College Chain O' Command question?

Question

This semester I am taking an online math class. I checked for the required textbook ahead of time so that I could purchase it used and save money. Now the professor is requiring the students to purchase an additional $80 online textbook source, that doesn't seem related to the textbook I've purchased at all (different publisher). Without purchasing this online access code, I cannot even get into the online classroom. I checked the required textbooks and supplies again online and it still shows the textbook that I've already purchased. I am getting the impression that the teacher does not realize the there is a different required textbook listed for students to purchase.

I do not know if this would be an was an error on the professor's part or on the school's part for allowing the wrong materials to be required for students to purchase, but I imagine I am not the only "prepared" student who has purchased a useless textbook in advance.

I'd rather not complain to the professor, but complain about the college making this error and have the school point the finger of blame.

Besides you lovely folks on answers.yahoo.com, WHO DO I COMPLAIN TO?!

Answer 1

The first question you need to answer is this on line book replacing the required text or is it supplemental? That's going to be important in what your options are and/or what the school should do. If it's in addition to the listed requirement, you may need to buy this second book. The fact the books come from two different publishers isn't relevant.

Option one would be to contact the professor. If you don't have that info or he/she is hard to contact, get in touch with the administrative person (secretary) in the math division in which the class is held. In my experience, a good Admin can be a great source of help for this kind of thing.

If neither of those work, there should be a person who is considered the "chair" of the department. Find that person and explain the issue.

I would not go to your college president. That's seriously jumping the chain and will annoy all sorts of people. And the president is only going to refer you back (to the people who are now embarrassed the prez had to get involved).

Answer 2

You should always start with the first point of authority and work your way up the chain of command from there.  In this case, that's the professor.  He may be able to easily resolve the issue by telling the school to update the list and crediting you for the amount you've already paid if the book turns out not to have been required.  If you don't get a satisfactory response from him, then you can move on to the administration.

Answer 3

Go straight to the President. You could also try educational services, the registrar, the dean of students, your advisor, or the dean of the math department