INFORMATION ON TAKING EN 109, WRITING FOR TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS, THROUGH THE INTERNET
I have compiled some information about taking EN 109 through the Internet. If what I have included here does not answer your question, I have provided two ways to get further information below.
How much computer knowledge do I need to take a class through the Internet?
You need to have some computer knowledge, but not too much. See
http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/distlrng/faq.htm
How can I tell if a class taught through the Internet is right for me?
Internet classes offer certain advantages, but they are not for everyone. In some cases, taking class another way may work better. See
http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/distlrng/faq.htm
Where do I buy books?
The book for EN 109 through the Internet is _Technical Communication_, by Rebecca Burnett. Each campus bookstore should have books for all Internet classes. However, you may want to call ahead to make sure the book you need is in.
Here are the numbers for each of the three bookstores:
* Germantown: (240) 567-7877
* Rockville: (240) 567-5124
* Takoma Park: (240) 567-1522
Also, see
http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/distlrng/faq.htm
Once I have registered for my class, how do I get started?
See
http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/distlrng/faq.htm
How is the class conducted?
Primarily, EN 109 is conducted through writing. Basically, I will write information to the class. This information may be on
* an assignment
* reading
* homework
* an exercise
You access the class site and read what the instructor wrote, complete the work, and submit an assignment.
Here’s an example of what may happen with a typical assignment:
1) I will tell the class about the assignment. My information will include files, or handouts, to download.
You will find this information in the Announcements on our course site. Announcements function similarly for our class as a chalkboard does for a class on campus: I can write messages there, and everyone in the class can read them.
2) You read the files, plus corresponding chapters in the book. The chapters are listed in the syllabus.
3) You work on the assignment.
4) I will tell the class more about the assignment and provide more files to read.
5) You continue to work on the assignment, revising it to incorporate what is in the files.
6) I will tell you when and how to submit your assignment.
7) You complete the assignment and submit it.
8) I mark the assignment and return it to you.
9) You thank me in your heart for my thoughtful and insightful comments.
10) You revise your paper to include my thoughtful and insightful comments.
11) You use what you have learned to improve your writing for the next assignment and in your job.
In addition, you can ask me questions on the course site. We will have a discussion question or exercise due almost every week. I will give it to you on a Friday, and you will need to complete it within eight days.
How is the class organized?
Here is a comparison of how a class can be organized both on campus and on the Internet. In both your on-campus class and your Internet class you have
* A place for one-on-one conversations with your professor
On campus: your professor's office
On Blackboard: Send E-mail (under Communication)
* A classroom for announcements assignments, lectures
On campus: the classroom
On Blackboard: Announcements, Assignments, Discussion Board
* A way to receive handouts from your teacher
On campus: the classroom
On Blackboard: Course Information Course Documents
* A way for your teacher to tell you about himself or herself
On campus: the classroom
On Blackboard: Staff Information
Does the information here apply to all Internet classes?
Probably not. I have given basic information about my class. Other classes may different based on the subject matter and the professor’s style of teaching. Therefore, if you are taking another class you should contact the instructor of that class for more information.
What do I do if I have more questions?
If you have additional questions about taking, a class through the Internet go to
http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/distlrng/faq.htm
If you have additional questions about taking EN 109 through the Internet, please write to me at
Bdavis@mc.cc.md.us
I have checked, and guests cannot access the Communications button at this time. Until the start of class, you will be classified as a guest. Therefore, if you want to send me an e-mail you can do so through your regular e-mail account.