Instructions – Please use the following questions as a guide to write a bullet-point essay that critically assesses the progress you’ve made toward accomplishing your engagement goals and plans for this course. Please answer all the questions/prompts. See your “Action Plan” (Self-Evaluation #1) if you’ve forgotten your goals and plans. Save a copy of this file to reference for the final self-evaluation. – Be as honest and realistic about yourself as you are able to be. Please don’t write what you think I want to read. I’m evaluating your (written and demonstrated) ability to self-assess, self-evaluate, and self-correct your engagement with the course to achieve your goals. If what you write is inconsistent with your performance in class, that will be pretty obvious to me and suggest a lack of seriousness about the self-evaluation process. – If in doubt, just follow the directions and answer as honestly and as completely as you can. – Submit your essay in the Canvas Drop Box before the deadline on the syllabus. 1) Review and evaluate your Action Plan and original objectives for this course (see Self-Evaluation #1). Describe what progress you’ve made toward your objectives. Describe any revisions you have made to your objectives. 2) Thinking about your progress this semester: How important is it for you to engage in this course in order to succeed? Discuss at least three ways in which you have been successful at engaging in this course. How have you used your strengths to manage your course engagement and/or overcome any self-destructive habits that threatened to sabotage your Action Plan? Have you overcome any weaknesses? What new strengths have you discovered this semester? Did you accurately understand your commitments this semester? How have your commitments changed since the first Self-Evaluation? Have these caused any revisions in your objectives and Action Plan steps for this course? 3) Building on our class discussions: Briefly discuss your most relevant beliefs, values, and attitudes. How can you harness your beliefs, values, and attitudes to help you engage and succeed in this course? In your other courses? In school in general? Describe how your current level of course engagement is or is not consistent with your personal values and goals. If it is not consistent, what can you do to decrease any inconsistency? 4) Thinking about course content: What have you learned so far in this course about the subject matter, skills, ways of thinking and working? What subjects have you liked best so far? What methods / practices have you liked best so far? Describe how the methods / practices we’ve studied can help you succeed in your other courses. 5) Evaluate and assess your own level of engagement with this course: Describe at least three positive things about this course. What positive changes are happening to your attitude, your confidence, and your ways of looking at this subject matter? Have you completed all assignments? If you have had any trouble with the assignments or with engaging, describe what strengths and resources you can use to improve. 6) Evaluate and assess your own class attendance. Did you miss or arrive late for any classes? Why? How specifically are you engaging with the course materials outside of the classroom. How many days have you come to class prepared? How can you improve your class preparation skills? 7) Evaluate and assess A) the overall class group dynamic (explaining in what specific ways that dynamic might be improved, and what you can do toward that improvement), and B) your own role within that class group dynamic. Explain how the “community of learning” is related to engagement. Describe at least three specific ways are you supporting the “community of learning” in the classroom. 8) Evaluate and assess your own role in our class discussions. What do you do—and what can you do—to facilitate beneficial class discussions? What specifically can you do to make these discussions more beneficial? What you done to help you stay focused in class? 9) Describe how have your personal values and strengths helped you to overcome any problems or difficulties this term (in general and/or with this course). Did you seek out help when/if you needed it? From whom? 10) What is your current grade percentage on Canvas in each of the assignment groups? (Note: Canvas does not display these percentages, so you’ll have to calculate them for each category. Use this formula: Total of your current points divided by (total points possible less excused points). Describe any steps you are taking to improve your assignment grades. 11) Explain how the choices you are making about engaging in this course can positively influence your performance and success in your other courses. 12) Re-evaluate your original Action Plan: Which strategies / practices have worked best? What revisions are necessary to help you reach your original or revised objectives? Re-state your revised Action Plan. I am a moderate engaged in the class, rarely talking during the class. I have done all the assignment in time so far.

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.