For any of you who are finding navigation of the OpenLab a bit overwhelming, I wanted to offer some clarification and some resources for finding additional help if you need it.
First, regarding our course in general: Each week, I will ask you to complete assignments in three categories:
1. Learning Journal (LJ): a place for weekly structured free writing
2. Group Assignments (GA): weekly discussion and group based assignments
3. Reading and Writing Assignments (RWA): weekly writing in response to readings and in preparation for drafting essays
Second, regarding our course on the OpenLab:
You will find information about our course here, including our syllabus and assignments. We use the OpenLab to interact in two ways: through the DISCUSSION BOARD and via BLOG POSTS. It is important that you understand the differences between these two places and how to use them. You will use BOTH for your Group Assignments.
The biggest source of confusion has been where to post or send assignments. Currently, there are two methods:
BlackBoard Learning Journal: a digital notebook that is private to a student and the instructor. You have been posting your Learning Journal entries here throughout the semester. NOW you will post your RWAs here as well.
By enrolling in an ONLINE section of 1101, it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to be able to READ INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY AND THOROUGHLY and to be able to navigate Web links and basic technology issues. If you are not comfortable doing this, it is not too late to enroll in a CONVENTIONAL section of this course. For those who want to stay in this course, I NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU REGARDING YOUR PROGRESS WITH NAVIGATING OPENLAB AND WHETHER USING THIS PLATFORM WILL BE A PROBLEM MOVING FORWARD.
If you are having problems with the OpenLab, please contact OpenLab Help or attend one of the many workshops available on campus.
