Online Materials: Who Needs Textbooks? Not me!

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.

Save Cash, Gas, And Trees

Posted by J.M. Striegel on July 18th, 2008

You excitedly logged into your online learning program account and discovered a detailed syllabus encouraging you to pick up the materials on the reading list as soon as possible, but they forgot to tell you where to acquire these items. Fret not—there are some great online sources to help fulfill your required reading lists that will save you money and time.

Some courses may only use online documents and lectures, but most use a combination of online materials, textbooks, and additional reading in the form of novels and reference guides. Granted, if you are close enough to your school, you should check out the bookstore. Depending on student discounts, trade-in prices, and used book prices, you could walk out with a bounty of books without leaving too much of your wallet behind. It is worth a look and it helps to become aware of the school’s offerings.

Your first step for any novel or short story selection should be an online search engine. Chances are you will be reading your fair share of classic works and you can find them, both in text and audio versions, online, free of charge. Project Gutenberg, the trailblazing eBook producer, offers over 25,000 titles for you to add to your library. Librivox offers free, volunteer-read audiobooks you can download. Need help understanding some of these great works? Bibliomania has study guides to guide you through your literary confusion. Whether you need a book for a class or strictly for pleasure, you can access over 1.2 million eBooks at the World eBook Fair from now until August 4, 2008.

Turn to online used textbook sources like Amazon.com, Abe Books and Half.com when searching for used textbooks. Not only can you pick up a book for a steal, you can purchase your text from a previous student who not only wants to rid themselves of the material, but could use some spare change too.

Don’t ignore your local thrift stores or community libraries. Both often receive large donations of books, including textbooks. Still looking for a good deal? Turn to your local version of Freecycle. Members of Freecycle request items they need and offer items they are happy to pass on to someone in need. While you’re at it, why don’t you post a “wanted” ad for a new desk chair so you can check out all these online resources in comfort?

J.M. Striegel