PrintBefore we begin our semester of study together, it is important that you review all of the material on all these pages and on our Course Syllabus. These resources will prepare you to be successful in this course.
Have you looked at our Fall Syllabus and Spring/Summer Syllabus? This Course Orientation will complement and expand on the information provided on our Syllabus. Be sure to review the Syllabus carefully. A link to the Syllabus is also located in the main navigation bar.
What will we learn about in the Course Orientation?
- the structure of Earth 107
- what assignments are required in this course
- an overview of Canvas, Penn State's learning management system
- technical requirements for Earth 107
- how to succeed in this course
- where to get course assistance if you need it
What is due for the Course Orientation?
You should complete the Course Orientation during the first week of class.
The following is an overview of those activities that must be completed for Course Orientation. Detailed directions and submission instructions are located within this Course Orientation or in Canvas.
(Note: You may want to print this page to serve as a checklist as you go along.)
Orientation Roadmap
| Tasks | Location |
|---|---|
| Read over the Course Syllabus. (This will include overview, structure, assignments, grading, policies, technical requirements, etc.) | Fall Syllabus and Spring/Summer Syllabus |
| Read the Course Introduction and Goals. | Course Introduction and Goals in this Orientation |
| Read How to Succeed in Earth 107. | How to Succeed in Earth 107 in this Orientation |
| Meet Your Instructor. | Meet the instructor in Resources |
| Download Google Earth Pro and complete the tutorials. | Google Earth Download and Tutorials in Resources |
| Read about the Capstone Project. | Capstone Project in Resources |
| Find out how to get help in this class. | Getting Help in Resources |
| Set up course communications and notifications. | Required Canvas Notification Settings - Orientation Module in Canvas |
| Learn about Modern Earth Science Principles. | Modern Earth Science Principles |
| Take the Course Orientation Quiz. | Course Orientation Quiz in Canvas |
Questions?
If you have questions, please feel free to post them to the discussion forum for this module in Canvas. While you are there, feel free to post your own responses if you, too, are able to help a classmate. Remember, if you have a question that is more personal in nature, please use the email tool in Canvas.
What is next?
Once you are ready, click the next link in the orientation menu and work all the way to the end of the list.