How to Succeed in
HIST 103
(These remarks and tips come from Prof. Isern. The intent is to pull together the various requirements and aspects of the course into a general statement of how to succeed. It's also a bit of a pep talk.) Here’s my basic philosophy in teaching this kind of course. I'm not here to guard the gate. I'm here to enable your success. This doesn't imply any dilution of standards or expectations. I expect you to handle challenging material and to do good work. I expect serious effort and respect for the enterprise. In return I'll not only wish you well but also do what I can to make your work rewarding and your success attainable. I won't be playing any games with you or tripping you up. I state clear expectations and act according to them. I want you to do well. When you succeed, I succeed. This whole website is intended to support success. The lectures in class are intended to lay out material in a way that is engaging and effective, so you do well. Use the material here, and pay attention to class, and you won’t miss much. More
Specifically, How to Succeed
1. Be familiar with the organization and requirements of the course. You should find what you need to know in the website. If you don't, ask me or the graduate assistant. 2. Come to class and take good notes. Attendance racks up participation points at the same time it prepares you for exams. The key factor in preparation for exams is having good class notes. 3. Stay current. Stay on pace with the calendar, doing the work when it is supposed to be done. You have to do the readings and contribute to the listserv discussions at the right time; you have to meet deadlines for other written work. 4. Pay attention to communications. Check the weblog framed into the home page frequently, because it will carry announcements and reminders. Read your email. 5. Maximize your participation points. Most of them are earned through participation in Cumberland Gap. So get in there and talk Tocqueville! 6. Attitude and commitment are underlying factors in success. This course is a good workplace, where expectations are reasonable and plain. Come on in, relax, do the work, and get something out of it. You should sense that I think History is great stuff. Whether or not you agree, you'll find value in the course and enjoy good company along the way. I won't say good luck in the course, because there isn't much luck involved. Instead I'll say I'm happy you're here, and I wish you well in all your semester's work. |