This week you will be learning primary sources can tell us about the enslavement of African descended people in the United States. Lectures, video, clips, speeches and so much more can count as a primary source. (Links to an external site.) This week you have three pieces that count as a primary sources: Lecture 7, “When Yemoja and Frankenstein meet” is an extended JMZ moment. Filmed for the University of Chicago Medical school, this is a reflection on the history of slavery and its current relationship to the Black Lives movement. Lecture #8 is a brief clip by Dr. Daina Ramey Berry speaking about direct instances of racism and how educating people in the present motivates her to write and teach about the lives of the enslaved. The reading, “What does the 4th of July mean to the African American,” is a speech by Frederick Douglass that was delivered at a celebration of American Independence. It was originally titled, “What to the Slave is Fourth of July?” You are also being asked to read the secondary source by Dr. Nell Irvin Painter, “Soul Murder: Towards a fully loaded cost accounting of slavery.” The Assignment: Your assignment is to do a Cornell Note on Douglass’s speech. All the same rules apply, however there is a slight twist in the summary section. In your summary section, write about how the arguments presented by Douglass interact with at least one of the other materials for this week. In essence you are now using the summary section to put sources into dialog with each other WITHIN the assignment itself. Previously, you were given extra credit for doing this advanced move. There will not be extra credit for in this assignment as you have been building up to how to do the perfect Cornell note. To repeat, do a Cornell Note on Douglass’s speech as you would do normally. Rather than putting it in dialogue with other class materials and getting EXTRA credit, the summary section asks you to summarize Douglass in relation to another source from the week. To do it correctly and get full points: the argument and notes section should follow the TA’s instructions over the various weeks. AND in a summary of 300-500 words, discuss Douglass in relationship to one other source for THIS week. Please consult the videos prepared by the TA’s on History skills and contact them with any questions. And remember, provide a citation when you are quoting directly from one of the sources. You should not have to consult any other materials for this assignment. Good luck!

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.