POL 315
COURSE GUIDE
The first item is an introduction to the subject matter of the unit, and
how a particular unit is integrated with the other units and the course as
a whole. Next to this is a set of learning objectives. These objectives let
you know what you should be able to do by the time you have
completed the unit. These learning objectives are meant to guide your
study. The moment a unit is finished, you will significantly improve
your chances of passing the course. The main body of the unit guides
you through the required reading from other sources. This will usually
be either from your set books or from a Reading section. The following
is a practical strategy for working through the course. If you run into any
trouble, telephone your tutor. Remember that your tutor’s job is to help
you. When you need assistance, do not hesitate to get in touch with your
tutor.
1. Read this Course Guide thoroughly, it is your first assignment.
2. Organise a study schedule; design a ‘course overview’ to guide
you through the course. Note the time you are expected to spend
on each unit and how the assignments relate to the units.
Whatever method you choose, you should decide on and write in
your own dates and schedule of work for each unit.
3. Once you have created your own study schedule, do everything to
stay faithful to it. The major reason why students fail is that they
get behind with their course work. If you get into difficulties with
your schedule, please, let your tutor know before it is too late to
help.
4. Turn to Unit 1, and read the introduction and the objectives for
the unit.
5. Assemble the study materials; you will need your set books and
the unit you are studying at any point in time. As you work
through the unit, you will know what sources to consult for
further information.
6. Keep in touch with your study center. Up-to-date course
information will be continuously available there.
7. Submit all assignments not later than the due date. Keep in mind
that you will learn a lot by doing the assignment carefully. They
have been designed to help you meet the objectives of the course
and, therefore, will help you pass the examination.
8. Review the objectives for each study unit to confirm that you
have achieved them, if you feel unsure about any of the
objectives, review the study materials or consult your tutor.
9. When you are confident that you have achieved a unit’s
objectives, you can start on the next unit. Proceed unit by unit
through the course and try to pace your study so that you keep
yourself on schedule.
10. When you have submitted an assignment to your tutor for
marking, do not wait for it to be returned before starting on the
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