E-Learning Companion

by Watkins, Ryan; Corry, Michael

• ISBN13: 9780618379705
• ISBN10: 0618379703
• Edition: 1st
• Format: eBook
• Copyright: 2004-01-13
• Publisher: Wadsworth Publishing

Summary

This text serves as a resource and quick-reference guide for any course that demands online technology skills. The E-Learning Companion shows students how to adapt previously mastered skills--such as time management, note taking, or critical thinking--to the online environment. Students expand their knowledge of troubleshooting and technical terminology and become more flexible learners. The book provides skills students will use throughout college and as they begin future careers. A spiral-bound format and smaller size make for convenient use in a campus computer lab or at home. Student-to-Student Tips are recommendations based on the experiences of students from around the world who have completed online course assignments and activities. The Glossary features new words and phrases, including essential technical lingo.

Table of Contents

Catalog of Contents	ix
Introduction for Instructors	xiii
Introduction for Students	xv
E-Learning Readiness Self-Assessment	xxi
E-learning Vocabulary	1	(23)
Understanding the Basic Lingo	2	(5)
Checking Technology Requirements	7	(2)
Familiarizing Yourself with Required Hardware	9	(5)
Familiarizing Yourself with Required Software	14	(10)
Chapter Summary	21	(1)
Chapter One Exercise	21	(1)
Chapter One Skills Checklist	22	(2)
Technology Tips for Online Students	24	(36)
Before Online Coursework Begins	25	(1)
Time-Saving Technology Tips	26	(2)
Accessibility Tips	28	(3)
Tips for Managing Your Files	31	(4)
Tips for Using the World Wide Web	35	(7)
Evaluating Online Resources	42	(6)
Tips for Using Your Web Browser	48	(1)
Tips for Using Email	49	(2)
Tips for Using Microsoft Word	51	(2)
Technology Support Tips	53	(2)
Developing a Technology Contingency Plan	55	(5)
Chapter Summary	57	(1)
Chapter Two Exercise	57	(1)
Chapter Two Skills Checklist	58	(2)
Selecting the Right Opportunities for Success	60	(15)
Increasing the Odds of Your Success	61	(1)
Be Realistic with Your Time	62	(3)
Consider the Timing	65	(1)
Balance Your Academic and Work Commitments	66	(1)
Balance Your Academic and Personal Commitments	67	(1)
Get Your Feet Wet: Take an Online Course of Personal Interest	68	(1)
Review Prerequisite Requirements	69	(1)
Verify Your Support Services	69	(6)
Chapter Summary	73	(1)
Chapter Three Exercise	73	(1)
Chapter Three Skills Checklist	74	(1)
Create a Plan and Follow It	75	(24)
Planning for Online Success	76	(3)
Setting Realistic Expectations of Online Coursework	79	(1)
Common Misconceptions of Online Coursework	80	(2)
Clarifying Personal Expectations and Setting Goals	82	(2)
Building Comprehension Skills	84	(2)
Establishing Study Times	86	(1)
Creating an Effective Study Environment	87	(5)
Planning with Learning or Physical Disabilities in Mind	92	(1)
Familiarizing Yourself with the Course Design	93	(1)
Staying in Touch	94	(1)
Creating an Effective Plan	95	(4)
Chapter Summary	96	(1)
Chapter Four Exercise	96	(1)
Chapter Four Skills Checklist	97	(2)
Time Management Strategies	99	(12)
Don't Procrastinate	100	(1)
Don't Wait for Perfection	101	(1)
Combine Activities	101	(1)
Don't Expect Your Instructor to Always Be Online	102	(1)
Keep to a Schedule	103	(1)
Use Your Free Time Wisely	103	(2)
Learn to Say ``No''	105	(1)
Make Use of Technology	105	(2)
Know Your Studying Prime Times	107	(4)
Chapter Summary	109	(1)
Chapter Five Exercise	109	(1)
Chapter Five Skills Checklist	110	(1)
Developing Positive Online Relationships	111	(20)
Online Relationships	112	(1)
Making a Good First Impression Online	113	(2)
Effective Email Communications	115	(1)
Staying Organized Online	116	(1)
Adding a Personal Touch	117	(1)
Attachment Etiquette	118	(1)
Getting to Know Your Instructor	119	(1)
Creating a Supportive Online Learning Community	120	(2)
Five Strategies for Successful Online Communications	122	(9)
Chapter Summary	128	(1)
Chapter Six Exercise	128	(2)
Chapter Six Skills Checklist	130	(1)
Study Tips for Online Students	131	(40)
Online Real-Time Chats	133	(4)
Online Discussion Boards	137	(4)
Email	141	(5)
Listservs	146	(2)
Online Group Projects	148	(4)
Online Exams	152	(2)
Online Presentations	154	(3)
Online Readings	157	(3)
Online (or Electronic) Portfolios	160	(2)
Turning in Assignments Online	162	(2)
Online Whiteboards	164	(1)
E-research	165	(6)
Chapter Summary	168	(1)
Chapter Seven Exercise	169	(1)
Chapter Seven Skills Checklist	170	(1)
Getting Motivating, Staying Motivated	171	(10)
Selecting Courses	172	(1)
Finding an Application	173	(1)
Keeping Your Goals in Mind	174	(1)
Developing Your Motivational Support System	174	(1)
Visualizing Your Success	175	(1)
Communicating with Your Instructor	176	(1)
Being an Active Participant	176	(1)
Rewarding Yourself Throughout the Semester	177	(1)
Developing Healthy Habits	177	(4)
Chapter Summary	178	(1)
Chapter Eight Exercise	179	(1)
Chapter Eight Skills Checklist	180	(1)
References and Recommended Readings	181	(1)
Glossary	182	(5)
About the Authors	187	(1)
Acknowledgements	188