BUS-225: Legal Environment of Business Getting Started To form a contract, the subject matter of the contract must be lawful and there must be a clear offer and a voluntary acceptance of that offer. The parties must have the legal capacity to contract. If a party enters into a contract because of undue influence, the court will allow the aggrieved party to rescind the contract. Undue influence occurs when contracting parties are involved in a confidential or fiduciary-type relationship and the dominant party takes unfair advantage of the other party’s vulnerability, such as mental or emotional weakness. Examples of fiduciary relationships include attorney-client, doctor-patient, and guardian-ward. A contract based on undue influence is voidable by the aggrieved party. Upon successful completion of the course material, you will be able to: Utilize critical thinking methods to examine legal issues in business. Resources Textbook: Business Law and the Legal Environment File: Simon’s Food Truck (Wheelin’ and Dealin’) Template.docx Background Information As a general rule, contract law requires consideration, which states that the contract has to be based on legal value and that the contract is a bargained-for exchange. Consideration is given when a party: makes a promise to act (for example, a party promises to do something he/she is not legally obligated to do) or promises to refrain from acting (for example, a party promises not do something he/she has a legal right to do, such as taking the other party to court). Although courts emphasize the need for consideration as an integral part of contracting, a court may enforce a contract that lacks consideration as a way to avoid injustice. Courts recognize the doctrine of promissory estoppel, which serves to protect parties that have relied on promises to their detriment. Instructions Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade. In your textbook Business Law and the Legal Environment, read section 10.1 “Duress and Undue Influence” from Chapter 10, “Real Assent”. In your textbook Business Law and the Legal Environment, read section 11.3 “Promises Enforceable without Consideration” from Chapter 11, “Consideration”.  In your textbook Business Law and the Legal Environment, read section 12.1 “General Perspectives on Illegality” and section 12.2 “Agreements in Violation of Statute” from the Chapter 12, “Legality”.  Consider the following scenario: Simon has done so well in the food truck business that he attracted the attention of numerous investors. However, Simon never really considered partnering with other vendors until he received an inquiry from the Street Foods R Us franchise.Orlando, the owner of the Street Foods R Us franchise, was interested in the possibility of setting up business in a food truck park with Simon as a part of a franchise agreement. Orlando would be the franchisor, and Simon would be the franchisee. Orlando would supply Simon with the use of his nationally known trademarks as well has his expertise. Orlando wanted to be certain that Simon was serious, so he asked Simon to secure a land lease and $20,000 for start-up costs. The $20,000 was to be paid to Orlando.Simon withdrew $10,000 of his savings to secure a multi-year land lease and took out a $20,000 mortgage on his home to cover the franchise start-up costs. When Orlando mentioned that they needed lighting for nighttime vending, Simon contracted with an electrician service to install commercial-grade outdoor lighting fixtures throughout the property. The electrician’s bill totaled $8,000. Despite numerous phone calls, Simon did not hear from Orlando again until a month later, when Orlando advised Simon that the leased land was not to his liking and that the franchise start-up costs would be $45,000 instead of $20,000.Frustrated by Orlando’s demands, Simon protested and asked Orlando to reconsider the deal. Orlando refused and told Simon, “Take it or leave it.” To recoup his losses, Simon filed a lawsuit against Orlando based on breach of contract and undue influence. Orlando responded by asking the court to dismiss the case because no formal franchise agreement was ever signed between the parties and because he did not unduly influence Simon’s business decisions in the matter. Using the Simon’s Food Truck (Wheelin’ and Dealin’) Template.docx, describe the elements necessary to form a contract.

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.