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When it comes to learning online, you will find that Distance Learning Schools offer many convenient options. You’ll have no trouble whatsoever finding the school and finding the degree option you’ve been dreaming about when you begin your search for an accredited distance learning program.

Universities and colleges today are intent on meeting the needs of all students. Young and old, rich and poor, energetic and the most laid-back students can find opportunities to earn diplomas in vocations and trades or to go all the way to a doctorate degree, through online and distance learning schools. Even post doctorate certificates are possible through distance learning venues today. You can even begin learning to fly an airplane through an online course in the wonderful world of Internet learning!

A growing number of people are choosing to improve and advance career opportunities, enhance their knowledge, and simply learn for the sheer fun of it. Whether interested in finishing online degrees, pursuing an advanced degree, or starting degree programs, students find that online colleges can provide the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the global marketplace.

You can prepare for your special niche in the world the minute you start looking for the education you desire. Why not begin today? Enjoy, dream, and get started on your path to a happy and fulfilling career.

If you are interested in learning more about Distance Learning Schools, or other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised onour website.

Copyright 2007 - All Rights Reserved Michael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc.

By: Michael Bustamante

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Find Distance Learning Schools, also known as Distance Learning Online Schools and Online Schools, as well as Traditional Schools, Colleges, Universities, Vocational and Trade Schools at SchoolsGalore.com

Let’s start with the foundation, introductory, courses, suitable for those who are taking a first step into the world of management, whether it is as an employee in an organisation, or as a budding entrepreneur. In this band there are a large number of options, ranging from individual short courses, focusing on skills needed in areas such as teamwork, basic budgeting, project management, decision making and quality.Many organisations run in-house courses in these areas, but it there are also many providers who offer them full qualifications that are stand-alone but also the first step on the management ladder, include the Higher National Certificate and then the Diploma, the HNC and HND, highly regarded national and internationally recognised qualifications, usually taking 2 academic years if studied at college, or 18 months if by distance learning. These, relative to management, include the HNC / HND in Business and Management, Finance, Marketing, Law and Human Resources.

NVQs (national vocational qualifications) in Management are “competence” based which means, in essence, that the student must show evidence, must prove that she/he is competent in management at the level, and to the criteria, described in that particular NVQ. These are banded at, Level 3: introductory / newcomer to management, Level 4: suitable for reasonably experienced junior to middle managers, Level 5: aimed at experienced, knowledgeable managers at middle to senior level and Level 7: aimed at strategic managers. NVQs are popular with large, bureucratic organisations, that need to be certain that their managers at all levels are, provably, “competent”.

Another group is the “professional development awards” including: Professional Development Certificate in Management and Professional Development Diploma in Management and Advanced Professional Development Diploma in Management. These are also banded at Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, and Level 7 in similar fashion to the NVQs, because these qualifications are accepted as being in the “national qualifications framework” or NQF. Some providers offer variations of these, with the CMS Certificate in Management Studies and the DMS Diploma in Management Studies being the most popular.

The Diploma in Management Studies is the UK’s most widely recognised management qualification the “manager’s management qualification” and is the qualification that most organisations expect their middle to senior managers, and professional specialists, to hold. In case you’re thinking what about the MBA, for every MBA holder in the UK there is 100 with a DMS and 99% of those will not go on to, will not need to go on to, an MBA.

Masters, MA, Msc, MBA these are the next band, and are the highest “management” qualifications, not only in the UK but also in most countries around the world but, there are thousands of variations in content available, and considerable variation in quality and relevance, so choosing a suitable, appropriate quality, one of these is fraught with difficulty

If you are thinking what about PhDs, doctorates, yes, they are “higher” level, but they don’t in my view, truly fit into “management courses” because they are, and meant to be, academic in nature and not designed to improve the individual’s management skills.

By: CJ Williams

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

CJ Williams is a tutor and management consultant currently working with Brighton School of Business and Management in the UK, specialising in Business and Management courses taught via distance learning. The writer, CJ Williams, can be contacted at cjwilliams@brightonsbm.com or via www.brightonsbm.com

Support workers provide services to people who need help with their daily needs. You will provide these services in facilities and within the community. Supervised by a nurse or other professional, you are a vital part of a health care team. Legislation, employer’s policies, and the person’s condition influence how you function and how much supervision you will need. Once you gain the required experience, you will find that you are able to adapt your care depending on the setting and situations that arise.

Ultimately, the goal of the support work is to improve the individuals overall quality of life. Care needs to be provided in a kind, sensitivity, and understanding manner. While tending to the person’s physical needs, you can also help to relieve loneliness, provide comfort, encourage independence, and promote the person’s self-image. Your service helps people in their homes remain independent. You should always conduct yourself in a manner that let’s the individual know that you care for them and about them. You will make a positive difference in people’s lives!

Now, let’s take a look at where you’ll be performing your tasks as a personal support worker. There are two accepted groupings of locations, the first being facility-based and second, community based. To be listed as a Facility-based workplace, a location must provide accommodations, health & support services. There are several different types of facilities, including hospitals and long-term care (retirement) homes. Community-based workplaces include locations within the community where health care and services are provided, but where overnight are not necessary. The most common of these settings would be a person’s home.

Obtaining certification to become a Personal Support Worker can follow one of two paths. The first being a traditional educational institution such as a College or University and the second being a specialized educational institution, such as a local learning center (for example, a continuing educational center at a local high school). The government of each province creates a course outline & standard that each institution must adhere to.

The wages that a Personal Support Worker can expect to earn can differ from province to province, city to city, and from a unionized to a non-unionized workplace. CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) states that the average wage for a Canadian unionized Support Worker is $14.65 and a non-unionized worker averages $13.42 per hour. 

By: Matthias Koster

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Matthias Koster operates Personal Support Worker Canada (www.personalsupportworker.ca) , a resource site that provides information on Personal Support Worker job duties, educational institutions offering the course, supplies, and job opportunities.

At first glance, higher education today might seem like a woman’s world.

Government officials have warned that men will face a struggle for good jobs in future as teenage boys shun university.

In 2006, 22,500 more young women than men went on to higher education. Ministers are increasingly concerned at the widening gender gap in higher education. Employers increasingly look to hire staff with degrees.

Consequently, men might find themselves marginalised in the jobs market.

Girls have been outperforming boys at GCSE, A-level and in university for years. But now girls are doing better at work too, earning more than boys in the first eight years of their careers.

In 2005, 80% of girls passed national curriculum tests in English, compared with 67% of boys.

At A level, girls passed 23.9% of exams at grade A, compared with 21.5% of boys.
According to Higher Education Funding Council for England Figures last year showed 47% of 17-30 year-old women had gone into higher education in 2004, compared to 37% of young men.

Hefce chief executive Professor David Eastwood said: “We need to understand better why this is happening and start taking some action sooner rather than later.”

Higher Education Minister Bill Rammell said “The government has introduced a number of strategies to address the gap in gender achievement and to raise the performance of all pupil”.

The Raising Boys’ Achievement Project which looked at exciting and innovative ways of raising achievement across a range of primary, secondary, and special schools to identify and evaluate strategies which are particularly helping motivating boys.

Schools will be better able to address underachievement in the performance of boys and girls if they know when and where they emerge. A careful analysis of data, mapping the development of male and female pupils, particularly the value-added data, including a breakdown of data by key pupil sub-groups, will enable schools to plan when and
how to intervene. Schools should monitor pupils’ progress regularly by gender. 

By: Alison White

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Adults who are considering pursuing continuing education have a variety of choices when it comes to earning a degree or certificate. They can pursue college degrees through a community college or four-year institution, receive training and certification through vocational or trade programs, or simply expand their knowledge and skills through basic adult education classes. The avenue that you choose very much depends on your individual goals and needs.

If you are interested in pursuing a specific career path then the degree or certification and training you need for that career will certainly play a large role in determining what type of school and program you choose. Spend time studying the programs available at the schools in your area. The point of this exercise is not to choose a school but rather to look at the options open to you. What interests you? Can you picture yourself working in that field?

If you have been out of school for a long time then you may want to test the waters with a basic adult education class first. Adult education classes can help you brush up on basic skills, such as writing or computer use, as well as help you get back into the swing of being a student. The classes are also often much more affordable than a class you would take at a college or institute and often involve less time commitment as well.

If you are unsure what career path you would like to take then you should consider earning a general diploma from a local community college. Perhaps while working toward that degree you will discover interests and talents you had not suspected previously. Then you will be able to apply your classes to your new degree without difficulty. Even if you do not find a vocation that interests you, that general studies diploma will still help you further your professional life.

Furthering your education and training whether in your existing field or a new profession is always beneficial. While pursuing a college degree might be the best option you owe it to yourself to check out adult basic education classes as well as community college programs and technical and training schools. 

By: Deanna Mascle

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Deanna Mascle shares more information about issues in Adult Education and a free Adult Education information booklet at adultslearnmore.com

Adults want their education to be relevant to their specific needs. What they are learning must be applicable to their job, values or other responsibilities. Once they see the relevancy in their learning, adults want to create goals for their education. They will desire to see the path that leads them from the beginning to the end of a course, or even a whole curriculum. Each step of this path must make its value evident to the adult learn - why its important, how it will help them on their job, or how it will help improve their life. Finally, adults already have many life experiences and have acquired knowledge from a variety of sources outside of a formal educational environment. So they want to understand how they can connect this prior knowledge, what they already know, with what they will be learning.

Here are the steps to take to select the best value in an adult education class depending on what your specific needs are:

1. Determine whether the location of the class is convenient for you. This includes taking into consideration the time class begins and the time it ends. Typically, continuing education classes will be held in the evening due to adults working during the day.

Ask these questions: How will I get to class (driving, public transportation)? Will I leave for class directly after work, or do I need to make a stop at home? How far is the location of the class from my home and my job? Will I have to allow extra time before or after class because of traffic? Is there parking near the class (college campuses usually have limited parking for commuters) or will I need to walk a distance?

2. Determine whether the class and the institution offering the class allow for flexibility that you need. Often these requests will be handled by the individual instructor, but if a diploma or certification is being offered at the completion of the class, the institutions offering the class may have certain guidelines you must follow.

Ask these questions: How many days am I allowed to miss? Does the instructor offer a make-up class for those who might miss? Am I allowed to leave class early or arrive late?

3. Identify the prerequisites for the class. This simply means understanding what you need to know before enrolling. If you do not have the basic background for the subject matter being taught, a great class can end up being a frustrating experience. The prerequisites are normally listed along with the class description and will indicate other classes that should be taken first or skills you should already have before enrolling.

4. Identify all of your required materials and determine their costs. Most classes will require a textbook. The prices of textbooks are rising all the time and are often not affordable for many students. Depending on the subject matter of your class, your books can cost upwards of $100 each, particularly in technology, accounting and nursing. You may also need materials other than books such as access to a personal computer, special types of calculators or other equipment, certain types of paper or portfolios.

5. Determine your instructor’s availability to respond to questions and meet with you. Find out the instructor’s office hours, phone number and email address. Most of the time the instructor will give this information in the first class, but you should be able to easily find this information if you are considering enrolling in a class. You can test the responsiveness of your instructor by contacting him prior to the first day of the class.

6. Review the course description and outline. This is the most important step. You want to make sure that the class you are investing your time and money in is what you really need or want. The course outline is your map of the class. It should describe the objectives of the class (what you will know once the course is over) and the topics you will cover (how you will reach the objectives).

You may attend an adult education course for many reasons: it is required by your job, it is an initiative you are taking to further your career, to increase your general knowledge of a topic, to network with your peers, or to even just get away for a few hours a week. Whatever your reason, you need to make sure you are getting what you need from the course. If you review the course outline and find that only one topic is relevant to your needs then this is probably not the class for you. Search for another course that perhaps focuses specifically on that topic. In some cases, this course may be required for the particular curriculum you have chosen. If you feel you have enough experience with the topics of the required class, you can often discuss with your instructor about “testing out” of the course.

7. Determine what you get for completing the adult education course or curriculum. You want to see the value of having taken the class or classes. At the end of a class you may receive a certificate of completion, diploma or even a professional certification. If you are attending a college or university, you will most times end with a degree, graduate certificate or continuing education credits.

Try to understand what these completion “rewards” mean to you, your career and your life. It could mean a new designation you can place on your resume or a diploma to display proudly on your wall, but it should be something to make you happy and appreciate the hard work you have put into the class.

Being an adult learner is exciting, but can also have serious negative effects on a person. Self-esteem can be lowered if performance in the class is not as expected, frustration can occur if there is lack of convenience, and boredom is evident if the class does not seem practical. So be sure to thoroughly review all of the information you can about a class you may be interested in enrolling and be certain you feel you will get what you need out of it. 

By: Deanna Mascle

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Malcolm Knowles (1913-1997), pioneer in adult education, titled one of his books, “The Adult Learner: A Neglected Species.” And no wonder. Many people closed their books halfway through life; research on how grown-ups learn was in its early stages; teachers equipped to handle mature students were hard to find.

Today lifelong learning opportunities are plentiful and instructors well-versed in space age information delivery. Still, millions fail to take advantage. They need constant reminders of the pot of gold at the end of the adult education rainbow.

Five bright benefits come to mind. First is the prospect of a fatter paycheck. Job promotions go to smart people who keep up with the latest information and technology. It’s just good sense to refresh and retrain for the workplace. New careers are created all the time so those who see what’s coming and want to jump ship have got to be prepared with new certifications, diplomas and degrees.

Second is the enhanced self-esteem when you reach for new horizons, accept tough challenges and arrive at a whole new level. New learning is not a picnic but the joys of accomplishment are real. Your children are proud. Your neighbors are surprised and maybe just jealous enough to go out and do likewise.

Third is the freedom given to adult learners. The teacher is more facilitator than dictator. Adult students, unlike young kids, may be just as experienced as the person at the front of the room. Adult classmates share ideas and teach each other. Assignments may culminate in a group project or program rather than a graded exam. Memorizing facts is at a minimum; answers are not absolute.

True, there are some studies where exactness counts and tests are mandatory. But a quick Internet search turned up references to the use of adult education theories in highly regimented disciplines, such as nursing and medicine. Getting ready to pass state boards did not prevent creative teaching where students’ views are respected and acted on. It is possible to combine traditional methods with adult learning styles.

Fourth is the shift of schooling to a 24/7 model and long-distance or online methods. Trade the classroom for your computer. Stay home and study in your bathrobe. Earn a degree without ever stepping on campus. Leave an email message for the professor at 3 a.m. With time and space constraints removed anyone who truly wants to go on learning can do so. Further, some class enrollments are open with start dates at your convenience.

Number five is making scholarship a habit. Education becomes second nature; it’s who you are as much as what you do. People live longer now and their health stays robust. Folks dread the thought of 15 or 20 years after retirement with idle hands and minds. Luckily, such waste is out of fashion. Well known programs, such as Elderhostel keep people thinking, socializing and traveling. Grandmothers get their master’s degree.

Invest in yourself. Empower your life. Jump start your future with strong commitment to lifelong achievement. Knowing these five benefits can wipe out all excuses. 

By: Deanna Mascle

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Coaching Certificate Schools can take many forms. Vocational, trade, and technical schools provide programs for coaching certificates, as do community colleges and four-year institutions, colleges, and universities. Graduate school coaching certificates for training in professional coaching are found in business schools. Life Coaching programs are taught in advanced classes in psychology schools. Additional coaching certifications are possible in various disciplines.

Coaching Certificate School programs designed to prepare for coaching school and independent athletic teams provide coaching students with principles and philosophies of athletics in education, techniques, and health related aspects of athletics used for coaching specific sports, such as baseball, soccer, volleyball, hockey, football, and other team sports. Coaching certificate courses will include philosophy and principles of team sports, theory, and techniques of coaching, and health sciences. An education in such sporting techniques as archery, gymnastics, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, horseback riding, and dance can be found in vocational schools as well as community colleges.

Professional Coaching Certificate Schools prepare students in areas of executive coaching for consulting, authoring proposals, and educating for improved business functions. These Coaching Certificate Schools are often located in colleges and universities, and develop coaching skills for building communication skills and improving human relations.

Coaching Certificate School programs can prepare students for preparing curricula, conducting training seminars, and designing programs for helping individuals and groups to improve emotional intelligence in the workplace, which improves work-related performance.

If you are interested in learning more about Coaching Certificate Schools and other types of schools, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2006 - All Rights Reserved Michael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc. for SchoolsGalore.com

There are many options for students seeking an education today. There are many quality two-year, four-year and graduate programs available online to students seeking a college education or for those simply looking to further their careers. Employers look at the completion of college or university coursework as an indicator that you are motivated to better yourself and move ahead in your career. Many online schools offer programs ranging from certificate programs all the way to masters degrees and beyond. Earning your degree online gives you the opportunity to start small - and possibly move on to earn an advanced degree - all at your own pace. The following gives you detailed information on the basic degree types available to students.

Certificate Programs offer a useful, concentrated study of a particular professional area. These programs can help you start a new career or develop your skills and knowledge, giving you powerful qualifications to enhance your occupation. A Certificate of Participation is awarded upon completion of your course or program. You may take individual courses for professional development or work toward a certificate in your chosen area of interest.

Diploma programs are a sequence of classes focusing on both theory and practice in a particular field. They are not as broad as degree programs and they usually concentrate on a particular area. Some diploma programs also offer an overview of several different areas. The terms ‘certificate’ and ‘diploma’ are often the same. Some universities refer to their programs as certificate programs while others call them diploma programs. There is not a common criterion to differentiate them.

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree that can be earned in 2years. An associate degree program consists of three parts: general education requirements, major requirements, and electives. An associate degree is a 2-year degree given by either Community Colleges or Junior Colleges upon completion of an associate degree program.

A Bachelors degree by definition is an academic degree conferred by a college or university upon those who complete the undergraduate curriculum. A Bachelor’s Degree is the conventional degree given by undergraduate colleges and universities in the United States.

For detailed information on all types of college degrees please visit us online.

Are you an adult who left school before finishing your bachelor degree? Have you thought about going back, but are not sure how to fit it in with your life and your adult responsibilities? As an adult, returning to school can be difficult in many ways. Time commitments, my family and financial responsibilities, and other activities make it hard to find the time or the money to go back to school. To make it even more difficult, as we age our brains function differently, and traditional ls may not work as well on us as they did when we were younger.

One option for adults is to get a bachelor degree online. In many cases, this is more realistic than returning to traditional school, to the “halls of ivy,” as it were. Online colleges teach differently, using what is often referred to as “asynchronous” learning. That means if you are not tied to a particular schedule, I don’t have to be in a certain room at a certain time. You can participate in class whenever your schedule allows.

Most programs offering a bachelor degree online have options for accelerated learning, which means you can complete your bachelor degree in as little as two years. Think of the savings on to wish if you could cut your college costs in half. It also gives you back two years of your life. Put a price on that!

One major advantage of online bachelor degree programs is that they are tailored more towards the way adults learn. Adult students are disciplined and motivated, and are studying because they want to, not because they have to. They have specific goals to meet and are not interested in wasting time or money.

Adults have a greater ability to learn independently. They have skills in finding information and assimilating it into usable packages. They do not want to “learn for the sake of learning,” but would rather apply their education to their personal and career goals. They like their learning experiences to be practical and applicable to their old lives.

One area challenging to online education programs is the fact that adults learn well in teams in small groups. In order to deal with that, most programs include some group learning opportunities. Online education programs apply technology creatively, using forums, chats, teleconferences and other technology to simulate face-to-face interaction. Programs with multiple students in the local area may have actual get-togethers to help reinforce the learning.

Getting a bachelor degree online is a great option for many adults, and can be faster and cheaper than returning to a “normal” college to get the same degree. Online education programs which apply adult learning principles have created great opportunities for adults to complete their college education in a user-friendly way.

Quicker than either a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree, a top-notch certificate program can qualify you for a skilled entry-level position or give you a boost up the ladder at your current job in a remarkably short period of time.

Every company of any size needs personnel with some kind of accounting knowledge. A good certificate program can give you the skills to land that first job, or move up from the data entry job that is beginning to lose its appeal. The basics of financial and managerial accounting and a background in federal taxation will open doors to a wide variety of financial jobs.

Or maybe the hands-on nature of cooking and baking appeals to you. Start off with the nuts and bolts knowledge of food purchasing and culinary skills and procedures, and the management of safety, sanitation, and security, and then branch out into either the fundamentals of cooking or baking. Completing either the cooking or baking certificate program can gain you entrée into any commercial kitchen in the country.

In addition to accounting, cooking, and baking, popular certificate programs include Human Resource Management and Software Development programs. They generally range anywhere from 15 to 24 credit hours; many of them can be completed easily in two semesters, while you’re gaining work experience on your current job - a short-term commitment that can result in a dramatic shift in your career.

Before you can decide on an online school you have to decide which online degree program best suits your needs.

The actual degree programs are online certificates, an associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and an MBA degree, and doctoral degrees. The three the average online student is pursuing either a certificate, an associates, or a bachelor’s degree.

A certificate program is the fastest to obtain. The US News refers to certificate programs as mini-degrees. Certificates are used in industries such as financial planning, technology, food services, and criminal justice. A certificate program is fast paced and skill-centered. It can take anywhere from eight weeks to one year to complete a certificate program depending on what the student is studying. Studies show that students are two times more likely to finish certificate program then other students are to finish any of the other degree program.

It takes sixty credit hours to complete an associate’s degree sixty credit hours in a It’s the degree that most students get while attending community college. Many students who earn an associates degree later transfer to a bachelor’s program where the hours spent earning the degree can be applied directly to the total number of hours needed to finish the longer degree. If you are looking for a hospitality, or telecommunications and associates degree is a solid choice.

A bachelor’s degree is the most popular degree program. It requires between 120-128 credit hours, sixty of those hours can be transferred from an associates degree. People working in public administration, theology and divinit and human resources have bachelor’s degrees.

A recent study showed that people who had master’s degrees earned an average of two hundred dollars more a week then students that were content to settle for a bachelor’s degree. This prestigious degree requires anywhere from one to three years of graduate or post gradate study. In order to obtain a masters degree some students write a thesis while others are able to apply their work experience. In several careers, such as international business and technology, an on-line master’s degree garners more respect then master’s degrees earned through more traditional routes.

If a student is planning on starting their own business, specializing in a specific area, or competing in a global market, they may want to consider pursuing an MBA.

In a recent study done by the U.S. Census Bureau students that went on to earn a doctoral degree are earning an average of $37,265 more then their counterparts who simply earned their bachelor’s degrees. The doctoral degree is the highest possible level of education. It takes approximately five years to complete. In order for a student to earn their doctoral degree a write a publishable thesis, complete original research, and complete a course of study. Only one in one hundred Americans earn a doctoral degree. Doctoral degrees can be earned in fields such as business and public health.

To choose the degree program that best suits your needs decide how much time you can conceivably dedicate to your education.

Ten years ago, the term online schooling might not be very appealing; just like the iron horses in the early part of the 19th century or an airplane in the beginning of the 20th century. Internet was still underdeveloped in 1996 compared to what we have now. And the conventional today may not be acceptable by the general population in 1996.

But we don’t live in 1996 anymore. We are now in the era where everything is possible and acceptable. Just like studying outside the school, in front of your computer at the very comforts of your home. This is called online schooling.

Thinking of entering online schooling can arouse discomfort for some. This is quite understandable since it is not the usual way of learning just like those people who have tried airplane as a way to travel for the first time. However, with the reputation online schools are gaining, the way students learn is transforming in an “unconventional way”.

If you are one of those students who are considering this relatively new form of learning, here are the things you should know- the pros and cons of online schooling:

Pros

No time wasted on traveling 

Although there are many advantages of an online education, there are also some disadvantages. The fact that you are working on your own could very well be one of the major disadvantages of taking online educational classes.

Consider the busy lifestyle of most people. Between work and family responsibilities, the average person has little time to dedicate to outside pursuits even when those pursuits could mean a better job, more money and better benefits. Simply finding the time to attend regular classes may be impossible so an online education becomes a viable option. But the same reason that online education is a great option - lack of time - is the very reason that online education is often difficult.

When you’re attending a traditional class, you go to school at a prearranged times. You are expected to be in class and you are forced to keep up with your instructor’s assignment schedule or risk failing the course. With an online education, there is probably no one checking your progress on a regular basis. You may be given some guidance along the way, but you and you alone are usually responsible for working your way through the course. Since you can work at your own pace, some people find themselves putting the work off until they don’t have enough time to finish the requirements.

If there are no time requirements, the opportunities to put off working on the material is even greater. You can literally go for weeks or months (or even years) without finishing the material to get credit for the course. You’ve paid for the opportunity to learn, but a lack of motivation is often the downfall of those who seek out online education.

Another major disadvantage is the lack of interaction. You aren’t in a classroom and don’t have the opportunity to hear questions and discussion from other students. This isn’t always an issue, depending on the subject of the online education course you are taking, but it could be an important factor in deciding whether an online education is the best option when seeking out opportunities for learning new skills or gaining new training.

Whatever you want to label “learning at home” and however you want to define the latest buzz words for non-traditional education, you can find a program and method that suits your needs. Right now over 1.2 million people in the U.S. participate in some form of distance learning, with a projected expansion to 2.3 million in just a few years.

In looking at this rapidly expanding and viable form of education and training, there are a few basic things you need to consider and some decisions you need to make in order to create the environment that will best suit your needs. You need to know the what, the why, the benefits and the how of the various forms of distance learning.

Distance learning (correspondence courses) started in Europe in the 1800’s and has evolved into a multifaceted term that serves many purposes. Some of the forms of distance learning are: correspondence courses, online education, internet based education, electronic education, e-education, electronic learning, and e-learning. How these terms differ will depend upon how the institution defines and labels the programs which they offer. To simplify the whole concept, let’s say that these terms represent ways of learning away from a “brick and mortar” facility. Some distance learning and/or online programs may or may not be connected to a university or college. There are many programs that are independent and are not affiliated with any institution.

Distance learning offers a variety of paths to personal goals which include: GED, associate degrees, bachelor degrees, graduate certificates, master degrees, doctoral degrees, non-credit training courses, and others. Whether a person is seeking a degree, keeping professional skills updated, or pursuing skills for an interest area or hobby, there is a program or offering that should work.

Why are so many people turning to distance learning? What are its advantages? On a personal level look at such pros as: maintaining privacy; provides convenience; enables a flexible schedule; allows for balancing job and family obligations; working at own pace, going slowly or accelerating learning; can be less expensive; great for homebound individuals; no unnecessary travel; no formal class attendance; and can “learn while you earn.” These are a few of the many things that are causing quite a number of people to take an entirely different approach to attaining knowledge/skills and/or earning a degree.

Those who advocate against an alternative of distance learning, often site the lack of socialization which is a part of a traditional type of education. However, not everyone is looking for the classroom activities, college events/parties, and the interactions that are a part of a school campus. Many of the classroom activities such as discussion and support can be achieved online. The other things that an online education will reinforce are: reading - ebooks, up to date references, current research; listening - through audio lectures or clips; seeing- through graphic illustrations and demonstrations; doing - assignments, quizzes, exams, research papers; and speaking/communication - through email, chats, and electronic discussions. A distance learning program can be far more than just reading and writing.

What are the requirements for becoming a part of a distance learning program? Many programs require a minimum of a GED or taking an admissions test. Usually, the process for applying will include: an application; transcripts; test scores; an essay; and letters of recommendation. The less formal the program, the less formal the requirements. There is a wide range in answering this questions. However, what is necessary for an online program is the right computer equipment with the internet connection (high speed), word processing capability; email; and multimedia player. The program you choose will provide more specific details for recommendation about equipment and software.

In choosing a program there some questions to ask as you do your research and make your selection. Ask about the following: help/support is offered; qualifications of the instructors; number of years the institution has provided services; is it an accredited program; details about the curriculum; and multimedia elements of the program. By the way, accreditation is voluntary since there is no officially sanctioned entity in existence. However, most schools considered the six regional accrediting agencies listings to be legitimate agencies. Ask if it is regionally accredited.

The last thing you need to think about is your motivation and work ethic. If you are a good reader (good reading comprehension skills) who doesn’t procrastinate and can avoid distractions, you will be a good candidate for an alternative approach to education. In this age of global education and the need for current knowledge and skills, this is a fast delivery system that will bring all the technological advancement right into your living room instantaneously. It works for more than a million people, and it can work for you.

Visit our Resource Center on Distance Learning at: http://sbmag.org/distancelearning.html

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Getting a college degree today is easier than ever before thanks to the number of institutions offering distance learning opportunities. Whether you are pursuing a undergraduate, graduate, or doctorate degree you can choose from scores of degree granting schools. 57 leading institutions are featured here.

1. Southern Christian University

2. University of Phoenix

3. Walden University

4. DeVry University

5. Kaplan University

6. Everglades University

7. Ellis College

8. American International University

9. Capella University

10. St. Louis University

11. Regent University

12. Utica College

13. The University of Scranton

14. University of Saint Mary

15. Touro University International

16. Stetson University Virtual School

17. Nova Southeastern University

18. South University

19. St. Joseph’s College of Maine

20. San Joaquin Valley College

21. Rasmussen College

22. Keiser College

23. Jacksonville University

24. Jones International University

25. LeTourneau University

26. Crown College

27. University of St. Augustine

28. Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

29. University of Northeastern Ohio

30. University of Southern Indiana

31. Florida Metropolitan University

32. Champlain College

33. Bellevue University

34. Pitt Community College

35. Stephens College

36. The College of St. Scholastica

37. Vincennes University

38. North Arizona University

39. St. Petersburg College

40. Barton County Community College

41. Simon Fraser University

42. Simmons College

43. A.T. Still University

44. Medical College of Georgia

45. ECPI College of Technology

46. Westwood College

47. Kettering University

48. Thomson Education Direct

49. South University

50. National American University

51. Columbia Southern University

52. Canadian Virtual University

53. Western Governors University

54. US Sports Academy

55. The Art Institute Online

56. Bryant and Stratton Online

57. ACCIS

Scores of additional schools also offer distance learning to their students including traditional “brick and mortar” universities. Drexel, Fairleigh Dickinson, East Carolina, and Iowa State, are some who fall into this category.

So, whether you are pursuing an art certificate, a B.A. in Psychology, an MBA, or a PhD consider doing your studies from a laptop and never set foot in a classroom again.

Although it may seem like a misnomer, the term “virtual education” has taken on a whole new interpretation in today’s technological society. Virtual education has come to mean higher education via the Internet. In other words, virtual education means an online school, college or university. Students who obtain their education over the Web on a computer are said to have completed a virtual education.

Now, some may laugh at the idea of a virtual education, taking it to mean a “pretend” or “almost” education. Nothing could be further from the truth! Computer savvy students, as well as online educators and enterprising employers, all know that a degree from an online school, online college, or online university is as good as, or better than a campus-based education. Students are able to study at their own convenience and at a pace that is less rigid than a traditional school. This flexibility allows individual students to receive an excellent education while keeping stress to a minimum.

Students taking the path to online degrees can select from hundreds of career-enhancing programs, ranging from certificates and diplomas to PhDs. Many students will start out taking online courses in such subjects as Business, Business Administration, Accounting, Business Management, Health Care, Computers, Information Technology, Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, Engineering, or Graphic Design, to name a few. From there, the student can go on to specialize in their chosen field, earning online bachelor degrees, online master degrees, and even online doctorate degrees.

Keep in mind, distance learning is not a breeze. Students are expected to devote at least 12-15 hours of online study per week. And, depending on the chosen field of study, there may be some hands-on experience or lab work required. These are some prime reasons why students looking into virtual education should be sure to thoroughly investigate the online college curriculum to be sure any prerequisites can be met before enrollment commences. As curriculums can vary from school to school, so do online course duration and tuition costs.

Still wondering if virtual education is right for you? If you are a working adult, stay-at-home-parent, or if you just have big career ambitions and little time, a virtual education may just be your ticket to success!

To learn more about Virtual Education we urge you to search our site for Online Schools, Online Colleges, and Online Universities.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All Rights Reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

If you are interested in exploring information and writing about it, you may find opportunities to build a career through courses taught in online journalism schools. Online journalism schools offer instruction on the various methods of gathering, processing, and delivering news. And online schools let you study without worrying about meeting campus schedules, finding a place to park, or meeting deadlines. You can study at your own pace and on your own time in the convenience and comfort of your own home. What could be easier?

Through distance learning, you can earn a diploma, a certificate, or a degree in journalism. Online courses in journalism can provide theories and practices of professional printing, writing, reporting, editing, and managing news. They can also provide instruction in news photojournalism, mass communications, layout and design, journalism law and policy, ethics of news reporting, research methods, and journalism history and criticism.

Students can earn Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Mater of Arts in Journalism (MAJ) or Master of Science in Journalism (MSJ) degrees, depending on the choice of schools. Associate and bachelor degrees in journalism can qualify you for an entry-level position with various media institutions; while master degree programs will prepare you for advanced positions in media communications.

Proper journalism training will provide you with practical experience in reporting, writing, and editing for media of various kinds. Classes can cover television, local newspaper, magazine, and newsroom website reporting. You can get experience preparing reports on local government meetings, court cases, public issues, and incidents from city streets.

The experience you gain will give you an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of issues of business, law, politics, economics, the arts, and local and international issues of religion and politics. Most Journalism Schools will allow you to concentrate on newspaper, magazine, radio or television broadcasting, or new media journalism. Studies may cover presentation and design of newspapers, new media, and television. You may learn principles of media management and of clean writing, accuracy, and ethics in media reporting and production.

If you are interested in learning more about Online Journalism Schools and other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) can learn the duties and responsibilities of home healthcare over the Internet through Online Personal Support Schools. Learning online to provide patients with personal support is a great way to gain entry into the challenging field of healthcare!

Also known as Home Health Care Workers, PSWs provide personal services and health care to the homebound and disabled. Students learn to combine social work skills with nursing skills as they prepare for a career in this growing healthcare field. Distance learning provides a great opportunity to working people to study to advance their PSW skills, without having to forfeit current employment.

Future personal support workers can build combined skills through interactive courses in social work and nursing. PSW students will learn to assist in rehabilitation exercises, collect specimens for medical tests, record vital signs, and report clinical information. Aspiring PSWs also develop skills for providing necessary emotional support and services to patients and their families as needed. Online Personal Support Schools train students to respond to the particular needs of their clients within their limitations, without attempting to diagnose, assess, or to treat acute conditions beyond immediate emergency assistance.

Graduates of online personal support schools (also called online personal support bridging schools) will be qualified to provide a wide range of healthcare services through employment in nursing homes, hospitals, private homes, long-term care facilities, adult day programs, group homes, and educational facilities. For a fulfilling and rewarding career in healthcare, apply to a personal support school today!

If you are interested in learning more about Online Personal Support Schools and other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

As most people who are immersed in the workplace will tell you, business is a competitive environment that requires an enormous dedication to maintaining - and elevating - a skill set in order to remain marketable and successful. In this day and age, attaining a college degree is absolutely necessary for growth within the business environment.

Unfortunately, not everyone is in a position to attend college and still maintain their lifestyle; a busy work and family life leaves little time for driving to and from school and sitting in a classroom for hours. Luckily, with the growing trend towards convenience derived from the home computer, non-traditional students can have access to education through a distance learning college.

A reputable distance learning college provides all the education and accredited degrees that a traditional college or university; however, the learning takes place within the student’s own environment rather than in a classroom setting. This convenience allows non-traditional students to achieve their educational goals at their own pace and still manage to meet work and family obligations.

The most important thing when looking for a distance learning college is determining whether they offer an accredited program. There’s not much good in embarking upon distance learning if the degree you receive is not going to be recognized. The U.S. Department of Education offers an online service dedicated to revealing the accreditation of all colleges including those that offer distance learning programs.

A reputable, accredited distance learning college will offer course work in a variety of subjects. And as the popularity of distance learning continues to grow, the subject offerings provided by these programs continues to grow exponentially. The benefit to students is clear; the ability to pursue a curriculum of interest without the hassle of travel and classroom time.

In most cases, a distance learning college will require students to choose their course of study and pay their tuition by the semester. A professor for each class will act as an online facilitator, presenting students with a class syllabus that will tell them what to expect from the upcoming semester.

Credits are received for the completion of the course and completion is generally dependent on a number of assignments and examinations. Often, the professor will require students to purchase books; books will be used for course study and reading. Lessons may also be taught via online tutelage and through the use of video.

Students can complete these lessons at times which are convenient for them. Completed assignments are either posted to an online site or sent to the professor via email; and examinations are generally set for a particular time period - perhaps to be taken anytime over the course of two days - and students log in to a specific site to complete the test.

Traditional college can not always meet the varying needs of today’s non-traditional students. Not every college student has just graduated from high school. For those students who wish to pursue a degree in higher education, today’s distance learning college allows them to reach that goal and still remain committed to their lifestyle.

Online education programs have changed the college landscape, allowing students to work from anywhere in the world to obtain accredited college degrees. According to The Washington Post, some groups are predicting that one in 10 college students will be enrolled in online degree programs by 2008. And fortunately, it’s easier than ever to get funding for online education programs. The advantages of online learning continue to stack up.

Attend Class on Your Schedule without Putting Your Life on Hold

For adult learners, an online education can mean the freedom to keep a job and get a degree at the same time.

Many adult learners have families or other responsibilities, and a strict work schedule that doesn’t lend itself to a traditional education that requires traveling to campus and attending classes at specific times. One of the advantages of online learning is the flexibility to attend classes on a schedule that works for you. For adult learners, returning to school shouldn’t have to mean putting a busy life on hold.

Discover the Online Advantage for Continuing Education and Certification

Another great advantage for adult learners is the ability to take continuing education courses online. Many times jobs require employees to continue their education for certification, job requirements, or to allow employees to gain added knowledge and skill within their area of the organization. Online learning is perfectly suited to fulfill these types of requirements. You can continue to meet your everyday responsibilities while upgrading your credentials and skills with an online certification.

Find out about Federal Aid for Funding Your Future

Recently, it has become easier to get federal aid for online education. Now, filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines how much money in grants and loans you can get from the government. If you’re thinking of continuing your education, but you’re worried about funding it, the government just might have you covered.

Online education programs are growing more popular among young and adult learners alike. Online courses don’t interfere with your life, and it’s easier than ever to pay for your education. The online campus is as large as your imagination, and it’s growing.

Continuing Education