The Pledge to Eliminate Poverty Part 1: As Hite and Seitz (2016) discuss in Chapter 2: Wealth and Poverty, the Millennium Development Goals were created to provide developing countries support through the partnership of developed countries. The first goal is to “eradicate extreme poverty and hunger” in the world. According to the textbook, population is still increasing in the world’s poorest regions. Take a look at the Millennium Development Goals report (https://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/2015_MDG_Report/pdf/MDG%202015%20rev%20(July%201).pdf). The report notes that progress in reducing extreme hunger is uneven across regions and countries. Looking at the graph on page 14 of the report, which countries have the least reduction in extreme hunger? Which countries have the greatest reduction in extreme hunger? What factors contribute to this uneven progress? What are some possible strategies for creating more progress in these countries? Part 2 (Respond to a peer): Review the posts of your classmates and respond to at least one other post, offering a substantive comment on that classmate’s position on the Peer’s post: “Good afternoon Professor and classmates. Based on the information in the Millennium Development Goals report, those countries living on less than $1.25 per day are included in extreme hunger. The countries with the lowest reduction in extreme hunger are those located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their reduction was just 28% from 1990 to 2015 with the reductions tsarting in 2002. That is 40% less than the whole world. While those with the greatest reduction in extreme hunger can be found across Asia; Southern Asia is at 66% reduction from 1990 to 2015, Southern Asia (excluding India) is at 73% reduction, South-Eastern Asia is al 84% reduction, and Eastern Asia is at 94% reduction in extreme hunger. The poor and hungry are distributed unevenly across the world. Some of the factors that contribute to this uneven progress are the increase in women led households when women have “unequal access to paid work, lower earnings, lack of social protection and limited access to assets, including land and property (https://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/2015_MDG_Report/pdf/MDG%202015%20rev%20(July%201).pdf).” Another factor is conflict. Over 60 million people had to abandon their homes due to conflict, by the end of 2014. Your home is where your value is, when you have to evacuate, you lose that. In addition, the geographic region can add to the poverty level. Countries that have access to the oceans or water, are better able to develop and have a sustainable agriculture, too. The Sub-Saharan countries are mostly desert and rural areas. If there was better agriculture this would boost the countries ability to eradicate poverty.”

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.