Kruschek Spring 2022 LMC 3403 Case Three: Social Media Analysis Due Dates 3/5: Social Media Analysis Due by 11:59pm Activity Your first task this week is to analyze the social media presence(s) for a company or organization of your choosing. This assignment is the beginning of a three week project that culminates in you writing a social media style and content guide for a fictional company (more on that in the other assignment sheet for the week). The first step, i.e. this assignment, in this project is to understand the rhetorical moves a company might make when formatting and creating their online content. Remember, when analyzing rhetoric, you want to focus on how an author is composing instead of focusing on what they are composing. This is the difference between rhetoric and summary. Social Media Analysis: At least one to one and a half pages, single-spaced in report format, e.g., single-spaced, headings, multiple paragraphs, etc. Think about one of your favorite companies/organizations, or a company/organization where you might like to work and analyze their social media presences AND engagement. Review at least the last six months of their social media activity on each platform. If the company/organization has fewer than ten posts in the last six months or does not engage with their audience in at least half of their posts, choose another more active company/organization. As you review their social media presence(s), be sure to address things like what sort of social media presence does this company have, i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SnapChat, TikTok, etc.? As you read through their feeds, take note of how often they post. What is the average length of the posts? Do the posts include photos or other media? Who do the posts seem to be addressing (be specific here)? What purpose do the posts seem to serve? Are the posts addressing some specific cultural moment? If so, do they seem to be doing it well? What is the tone of the posts overall? Which rhetorical appeals, i.e. logos, ethos, pathos, does the company/organization seem to use the most in their posts? Do you notice any differences in content between platforms? What are these differences? For engagement, consider how the company/organization you chose interacts with their audience online? As you read through their feeds, take note of how they engage with customers who have responded to their posts or who address their account directly. What sort of tone does the company/organization take when responding to their audience? How can you tell? What seems to be their purpose in responding to customers? Again, how can you tell? What do you think of the way the company interacts with customers? Does their approach encourage you to contribute? Why or why not? Do you believe that customers feel seen and heard online? Again, why or why not? What kinds of things might the company do to make their social media presences more engaging?

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.