LibGuides: Student Resources: How to Succeed in Your Courses

How to Succeed in Your Courses

All weekly introduction pages (the first page under each weekly module) are open at the beginning of the term.
The weekly introduction includes reading assignments, media, discussion board topics, and key writing assignment details for the week.
Preview weekly introduction pages in advance to get a head start on upcoming work and to plan accordingly for key writing assignments.

Preview discussion board questions in the upcoming weekly module.
Each discussion board requires that you respond to the discussion question prompt and reply to at least 2 of your classmates.
Your response to each discussion board prompt and replies to your classmates should be posted on more than one day for each board.
Post your response to the prompt early to receive as much feedback from your classmates as possible.
Compose your discussion board posts in a Word document rather than in Canvas. Canvas is internet-based, and it is very easy to lose your work in the event of even a brief power/internet outage. Word will allow you to keep your work safe and save your contributions in one place for future reference. Once you finish composing, copy and paste your work into the discussion board.

You have two key writing assignments each term in each class. When class starts, look for these assignments and plan for them in advance.
You can view the assignment prompt and requirements on the weekly introduction for the week during which the assignment is due.
Write an early draft of your paper, so you have time to edit and refine it before submitting it.
Use resources! CLU provides students with access to the Writing Center in each class. The Writing Center will review specific areas of your paper and provide feedback. You also have access to writing tools and tips, allowing you to work one-on-one with CLU's Writing Coach.
You will complete a Learning Reflection paper in week 8. Rather than an exam, this allows you to self-reflect on your learning in your class. You will be asked to show examples from your work in the class of mastery of the learning objects. If you create a Word document for all your discussion board posts, it will be much easier to identify artifacts from your work for this assignment.

Get started early and try to work ahead as much as possible.
Order your books early and look through them before class starts.
Accept your course invitation early and browse through the weekly introductions so you can get a sense of what you'll be learning and what the time commitment for each class looks like.
Communicate, communicate, communicate! Your instructors are here to answer your questions about content and assignments and to help you work through any challenges you may encounter.
Contact the Office of Student Services for advice, academic planning, access to resources, or to talk through any challenges you might be experiencing. A simple conversation can transform your outlook!