III. Introduction to Discussion & Interactive Exercises
This course is interactive. There are no quizzes (except 2 diagnostic, non-graded quizzes) midterm or final examinations in this course. As explained in the Learning Objectives, students will develop several types of knowledge and abilities. This section will introduce the methods of discussion and interaction exercises that form the basis of this learning experience. The fundamental assumption is that students are capable of processing information and thinking about it in creative and analytical dimensions.

Interactive Discussions on the Web:
Based on the Visuals, Readings, Film and general discussions, there will be discussions scheduled that can be accessed on the Dialogues Page at dates according to the Course Time Schedule.
There are four discussion areas:
Discussion Area # 1: Visuals Based Discussions
Discussion Area # 2: Reading Based Discussions
Discussion Area # 3: General Discussion Zone for Students
These Discussions can also be located from the Navigation Bar, Help, and the Discussion/Interactive Exercises Map. An electronic discussion is asynchronic, in that it takes place over a period of time, usually several days. The discussion format will be a Threaded Discussion Form where students fill in their responses to particular questions. The responses are automatically posted for the discussion group to read with a contents included of all responses.

Essays
The three essays are based on the assigned readings authored by Ceram, Aries and Ruis. Each essay assignment is explained in the unit, and due on the date given in the Course Time Schedule. Each essay will be limited to between 4-6 pages. Students may submit their written work by mail, fax, by placing in the instructor's mailbox at LCSC, or written on the scrolling form given on the essay assignment page. Students can always check the proper addresses by pressing Contact Info on the navigation bar.

Interactive Exercises
There are fourstudent exercises that will allow the students to better understand the realities of the content and practice of social science. Students will be expected to link the material of that social science unit to some designed exercise. As there is no physical class meeting, it is particularly important that students do plan other forms of interaction. Each exercise is explained in the unit, and due on the date given in the Course Time Schedule. Each exercise will have its own Form for students to submit their work.

Final Student Project
This project will be a 6-8 pages and will allow students to integrate their learning experience in the course. The assignment will be explained in Unit 8 and due at the end of Unit 10, see the Course Time Schedule for further information.

Discussion Dynamics:
Discussions will be based on several themes. Student preparation of their essays will also aid them in formulating their ideas. However, beyond this discussions can be enhanced by keeping in mind a few discussion roles:

Students will be responsible for:

% of Grade

10 %
20 %
30 %
20 %
20 %
_________
100 %

1. Students are responsible for turning in assignments on time. Assignments will be graded down 5% each day they are late.
Make sure you check the Course Time Schedule carefully!

2. Web Discussions will be scheduled according to the time schedule. You can either check the time schedule or the Discussion /Interactive Exercises Map.

3. In general criteria for grading can include the following areas:

On Feedback: Since students are expected to do their work in a timely and diligent fashion, the professor will give systematic and timely feedback on student work. From time to time the student may receive questions or comments from the professor by email.

On Contacting the Professor: There are several methods of contact, including the traditional office hours, which are listed on the Course Time Schedule. The philosophy of education in this class is that student feedback is important, and that learning is a dynamic enterprise. Students can always check the proper contact information by pressing Contact Info on the navigation bar. If student questions about the course which are submitted by email can be of interest to other students, the teacher reserves the right to post them to the entire class.