Updates: 3/17/20

Hello everyone.  I hope you are your loved ones are well.  Happily, I and my loved ones are just fine.

A few quick updates:

1.   This is Spring Break.  Try to enjoy it and not worry too much about class.

2.   I will start up classes, remotely, next week (which is when we were originally scheduled to return from break) so we have the least amount of disruption to our class schedule.

3.   None of us signed up for online classes. My intent is to try as much as possible to use the Internet to mimic our live classes.

4.   Thus far I am planning on posting videos of myself discussing class material (much like I discuss course material in class), posting written summaries of major points (much like the smartboard notes I post) and posting any useful internet links on Moodle, but I will also duplicate everything on our course blog. 

5.   You can send me assignments/questions/comments through Moodle, the blog, and/or my email (ruiz@gcc.mass.edu). I will also soon provide you with a landline phone number you can use to contact me as well.

6.   I will post on the days and times that class normally meets. My thinking right now is I will ask each of you to answer one brief short answer question about that day’s class for your attendance, but that is just an idea at this point.

7.   If/when we have group work and/or discussion, I will set up a system for easy participation.

8.   My deadlines for assignments have always been flexible.  Continue to follow the dates on the syllabus but if you need/want more time just ask me for an extension.  

9.   I’d appreciate your suggestions and ideas about how to proceed with our classes online so the classes are as successful as possible

Obviously, this semester is unique.  My intent is to be flexible and accommodating so that you can have a rich educational experience.  If you encounter a challenge, do NOT panic. You and I will find a way to work around the challenge.  I want us all (myself included) to finish this semester successfully, with perhaps

a few good stories to share with younger generations in the future.

Please begin to check Moodle/our blog starting next week for our posted classes.  

Don’t hesitate to contact me (I am here to help).  

Take care and stay well.

Lillian

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   Davenport The Pug in Cap and Gown