Bill Ford never doubted that he could run his family’s company, Ford Motor Company. He just had to convince others that he could. It is not every day that an owner decides to throw him or herself into the management pool and learn to swim with different strokes. When Ford took over in 1999, many were skeptical and predicted a continued slide for Ford Motors. However, Ford believed that his new strategy would once again bring the Ford Company to prominence. The strategy was very simple—make more money selling fewer cars. Even though this strategy runs contrary to others in the industry, Ford has demonstrated that unprofitable lines can be eliminated, costs can be reduced, more affluent customers can be targeted, and that a rifle approach can win over the traditional shotgun approach. The key to Ford’s new approach is to surround himself with a team of executives that are decisive, can get along with one another, and are willing to take risks as a group. His team was assembled from all over the world. Different points of view were essential to the decision making success of the group. Ford believes in group decision making as opposed to the lone gun approach. The new bottom line is profits and a vision for the company that makes sense. Will Ford and his company make these dreams come true? Analysts are betting “yes” and have the stock numbers to support their vote. Using a search engine of your own choosing, find an article about Bill Ford and the job he is doing at Ford Motor Company. What evidence of team-oriented decision making did you find in your article? Be sure to summarize any approach identified.  You must write at least 2 paragraphs to receive credit. [10 points] Using a search engine of your own choosing, find an article about Ford’s new hybrid car, the Escape. Note that the Escape comes in a traditional and hybrid version. Since the Escape hybrid will take some time to show profits, why would Ford pursue such a car given the strategic information presented in the story above? [10 points] Go to the Ford website (www.ford.com) and find two examples of team-oriented decision making at the company. Be specific in your examples and be sure to demonstrate how your example demonstrates the team-oriented approach. [10 points] Explore the topic of decision making and intuition. Go to:   http://www.forbes.com/sites/cherylsnappconner/2013/08/05/should-intuition-be-running-your-business-yes-and-no/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.and http://www.forbes.com/sites/timworstall/2011/12/26/why-rules-of-thumb-intuition-gut-feelings-work-in-business-decisions/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site..  Write two paragraphs describing several ideas you learned from these articles, or others that you have found. [10 points] 

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.