I strongly recommend that you subscribe to the course listserv within two days after the first class meeting.
To subscribe just go to the information page for the list by entering the list name on the PSU mailing list page:
Instead of joining the course listserv you can instead read the messages on-line from the list archives. Since the course listservs usually do not generate many messages, other than my helpful (hopefully) messages to my students, there is not much reason not to join the listserv for the course you are taking. If you do not join, you will probably miss getting various help that I try to provide using the course listserv throughout the term.
To send a message to all people subscribed to the listserv send your message to the address "paXXX@lists.pdx.edu". You can use this for sending messages relevant to the course and of general interest to course members. For example, you can request help, respond to requests for help, and provide information about course topics.
To send a message just relevant to me or to another class member send your message to that person only, not to the course listserv.