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How Can You Get The Most From This Online Course?

The most important rule is to follow the weekly pacing of the online material as indicated in your modules. Before you review the online content, you should read the chapter(s) of the textbook and then review the module's readings.
Watch the videos and animations - these are designed to supplement the instructional texts.
Next, engage with the non-graded experiences such as the Nearpod online lessons and flashcards. They are the tools to help you memorize and comprehend the Earth and Science concepts.
Complete your Geotours using the Geotours workbook and the Google Earth application. Do not be in a hurry to enter your answers to the Geotour problems in the designated Geotour quizzes. Take your time - you have 2-3 weeks to complete the Geotours.
Complet Smartwork 5 quizzes for the week. Some Smartwork5 quizzes are simple multiple-choice questions, while others involve you watching a short video first, then answering questions. You have the entire two weeks to complete the Smartwork5 activity and you don’t need to complete it in one session. You are allowed 2 attempts and your average score will be recorded. If you find you are having trouble with the material, it would be best to log out, and re-read some of the content for the week, or contact either Dr. Kerton or Dr. Cervato for clarification. We love to talk geology and astronomy, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are having trouble following any of the material.
Unlike Geotours and Smartwork 5 Quizzes, do not take your time with your Challenges. These are complex assignments and one challenge is completed in a group. You want to have multiple drafts before submitting your best piece.
Focus on your Final Project right away. This is a group assignment and working as a group online takes time and practice. Get to know each other and schedule conferences inside your group spaces in this course.
Finally, any time you are having trouble understanding content, head to the Muddiest Points discussion spaces and ask away. You will not be penalized for asking questions, you are very much encouraged to do so. Alternatively, if you are doing well and would like to explain a muddy point, please suit yourself and teach away!

Five Great Tips For Students In Online Courses

Develop a schedule
- Set aside a specific time every day. Schedule your study time. And stick to it!
- A schedule provides limits. When tempted to do anything other than study tell yourself: “I’m at school right now.”
Create a workspace
- Improve focus by separating your schoolwork from other responsibilities.
- Stay organized by keeping your supplies in one spot.
Set goals and rewards
- Keep track of your progress by setting daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term goals.
- Reward yourself when you reach attainable goals. Rewards can be simple: a special snack or extra study breaks.
Visualize your motivation
- Place a picture of what motivates you in your workspace to remind yourself of what you’re working toward.
- Change or update your picture if your reasons for finishing school change or as you complete your short-term goals.
Practice makes perfect
- It can be challenging to study at home- but it’s a skill that can be learned! Keep calm and study on!
- Find a groove that works for you and your family with practice and patience.