HIST 1302 Extra Credit Movie Review: 5 points per review; 2 reviews maximum 800 WORDS WITH NO RESOURCES, ONLY YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THE TWO MOVIES. Write a review of a documentary film from the American Experience website. The review should be 1-2 pages long, double-spaced, with a 12-point font size and 1-inch margins all around. Your review should offer a brief summary of the film (1-2 paragraphs) and then offer your reaction to the film (1-2 paragraphs). In your summary, include details that show you watched the film. In your reaction, tell me whether you liked or disliked the film, what you learned from it, and (as a result of watching this movie) what topics or questions you might want to learn more about in the future. You may write and submit two reviews. If your review is well written, and demonstrates that you watched the film and thought about it, you will receive up to 5 points (up to 10 points for 2 reviews). If the paper is done poorly, I reserve the right to award zero extra credit points. If you commit plagiarism on this paper (intentionally or unintentionally), I reserve the right to subtract 5 points (or 10 points for 2 reviews) from one of your exam grades, and I may also contact the Dean of Student’s Office to have the incident of plagiarism noted in your file. (Repeated incidents of plagiarism can result in expulsion from SHSU.) Plagiarism is defined in the syllabus. For the review, please choose from among the films listed as available for instant watching on the American Experience website: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/… Note that not all films are the same length; if you choose to review a longer film, it will still be worth the same number of points as reviewing a shorter film. If you have questions about this, please contact me. Below is a partial list of some of the movies available, as well as a few currently available only on youtube. If you find that one film is not available, feel free to let me know; however, you will need to choose a different film from the list. The Poison Squad: 113 min. McCarthy: 113 min. The Feud: 53 min. Sealab: 53 min. The Eugenics Crusade: 114 min. Space Men: 52 min. Annie Oakley: 53 min. (female entertainer and sharpshooter) Emma Goldman: 53 min. (an immigrant woman who was a radical intellectual and challenged the US government) Amelia Earhart: 53 min. (the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic) Freedom Summer (Civil Rights Movement activism in 1964 Mississippi): 1 hr., 52 min. Stonewall Uprising (1969 riot; deals with gay rights): 92 minutes Available here: (available as of Aug. 12, 2021; may not be available for long) Woodstock (covers the first modern rock concert in 1969 and its cultural significance): 82 min. Available here: (available as of August 12, 2021; may not be available for long) Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple (deals with a religious cult that came to a tragic end in 1970s): 90 minutes Available here: (available as of August 12, 2021; may not be available for long) Billy Graham (about a 20th-c. white American religious leader): 113 minutes. Goin’ Back to T-Town (about the Tulsa Massacre): 53 minutes. The Codebreaker (about a white woman codebreaker who helped catch gangsters and Nazis): 53 minutes. Mr. Tornado (about a Japanese-American engineer and meteorologist and his life-saving research on tornadoes): 53 minutes. George W. Bush: 3 hours, 46 minutes. The Man Who Tried to Feed the World (about an American plant breeder’s agricultural revolution that had unintended consequences): 53 minutes If you have a membership to Amazon Prime, you may be able to access additional American Experience episodes; if you would like to review one of those, please talk to me first.

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.