Prof. Noones CSIT 101 ePortfolio Project

Learning Tips

Here’s the deal...

You can’t just show up, half-listen, and expect to get an “A.”

Learning can't be downloaded into your brain.

Unfortunately, we don't have that Matrix-level technology, yet!

Be an Active Learner

Active learning means you take charge of your learning.

Read the material before class.
Try the assignments, even if you mess up the first time.
Ask questions.
Engage with classmates and your instructor.

Classes get way less boring when you actually come prepared. Then it’s a discussion, not a lecture.

If you’re taking this class online, go into the discussion boards. Don’t just “lurk.” The more you contribute, the more you’ll get out of it.

Active > Passive

Remember: You’re on a Journey

College is about learning! Every course is part of a bigger journey toward your degree.

Sure, grades matter. But your main mission is to master the course objectives.

When you really learn the material, grades fall in line.

Knowledge > Grades

Pay Attention to the Details

Slow down and double-check everything. YOU are responsible for your learning. The instructor's job is to help you with YOUR pursuit of knowledge, not manage every aspect of it.

- - Review rubrics before submitting assignments.
  - Read every question carefully. If it says “list and explain,” do both!
  - Use all the resources your instructor provides. They’re literally designed to help you.

Being proactive > being reactive.

Communicate with Your Instructor

Your instructor is a real person who actually wants to help you success. Whether your class is in-person or online, reach out when you need to.

Use the comment feature on assignments to share feedback or ask about something you found tough.
Email or message them (check your syllabus for their preferred method).
Visit office hours, many of which are online now, and it’s a super easy way to get 1:1 help.

When you reach out, give details:

- - Your course + section
  - What you’re struggling with
  - What you’ve already tried
  - Avoid vague messages like “I don’t get it.” Be specific so they can actually help you.

Specific > Vague

Get Organized & Find What Works for You

You’ve got more tech tools than any generation before you, which is an amazing place to be, but that can make things overwhelming.

The key is: stay organized.

Keep all your notes in one place (OneDrive, Google Drive, or a notebook).
Use reminders or to-do apps to track due dates.
Experiment until you find a system that fits your vibe.

For this course, you’ll need a composition notebook (you’ll upload pics of it for credit).

Don’t stress. Everything will be explained in the LMS. <-- You should be asking yourself... what in the hell is an LMS?

Organized > Unorganized

Notebook ACTIVITY

Answer the following questions in your notebook:

Which of the 5 Tips above resonated with you the most?
What do you wish someone had taught you about technology before you figured it out on your own?
What's one thing about your computer you've always wanted to understand but never had the chance to learn?
What are my goals in this class and beyond?
Fill in the blank: I wish I could ________________________ with my computer.

Why Does Any of This Matter?

Here's something no one tells you: many students arrive in college thinking they already know everything about technology, but they don't. You know how to use your phone, yes! You can scroll, post, stream, and shop. But that's different from understanding how technology works and how to use it to your advantage personally and professionally.

Not understanding basic technology in the digital age will catch up with you! What happens when you can't format your resume correctly? Or when you accidentally share a file with the wrong permissions and you lose work? Students who master technology have an advantage not only in school but in life.

The habits you build in your classes will help you in life.

Grades are great, but knowledge is power.

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