University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Ch 8 A struggle is under way for the ‘soul’ of nonprofit America…the sector and its individual organizations are caught in a force field among four competing pressures pulling them in a number of competing directions… University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Ch 8 Commercial and professional impulses may be gaining the upper hand and significantly displacing the voluntaristic and civic activist impulses Important implications for the balance distinctiveness and survival imperatives between [survival imperative gaining the upper hand] University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication the Ch 8 …exposed the sector to potentially existential risks manifested, among other things, in new assaults on the charitable giving deduction, deepening exposure to local taxes and user fees, government payment methods that advantage for-profit vendors, and declining public understanding of how the sector operates, or why it is needed. May be time to reset the balance University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Ch 8 3 Scenarios (1) The Status Quo Scenario (celebration & drift) (2) The Social Enterprise Scenario (3) The Renewal Scenario University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Ch 8 The Renewal Strategy (1) Renewing the nonprofit value proposition (2) Improving government-nonprofit partnerships (3) Strengthening nonprofit finance (4) Improving public understanding University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Communication IS the real work of the nonprofit Social construction invites us to think about the complexities of human interaction and consider what we are making together in our communication with other people… requires a keen awareness of what is emerging in various situations and thinking critically about how we can communicate in response to influence the process of social construction …what the ancient Greeks (the first communication scholars) called phronesis, practical wisdom or the virtue of good judgment University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Communicative L-M-G A communication perspective moves us toward a more relational approach that emphasizes social processes over personal cognition, hybrid agency over excessive individualism, a nexus of relations over abstract positionality, living systems over machines, and socially constructed situations over objective circumstances. …also reveals something about the nonprofit itself -that it is deeply relational University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Meaningful Work A communication perspective demonstrates that meaning is not ‘in’ nonprofit work as an objective feature of the work itself, nor is it merely a psychological state of personal perception…meaningful work is a discourse, a way of talking about work that creates deep structures of meaning that shape how we make sense of our experiences. …should organize nonprofit work around the mission and connection that each individual gives to their work, rather than assuming that there is meaning in the work itself or rather than trying to make it look or feel like work in other sectors University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication International Work …always involves ongoing negotiations to develop shared meanings about the language and terminology that define the work, conflicts over what counts as knowledge in various situations, managing tensions and paradoxes that inevitably arise between religion and modern life, and meeting the financial demands of serving multiple masters with different interests To be nonprofit means looking beyond ourselves to improve the state of humanity and build civil society, even beyond our own shores…requires a level of humility, patience, and a willingness to learn that are at the core of what it means to be nonprofit University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Collaboration & Organizational Partnerships Effective collaboration (value) is the ability to exert influence among members and stakeholders (authority) in such a way that leads to the existence of a social entity (identity) that has the capacity to act and make a difference (agency) in a specific realm of nonprofit work. Thinking ‘collabrocatively’…focusing on the communicative constitution of distinct organizational forms that have the capacity to take meaningful action, and communicating in ways that are characterized by emergence, exploration, and engagement University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Communication IS the real work of the nonprofit Just like communication, the nonprofit is primarily about what it makes, what it creates, not simply what it reacts to. And just like communication, the nonprofit has positive value on its own terms; it’s not merely an instrument to be used by supposedly more important entities and interests. University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Communication IS the real work of the nonprofit The nonprofit has always been focused on creating a better present and future for those without voice, resources, representation, or societal connections…from a communication perspective, those doing the important work of the nonprofit can also create and shape a better world through interactions with other people…the nonprofit isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s also about molding a better future through human connection. University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication Communication IS the real work of the nonprofit Being nonprofit requires a keen appreciation of difference, specifically in how we understand and give meaning to the world around us. A communication perspective enables us to see that difference in practices, policies, culture, etc. are constructions that give meaning to the world. This moves us away from judgments of good and bad, because we recognize that our own ways of doing things are social constructions as well. This lets us take positions of respect, humility, inclusion, and patience as we work with and through those differences. This is the work of the nonprofit University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication University of Colorado Boulder Department of Communication

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.