Posted by Jeff Davis on February 27th, 2009
For my classes at the University of Phoenix online, basically the only materials required were a computer, an internet connection, and any software that the class specifically required or asked for. However, some online collaboration tools were necessary, especially when working in a team environment. As for textbooks, there was no need to purchase any since all course material was available online through the University library or other University resources.
An up-to-date computer was required in order to run the appropriate software for the online classes which included programs such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Project. Up-to-date doesn’t necessarily mean “brand new” however. The minimum system requirements for running the chosen software would work just fine on any computer running a recent Windows operating system such as Windows XP or Vista. As for an internet connection, I wouldn’t recommend anything other than a broadband connection in order to achieve adequate speed for tasks such as downloading course materials and uploading assignments.
Some of the other materials used included online communication and collaboration tools in order to work effectively within a team environment. Among these tools were applications such as Skype, email, and an instant messenger program of some sort. Based on my experience, there are many excellent and inexpensive tools located on the web that would work well in an online classroom team setting.
One thing I really enjoyed when it comes to textbooks was being able to download book chapters and read them offline at my own convenience instead of having to do it only while online. Also, the thought of saving money for every class by not having to purchase textbooks got me even more excited about attending online. The University’s online library was a tremendous help in locating articles and journals for research and in writing papers. The size of this library is quite huge and includes a large number of databases in which to search from. I can’t even imagine that I skimmed the top of it all during my enrollment there. But I can say that I never had any problem finding adequate material for my research.
Tags: broadband, collaboration tools, communication tools, course materials, instant messenger, materials, microsoft word, online classes, online course materials, online library, Online Materials, online requirements, online textbooks, online tools, operating system, powerpoint, project, requirements, skype, software, textbooks, University of Phoenix, uop classes, vista, windows xp
Categories: Online Materials, Student Voices
Posted by Pamela Gustafson on February 23rd, 2009
Hard copy was not common in any of my online classes. I did have to purchase two required reference books for the class “Integrating Technology into Reading”. These books were designed for teachers studying digital technology. I reviewed them but never really used them, and they are now obsolete and collecting dust on my basement bookshelf. I bought them at the infancy of the read/write web and much has happened since they were published. Books about technology become dinosaurs quickly!
There were other materials and equipment that made online education easier. A headset with combined earphones and microphone made online chats enjoyable. I could listen and speak, with my hands free to type or respond on a whiteboard. I was fortunate to have a combination scanner and printer, to scan and immediately upload copies of my student’s work, however I find scanning cumbersome and slow.
All the documents necessary for the class were linked to the web site where the class was hosted. Occasionally I would print them to read and study when I knew I was not going to be near a computer. I took the printed copies to the doctor’s office, since there could be a long wait. I could maximize my study time reading when I was forced to wait somewhere.
Many of my classes were nearly paperless. If I did use paper, it was not because my instructor required me to print something. I only used it to fill down time. I spent a lifetime using reams of paper in my college classes and in my own job as an elementary teacher. Currently, I have no desire to sift through piles of paper. My desks at home and school are cleaner, and I have ventured into uncharted territory, allowing my own students to post material online in a paperless format. I scan which of my students have neglected to turn in their online word documents. They no longer have the comfort of waiting a day or two for my wrath! The trees in America are breathing a sigh of relief!
Posted by Sharon Cece on February 18th, 2009
Think of a professor as a symphony conductor or an army general, or even–for zen‘s sake–gatekeepers to the portal of educational enlightenment. Any way you view them, professors and their methods hold the key to understanding your courses and, more importantly, succeeding in them.
At FSU, I was surprised how my online professors (likely with the aid of web designers and tech support) created a traditional college structure from within a computerized venue. Though every instructor had a different modus operandi when it came to e-course layout, all maintained the mandatory first day attendance policy and for good reason: in addition to course introduction and familiarization, everything you need to know is presented online that first day via the syllabus.
In regard to the syllabus, this document is essential to the success of the online student. Therefore, print it, copy it, save it, decorate your bathroom walls with it, hang it from your rearview mirror…I’m being facetious but the point is clear: the syllabus is the most effective piece of material the professor will provide in meeting your course requirements. One or two professors offered it as the only material needed for the entire course; more often, textbooks–sometimes with or without study guides and accompanying CD’s–are required. A few professors augmented all of the above with additional websites, links and yet more materials such as supplemental books of reference. These materials, with very few exceptions, were always sufficient in meeting course goals.
Online instructors usually post their content on the course discussion site and the students respond with questions and comments which are answered in a threaded format. Professors almost always hold e-office hours in the event you need to meet with them individually, or arrange virtual classrooms whereby the entire class could get information in real time. Questions are also fielded by TA’s, who are available a bit more than the busy professor. Email responses are arbitrary depending on the professor; if you’re fortunate you get an immediate answer but ususually it’s a day or more later. Information you require that is course-specific is best posted online publicly so that other students can add to the discussion; personal information (i.e.– you need to re-take a test or make up course work) should be emailed privately to the professor.
If you can bear one more metaphor, think of professors as snowflakes–no two are alike. Get to know each instructor, what materials they require and specifically what he or she expects from you as a student. You will be amazed at how much time and energy this will save you.
A small but essential piece of information to advance you to the portal of educational enlightenment.
