Question 5 of 6 FAQs can be great tools for setting expectations and saving faculty time by outlining course guidelines. Which of the following is NOT a good FAQ?
a. Q: How much time will it take? A: You should expect to spend a minimum of 3 hours per week per credit hour for each course. This means that you should plan on spending at least 9 hours each week reading and posting in the forums, interacting in the chat rooms, participating in the videoconferencing, completing research and assignments, and taking tests. Depending on your skill with technology, it may take more or less time, but never underestimate the amount of time it takes.
b. Q: What do you mean by "substantive" posting? A: You are required to post one original post during each two-week discussion period on a facet of the period's topics. This first post must be submitted before midnight Sunday of the first week of the two-week period. The post must be your own opinion but must be supported by at least three (3) sources; only one of these resources can be anecdotal web references. It should be grammatically correct and written in academic style (although you are encouraged to use the first person, e.g., "I believe" rather than "the author believes") rather than conversational style. It should be about 250 words, no less than 150 and no more than 350 words, in length.
c. Q: What do you mean by "substantive" reply? A: You must reply to at least two of your peers' postingsbefore midnight Sunday of the second week of the two-week period. These replies must extend the conversation, be thought-provoking, and encourage discussion among the group. When possible, your reply should be a "first reply" meaning that everyone in class shouldn't reply to the same original posting unless there are no more original postings left without a reply. You are encouraged to support your position with references but they are not required. They, too, should be grammatically correct and professional. Reply posts should be no less than 75 words.
d. Q: What computer skills do I need to take an online course? A: Just the regular ones will do.
