Lewis Alston

“Attendance versus Participation” This is a subject for clarification on the first day whether online or in the class. Students have a misconception about Attendance and Participation. Coming to class or signing on to the online class is "Attendance." Some believe their mere physical presence in the course warrants a grade of 100% for "Participation", because, "I was in class...." This is very indicative of the compare and contrast in commitment levels. Therefore, before I render a final opinion about this; let us take a moment for introspection. Please remember this exercise, because your class will be a mirror-image of… >>>

Can any course be taught online? Presently, I will have to say, "No." This is a conditional response based upon two realizations: 1. The level of technology in online programs. 2. The expected skills that can be applied after the course. 1 The level of technology in online programs The multi-media and games design industry have given the educational industry an opportunity to capture the attention and interest of this computer generation. I have witnessed a number of very interactive exercises that use bowling, crossword puzzles, war games, gameshow templates to entertain the user. If we, as educators, fail to… >>>

During the month of December 2006, I continued a favorite academic / professional skill development practice. I received the permission of the Dean to have a Networking Event. This would incorporate my Management class, an English Composition Class and a Principles of Marketing class. I brought these classes together on a Saturday morning to allow an overlapping of real-life skills to occur in real-time. I asked the English Comp class to critique the resumes of the other classes. I asked the Principles of Marketing class to provide unusual methods to help the other classes market themselves to potential employers. I… >>>

Our students have an expectation for the classes in their chosen curriculum. They expect the newly-acquired information to be the stepping stone to success in their field. As they travel this academic journey, we have to create an environment that affords them the opportunity to free of the mental, social and familial chains. These chains have precluded them from being productive in the past. I promise the class that they will be in a cocoon free of the negative forces that haunt them daily. I share with them some of the obstacles that have been in my way, during the… >>>

Students expect a systematic approach to their learning of the main subjects in the course. One of the ways that I am receiving immediate feedback is the extension of a "Learning Agreement" with the individuals in the class. Initially, I called it a "Learning Contract", but our litigious society has put a negative connotation on the word, contract. I realized that using the word, agreement, indicates that both of us will be required to act in a very objective manner: pertaining to the course desired learning outcomes and practical applications to the real world. I provide a template to the… >>>

The First Day of Class One of the first items to cover in class is the criteria for the Participation Grade. A number of students believe that they have "participated" if they show up at some point in the class and occupy a seat. I give them a written outline of the parameters to acquire a score of 100 each day for Participation. It is up to them to earn the following points: 25 points - Arriving on time 25 points - Arriving prepared for class (reading, homework, etc.) 25 points - Active contribution to class activities, exercises and discussions… >>>