Discussion Board Assignment 1 takes place Week 5. Original post due Wednesday 3/2 by 11:59 pm. Note: Reply posts can be posted up to 2 days after the deadline for your original post (reply posts must be submitted by Friday 3/4 ) General Instructions: This assignment is an interactive posting based discussion activity created to encourage interaction between students as well as student and instructor. Each discussion board activity is focused on a central theme with corresponding questions. Your participation will be graded based on the completion of required tasks (listed below), and the depth of analysis and engagement in your posts- see grading rubric for DB posts. For each discussion board activity, you are required to complete two elements: 1) Submit an original post, in your own words and properly cited if using published material, that answers the question or questions listed for the assignment (at least 250 words long- prepared in advance) posted by the deadline. Write your post as if it were a written assignment that you would turn in. Many people have points deducted because they submit their posts using slang language, e-mail or a text message formats. Note: Do not forget to capitalize the letter ‘I’. If you need help using proper grammar click onto the external links button and use the Purdue Owl Writing center. AND 2) Respond to at least 2 other student’s posts. Note: Responding posts can be posted up to 2 days after the deadline for your original post. Remember the assignment is to get you talking about what you have discovered. Use specific examples both in your answers to the questions and to your response to other students’ postings. Check out the Grading Rubric (View Rubric) before you submit your posts. Discussion Board Assignment 1 Instructions: 1) Read pages 3-4 in the textbook about the 7 dimensions of Health and Wellness (physical, intellectual, psychological, spiritual, social, environmental, and occupational), and then: 2) Describe a health concern you have, that you feel comfortable sharing with the class (example: risk factor for diabetes, or not getting enough sleep, or having anger issues). 3) State what dimension your health concern belongs in (example: diabetes risk, and not getting enough sleep is the physical dimension, anger issues are in the psychological dimension). 4) Include a plan (steps needed to address this concern), that you are doing or would like to do, to move toward better health in this area (specifically with your stated health concern). 5) Submit your post by clicking onto Reply -typing in your information, or attaching a file. 6) Respond to at least 2 other student’s posts by reading their thread and clicking on the reply button. Your response needs to have some depth by giving specific examples of why you are saying what you are saying- In other words, don’t simply post ” that was a great idea you had”. See example posts below. In your reply posts DO NOT Diagnose other students’ health issues- instead, share how you relate to their health concern, or just be empathetic (put yourself in their shoes) to what they have posted. Here’s an example post: Discussion Board 1 post Example Discussion Board Rubric 120

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.