The United States is a nation of moviemakers and moviegoers. Based on 2009 numbers, the Motion Picture and Television Industry is made up of more than 95,000 small businesses spread across all 50 states, producing 2.4 million jobs (mpaa.org, 2010). In terms of our national appetite for film, moviegoers bought almost 1.3 trillion tickets in 2010, generating over $10 trillion dollars in gross sales at the box office (the-numbers.com, 2011). This figure doesn’t include the average American’s money spent on DVDs and the hours devoted to watching DVD versions of films or those aired on television. It is evident from these numbers then that, as a society, we watch a significant number of movies, whether in the theater or at home. Peter C. Rollins, author of Hollywood as Historian: American Film in a Cultural Context(1997) proposed a significant question based on the tremendous presence of movies in our lives: Does Hollywood influence society or is it the other way around? For this assignment, do the following: Select a film dealing with gender, and analyze it using material from the course. Write a summary and analysis of the gender-related issue(s) you observe in the film. Organize your paper into the following sections: Title page Table of Contents Introduction (1–2 paragraphs summarizing the topic briefly) Background (brief synopsis of the film and identification of major gender issues) Analysis (brief analysis of the gender topic(s) you uncovered and their specific relation to the course material) Conclusion (1–2 paragraph review of your findings) References List of suggested films The movies listed below are meant only as recommendations. You may select one of these or choose one of your own. If you choose your own film, be sure to confirm the appropriateness of the selection with your instructor. 9 to 5 (1980) Best Years of Our Lives, The (1946) Blackhawk Down (2001) Born in Flames (1983) Boy A (2007) Color Purple, The (1985) Disclosure (1994) Erin Brockovich (2000) Fatal Attraction (1987) Married Life (2007) Million Dollar Baby (2004) Mr. Mom (1983) North Country (2005) Pillow Talk (1959) Revolutionary Road (2008) Stepford Wives, The (1975 or 2004 versions) Thelma and Louise (1991) Waiting to Exhale (1995) Wedding Banquet, The (1993) When Harry Met Sally (1989) Working Girl (1988) An example to illustrate what is expected out of this assignment is the film The Snake Pit, an Academy Award winning film from 1948 that depicts the struggles of the heroine Virginia, who finds herself in a mental institution. The film documents her journey from a troubled female, who appears detached and unfulfilled, to a cured woman reunited with her husband and emotionally ready to move on with her life. Though many critics viewed the film as an important social statement about the need for change in the deplorable condition of mental institutions of the time, the producers and the author of the book on which the film is based conveyed a deeper meaning—a look at the female’s struggle between the roles of mother and wife and that of educated career woman. The result is a slip of sanity and a need for therapy to find her way back to an acceptable role in society (Fishbein, 1979). Following the structure outlined above, a paper on this film would include a background section that would provide details of the plot and characters. The analysis section would introduce, define, and discuss concepts from the course that help explain the gender issues in the film. Finally, the conclusion section would briefly summarize the major points about how the heroine’s initial struggle is connected to issues with gender identity and resistance to gender stereotyping in addition to anxiety over her husband’s struggle to fulfill his expected role as successful breadwinner.

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.