So one class has ended and another has just begun. I managed to earn a 96 overall in the intro class and am now taking PHL 251/Critical Thinking. Unfortunately there wasn't really a break between the classes, and with the 4th of July coming in the midst of this course's start, I found myself struggling to keep up. As expected, the format of this online class is quite similar to the last, so I'm definitely getting a feel for what to expect during my University of Phoenix experience.
As with my last class, this one includes electronic reading reserve learning activities each week. I'm beginning to think that this is typical of any UoP class. These tasks will direct the attention of students to some articles within the school's online library, carefully chosen to supplement the course's subject matter. It will also usually include some search terms for students to use as part of their own research. As with most tasks and assignments, a discussion board is included with the reading task.
As my class moves into week 2, I have learned that we will be placed in learning teams and tasked with the development of a team charter. This continues the heavy emphasis that collaboration is placed on the University of Phoenix experience, and a new activity for me personally. I am hoping that I can really get a sense for the teamwork methods utilized by the school.
One of my next goals for the University is to expand my financial aid. I'm currently using federal student loans and also received a little FASFA grant money for this school year. Apparently, it was more than the total cost of my tuition, because I recently enjoyed finding a $1064 check in the mail as "leftovers" from my financial aid. Driven by this, I have decided to explore more scholarship opportunities, and the UoP website features plenty of sources for additional funding.
I have learned that networking is among the many keys to success in the modern economy and am always searching for new opportunities to connect with other professionals. The school offers PhoenixConnect, an online platform that facilitates this process as part of the University of Phoenix student experience. I plan to explore this tool in much greater detail and will cover my thoughts and experience in the next post.
