To: Business Communication Students From: Thomas Subject: How to Give Citations in Memos Date: Now Crediting others for their work is imperative. Not doing so is plagiarism. You must use a citation when paraphrasing another’s work. You must use quotation marks and a citation when using others’ words verbatim. That said, this class doesn’t always call for formal styles of citation. Avoid formal citation styles in memos… Neither a memo nor a discussion board is typically the place to use a prescribed citation format such as those set by the American Psychological Association (APA), the Modern Language Association, or the Chicago Manual of Style. They’re too formal. Executives don’t routinely use them in day-to-day business communication, and I don’t expect you to use them in less formal venues either.* …But do provide sufficient information Instead, use common sense to give readers enough information to easily verify your sources. In memos or discussion posts, weave citations into the text. For example, rather than using an APAstyle reference such as (Day, 2017), which is hard on the eyes, clogs up the text and requires a reference page, say something like this: Bill Gates last week told the Washington Post he will give away his fortune. That provides enough detail for anyone to find the article. For verbatim quotes, you also must use quotation marks: Bill Gates last week told the Washington Post ‘I will give away my fortune.’ Avoid using endnotes, but if you must use them, put them at the bottom of the page or discussion post with a quick identifier and link, preferably shortened by bitly or tinyurl, e.g., Day, Washington Post, bitly. The same applies for images in presentations, especially ones that will be posted or handed out. Unless you know an image is in the public domain or have paid to use a copyrighted one, each picture on a slide should have a link to its source, either in small type near it or in a slide at the end listing all references. The Golden Rule: Be simple but complete Credit fully, but, unless a formal style is required, do so in the shortest, most visually appealing way. *If you must use APA style or other formatting—in a report or scientific paper, e.g.—you can learn how from apastyle.org or Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab, owl.english.purdue.edu/. Drug firms, the Federal Reserve, and other organizations whose employees frequently write scholarly papers often have staff who are experts in how to submit material in a prescribed style. Absent such an expert, consult Purdue. Proposal Assurance of Learning Rubric Deficient Proposal 0 Adequate Good Excellent ?1 ?score

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.