introduction+to+course



=Introduction to the Course=

//Note: This area will be replicated within Blackboard sites for classes I teach. The advantage of putting it there is that I can also link to little movie clips and articles that I would share in a face-to-face class.// - SWQ  = ** About this course ** This course is offered in a model that is probably very different from others you have taken. All the information will be available online and you will be expected to communicate with the instructor and submit your work online. This model requires that you have certain learner characteristics, such as the ability to manage your time well, and the ability to use a variety of technologies. Before deciding if this is a good choice for you at this time, please think carefully about your access to computer technology (including internet access) and your comfort level with various technologies, and then think honestly about your own personality traits and the other commitments you have at this time in your life. You are the best person to decide if you will be able to successfully complete a course in this model at this time. // Look at all the // //items in this area to learn about this course, the requirements, and the class web site before deciding if you are ready to take this course in this model at this time in your life.// If you have any problems accessing information in this course, go the **How To...** area of the class web site for assistance. Welcome! - SWQ

**=** Learner Characteristics In this area you will find a list of characteristics that the instructor has found helpful to candidates taking online and distance education courses and links to a few additional resources on this topic. The first set of links go to readiness checklists, which you might find interesting and useful, and the rest of the resources are mostly articles about taking courses in this model and resources that may help you as an online learner. **=** Technology Requirements In this area you will find a list of the specific technologies you will need in this course. You will also find contact information for University offices related to using technology in your coursework, a list of some helpful points the instructor has discovered about using technology in distributed learning environments, a link to information about general technology competency skills, and information about purchasing technology at reduced rates. **= The Class Web Site** WMV (34.87 MB) This video will walk you through the parts of the class web site that are available the first day of class. This video is also available on the iTunes U site for this class. A link to iTunes U is immediately below. (31 min 12 sec) = [iTunes U link] **= Introduction to the Instructor** WAV (15.49 MB) This video will introduce you to the instructor as she gives a brief introduction to this unique section of this course. This is an audio file. Depending on how you have your computer configured, this file should open in Windows Media Player or your default audio player. It is also available on the iTunes U site for this class. A link to iTunes U is immediately below. (3 min 04 sec) = [iTunes U link]