1.Was covered how the science and study of Consumer Behavior can be simplified into one single sentence.  What was it? What does it mean? Explain each key component of that statement, and provide at least one example to support your answer. 2.Role human emotions play in influencing our behaviors.  When people’s standards of living and purchasing power are relatively simple and basic, their consumption behavior tends to be driven by rationality. As our standards of living and purchasing power increase, our purchases frequently become less rational.  Explain the difference in the dual system model, between System 1 and System 2 thinking, and which one is said to account for the majority of our decisions. Discuss how emotions play a role in the decision process of the modern-day digital consumer, as he/she evaluates and purchases products and brands. In your answer, provide at least one example. 3.Marketing is, in essence, a game of perceptions.  How are perceptions created? What role do our senses have in creating and sensing perceptions? As a marketers, how can we create perceptual, sensory experiences for our customers, that augment the brand (Bx) and user (Ux) experience? Can we still deliver such experiences in a digital economy? Provide at least two examples to support your answer. 4.Memories play a vital role in our current and future behaviors. Over time, based on experiences we encounter since infancy, our brain collects and stores massive amounts of data, that is evaluated as either highly salient (important, relative) or not. Lesser important experiences are typically in a short-term memory “drive”, and do not last long. Long-term memories on the other hand, are stored and retained, to be retrieved upon experiencing a triggering stimulus/i. What part of the brain is responsible for memory? Does technology in the digital age significantly impact our memory?  How does that affect marketing and promoting to target audiences? What methods can marketers use/implement so that their products/brands and their experience(s) are more memorable, are retained longer, and can be more easily retrieved? Provide at least one example to support your answer. 5.Below you can see the Communication Process Model. What is it meant by “encoding” from the sender, and “decoding” from the receiver?  Apply the Communication Process Model to one (pick one!) of the following scenarios. Explain who the sender is, what is being “encoded” in the promotional content, the Media channels it should be sent out to, who the audience is (receiver), and how the audience (receiver) “decodes” the message (makes sense out of it): Anheuser-Busch promoting its new Hard Seltzer beverage. Nike launching and promoting its new athletic footwear, the Nike Air Zoom BB NXT. FCA’s Jeep brand’s launch of the Jeep Gladiator Mohave Edition pickup truck.  Advertising campaign from the start-up company The Farmer’s Dogbrand of dog food.  The study of Consumer Behavior  is believed to have become a sub-discipline of the marketing field …  What is motivation?  How do emotions affect or influence our motivation to do something, take action? How can technology be used to stir (or trigger) emotional responses, and therefore ultimately motivate consumers to respond or take action? In your answer, include a discussion on how social media can be a valuable communication and motivational tool. Provide at least two examples in your answer. What is anthropomorphism? Why is it applied to various products’ mascots or products? How do human beings develop personalities? Why are brands given “personalities” too, even though they are essentially, an asset representing a product?  In your discussion, include how television played a key role in the development of brand personalities, and provide two target demographic groups that are, or have been, profiled as a target market for a popular, ‘personable’ brand. (example: in class we discussed how Cheetos snacks’ cheetah character has evolved from a cartoony, childish personality, to a witty,  and more antagonistic adult character). 8.Recall from our Lecture on Attitudes, the “ABC Model” (see image below). Visit our lecture, and see Slide #8 on the Hierarchy of Effects Model, concerning Attitudes.  Why do purchases situations that are more involving require first a level of cognition (rationale)? [cognition – affect – behavior] or [cognition – behavior – affect] Why do purchases situations that are focused on delivering a unique customer or user experience (Cx, or Ux) manifest an emotional level (affect)? [affect – behavior – cognition] Apply each of the above hierarchies (see slide #8) to both of the following purchase situations, explaining what the user/customer is experiencing throughout the process, and the purchasing experience:  Booking a flight and hotel reservations for a business trip that will last through the weekend Booking a flight and hotel reservation for a family vacation that will last 10 days Discuss how MySpace (the original social network) and Facebook tapped into our basic human instinct to develop group behavior(s) and group mentality (aka herd mentality).  Explore the origins of both, and discuss how Facebook became the dominant social network, and a favored social media platform for marketers.  Furthermore, how and why do social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok become more popular venues than Facebook? In your answer, include a discussion of how they particular have an impact on the constant battle between the Ideal Self and the Actual Self. How have those two platforms become instrumental in the influencing of consumer target markets? Explain and provide at least two examples. 10. How a typical household is a system of Inputs and Outputs. Inputs are information, goods and services going in (via multimedia, purchases, situations, etc.), and Outputs are experiences, data  and outcomes (via usage, results, waste, feedback, etc.). Interestingly, households are dynamic systems constantly under a state of change. Therefore, any changes within the household can affect future Inputs and Outputs… and any changes in the external environment outside of the household can impact and influence one or multiple members within.  Explore and discuss how the consumer culture within the household changed since the end of World War 2, as a result of new markets, new technologies, and new opportunities for women.  Explore and discuss how the digital economy has added power of influence to children in a household, changing once again the consumer culture.  Open-ended question: who creates consumer cultures? The marketer(s), or the Consumer(s)?  Provide as many examples for either one as you wish. Group of answer choices: In the late 1990’s In the 1980’s In the 1920’s After Y2K In the 1950’s References ARE REQUIRED to be used for completing the exam. They should be listed in APA format at the end. Your answers however, do not need to be in APA format, but they need to be well structured, clear, and appropriate.

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.