COM-20035-XE017 Deconstruct … Project & Resources Table of Contents Announcements Project Discussions JG Project Results FAQs Calendar James Gri?n Support Tools Project Instructions Project Instructions # ” Listen ! Competency In this project, you will demonstrate your mastery of the following competency: Deconstruct media messages in various forms and contexts Scenario : You work for Eco-Focused Response, (EFR), a nonprofit environmental organiza!on that provides informa!on and support to help communi!es prepare for and recover from natural phenomena, and develops strategies to address issues such as pollu!on, hazardous material, and waste disposal. Your organiza!on is aware of the importance of sharing informa!on and ge”ng the message out to individuals and communi!es. It is trying to determine the best form of media—television, radio, newspaper, social media (Twi#er), or blog—and the best methods to use to deliver messages to communi!es. Direc!ons Management has decided that the best approach for this task would be to evaluate how other organiza!ons have used a variety of media to share informa!on concerning pollu!on. They have gathered five examples of media messages for you to review and compare. They have decided to look at informa!on conveyed through television, radio, newspaper, social media (Twi#er), and a blog. The media message examples are located in the Suppor!ng Materials sec!on. Note: If this project would be appropriate for a company you work for, you may choose a topic that is applicable to your company instead of the one provided in this scenario. If you choose a di?erent topic, you must s!ll review and compare five examples of media messages, including a blog, a radio broadcast, a social media post (on Twi#er), a newspaper ar!cle, and a television broadcast. You will have to create a Microso% Word document containing the links and appropriate cita!ons for your examples, and submit it along with your brief. : You will review the forms of media used for each example and evaluate the content of the messages using the ques!ons and criteria provided. You will summarize your results for each example, and using that informa!on, provide a ranking of the media messages. Your review, recommended ranking (1 being the best, and 5 being the worst), and the reasons for the ranking order should be included in a 800- to 1,000-word brief that you can send to management. First, read the Media Message Examples document located in the Suppor!ng Materials sec!on: As noted above, you can use the five examples of media messages provided in this document, or you can gather and review examples focused on a topic of your choosing. You will need to view the media messages and explore the sites and informa!on surrounding them to gather the required informa!on. You may find that some of the informa!on may not be available for each example. You will need to reference the missing informa!on in your summary and consider how that lack of informa!on will impact your ranking. Address the following criteria for each example: 1. Explain the history and development of each form of media (television, radio, newspaper, social media, and a blog). a. How long has it existed? b. How has it changed from its beginning state? c. How does the delivery method (form of media) impact the message being delivered? (Consider authority, trustworthiness, and context of delivery.) 2. Describe the purpose of each form of media. a. Who is the target audience? b. What are its strengths? c. What are its weaknesses? d. How has it been used and misused? 3. Evaluate each media message for the presence of bias. Use the five key ques!ons as iden!fied by the Center for Media Literacy. a. Who created the message? b. What crea!ve techniques are used to a#ract your a#en!on? c. How might other people understand this message di?erently than you do? d. What values, lifestyles, and points of view are represented in, or omi#ed from, this message? e. Why is this message being sent? (Consider whether the message is meant to inform, persuade, or entertain.) 4. Evaluate the accuracy of each media message: a. Is it a reliable and valid source? b. Does it contain verifiable facts versus opinions? What to Submit Every project has a deliverable or deliverables, which are the files that must be submi#ed before your project can be assessed. For this project, you must submit the following: : Brief You will review the forms of media used for each example and evaluate the content of the messages using the You will review the forms of media used for each example and evaluate the content of the messages using the ques!ons and criteria provided. You will summarize your results for each example, and using that informa!on, provide a ranking of the media messages. Your review, recommended ranking (1 being the best, and 5 being the worst), and the reasons for the ranking order should be included in an 800–1,000 word brief that you can send to management. Suppor!ng Materials The following resource(s) may help support your work on the project: Cita!on Help Need help ci!ng your sources? Use the CfA Cita!on Guide and Cita!on Maker. Reading: Media Message Examples Reflect in ePortfolio Download Print Open with docReader Activity Details Task: View this topic : Read all about your project here. This includes the project scenario, directions for completing the project, a list of what you will need to submit, and supporting materials that may help you complete the project. Media Message Examples Below are five media message examples for you to review and compare. Click on the links provided to access each example. You will need to view the media messages and explore the sites and information surrounding them to gather the required information. You may find that some of the information may not be available for each example: You will need to reference this missing information in your summary and consider how that lack of information will impact your ranking. Note: If this project would be appropriate for a company you work for, you may choose a topic that is applicable to your company instead of the one provided in this scenario. If you choose a different topic, you must still review and compare five examples of media messages, including a blog, a radio broadcast, a social media post (on Twitter), a newspaper article, and a television broadcast. You will have to create a Microsoft Word document containing the links and appropriate citations for your examples, and submit it along with your brief. 1. Blog: Interview: Mayor Jackie Biskupski of Salt Lake City, Utah This interview from the Moms Clean Air Force website focuses on the commitment that Salt Lake City has made to addressing environmental issues within its communities. 2. Radio: Urban Life Isn’t A Walk In The Park In this segment from Science Friday, a weekly NPR radio broadcast, the participants discuss the how air pollution can impact individuals exercising or participating in physical activities in urban areas. A transcript of the broadcast is available at the bottom of the page. 3. Twitter: Clean Air Campaign This tweet from the Clean Air Campaign provides information on sources of particle pollution, which contributes to smog. The image shows hazy skies and smoke coming from a factory’s smokestack. 4. Newspaper: Pollution May Dim Thinking Skills, Study in China Suggests This New York Times article focuses on the results of a study that links prolonged exposure to pollution to a decrease in cognitive abilities. 5. Television: Wildfires in Western States are Disrupting Efforts to Curb Air Pollution This PBS News Hour broadcast explores the impact that smoke from the California wildfires is having on cities and populations all across the United States.

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.