Assessment PART 1: Historians have learned a great deal about the Crusades from chroniclers like William of Tyre and Ibn al-Qalanisi. Today, journalists travel all over the world to report firsthand on international events as they happen. Imagine what we might know about the Crusades had there been journalists on the front lines with access to television, cell phones, and social media in the 13th century. Time for you to be an international journalist! Use social media to report from the thick of the action during the Crusades! Your assignment is to keep the world informed by posting 10 brief updates. Remember, as a reporter you should remain neutral and report the facts. As you prepare each update, keep the following expectations in mind: Write a total of 10 posts. Your updates should be thorough, contain enough information to be interesting, and be written in complete sentences. Include the date (if available), details about the events and key figures you discuss, the location, and the short- and long-term consequences of the events in each post. Include at least two maps from the lesson with your updates. Be sure to explain how the geography of the area affected the events you discuss (ex. mountain ranges, bodies of water, proximity to the Holy Land, etc.). Your updates should describe several different Crusades that happened over the course of nearly 200 years. Be sure that your updates relate to the Crusades discussed in the lesson. Check out this sample post (Hint: this is just a post to demonstrate the writing style and does not reflect the content in the lesson.): It’s Monday, January 13th. I’m here reporting from the front lines with the Spanish troops who have gathered and are awaiting battle. The troops seem optimistic about their chances. They’ve each got heavy packs for what will surely be a long journey along the coast and then across the mountains to the enemies’ front lines. They tell me they’ll keep their mission in mind—to reclaim land for the Spanish crown. If they are successful, they’ll gain the favor of the king. More to come after the battle commences. Assessment PART 2: Imagine you are a visitor to medieval Japan. You decide that you want to explain to your friends back home what you have seen and done in Japan by writing two postcards. Unfortunately, you know that Japan is very isolationist and is skeptical of contact with the outside world. For this reason, you will need to describe what you see very carefully and fairly. If your postcards are discovered to be harmful to the reputation of the leadership in Japan, your life could be in danger. Think about the social, political, religious, intellectual, and economic aspects. that you have learned about in this lesson. When writing your two postcards, be sure to pay attention to the geography of Japan, different social roles in medieval Japanese society, outside influences on Japanese culture, and Japanese reactions to those influences. Requirements: Create two postcards telling the outside world about social, political, religious, intellectual, or economic aspects of medieval Japanese society. Each postcard should have one image showing aspects of medieval Japanese society. Each postcard should have one full paragraph describing your observations of medieval Japanese society. Use your senses when describing your observations

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.