Online Learning: Part 1

Online Learning
Part 1

Read Between the Lines

Make a judgment about the site’s reliability based on your own analysis of the site and the information that it contains. Here are some ways to do this:

·        Observe facts you know or can evaluate for authenticity with a trusted source. If the facts presented on the site are accurate, then it is more likely that the other facts within the website are accurate.

·        Study the tone established by the language. Is it angry, satiric or extremely passionate? This may indicate that the site is biased.

·        Consider whether the arguments are logical and can be represented by evidence, and whether the presents only one point of view.

·        Check the links to the sources the author acknowledges. Scholarly writing, whether in print or online, should include a bibliography.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!

It's online, but Is It On Target?: Part 3

It’s Online, but Is It On Target?
Part 3

Dot-What?

Look at the site’s address. What follows the dot?

·        Dot-com is not only for businesses; anyone can use it. Dot-coms include well-known and respected companies, but also private individuals.

·        Dot-org usually indicates a non-for-profit organization. Most dot-org websites present unbiased information, but others have political agendas, focus on debatable issues instead of facts, and might not present all opinions regarding the subject.

·        Dot-gov indicates a government website at the federal, state or local level. The federal government is a good source of statistics, and its sites are widely considered among the most reliable.

·        Dot-mil is used by sites associated with the military.

·        Dot-edu usually indicates a website associated with an educational institution. While its published research is generally considered very trustworthy, anyone associated with the university, whether a world-renowned scholar or a freshman, can access the server. Professors sometimes post student assignments on the website, but that does not mean that they’re vouching for the information’s accuracy.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!

It's Online, but Is It on Target?: Part 1

It’s Online, but Is It on Target?
Part 1
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/boost-your-skills/109995.html

Using the Internet Wisely

Thanks to the Internet, information is easy to find. However, it’s also easy to post something online. Anyone can do it.

You’ve probably used the Internet to do research for a paper, to help you decide which product to buy, or to form an opinion about current events. Locating information online is fast and convenient. But when you do online research, it’s important to find websites that are credible.

Many websites claim to contain trustworthy information, but are full of errors. Others present information in a biased manner --- they only provide information through ones perception. How can you decide whether a source is reliable or not? Also, it is critical that you only post decent and appropriate information online, never any pornographic, vulgar, indecent, offensive, untruthful, or obscene. Post information that will provide others with a likable perception of you and your organization, which will promote goodwill and be of benefit to the world.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!

Profile of a Successful Student: Part 3

Profile of a Successful Student
Part 3

… owns or has easy access to a computer with Internet access and e-mail

 

You don’t have to be a computer to be successful in online learning---but you must have access, as well as a basic level of competency in using them. Owning a computer with Internet access from your home is ideal, but many students use the computer lab on campus or at their offices to complete their work.

… has basic computer skills and is willing and open to learning new ones

We said you don’t have to be a computer expert to be successful in online learning. However, there are some basic technical skills you should have mastered prior to enrolling in an online course.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!

 

Profile of a Successful Student: Part 1

Profile of a Successful Student
Part 1

http://www.plymouth.edu/office/online-education-learning/profile-of-a-successful-student

A successful student…

… Takes responsibility for his/her learning

Online learning can be a powerful, stimulating, engaging experience for the student who work and think independently. However, since most---if not all---of the learning takes place on your own time, you will not have the kind of direct supervision you would in a classroom. Online learning therefore requires a significant commitment from you. All education comes down to what you’re willing to invest in the experience---this is particularly true in the online environment. Commitment, self-discipline and self-motivation are all key qualities to ensuring success in an online course!

… is comfortable and confident with written communication

Reading and writing are the basis of most online courses, so it’s critical that you feel comfortable with this form of communication. While some courses contain modules that include videos or other activities, all of them require significant amounts of reading. And nearly all of your communication with your classmates and your instructors will be in writing. If these weak areas are for you, you will want to address those issues prior to enrolling or while enrolled in an online course. The PSU Writing Center is available to assist you.

… is willing to be a member of a learning community

CHOOSE THE RIGHT!!!