Instructions for “Virtual” Property

*UPDATED*

Howdy all,

Hope this emails finds everyone comfortable and safe.

First, the current outstanding assignment – the Writing Assignment (Letter to Ms. Hilder) is not due until March 24 (Tuesday), by 9 a.m.

Now, this email will provide you details for how we will keep instruction going “virtually” for the rest of the semester.  You can find the changes identified below reflected on the course syllabus — http://blog.richmond.edu/lawr516/syllabus/.  I have also have an audio file on the course blog here — http://blog.richmond.edu/lawr516/files/2020/03/Property_Virtual_Instructions_2020.mp3 — so you can listen to these instructions too, if you like.  You can also reference these instructions in a blog post here — .

These changes are:

  • Obviously we will not be meeting in person in class on Tuesday/Thursday from 8:30-10:10 a.m.
  • Audio taped lectures (in mp3 format) and the slides (in pdf format) are linked next to each case listed on the course syllabus for classes. You can listen to these lectures and reference the slides at your own pace.  They are in bite-sized pieces to give you flexibility.  Not all of the audio is up yet, but some will be up by March 18.
  • Synchronous open question and answers sessions will be hosted via ZOOM on the identified Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9-10 a.m. as shown on the syllabus (specifics will follow shortly before these sessions).  These sessions are open to all students in the class, regardless of whether you intend to ask a question.  I ask that those who ask questions do two things – (a) listen to the audio and review the slides for those virtual classes proceeding the Q&A session [they are listed] and (b) refrain from asking questions regarding material that proceeds the Q&A session.  These sessions are meant to mimic the typical question and answers that happen in open class regarding the material that has already been presented.
  • The scheduled quizzes will still be administered.  The assignment and discussion of these quizzes are listed on the course syllabus.  I ask that you (a) do not listen or look at the answers to these assignments before you complete them yourself and (b) complete the previously assigned quizzes before participating in the following ZOOM question and answer session (where discussion of quiz answers may come up—such possible discussion is identified).  Not all of the quizzes are available on Blackboard yet, but will be (and you will get notifications via Blackboard when they are).

Beyond the above – I am always available by email or via phone.  My hope is the above is (a) flexible enough to take into account this unique situation we are all experiencing while (b) still providing the educational experience you all deserve and (hopefully) want.

Also, remember – a pdf of the casebook is available via the course blog here — http://blog.richmond.edu/lawr516/files/2018/11/OSP_Spring_2019.pdf.

If there is anything else I can do – let me know.  For what it is worth, I started my law teaching career at Tulane University in 2003 – and there was this small storm called Katrina that kinda disrupted the classes I was teaching there at the time (and our lives as well).  We got through it (although it was not without a lot stress and inconvenience).  I am sure we will here as well.

Stay safe and smart,

Prof. Cotropia