Learning Resources REQUIRED READINGS Howard, M. (2007). First World War: A very short introduction. Read Chapter 1. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/waldenu/read… Hamby, A. (2009). Outline of U.S. History. Read Chapter 8, beginning with “Ambivalent Empire.” https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/waldenu/read… Hamby, A. (2009). Outline of U.S. History. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases. Read Chapter 8, beginning with “Ambivalent Empire.”https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/waldenu/read… Assignment: Nation Creation: Building Political Policies and Alliances  For this assignment, you are no longer a mere student of world history. Today you have become the leader of an entire nation in the early 20th century. This nation bears your name. Whether your title is president, emperor, czar, prime minister, or another supreme title, you must take the reins and take decisive action. The decisions you make have the power to change the lives of the people in your nation, and around the world, for better or worse. As you envision your created country, you will need a full understanding of what makes up a nation—including its people, its history, its governance, and its goals for the future. In addition, you will need to understand the complex state of world affairs at this time in history. Will nations discussed in this week’s readings be your allies or your foes? Given a chess game analogy, how will you keep your king safe and which countries will be your pawns? For this week’s Assignment, you will create your nation, and build it to prosper within the context of an early 20th century world. To prepare for this Assignment: Envision your own country called YOUR-NAME-HERE-land. Review  the Howard and Hamby readings in this week’s Resources to more clearly understand the realities of the world in which you will create your country.  Consider what life was like for the average person in Europe, Russia, or North America during that time. Is life in your created country similar or different? Consider the political policies countries were pursuing at this time in history and the struggles they were facing. How about in your created country? Reflect on how countries felt about each other, and the alliances they were building. Which would be your created country’s allies and its foes? The assignment: Compose a 2-page essay in which you do the following: Describe what kinds of political policies your created country (again named YOUR-NAME-HERE-land) would hold and why, and decide which other countries you would align yourself with and why. Be sure to consider the consequences of the political policies, alliances, and interconnectivity of European, Russian, and North and South American countries in the early part of the 20th century.

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.