Introduction to Online Learning

Julie Globokar holds a Master's Degree and is currently pursuing her PhD in criminal justice from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has extensive experience with both online and face-to-face instruction at the college level, and has served for three years as an academic chair for online courses in Kaplan University's Undergraduate School of Criminal Justice. She is dedicated to helping students overcome barriers to reach their goals.

Introduction Chapter 1: Debunking the Myths of Online Education Introduction Myth #1: Taking online courses is "settling" for a lesser-quality education Myth #2: I am feeling overwhelmed; online learning must not be for me Myth #3: I don't know my way around a computer: I can't do this! Myth #4: With online education, I am "going it alone" Myth #5: I am online all the time; this will be easy! Myth #6: Online learninG requires less time than traditional education Myth #7: Since this is an online course, I can complete the coursework whenever I want Myth #8: My online Coursework will not be respected by others Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 2: Where do I Start? Introduction Technology Basics Getting Comfortable with Online Campus Exploring the Online Classroom Knowing What to Look For Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 3: Getting Organized Introduction Getting Organized Where to Find the Space Special Considerations When Working at Home Finding Office in the Community Where to Find the Time The Importance of Balance Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 4: "Where do I turn for Help?" Knowing Your Resources Introduction Getting Answers to School-Specific Question Technological Resources Academic Resources Social Resources Counseling Services Financial Support Conclusion Reflections Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 5: When the Worst Happens and How to Cope Introduction The Importance of Perspective Technology Matters Tips and Tricks to Minimize Technical Catastrophes Responding to Common Problems Family, Work or Personal Emergencies Physical Limitations to Writing School-Related Problems When You Have Fallen Behind... Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 6: Learning Styles Introduction Know Your Strengths The Delivery of Information Kolb's Learning Styles Other Considerations in Learning Style Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 7: Written Communication Introduction Computer-mediated, Communication, Academic Style Discussion Boards Emails Formal Writing Assignments Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 8: Conducting Quality Research for Your Online Class Introduction Why Research? Types of Resources Researching for Your Online Class Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist Chapter 9: Citing Your Sources Introduction Citing 101 Knowing When to Cite Knowing How to Cite Peparing to Cite Your Sources Conclusion Reflection Questions Chapter Checklist