MBUS 300 Master Syllabus

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MBUS 300: Accounting in a Global Economy Master Syllabus

(Syllabus is subject to change)

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Course Description

Welcome to Accounting in a Global Economy! This course focuses on using basic concepts of accounting and financial management to make investment, credit, and operating decisions for an organization. There is an emphasis on financial reports to aid in planning and control of organizational activities. 

Course Materials

  1. Required Text
    This course will be participating in First Day Access—a special program that will allow immediate access to your textbook via Canvas on the first day of classes. The cost of the book has been added to your student accounts at a discounted rate.  The university has partnered with the bookstore and publisher to guarantee you the lowest price.  An email will be sent from the bookstore on the first day of class with more information. George Mason will bill you directly for the text after Add/Drop date.  This textbook comes with an online management system called Connect and Smartbook.  It combines your eBook with questions to test your understanding of key concepts and to pinpoint the topics on which you need to focus (Smartbook) and has interactive activities to apply your knowledge (Connect). See more information and FAQs about First Day.
  2. Required Calculator
    You are required to use a basic calculator that only performs simple functions: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. You can buy one of these calculators at the George Mason Bookstore. A simple calculator is non-graphing and typically has buttons for +, -, ×, and ÷, along with a decimal point. Some may also have a % button for calculating percentages. Any brand is acceptable as long as it meets these requirements. This basic calculator is required for ACCT 303.
  3. Notebook
    You are required to bring a notebook to class.  Note taking is essential to learning.  
     

Course Learning Objectives

Expect to spend on average 6-8 hours per week outside of class learning the course materials. Asynchronous sections – plan to spend at least 15 hours per week in the course. Plan your time accordingly. Some of the overall course learning objectives include: 

  • Understand the introductory concepts and terminology of accounting & the use of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for financial reporting to external decision makers. 
  • Comprehend the introductory concepts of managerial accounting and how managerial accounting is used to help internal decision-makers plan and formulate future business decisions. 
  • Demonstrate the ability to properly use technology and develop data analytic skills using Excel and other platforms.

Minor in Business Program Learning Objectives

In addition to the Course Learning Objectives listed above, this course also includes the following overarching learning objectives: 

  • Goal 1: Students will have knowledge of key paradigms in a majority of business disciplines. 
  • Goal 2: Students will be able to critically evaluate, analyze and interpret information to solve problems and make business decisions. 
  • Goal 3: Students will understand, analyze, and use quantitative data to make business decisions and report to stakeholders. 
  • Goal 4: Students will have competence in a range of essential business communications skills. 
  • Goal 5: Students will have knowledge of the importance of ethics in business. 

These goals are the focus of this initiative. The Minor in Business Program Learning Goals will be considered separately from the Learning Goals of the Costello College of Business Undergraduate Major Programs and learning goals that might be part of a student’s major(s). 

Course Schedule

Please reference the course calendar in your MBUS 300 Canvas course for assignment due dates. All due dates are firm and subject to change only by the instructor.  

  • Late work is not permitted. Deadlines are designed to stay current, allow students time to get questions answered before the next topic and to increase the likelihood of successful exam scores. As stated in the next paragraph, continual practice is the key to mastering accounting. All assignments are open a week before the first-class meeting. Students are welcome to work ahead to add flexibility to individual schedules.  
  • One (1) homework assignment, one (1) Smartbook assignment and one (1) video assessment assignment will be dropped to account for unforeseen life circumstances.  Emergency situations will be managed on an individual basis and documentation of the emergency will be required. 

How to Study Accounting

Read the chapter and work through every example in the chapter. Do homework diligently, looking for patterns rather than trying to memorize individual procedures. Once you understand the pattern (model or theory), the procedures typically follow it and are relatively easy. If you have completed the assigned exercises and problems and have not yet grasped the concept, you should elect to do additional practice by choosing additional exercises and problems and visit a TA for extra help. TAs also offer homework help sessions. 

Attend all classes (if applicable), make time each week to visit a TA for extra help, and at the end of each week review the material working problems all the way through and talking about the "why" behind the answers. Practicing and continually practicing is key to mastering the learning objectives. If you get stuck, come to my office hours or e-mail me (see how to email me below).  I'll be encouraged by your efforts and glad to help. Ask another student to be your study partner. Explaining a problem to another individual will help you learn as well.  

Grading & Exams

The final course grade will be based on the following scale:

Points Letter Grade
930-1000 points A
900-929 points A-
870-899 points B+
830-869 points B
800-829 points B-
770-799 points C+
700-769 points C
600-699 points D
Below 600 points F

Please note that grades of C-, D+ and D- are not given.  No curves. 

Assessment Points
Certifications (Syllabus & George Mason Honor Code); Connect Orientation Videos; Proctorio Orientation Videos & Practice Exam & Excel Assignments (Connect)  50
Video Lecture & Questions (Connect)  50
Smartbook (Connect)  75
Participation:  Class Activities -- for face-to-face sections these activities are in class & for asynchronous the activities are online.  50
Homework (Connect)  100
Exam #1 (Financial Chapters 1, 2, 8 LO 1 & 2) – In Connect + Proctorio  225
Exam #2 (Financial Chapters 3-7) – In Connect + Proctorio  225
Exam #3 (Managerial Chapters 10, 11 14, 15) – In Connect + Proctorio  225
Total 1000

Graded Assignments

  • Video Lecture & Assessment: Watch the instructional videos and answer the questions. 
  • Homework Assignments: Consist of a series of practice problems to help you learn the chapter content.  
  • Excel Assignments: Consist of problems presented in Excel format within Connect. All answers in Excel must be provided as a formula. There is a “show me” button that you may use if you need extra help determining what belongs in any cell.  Points are not deducted for using the “show me” button.  
  • Connect Policy Settings for Video, Homework and Excel Assignments: You will have (1) attempt and unlimited “check my work” to complete these assignment types. Click “submit” only after you have fully completed the assignment. Assignments will be automatically submitted on the due date/time, and you will be graded on the work completed at that time. The full solution and explanation are available for Connect assignments after the due date.  Be sure to review solutions and explanations for any missed problems and if you need further explanation visit my office hours or TA office hours for further explanation. 
  • Smartbook: Smartbook is a digital version of your textbook.  As you read the course learning objectives in Smartbook, you will be presented with questions to help learn the material.  The Smartbook grade is based on the number of questions you complete. Questions answered incorrectly do not lower your Smartbook score. If you answer a few questions incorrectly, the “Read” button may flash to suggest you read that learning objective before answering additional questions. If you answer all the Smartbook questions prior to the due date, your Smartbook score will be 100% for that module’s Smartbook assignment.  
    • After the due date, you can re-enter Smartbook to help you study in ‘Recharge’ mode.  In Recharge mode, Smartbook directs you to review material that you need to master.   
  • Participation:  Class Activities:  Series of in-class activities to be completed during the live lectures only – attendance is required.  Refer to your instructor for more information.   
    • Asynchronous Sections:  Your instructor will provide more information. 
  • Study Attempts:  You will have free study attempts to redo Connect assignments for extra practice after the due date.  No extensions on assignments due to availability of study attempts.  Use study attempts to help you prepare for exams. 

Extra Credit

Extra Credit Menu (No Extensions) – Maximum of 35 Points:

  • #1 Extra Credit – Module 5
  • #2 Extra Credit – Module 10 
  • #3 Extra Credit – Module 15
  •  Course Evaluation: 5 extra credit points 
  • Additional extra credit opportunities may be offered during the semester at the instructor’s discretion. 

Disclaimer

Any changes to assignments or course schedule will be announced on Canvas and/or via e-mail. Inability to access the course webpage or failure to read e-mails cannot be an excuse for late submissions or non-completion of assignments. 

Discussion Board Posts

Your instructor may opt to use the Discussion Board as an additional means of communication, and/or engagement assignments.  Ask your instructor for more information. 

Attendance

In Person Sections: While class attendance is not graded, it is crucial for successfully completing the course. Your instructor may take attendance.   

Regular attendance and active participation are essential for mastering challenging concepts and analytical techniques. Please arrive on time, stay for the entire class period, and actively engage in discussions. Late arrivals will be marked as absent, and leaving during class is discouraged. This course relies heavily on group activities, making attendance vital to your success. You are responsible for all material covered in class, whether or not you attend.  

  • In-Person Attendance: In-class students are expected to attend in person, except when unwell. Consistent absence with the expectation of accessing everything online is not acceptable. 
  • Login to Course Webpage: Login daily to read announcements and stay up-to-date with course information. 
  • Missed Classes: If you must miss class for a valid reason, notify me in advance if possible. You are still responsible for any missed work, and missing class does not excuse you from submitting assignments on time. Always check the course calendar for assignments and required readings. 
  • Study Buddy: It is recommended to have a ‘study buddy’ in the class to obtain notes in case of an absence. You are responsible for all material covered, even if absent. 
  • Documentation: If you miss class due to illness, especially if seeking an extension, provide documentation such as a doctor’s note. 
  • TA Office Hours: Attend Course TA office hours for extra help when you miss classes. You can also reach out to TAs for assistance even if you haven't missed any classes. 
  • Instructor Appointments: Schedule an appointment with me for any questions or concerns you may have. 

Exams

All exams will be completed in class online using Connect. Your instructor may also require the use of Connect+Proctorio, an online proctoring system, during exams. 

  • Exam Components: You are expected to demonstrate conceptual knowledge and solve problems. 
  • Laptop Requirements: You are expected to bring your laptop with working webcam and mic to class along with the power cord. Please ensure your laptop is fully charged before arriving.  
  • Students with Academic Accommodations: If you require academic accommodation, it is your responsibility to provide the Faculty Contact Sheet to your instructor within the first two weeks of the course. Additionally, you must coordinate with the Office of Disability Services to complete the exam ahead of the scheduled exam date. 
  • Asynchronous students: You are required to have a laptop with a working webcam and microphone for exams. 

Your instructor will provide additional details as needed: 

  • Closed Note/Book: Exams are closed note and closed book. 
  • Content Coverage: Exams will cover all course material, including recitations. 
  • Individual Work: Exams must be completed individually with no collaboration. Sharing exam content with other students, whether in your section or another, is strictly prohibited. 
  • Assigned Platform: You must take the exam in the platform assigned to your section. Each exam allows only one attempt. Exams are timed at 75 minutes each. 
  • Assigned Location: Failure to take the exam in the assigned room/platform for your section will result in a grade of “zero” for that exam. 
  • Formula Sheets: Formula sheets will not be provided. You are expected to learn and memorize all necessary formulas. 
  • No Photos: Taking photos of the exam or writing down exam information is not allowed. 
  • Honor Code: You must always adhere to the George Mason Honor Code during the exam. 
  • No Devices: Phones and other devices are not permitted during the exam. 
  • Scrap Paper: You may use one piece of blank scrap paper during the exam. 

There is no exam replacement and no exam grade drop. Students who miss an exam without notifying the instructor will receive a 0%. However, in the case of an extreme, rare emergency, contact the instructor immediately. Alternative exam arrangements may be offered at the instructor's discretion.

Email the instructor before the exam begins and provide written evidence afterward. The instructor will decide if the absence qualifies for alternative arrangements. If an alternative exam is granted, it may differ from the exam given to your classmates. 

  • Present Your Student ID 
    You must present your student identification card at each examination. Students not showing identification cards may be assigned a “zero” for the exam. Valid id includes George Mason student Id, state issued driver’s license, military id, or passport. 
     
  • Other
    • You may use a basic, non-programmable calculator if you wish.  Students found using a programmable/text entry calculator (this includes graphics calculators) will be in violation of the honor code and will receive a “Zero.”    You will need to show your basic calculator to the webcam at the beginning of the exam. 
    • Phones may not be used during exams. 
    • All Exams are closed note and closed book.  No other material permitted including additional technology such as but not limited to additional computers, iPad, etc. 
       
  • Reviewing your completed exam 
    Your instructor will provide instructions on how to review your exam.  You may not take photos of your completed exam, nor may you write down exam information during the review. 

Student Responsibilities & Expectations

Responsibilities
As a student in this course, your active participation and engagement with learning resources are essential. Here's what is expected of you: 

  1. Reach out for help if you are having trouble with the material. 
  2. No cells phones during class. No phones during exams. 
  3. In Person Sections: Attend all classes and recitation sessions. and participate fully in discussions. 
  4. Asynchronous Sections: Engage with the course materials at least 4 days a week and at least 15 hours per week. 
  5. Keep cell phones off during class and recitations. 
  6. Use all learning resources and catch up on any missed material during absences. 
  7. If a class is canceled due to inclement weather, access online assignments.  
  8. Regularly check the course website for updates and announcements. 

Expectations

  1. Follow the course calendar and seek clarification from your instructor when needed. 
  2. Log in to the course webpage daily to engage with course content and check announcements. 
  3. Check your George Mason email daily. 
  4. Complete all assignments and exams on time. 
  5. Actively ask questions and use TA office hours for additional support. 
  6. Demonstrate professionalism and respect in all interactions. 
  7. Use your George Mason email address for all correspondence and to register the eBook. 

Privacy & E-mail Etiquette

In this class, it's crucial to develop professional email communication skills. Proper email etiquette is important for your success, both now and in your future career. Here are the guidelines you must follow: 

  1. Use Your George Mason Email: University policy requires students to use their George Mason email for all communications with faculty and staff. I will not respond to emails sent from non-George Mason addresses (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo). 
  2. Proofread Your Emails: Always spell check and proofread your emails before sending them.
  3. Response Time: I aim to respond to emails within 24 hours during the week. Emails sent between Friday evening and Sunday evening will be answered by the end of the day Monday. Sometimes, I may send a quick reply and follow up with a full response later. 
  4. Include Your Details: Always include your full name and section number in your emails. Failure to follow these email etiquette rules may result in a delay or lack of response to your emails. 

Failure to follow these email etiquette rules may result in a delay or lack of response to your emails.

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