Special Note about Modules

Module Observations and Clarification

When you first look at the number of items in each module, you may feel a bit overwhelmed. I have attempted to include a variety of supplemental resources that connect with the module topics and textbook readings.  My hope is that these resources will be interesting and illuminating to you as you have an opportunity to explore a sampling of connected learning experiences. The majority of these items have no points involved and are not graded.

Philosophically, I believe we put too much emphasis on grading--so much so that sometimes the grading pressure interferes with the learning processes.  I hope you will enjoy glancing at some of the varied supplemental academic enrichment resources in each module--just for the pleasure of looking closer at different aspects of the material covered in that module.

Having said that, I am aware that our present education system places a good deal of emphasis on grades. Therefore, you will likely want to prioritize the graded items in each module.  In this course, each module has an assignment and a discussion topic that are each worth 10 points (as stated elsewhere, you can either start your own discussion thread or you can respond to another student's comments--either way, you will receive the 10 points for participation). Throughout the course, there will be three Content Reinforcement Tests (each worth 50 points). For the assignments, discussions and tests, you will always have the length of the full module to submit your work at your convenience. The only other graded work in this course is the Focused Topics paper in Module 13, worth 50 points. The Focused Topics paper is available to work on and submit beginning with the first day of the term.

So...I hope you will fully immerse yourself in all of the learning opportunities and resources available to you in the course. But don't be overwhelmed! if you prioritize and consistently complete the assignments, discussions, three tests, and the Focused Topics paper, you should receive a good grade...but more importantly, I hope the insights and information you gain about the subjects we explore AND what you learn about you will be exceedingly beneficial and rewarding.

(NOTE: In Fall and Spring semesters, one module=one week. In the summer session, there will typically be three modules each week during the six-week term. All graded work will always have due dates on them so the submission deadline will be very clear.)