Ask the O is an anonymous question and answer service for the UO community to address university related questions. Here you will find recently posted questions and answers sorted by the date of the week the question was submitted. 

 

To learn more about submitting a question please visit here. 

 

Q:  I heard that we have an “Interim Ombudsperson.”  What does this mean?  What are the plans for the Ombuds Program?

A:  Our previous full-time Ombudsperson left the University in November 2015.  To cover the caseload and ensure that the Ombuds Program remain healthy in the short term, the University appointed two temporary positions: an Interim Ombudsperson and an Interim Assistant Ombudsperson.  The University will be searching for a permanent full-time Ombudsperson this spring.

The Interim Ombudsperson is Jen Reynolds, law professor and faculty director of the UO Appropriate Dispute Resolution Center. The Interim Assistant Ombudsperson is Jenn Hudson, recent graduate of UO with an M.S. in conflict and dispute resolution.  Both have been appointed to temporary terms, with end dates of May 15 and June 30, respectively.  The Ombuds Program also has a permanent Program Administrator, Becky Couch.

During the interim and going forward, the Ombuds Program will continue to work at a high level of confidentiality, impartiality, informality, and independence and will continue to push for best practices and high standards.  Additionally, as before, the Interim Ombudsperson reports directly to the President.  For more on our office, please see the FAQ.

During the interim, the Ombuds Program has several goals, including:

1. Manage existing and new cases.

Continue providing high-quality support to visitors.

2. Assist with the search for the permanent full-time Ombudsperson.

Ensure that the position description, announcement, and supporting materials are appealing and consistent with the professional expectations of excellent candidates.  Serve as a resource for the search committee.

3. Review Ombuds Program materials and procedures and update as necessary.

Make sure the website, brochure, and any other program materials are consistent and clear, and that office procedures are documented.

4. Ensure that the Ombuds Program Charter is formally approved.

Having a charter is a best practice for an ombuds office.  The charter sets the tone of and outlines the parameters for the Ombuds Program as well as for the  program materials mentioned above.  Once signed, it will appear on the Ombuds website.

5. Oversee the office move.

The Ombuds Program is scheduled to move in late April. More information on the move as we know more.

6. Reach out to common points of contact/referral.

The Interim Ombudsperson will meet with people and offices from across the campus to get a better idea of how the Ombuds Program can help meet the diverse needs of the campus community.  This will make the Interim Ombudsperson more effective in the short term and also make it easier for the Interim Ombudsperson to help transition the new permanent full-time Ombudsperson into the University.

If you have any questions about the Ombuds Program or our interim plans, please do not hesitate to contact us at ombuds@uoregon.edu or 6-6400, or feel free to submit an anonymous question through Ask the O at:

https://oregon.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6kTxmM2hU6aLFIh.

 

 

 

Q: What is the University doing to decrease bike theft?

 

A: Please see this link for tips on how to protect your bike on campus provided by the UO Police Department. UOPD has also implemented a new bike theft prevention and recovery program, for information please click here.

 

Q: How much work should I be doing for a 3 credit hour course?

 

A: The following information was provided by the Office of Institutional Research: Courses are assigned credit hours based on the amount of instruction and relevant coursework per week. One credit hour typically represents the equivalent of an hour (50 minutes) of instruction per week over the entire term. The total credit hours generated by a course equal the number of credit hours associated with the course multiplied by the number of students enrolled in the course, as measured following the fourth week of classes. 

 

Q: I do not agree with a grade I received. What should I do?

 

A: First, attempt to informally resolve the issue with the professor. Next, check with the department as they may have their own unique process. The last option would be to meet with an academic advisor to fill out a Scholastic Review Committee petition form. The advisor will assist you in completing the form. Please be aware of the petition deadlines. 

Q: My brother lives in an off campus apartment complex. He was given an ultimatum to either vacate and leave the premises or be served a 72-hour eviction notice for failure to pay back rent. The manager has also accused my brother of littering on the property. We have not received any evidence or documentation that proves the allegations and the manager is not cooperating with us. Please advise. 

 

A: Here at the ombuds office we do not offer legal advice, however, the University has a number of resources that are able to help with your situation. ASUO Legal Services provides students with free legal services if the student is eligible. To check eligibility please click here. The Office of the Dean of Students provides information on renter rights and responsibilities. This webpage also provides a list of resources available to students regarding legal aid, assistance, and enforcement. To visit the Renter Rights and Responsibilities page please click here.

 

Q: We have received a few questions regarding concerns with access to instructors due to the instructor's obligations outside of the classroom, such as research, grant writing, or other outside professions. 

 

A: When experiencing difficulties with your instructor we encourage having a meeting with the instructor to address your concern directly. If you are unsuccessful or uncomfortable speaking with the instructor your options are to talk with the department head or request a meeting with the ombudsperson. Here at the ombuds office we can help identify potential options or help you prepare for a meeting with an instructor. 

Q: We have received a few questions regarding exams and assignments given during 'dead week' from who we assume are students. We have also received questions regarding the appropriate way to address potential policy violations and faculty accessibility concerns.