You’ve probably heard it said, “History is always changing” and, sure, there’s constantly new information being discovered.  But perhaps it’s also because our values and how we see the world is always changing.  Christopher Columbus, for instance, was once revered as “the great explorer who discovered America.”  We now regard him as a brutal guy who was wrong about almost everything and, in fact, we’re taking away his holiday and changing it to Indigenous Peoples Day.  This video examines our love/hate relationship with Christopher Columbus but challenges the more contemporary view of Columbus as a barbarian and a fool suggesting this is too dismissive and the truth might lie somewhere in between.  Video After watching the video below, submit an informal response in the reply box below that addresses the following three criteria: Provide some examples of what he says about Columbus that contrasts with what you’ve been taught. Mention some examples that stood out to you suggesting the more contemporary narrative of Columbus simply being a monster and an idiot might be inaccurate. Discuss what he is saying, generally, about how we should examine history. Student 1 1. One of the things I learned from the video that contrasts with that I have been taught was the way in which Columbus viewed the word. Throughout all books and materials from past history classes that I’ve had, all have said something along the lines of Columbus believing the world was round or that he was the person that inspired all others to believe this. However, in the video, it is said that he suspected the world to be almost pear-like and nipple shaped at the top. Another interesting thing that differed from what I was taught was how Columbus was not actually the cause of natives dying off from disease. 2. I think the biggest reason why Columbus being portrayed as a monster is inaccurate is because of how fabricated his past seems to be. The video shows how historians took small bits and phrases from what Columbus was saying to suit their claims instead of seeing it as a whole or understanding it the way it was meant to be. His actions and words have been taken out of context which has led to the reason people view Columbus as they do now. 3. The person in the video is more or less trying to say that we should view the whole picture in a part of history instead of reading into all these small little details and using that to characterize people. Student 2 As mentioned in the video I was taught Christopher Columbus believed he was headed towards Asia instead of America and had no sense of direction. This led to the Europeans believing they were Indians instead of native Americans. Another thing I learned is Columbus had seen the native Americans as slaves never as saying they were good people and can eventually work for either the king or the Europeans. An example that stood out to me was how people have misinterpreted Christopher Columbus’s and have constructed an idea as to Columbus being a monster. Many people who have translated his letter have mistaken his wording for inaccurate statements like wanting to take the Native American to Europe as slaves and not as servants. Another example would be the map that Columbus used on his voyage and how it had led him to America instead of Asia. In the end we have seen he was following the map everyone would typically use during the 1600 and was not in the wrong. He is saying that us as learners should look more into detail and carefully look through the data before being misleading. This can allow us to interpret things differently and understand what really happened. 

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.