9:46 that are nis STOCK in trade. (p. WK4) In 2008, Democrat Barack Obama won the presidential election and threw a major wrench in the machinery of the permanent majority (Heilemann & Halperin, 2010; Plouffe, 2010). Republicans made a major comeback in the 2010 congressional elections, but by then the idea of a permanent majority had been abandoned. Regardless, the decade from 2000 to 2010 had established the format of a new kind of campaign strategy-one based on appealing to a large partisan base rather than seeking votes from moderate positions. At this writing, many candidates of both parties continue to use this strategy, particularly at the state or district level. Republicans use it in strong Republican districts, while Democrats use it in areas with strong Democratic support. It can still be effective, if the following assumptions are present: 1. Identification with the ereader.perlego.com 9:46 1. Identification with the candidate’s party significantly outpaces that with the opponent’s party, particularly if that partisan identification exceeds a majority. 2. Partisanship becomes the primary anchor for the voters’ decisions. In some areas, a local issue (e.g., weak economy) may override partisan concerns. 3. The candidate has a record of strong identification with the party. Generally, newcomers to either party have a tougher time employing this approach. a Academic research has documented the success of this approach. The theory argues that candidates who emphasized the issues identified with their political party had an electoral advantage. Benoit (2007) later tested and supported that theory in an analysis of candidates’ television ads. ereader.perlego.com 9:46 There are those who raise ethical questions about this approach. Typical of these critics is the work of Hacker and Pierson (2010), who call it ‘winner-take- all’ politics (p. 3). Hacker and Pierson argue that both parties are at fault. They would agree with Baker, who noted that after the Republicans went after Clinton in a partisan-based impeachment effort, It definitely poisoned the well on both sides. Without getting into the merits of anything, there’s no doubt there were Democrats waiting from the day George Bush took office to even the score for Bill Clinton. And Republicans are the same today with Barack Obama and the Rod Blagojevich scandal. (2008, p. WK1) The problem is that partisan campaigns extend beyond the boundaries of the campaign itself, making it harder for legislators to reach consensus on legislation (Hulse, 2010). Positional Strategies ereader.perlego.com 9:46 Positional Strategies One approach to strategy development relies on positional rhetoric to distinguish the candidate from the opposition. While each can have its own distinctive elements, most of these approaches are variations of Shadegg’s easy decision model. In each case, the purpose of the positional strategy is to define a position that will make it easy for the voters to make a decision that favors the candidate. The variations of this approach are too numerous for all of them to be included, but three variations can serve as examples: the ‘only alternative,’ ‘role definition,’ and “triangulation strategies.’ a The only alternative, or the ‘anybody but them’ approach, attempts to position the candidate as the only viable alternative to an unpopular opponent. When there are only two candidates in the campaign, this approach usually becomes a negative campaign, which is similar to the in 1 TA1 ereader.perlego.com 9:46 campaign, which is similar to the in man-out man approach. What typically makes it different is the absence of any comparative messages. The messages focus instead on negative factors related to the opponent, with little or no positive messages about the candidate provided. Strategically, that can be a risky gamble; a lack of positive information about candidates can keep voters away from the polls, rather than attract them toward the only alternative. Another scenario for this approach occurs during the primary nomination process. Although several candidates may officially be on the ballot, one candidate will sometimes campaign on the basis of being the only ‘viable alternative’ for defeating the nominee of the other party. In this instance, the focus of the campaign messages is on the legitimacy or credibility factors of the campaign, rather than the issues. The argument becomes, ‘Vote for me, because I can defeat the other guy, rather than ‘Vote for me because I ereader.perlego.com

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.