Reflect on the material we have examined over the last several weeks about the mid-twentieth century and the so-called Sexual Revolution of the 1960s and 1970s and the turn to the sex wars that developed in the 1980s. Focus on a theme, issue, or topic that strike you as particularly interesting, puzzling, or important. Some example include: marriage, dating, and courtship; sexuality and liberation movements; sex, censorship, and mass culture; reproduction, regulation, and reform? Consider: What is it about this topic that you want to learn more about? What scholarship have we read or other materials have we studied that would help you develop an historical perspective on this issue? Make some notes. Now, EITHER choose TWO (or more) oral histories from the Southern Oral History Program collection OR conduct an oral history of your own with a person of your choice. If conducting an oral history interviews yourself you may do more than one–but at least one should speak to the period of the sexual revolution. In either case, you should take some care in exploring your options to make sure that you end up with an interview that will end up illuminating the issues you’re interested in exploring. NOTE: if you’re using an interview from the SOHP collections, it is often easier if you find two that offer a focused comparison and develop your essay around the similarities and differences in the experiences, perspectives, and assumptions of the two interview subjects. If you’re conducting your own interview, you’ll want to make a practical plan for scheduling the interview, make sure you have a means of recording it, and plan on spending about half an hour to an hour conducting the interview itself. Before your start, clarify with your interviewee how you’re going to use the interview and how you’re going to safeguard that person’s privacy. As you review and analyze your interview (or interviewees), consider the relevant scholarship and other sources we’ve examined that can help illuminate your analysis by providing historical context, or by offering models of analysis. Once you’ve identified the central historical issue at the heart of your essay and a body of relevant sources, write an essay that uses the oral history/histories to a) illuminate an important issue in the history of modern sexuality and b) evaluate the efforts of historians to understand and explain it. The goal of this assignment is to give you an opportunity a) to critically analyze and evaluate engage specific sources of your own choosing and b) to develop your own analysis of a particular historical issue or problem. Your essay should do the following: At the beginning of the essay, clearly identify the issue/problem that you will be analyzing. Explain the broader significance of this issue/problem/phenomenon with respect to the history of sex in American society from the colonial period through the recent past. To address this question of broader historical significance consider how the issue/problem you identified has been defined and contested in particular periods. Are the individual’s views of sex, her/his life experiences, and so on consistent or incompatible with the sexual norms, regulations, identities, or ideologies of the time period she/is describing and previous periods? If relevant in your case, focus on the Southern aspect of your interviewee’s experience. How does this person’s view of the period differ from what you might expect from scholarship and other documents produced largely by people living in other parts of the country? Consider the question: What does this person’s attitudes and experience tell us about the history of the so-called “Sexual Revolution” (in the South)? To what extent was this person self-consciously political? Was this person’s approach conservative? reformist? radical? What is most interesting or significant about this person’s unstated assumptions–or the relationships between this person’s unstated assumptions and this person’s articulated beliefs and decisions? In addition to the oral history, your essay should critically engage at least two other sources. You can choose any texts from the syllabus or in-class handouts that you see fit: it is up to you to show how the documents (and the themes they address) relate to one another

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.