research paper   Proper Citation of Sources. When writing papers which use information from researched sources, it is necessary to provide complete and correct documentation to show the source of all words and ideas which are not those of the student. Failure to cite a source implies that the information used is the original work of the paper writer – a form of stealing known as “plagiarism.” In the college class, plagiarism is grounds for failure, no matter how well written the rest of the paper may be. Do not use first person or contractions when writing. Also, remember that a successful term paper is not one that is written at the last moment, rather it is one that has been thought out, written, edited, and edited some more (you may consider turning in a rough draft or talking with me prior to the due date if you are unsure about how to approach writing the paper). Make sure you proofread! Nothing detracts from a paper (or grade) worse than a poorly written, mistake-filled paper. When writing this research paper, you should attempt to address the following questions: Your paper should start with a thesis statement Why is this person or event important in U.S. Military History? Does this individual or event represent ( cause and effect) that had short and long term consequences U.S Military History? Would U.S. Military History be different if not for the actions of this person or the occurrence of the events? (make sure you include a solid conclusion) Students should not use the encyclopedia or the course text book as the primary source of research. You should not rely solely on the internet for information either. Below are topics you can choose from and do your own research. Sun Tzu advised strategists to “know your enemy and know yourself.” The Militia System The Colonial Wars and struggles between empires The American Revolution and the Early Republic Conflict with Native-Americans The Quasi War The Barbary Coast / Tripolitan Wars The War of 1812 Jomini and Clausewitz , and SunTzu ( Chinese Philosopher) Founding of the Academics and the emerging officer professionalism Indian Wars and Frontier expansion ( Native relocations) The Mexican War ( Manifest Destiny) The Civil War ( Military tactics , strategies, leadership , organization and total war ) Post war demobilization ( Reconstruction , constabulary duty, and labor unrest ) Birth of the modern military The Spanish American War ( The Splendid Little War ) The Philippine Insurrection, Boxer Rebellion & U.S. Intervention into Mexico The War to End all Wars (The First World War) Revolution Military Affairs (RMA) The American Expeditionary Force (AEF) The Paris Peace Conference and the Treaty of Versailles “To know war is not to advocate war” The League of Nation Russian Bolshevism ( Vladimir I.Lenin) S. Intervention into Russian Civil War Demobilization, Diplomacy, and Disarmament The Interwar Years and Military Policy between the Two Wars Prelude to World War II ( The Policy of Appeasement) Blitzkrieg East and West The European Theater and Pacific Theater Naval and air power Demobilization  and Inter-service rivalries National Security Act of 1947 The Cold War , The Policy of Containment The Berlin Confrontation and the creation of NATO, The Loss of China and Korea Conflict The French Indo China War (1945-1954) Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh The experiment in Nation Building, South Vietnam ( 1954-1964) Into the Quagmire (1964-1975) Post Vietnam Challenges The Collapse of the Soviet Union The First Gulf War, (Desert Shield -Desert Storm ,1991 Operations Other Than War (Somalia and the retreat from Mogadishu 1993) The Second Gulf War and Post Saddam Hussein Iraq and Afghanistan (Has the nature of warfare changed?) Challenges for the 21st century : Osama bin Laden, al Qaeda, Taliban , and God’s Warriors…. War on Terrorism

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.