Distance Learning information

The Orientation Module for your class is located in the course Blackboard page

Log in to Blackboard (http://www.austincc.edu/blackboard) with your ACC ID. You will find all the course materials including the Orientation which needs to be completed by the posted deadline for your term.

For Cultural Anthropology (ANTH 2351) and Physical Anthropology (ANTH 2301), all course material will be available from the first day of class. There are four modules to complete over the course of the term. Each module has a posted deadline. Do your best to complete units and modules by the due dates. However, if you fall behind, there is no late penalty for late work. You may work ahead  if you wish.

If you are signed up for the online Physical Anthropology Lab (ANTH 2101) there are hard deadlines for the four exams. Each module is completed as a class and once one has been completed the next will be made available. This structure works best for this kind of class, I have found. Please note that Physical Anthropology Lab is taught online only during the 10 week summer session. During Spring and Fall semesters the class is offered at the Highland Campus on Thursdays from 10:30 - 11:50 am. 

For some of you, this is your first experience with an online course. I have provided as many tutorials as possible and clear instructions. But, if you are ever confused -- do contact me right away. I can steer you towards the answers or resources or improve my Blackboard site for clarity.

Even if you are an expert at it, remember that distance learning provides a distinct way to study and requires some different skills from you as the student.

You will find that as an online learner, self-motivation and discipline are paramount. This means that you are completely responsible for establishing and maintaining a regular study system. In addition, some students anticipate that online courses will be easier than face-to-face courses. From my experience, they are NOT. You will be responsible for the same course materials and the same standards of excellence that are required in 16 week face-to-face courses. While I will provide you with support during the course, you should be aware of the self-discipline required to successfully complete Cultural Anthropology.

It is important to get started right away and to maintain the pace outlined in your course materials. Also, you must keep current with the schedule. My experience with online study is that getting started and keeping on schedule are most important to successful completion.

Distance Learning FAQs

Do I need to take the exams in a testing center?

No!  All quizzes, exams, and assessments are online.

I want to work ahead -- is this allowed?

Yes! As soon as you complete a module, you can move to the next one (ANTH 2301 AND 2351 only)

How much time can I expect to spend on the course each week?

Generally, for a 16 week course*, you should dedicate at least 6-7 hours to the course each week. Naturally, you will spend twice as much time each week if you are taking an 8 week class.

The average college student takes 5 minutes per page to read a textbook. So, each week, expect to spend at least two hours reading. Viewing all media (PowerPoint lectures, videos) will take another one to two hours. You can expect written assignments to take at least two hours to write and edit. Quizzes take about 30 - 60 minutes to complete. 

*The pace will be accelerated, of course, if you take a 12 , 10, 8  or 5 week version of the class.

I have to be out of town during the course. What should I do?

Since all materials are available on Blackboard, you can complete the work as long as you have internet access.

What about Extra Credit?

There will be no extra credit assignments. Complete all work to earn as many points as possible.

Will you provide a study guide?

As indicated on the syllabus, I do not provide study guides for the quizzes. Each quiz covers the content of the assigned readings, as well as all slide lectures, and multimedia presented in each week.

I recommend that you take regular and detailed notes to help you prepare for the tests. It is best to pay attention to ideas and concepts that are presented in more than one source. I tend to generate exam questions from the text to test for comprehension of terms. I also construct questions to test for understanding of larger concepts.

When can I expect modules and materials to be posted?

The first day of class by 9:00 am 

How do I calculate my final grade?

Remember that your grade will be based on a 1000 point total, regardless of what you might see on Blackboard. Divide your total points by 1000 to get your grade. You will need to earn at least 700 points to earn a C in the course.

I missed some assignments and need extra credit to improve my grade!

So sorry!  You must complete your work on time over the course of the term.You should work hard each week to maximize your grade rather than wait until the end of the semester.

I don't round grades up -- so if your final score is 698 points, you will have earned a D. Similarly, if you earn 898 points, your final grade will be a B.