Adjusting to classes after clepping?

[ladylearner]

While I am not a great test-taker, I do like self-directed independent work (which is part of why I LOVE portfolios). Classes that require to writing in the ridiculous forums a certain amount of times a week and responding to classmates' comments drive me mad!

However, having a few different methods for getting your degree finished is advantageous in that it prepares us for different types of scenarios. The logistics of it you can definitely figure out if you have been disciplined enough to get far on your own.

I think you'll do great!! The fact that you're concerned means that you're already trying to figure out how to do your best and master the class. I think the folks who think an online class will be super easy get in trouble. I can tell you it happens ALL THE TIME. Someone will ask "can I just take one class and graduate with a 4.0" only to fail their one class (or close to it!) There are a few easy A's but I wouldn't count on many. Sorry, but it will take work!

I tested out of all my gen eds, and then took courses for all of my major at TESC. I think it is an adjustment in the simple housekeeping sense; meaning, you'll have to figure out how the course works- how to log in- how to check the forum- how to submit homework, etc. All that takes a bit of getting used to. In addition, you'll have a person giving their OPINION of your work! That can be rough, especially on essays or short answer assignments. I'd just simply say (as the teacher) that if you do exactly what the assignment asks, you'll do great. I've had students lose points for STUPID things, like turning in late or not following instructions (a title page, or X number of references, etc) that are essentially freebies. As a student, I always figure there is room for improvement in all my work- so I want them to grade me on MY work. I never, ever, ever want to lose points for dumb things like not following specific instructions. Pay close attention to due dates, anticipate internet glitches, turn stuff in early always. As they say, "collect the low hanging fruit" first because you might have to work hard for points later.

P.S. Sometimes teachers are poor graders (being vague is just as bad as being punitive) so you'll always have that variable. I have a hard time with this -teachers- so I can tell you just to take it in stride, but easier said than done lol!! I am in the minority probably, but I hate getting "100 good job" on assignments. When I work hard, I want real feedback....after all, I've paid a good deal of money for that feedback. Also, I hate punitive graders "-5 points for not putting the paper clip in the LEFT corner, yours is on the right" *that was an actual comment on my son's English 102 paper at our local CC.

Good luck and ENJOY!!