Respond by Thursday. Discuss through Saturday.
REVIEW
Review this week's assigned resources to prepare for this discussion.
Starting a degree program can be an intimidating experience, often leaving one feeling isolated and anxious. However, it's important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. You are part of a diverse community of individuals who share similar feelings and experiences. Each of us comes from a unique background, shaping our perspectives and approaches to learning.
Take a moment to reflect on your own life and contemplate your emotions surrounding the beginning of your degree program. It's completely normal to have mixed feelings or even uncertainties at this stage. You can be excited and uncertain at the same time.
At LAPU, we want you to know that we are here to support you every step of the way throughout your academic journey. Our aim is to create a welcoming and inclusive community where you can thrive and succeed. Together, we will navigate challenges, celebrate achievements, and grow together.
Welcome to LAPU – a place where you belong!
This week, you have the opportunity to earn the Great Start badge. Earning this badge means that you have spent time in the course content and you have let your curiosity guide you. Remain excited and continue to let your excitement inspire you throughout this course.
RESPOND
Using the video recording tool, audio response, or writing option in the discussion post, describe a positive learning experience from your life (i.e., previous college, work training, church lesson, etc.):
- How did that learning impact you?
- What are your hopes, opportunities, challenges, or fears in relation to this new learning endeavor at LAPU?
Requirements
- Start your conversation thread
- Posts must express an understanding of the topic and the weekly course material
- Initial posts: 300 words OR 2-3 minute Video/Audio Recording
- Gives proper credit to resources, although strict APA formatting is not required (give credit where credit is due)
DISCUSS
Post substantive responses to your colleagues. Responses could include suggestions for further resources, questions of clarification, or providing context and insight. Avoid simple posts of agreement, if you agree, explain why, and then thoughtfully further the conversation.
Review your colleagues’ posts and respond to your colleagues in a video, audio, or written response on the following:
- Do you have any similarities with your colleagues?
- How do you think your colleague can achieve their goal? Do you have any advice for your colleagues?
Requirements
- Posts must contribute to the conversation while offering original thought
- Response to peers: 150 words OR 1-2 minute video/audio recording
- Post three (3) colleague responses (see discussion rubrics in the syllabus for details)
- Gives proper credit to resources, although strict APA formatting is not required (give credit where credit is due)
*Note: This activity will be checked for plagiarism and AI-generated content. Always review the University's Academic Integrity Policy (opens in a new window) statement regarding plagiarism and the use of AI. Learn more about Plagiarism (opens in a new window)
Discussion Instructions
- Post a substantive response to the prompt by the first deadline shown in the weekly overview text.
- Engage in discussion with peers about their original posts in an exchange of ideas, information, and perspectives that continues through the second deadline shown in the weekly overview text.
- Always check your forum posts for spelling and grammar errors. Click the link in the Assignment Helps to learn how to spell-check your forum posts.
- Posts and responses made after the academic week will not count toward your grade.
- Always refer to your course syllabus (opens in a new window) for details on grading criteria and the university's late work policy.