Online summer classes, specifically Calculus III

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges and considerations of taking an online Calculus III course during the summer while managing a full-time job at a summer camp. Participants explore the implications of online learning, the effectiveness of self-study, and the potential impact of the course format on their success.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about balancing a full-time job with an online class, questioning whether this setup might lead to failure.
  • Another participant shares a positive view of online classes, suggesting they can be easier due to the reliance on textbooks rather than instructor notes, assuming the student is competent in self-study.
  • A participant questions the validity of the claim that instructor notes are superior to textbooks, indicating a disagreement on this point.
  • One participant mentions their instructor's use of a separate set of notes from the required textbook, suggesting a potential conflict with the course material.
  • Another participant indicates they can dedicate at least two hours a day to the class, expressing a willingness to try despite concerns.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the effectiveness of online learning versus traditional instruction. There is no consensus on whether the online format will be beneficial or detrimental to success in the course.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the specific challenges of managing time between work and study, nor have they addressed the potential variability in online course quality or instructor effectiveness.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering online summer courses, particularly in mathematics, and those balancing work commitments with academic pursuits may find this discussion relevant.

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Hey everyone, I've asked something similar, but the time to sign up for summer classes is nearing.

Reason I want to take Calc III this summer- so I can take Modern Physics in the fall.

I will be working 40 hours a week at a summer camp, so I'm not sure how that will pan out with an online class. I love Calc II right now and find it really easy. The way that our setup works is we have online lectures and homework with a forum for questions. I've heard the professor gives his cell phone # too. We take the tests and exam at a local community college.


Is this setting myself up to fail? The other alternative is going to a university at the beach and living there to take it. I'd probably take Orgo if I did that.



My main question is how hard would Online Calc III be? How much did you benefit from looking at a professor teach it? I would like to get an A. If someone took it online or another comparable class and is willing to share, that would be greatly appreciated.
 
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I find online classes easier because I don't have to listen to the instructor speak and it forces them to follow a textbook. So if you are competent at self study it will not present a problem.

(I really wish all math classes were offered online/independent study, instructors who feel their notes are better then textbooks are delusional.)

The only question is if you can handle summer camp + course.
 
Skrew said:
... instructors who feel their notes are better then textbooks are delusional.). ...
Why exactly?
 
My instructor has his own note set separate from the textbook because the school requires all calc I-III classes to use Stewart's book. He apparently hates Stewart's.

Regardless, I suppose I can give it a try. I'll be working 8-4 every day, so I should have at least two hours a day to dedicate to the class.
 

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