Where and how does the class meet?
What kind of computer or other hardware do I need?
Do I need to purchase a textbook?
How do I get in contact with the Instructor?
What happens if the Internet is down?
How do I take the Online Assessments and Quizzes?
What would help me be successful with this Online Course?
Where and how do the classes take place?
...They take place both face to face and through the Internet. Face to face sessions will be determined depending upon the needs of the class. Normally, three sessions (beginning, middle and end) are scheduled. However, if there is a need for additional face to face, this can be arranged. Scheduled synchronous chats will also take place. While the set time for this class is Tuesday's at 7:00 PM, chats can be arranged to best reflect the needs of the class. For less confusion, a set, consistent time is recommended. Discussion threads are posted each week. Each person should dialogue in these discussion threads throughout the week (prior to the next session).
...A lot of people mistakenly assume that they'll feel isolated in online courses. To their surprise, most find that online courses actually provided a high degree of personal contact, IF you ACTIVELY participate. Far from being an impediment to communication, the online format facilitates and enhances it in ways that would be impossible in other situations.
What kind of computer or other hardware/software do I need?
...Most PC or Macintosh computers will be just fine. See the Requirements page for complete details.
Do I need to purchase a textbook?
...No. All readings for this course will be accessible online in the Readings section. Please note that utilizing a constructivist methodological approach, numerous readings will be provided. While some will be required so that we have a topic to discuss mutually, other readings will be provided that you may choose from. The idea is to choose topics of interest to you. Some weeks there may be topics of interest while other weeks there are not. You are asked to 1. at least look at some of the sites suggested and 2. when you find something of interest post a thread to share with the rest of the class.
How do I get in contact with the Instructor?
...Refer to the Contacts page.
What happens if the Internet is down?
...Technology is great when it is running smooth, however, prepare and plan for technology glitches. If the Internet is not working, you need to try back again later. If your Internet is down or you cannot get into the WebCT chatroom during a regular scheduled chat you should first try to find an alternative means to participate. If this is not possible please let me know (email or by phone). All chats are archived and will be posted to the course site. Since you have a week to post to the discussion threads, a few hours of Internet down time should not impact your postings.
...Assessments are taken without resources since they are assessing your knowledge before and after the course. They are timed but not graded. You can take quizzes using resources. From your home page select the Quiz icon or from your left-hand Navigational Bar, select the Online Quiz link. Select the appropriate quiz then click on Begin. You should see the questions. After you answer each question, save your answer before going on to the next question. After completing all the questions, Click the submit button at the bottom of the page. If you submit without saving it will reflect negatively since no selection is counted as an incorrect answer.
What would help me be successful with this Online course?
...You must be motivated; have access to a computer, preferably at home; possess good time management skills, stay on track; communicate through a variety of means; be able to work independently; able to work through technical problems with the assistance of Instructor or Help person; work collaboratively with other students. Please refer to Tips for Online Success.