THE CASE OF THE OVERZEALOUS DEBT COLLECTOR Samantha brought a bought a boat from a large company, Arc Marine, for the sum of $50,000. At purchase, Samantha paid $10,000 in cash and gave Arc a note for the balance, which was payable in sixty monthly installments.            She kept the boat in her driveway. After making several payments, Samantha had financial problems and fell behind in making payments. Arc’s attorneys, who are not part of a collection agency instead work only for Arc, began calling Samantha every day at her place of work and in the evening at her home. The calls continued despite Samantha’s verbal demands that they cease. When they did not, Samantha brought an action against Arc pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The Trial There was testimony at trial about the number of times that the law firm’s employee called Samantha and that both Samantha and her employer were very upset. Samantha’s attorneys questioned partners of the law firm regarding how many such suits they handled and their normal collection practices.  Her attorney pointed out the fact that the law firm had a standard practice of collecting a percentage of any payments they convinced a delinquent debtor to pay although the balance of their work is paid on an hourly basis.   A lawyer for Arc testified that it was very difficult to contact Samantha except during the daytime at work or in the evening at home.  They had mailed registered letters to Samantha but she has refused to accept them. She also had no current email account. The Arguments at Trial Arc’s attorneys argued that the suit should be dismissed because the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act did not include attorneys under the category of debt collectors, and therefore, the Act did not apply to the facts of this case. Samantha’s attorneys argued that a law firm that did extensive collection work for Arc should be considered a debt collector under the act. They also argued that when a creditor misused the collection process in an unreasonable way, the act should apply regardless of the status of the creditor. Questions to Discuss Who do you believe has the stronger argument, Samantha or Arc? Why? If you were the jury hearing this case, for whom would you decide? Why? Based on your reading of the text and ordinary common sense, do you believe that the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act should apply to all attorneys or just to those attorneys who specialize in collection work? ( Roger LeRoy Miller; William E. Hollowell (2019). Business Law: Text & Exercises. Edition: 9th)

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.