Ultimately, the calculator policy reinforces the university’s commitment to academic excellence and fosters a culture of integrity among its students.
