Instructions: Technology makes vast amounts of information (and misinformation) readily available. The challenge is navigating this sea of information. Our goal for your general science education is to develop your scientific literacy. A critical skill you must develop is the ability to find reputable sources for scientific information. There are many sources of high-quality scientific information on the open web; you just need to learn how to spot them.

For this week’s discussion:

• Select a source of meteorological information from the open web (the topic can be any topic related to meteorology or that of your research topic).

• Evaluate the source and explain why it is or is not a credible source of information.

• Provide a reference in APA format.

Use the name of your source as the title of your forum post. You cannot use a source that one of your classmates has already used as a topic for their initial forum post.

For your discussion this week, you need to respond to at least two of your classmates’ initial posts and discuss whether you agree or disagree with their assessment and citation and why. Continue to follow your classmates’ posts for the remainder of the week, addressing any follow-up posts to your posts, and reply to any questions or requests for clarification. Your follow-up posts can add additional insight to your classmates’ opinions and can challenge their opinions. Similarly, be sure to read the follow-up posts to your own original posts and reply to any questions or requests for clarification from your classmates.

Use the following materials for assistance:

• Access the Natural Sciences Program Guide from the APUS Online Library at http://apus.libguides.com/natural_sciences/web Select the “Websites” tab. Review the links in the “Internet Research: Tips for Science Students” box.

• Use the Owl at Purdue site for assistance with APA format: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/

Original posts should be 250-350 words and reply posts 100-200 words. All posts should be readable and use scientific terminology properly.

Initial Post Due: Wednesday, by 11:55 pm, ET
Responses Due: Sunday, by 11:55 pm, ET

The forum will be evaluated using these grading criteria.

Evaluation/Grading of Your Forum Assignment
Postings will be evaluated on their quality and the degree to which the postings promote discussion. Participation in all Forums is required. Points are allocated as follows based on the original posting and replies (Total of 100 points).

NOTE: Initial and reply posts submitted after the scheduled due dates may be assessed a penalty according to the late policy in the syllabus.

Initial Post (40 possible points)

• The post is on topic, clearly related to the thread, and addresses all components of the assignment with significant depth, analysis, and clarity.
• The post is approximately 250-350 words long and written in your own words.

Reply Posts (30 possible points)

• Reply to at least two of your classmates’ original posts with responses that are on topic, clearly related to the thread, and further the discussion of the original comment. For example, ask an interesting and related question, or share relevant information on the topic.
• The post is approximately 100-200 words long and written in your own words.
• Please reply early enough in the week to allow time for your classmates and instructor to respond.

Creates Conversation and Community (15 possible points)

• Respond to follow-up questions and comments posted to your initial post by your classmates and instructor during the week.
• All posts are written in a constructive and respectful tone.

Terminology, Sources, and Attribution (15 possible points)

• All posts accurately apply scientific concepts and use scientific terminology correctly (including spelling).
• Posts include background information based on credible sources of scientific information, where applicable, to support discussion. *
• All sources used are attributed to the original author with a citation or URL so that your classmates and instructor can locate and view the source. *
• If a post is based on an opinion, the post offers a well phrased and thought out position.

*Please review Academic Honesty Policies.