Joseph Melodia, B.A., M.A., M.F.A.

I believe in a student-centered classroom that encourages participation and the cultivation of new ideas. In my classes, students are exposed to articles, books, and films that challenge typical values and ways of thinking.

ENG 137: College Study Strategies

English 137 is designed to help students develop the study skills and habits they will need to be successful in college. There is a significant difference between high school and college, and this course helps make for a smooth transition. This course also helps students discover their learning styles using brain-based research.

Course Description

This course stresses the principles and practice of written communication, with an emphasis on reading and writing expository essays and on research skills.

Online Course Requirements

All students should be adept at sending and receiving e-mail, browsing the Internet, opening and saving Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat files and cutting and pasting documents. A high-speed Internet connection is recommended.

System Requirements

• PC running Windows 98, 2000 or XP (Javascript & Cookies enabled), or a MAC running Macintosh OS 9.x or OS X. (Javascript and Cookies enabled).
• Software: Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat
• Web Browsers: Windows—Internet Explorer 6, Macintosh—Firefox 1.0

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the course, the student t will be able to:

• Generate and explicate original ideas on both enduring and contemporary topics
• Support claims using logic and effective research
• Apply critical thinking skills to both the reading and writing process
• Use MLA documentation both parenthetically and when creating a works cited page

Tips for Online Success

Successful online students are independent, self-motivated, willing to learn in isolation, wiling to ask questions as soon as questions arise, good with written instructions, good at expressing themselves in writing and aware of technology as both a convenience and a barrier.

The most important consistent behavior that will create the best opportunity for success in this course is communication. Any concerns or questions about course expectations, assignments, tests and grades should be directed to me immediately.

Online Resources

• Distance Education Computer Requirements
• Study Skills Requirement
• How to Access Your Online Course

Course Description

This course is designed to develop critical thinking, reading and writing skills beyond the level achieved in ENG 100 C. The course will focus on the development of logical reasoning and analytical and argumentative writing skills.

Online Course Requirements

All students should be adept at sending and receiving e-mail, browsing the internet, opening and saving Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat files and cutting and pasting documents. A high-speed Internet connection is recommended.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Generate and explicate original ideas on both enduring and contemporary topics
• Support claims using logic and effective research
• Apply critical thinking skills to both the reading and writing process
• Identify and avoid using logical fallacies in both verbal and written discourse
• Use MLA documentation both parenthetically and when creating a works cited page

Tips for Online Success

Successful online students are independent, self-motivated, willing to learn in isolation, wiling to ask questions as soon as questions arise, good with written instructions, good at expressing themselves in writing and aware of technology as both a convenience and a barrier.

The most important consistent behavior that will create the best opportunity for success in this course is communication. Any concerns or questions about course expectations, assignments, tests and grades should be directed to me immediately.

Online Resources

• Distance Education Computer Requirements
• Tips For Student Success
• Your Online Classroom