The Case of the Fired Employee Sally Birch, a vice president of the Acme Trailer Company, enjoyed a wonderful reputation as a capable and trustworthy financial officer. She, her husband, and their two children lived in a beautiful suburb in a large, comfortable home. The CEO of a competitor firm, International Trailers Ltd., wanted to hire Birch for a similar position and offered her an increased salary and many employee benefits. The CEO of International had extensive phone conversation with her about this offer..The CEO offered to email a written memorandum to Birch but she said that wasn’t necessary. Birch accepted the offer, sold her home, moved to the city in which her new employer was located, and purchased a home there. She did not have a written contract, but she was told she had a great future with the company and was given a salary of $150,000 per year with a promise of a promotion every 6 months for the first two years. A bonus could be paid to her after 18 months on the job. Four months after Birch joined the company, she was fired because of a downturn in the trailer production business, requiring a scaling back of expenses at International. She sued International for a breach of contract. The Trial During the trial, Sally testified about the reputation she had earned while at Acme Trailer and the wonderful life that she and her family had enjoyed. She told of the difficulties involved in moving, the expense of buying a new home, and the uprooting of her family. She described the difficulties involving in selling her new home and looking for a new position. An officer of International testified about the recession in the trailer industry and how economic conditions were such that if International failed to cut expenses, it might be forced out of business. She also mentioned that Birch had turned down the offer of a written memorandum regarding the terms Birch and the CEO had discussed. The Arguments at Trial Sally’s attorney argued that although she did not have a written contract, oral representations made to her implied that her job would last longer than a year; that she was going to earn a yearly salary indicated that her employment would, at a minimum, last at least two years. The attorney stressed the difficulties involved in the move and the expenses occurred by the Birch family, arguing that it would be unfair to terminate her employment except for cause relating to her activities. The argument was also made that the “employment at will” doctrine was an outmoded and unfair concept and should not be applied based on the facts in this case. International’s attorney argued that the lack of a written contract, the fact she had turned down a written memorandum, and the existence in the state in which International was located of the “termination at will” doctrine gave International the right to terminate Birch’s employment at any time. No reason was necessary , particularly when economic conditions required cutting at International ‘s expenses, including termination of the employment of executives with high salaries. Questions for Discussion Based on the facts of this case, who do you think should prevail, Birch or International? Why? Are there other facts that would make it easier for the court to decide who should prevail? Do you feel that the employment at will doctrine should no longer apply? If so, who should make the change, the legislatures or the courts? Why?

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.