E-learning Technology Expands U.S. Enrollment

E-learning Technology Expands U.S. Enrollment

New technology has allowed educational institutions to take the distance out of distance learning, which has made online degree programs more popular than ever. “Growing by Degrees: Online Education in the US, 2005″, a report published last year by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, gives a very positive outlook on the future of online education. The report indicates that online enrollment in the US increased from 1.98m in 2003 to 2.35m a year later, a growth rate more than 10 times that predicted by the National Center for Education Statistics for the general post-secondary student population.

The earliest inception of e-learning closely resembled a classroom on a CD-ROM, and was structured in such a way as to present students with a rigid format that offered little in the way of a flexible learning environment. Most recently, however, e-learning has evolved from a formal presentation of information to a much more fluid and integrated type of learning. As technology has improved by leaps and bounds, demand for high quality online educational programs has steadily increased. The flexibility of current technology now available has allowed many institutions to offer a multitude of ways for students to interact with not only faculty, but with each other as well. The end result has been the creation of a more community inspired experience that leaves students feeling they are part of a greater whole instead of an island unto themselves.

Investing in an integrated learning curriculum is not cheap, though the institutions who have made the effort to stay abreast of the newest technology have certainly reaped rewards from their efforts. With the most current formats available being favored by many students, it is an investment that is likely to yield favorable results for years to come. With each new student that graduates from an online university, the public acceptance of this form of learning will continue to grow. Though it’s likely that online degree programs will never surpass traditional university programs, there is a good chance that in the near future, most graduates who enter the workforce will have gained a level of experience with an online learning format within some point along their educational journey.

September 16th, 2010 by admin
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Eddie Munson Appointed to Bearing Points Board of Director

Eddie Munson Appointed to Bearing Points Board of Director

BearingPoint, one of the largest management and consulting firms of the world, appointed Eddie Munson to its Board of Directors. BearingPoint has more than 17,000 employees and main practice areas that focus on the Financial Services, Public Services and Commercial Services markets. With a long legacy as KPMG Consulting, BearingPoint experts have taken more than a 100 years to build their position on how to help their clients achieve their goals.

Munson, a retired partner with KPMG, has almost 30 years of experience in auditing that focuses on the financial services and automotive industry. He was a member of the Board of Director’s of KPMG from the year 1996 to 2004. At KPMG, he was a member of the pension committee and chair of the committees and was mainly responsible for partner rights and board nominations. Lately, Munson was the national partner in charge of the University Relations and Campus Recruiting programs of KPMG.

Rod McGeary, BearingPoint’s Chairman of the Board said, “Munson’s extensive experience as an auditor covering key industries, coupled with his in-depth client experience will further augment the capabilities of our current Board members.” He further said that BearingPoint is also excited to appoint Munson to Board of Directors.

Currently, Eddie Munson is one of the members of the Board of Directors of United American Healthcare Corporation and the Skillman Foundation.

September 9th, 2010 by admin
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Easy Template to Write Your Own Cover Letter

Easy Template to Write Your Own Cover Letter

The following cover letter sample gives an idea of what most job hunters should do when composing these. It consists of only a very few paragraphs, and is therefore short and easy to read. The reason for this sample being short is simply because hiring managers are extremely busy and will not read long letters. They may glance at them, or skim them for statements that jump out at them, but they probably will not have time to read them. Use this sample when composing your own cover letters, and youll save time and get more interviews.

Date
HR Managers name
Company Name
Address
City
State
Zip
RE: Job Reference number (if one is available)

Dear Mr. Blank,

Im writing to introduce myself in hopes of joining your organization, and have enclosed a copy of my resume for your review.

My background, skills and talents are in all aspects of veterinary medicine, with a particular emphasis in embryo collection and transplant. I also have strong skills in general veterinary practice, management and business operations.

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and exchange ideas. I will call you over the next several days to make an appointment. If you prefer, you may reach me at the phone number or email address listed above.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting with you soon.

Sincerely,

John R. Doe, DVM

Enclosure

This sample was obviously for a veterinarian, but anyone in any profession can use it and customize it to suit their own needs. This is a traditional letter done in paragraph style. Another option that is gaining in popularity is the bulleted letter. A cover letter sample in the bulleted format follows.

Date

Manager
ABC Company
Street Address
City, state, zip code

RE: (reference position applied for)

Dear (ad name)

With over 20 years of experience as a military officer, I can make an immediate contribution to your organization. Highlights of my background include:

Experienced as a pilot, flight instructor, security officer, and operations officer in charge of millions of pounds in government property and responsible for hundreds of personnel.

Skilled in staff management, project management, security & safety, executive management briefing, and leadership of highly skilled technicians and professionals.

Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently, and lead by example. Utilize sound decision making judgement as evidenced by increased levels of responsibility and professional commendations.

I would like to discuss in greater detail the valuable contributions I would make at your organization. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555. Your time and consideration are most appreciated.

Sincerely,

John Doe

Enclosure

This sample was for a retired military aviation officer, but the basic format would stay the same for a teacher, CEO, salesman, firefighter, accountant or almost any other profession. There are two or three bulleted paragraphs that repeat qualifications, accomplishments or other highlights from the resume. The bulleted format makes them easy to see, and the bold facing on key points draws the attention of the reader to what the writer of the cover letter sample wants the reader to see, and read. Use the sample above, or the first cover letter sample, depending on your own needs, and customize them to your profession.

September 2nd, 2010 by admin
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Earning Money from Paid to Surf Programs

Earning Money from Paid to Surf Programs

Get paid to surf programs were once an easy method of earning money online. Such programs were in the peak during the year 2005. Get paid to surf programs started as means of online advertising. The paid to surf programs warranted registration with a surfing websites and viewing websites of other members and in turn they will get credit entitled by the person to have his website to be viewed by others. Actually speaking, the person does not even require watching the websites, as long as they keep accumulating which will entitle him to earn more credits even if he is not working.

In the late 2003s apart from advertising the website through auto surfing, an opportunity was provided to earn one percent on up gradation fee for one year each day for up graded memberships. This paved way to start similar paid to surf sites by several entrepreneurs. At the end of the year 2004, there were nearly 40 get paid to surf site programs running on the internet and at the end of year 2006 nearly 400 auto surf programs were running. Even though the paid to surf programs were easy sources of making money on the internet, there was some percentage of risk involved as earning money was not guaranteed by all the companies and some dubious companies due to greed killed the paid to surf industry considerably.

Earn Money Through Paid Surfing:

Many companies pay people for surfing the web. An advertisement will be displayed on the desktop when they get connected to the web and in turn the company will provide some percentage from the advertising revenue they get to the person who is viewing it. The amount thus got per hour is not huge, but it can be made big by referring to other people called the affiliates or referrals. This is by telling others about the paid to surf program and getting them into the loop. By doing so the person who has referred people will get paid according to the number of people they have convinced to join.

A person can get paid to surf as an option of working from home and can spend his leisure time productively. At the same time, he can enjoy by working along with environmental groups or indulging in activities like yoga. The main idea is to earn money through the internet and in turn give back the society in terms of good deeds.

A person can get a sustained income from surfing the net by following a step by step procedure in getting in touch with the masses. The main aim of the whole concept is to be able to connect with as many people as possible and to help others to get rid of problems. Many people like to work, make money in their free time and also do business with a sense of pride. It helps in connecting with people as well as lives the dream life of the surfer.

August 26th, 2010 by admin
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Do You Feel Like You Are In A Pressure Cooker?

Do You Feel Like You Are In A Pressure Cooker?

Do You Feel Like You Are In A Pressure Cooker? (Life Should Be Taken Slowly But Surely)

Are you sometimes worried? Is the burden and challenge of everyday life proving to be too much for you? Do you ever feel that you always have so much to do and so little time to do it? Or, do you feel that you are simply not fast enough to do every single task at home and in the office?

The fact is, we all undergo pressure and feel that we are, in one way or another, unable to cope with the mad rush of 21st century living. When we push ourselves too hard, we usually wind up being less effective in getting things done. And much worse, we fall down in a spiral of depression, stress and anxiety.

Stress and anxiety can hinder us in a number of ways, namely:

lIt diminishes the quality of our thinking process;
lIt causes a strain on our nervous system;
lIt makes us more irritable;
lIt makes us hard to get along with others;
lIt robs us our joy; and
lThe pressure could even cause an anxiety attack.

But stress and anxiety need not deny you of happiness and success. There are ways to properly deal with these emotional and psychological burdens. The first step to take is to become organized. Most of the time, the pressure we feel when we see our work calendars and organizers is due to our lack of organization. Time management and a clear knowledge of priorities are a must. You could be the most organized person in the world but if you don’t manage your time, it will eventually affect your fulfillment, productivity, relationships, happiness and everything else that matters.

Is it possible to be very busy without feeling under pressure? Is your work too important that you have no more time to take time to be recharged? Psychologists often say that a certain amount of pressure is necessary for a normal, healthy life. However, too much pressure can result to sleepless nights, over-eating, smoking, drinking, and substance abuse. Here are some helpful tips to get out of that pressure cooker:

lAcceptance – Accept that life is not perfect and avoid too much self-criticism.

lAccept your limitations – Know your short comings and boundaries.

lFind a win-win situation – Balance your time and energy for family and work.

lBe kind to yourself – Do yourself a favor and get some pampering. Treat yourself to a massage or a day in the salon.

lExercise and Relaxation – Improve your body through exercise and allow your body to recuperate through relaxation.

lAvoid unnecessary conflict – Find a solution to a dispute. Stay calm and negotiate in a diplomatic manner. Don’t be too argumentative.

lManage your time more effectively – Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize.

lFind time to meet friends – Talking with friends is a proven stress relief method. Setting a meeting with friends helps us to relax and have fun. Having a good laugh with them takes the load of your backs from the pressures at work. Moreover, laughter boosts the immune system that is often weakened during stress.

Exposure to prolonged pressure can lead to physical, behavioral and psychological problems that can adversely affect a person’s life. Make sure you take time out to recover from the pressures you encounter every day. Remember, you can choose to remain in control of your stress and your life, in general.

August 19th, 2010 by admin
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Do What You Love & Love What You Do

Do What You Love & Love What You Do

It is not easy summing up a life and defining it in one or two pages. Philosophers throughout recorded history from Plato to Descartes to Newton, Hume, Spinoza, Hegel and Mill have found it necessary to write great, long volumes explaining what they believe and how they arrived at their personal truths. Nevertheless, in the next few minutes I am going to try and tell you what I believe in, how I came to believe the way I do, and how these beliefs have affected my life.

In a nutshell, my philosophy comes down to this: Do what you love and love what you do. The first part is easy to understand. Life is too short to spend it doing anything other than what you love. What you love is, perhaps, what you are meant to do in the greater scheme of things. What you love is who you are.

Let me explain the second partlove what you do. Sometimes, try as we will, things do not go according to plan and we find ourselves doing what we must, rather than what we choose. If we become negative we start to take instead of give, draining others and ourselves of life and power. By loving whatever we are doing, and giving it our all, regardless of whether it is of our conscious choosing or not, we remain positive; we remain kind; and we remain capable of caring for ourselves and working toward that ultimate in successful livingdoing what we love. Betty Friedan, author of The Feminine Mystique, tells us that Those who have most fully realized themselves…have done so in the service of a human purpose larger than themselves. Loving what we do means taking responsibility a step beyond self and into the larger community. Loving what we do takes effort. It does not just happen.

I developed this philosophy out of the experiences and incidents of my life. Years ago I was a computer programmer. I made a lot of money. In fact, at 26 years old, I was making 50,000 a year, working four days a week. What more could I ask? Why wasnt I happy? The fact is, I never had any interest in computers. I was outwardly successful and inwardly miserable. I wanted to work with people, to do something that was meaningful. Barbara Sher, author of Wishcraft, suggests that We each have a special talent which we can identify by examining our feelings toward what we do. If we love doing something, that is where our talent lies. For me this translated into Mommy Mentors Mentors. I founded Mommy Mentors was founded in 2004 as a resource for all women– young and old, single, married or divorced, mother or not –to come to find support, understanding and inspiration. We provide this through a network of partners who share their experiences, strengths and hopes. Mommy Mentors holds certain ideas sacred above all others. These are family, motherhood and friendship. Mommy Mentors partners use the power of their own real life experiences to give hope and inspiration to those who need it.

Through Mommy Mentors I will be helping women connect, share and learn from one another. Seeing women make these strides towards empowerment and renewed happiness will bring me satisfaction that is far greater than any computer program ever could.

My philosophy affects every aspect of my life. Today and every day, with my goal of doing what I love in mind, I work at loving what I do. In other areas of my life I also put my philosophy to work. Because I am loving what I do, wherever I am and whoever I am with, I try to be kind, and give generously of my self, and to treat everyone who comes into my life with respect, consideration, kindness and compassion.

If we are to be successful in life we must learn to do what we love, but that is only the beginning. We also have to make an effort to love what we do. Whether life brings us a fast food dinner or a banquet, we have to be grateful for the opportunity to do our best.

August 12th, 2010 by admin
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Do Something Exotic With Your Degree And Teach English In

Do Something Exotic With Your Degree And Teach English In

Do Something Exotic With Your Degree And Teach English In China

The demand for English teachers all over the world is growing quickly. As more countries interact with each other through business and other types of communication, the need for English speakers in foreign lands is growing. And nowhere is this need greater than in China.

If you’re considering teaching English in China, you’ve chosen a challenging and competitive field. Every day language students choose China as their career field, but the need still far outweighs the available teachers.

For those who plan to teach English in China, there are a few basics you should know before beginning a job search.

Qualifications

All you really need to teach English in China is a college degree and fluency in English. Many countries require language teachers to have TEFL or ESL certification; however, China does not consider this a requirement. Nonetheless, it’s wise to get certified before you begin your job search. It’ll put you far ahead of the pack.

Getting certified in ESL is an easy process. Many colleges and community schools offer month-long certification programs. If you’re planning on teaching overseas, it’s best to arm yourself with a certificate just in case the job hunt is a little more cutthroat than you had expected.

Steps to Finding a Job

1. Study the Chinese culture. Keep in mind that when you teach English in China, you’ll be living in China for at least the length of a school term, so you’ll want to know as much as possible about your future home.

2. Research the Chinese school system and decide what level you’d like to teach at. English is taught from grade school all the way up through university level. Some businesses will also hire you to teach their employees English skills, or you may be interested in teaching conversational skills to adults in general.

3. Make the necessary contacts. This may require some international phone calls. The Internet will be an invaluable tool at this point. Contact schools, universities, businesses and job boards to determine which jobs are right for you. Once youve selected some companies that you want to apply to, follow their guidelines for the application process.

4. Talk to your college. Many universities will have arrangements with Chinese schools; these “sister school” programs allow you to teach English in China while a Chinese teacher visits your school. The organization where you get your ESL certification will also most likely have a job placement assistance program.

Know What to Expect

Keep in mind that if you choose to teach English in China, it won’t necessarily be the most financially rewarding career available- at least, not at first. Many Chinese universities will only require you to teach 14-15 classroom hours a week; however, you will be expected to be available for office hours and other types of responsibilities.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate terms. Although your paycheck may not be very impressive, most universities or companies will provide you with airfare to and from China. Some universities will offer paid housing for foreign teachers, which eliminates the hassle of finding and paying for an apartment or house.

If you have a master’s degree or a doctorate, you may qualify to work as a Foreign Expert in a Chinese university. Foreign Experts teach higher level classes and generally get a higher pay rate than Foreign Teachers.

Choosing to teach English in China is not just a career- it’s a major commitment, so its important to think carefully before making your final decision! If you love the Chinese culture; if teaching English is your passion; if you’re unafraid of new and challenging situations- then you’ve quite possibly found the right career field.

August 5th, 2010 by admin
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Do I Need A Degree To Be A Fashion Designer?

Do I Need A Degree To Be A Fashion Designer?

Do I Need A Degree To Be A Fashion Designer?

Do I need an education to be a fashion designer? You might be asking yourself this question at the end of high school or sixth form. The answer is preferably yes, as a degree in fashion will give you the practical tools and training and creative stimulation to follow your dream. But if the thought of spending money and time at school or university puts you off, the answer could be an Internet course in fashion training.

A career in the glamorous world of fashion must be one of the most exciting and lusted after jobs in the world. The field attracts people who have high levels of creativity, an eye for matching colours and designs and an interest in popular and designer fashion. Your course will build on these abilities and teach you much more.

Throughout your training you will learn about the different talents that are necessary for you to get the best start in this highly competitive career. Options taught include how to design and present your ideas, and more practical essentials such as textiles and garment making basics.

A degree may also equip you with the knowledge, skills and attitude you will need to succeed in the business side of fashion. You might want your qualification to lead to a job with an established clothing design company- anywhere from Prada to Primark. Or maybe you fancy using your talent and training to start your own business. Individual courses may give you extra training in options such as business studies and media and advertising.

Other complementary courses include Pattern, Cutting and Design training, Dress Making or Textiles courses and related subjects like Free Hand Drawing or Art and Design. Wherever you choose to follow your interest, whether at college or on the net, the education providers should help you choose which combination of fashion degree options is best for you.

An Internet course has the added benefit that you can complete it in your own home, at your own pace. This means you can complete you training without having to give up your current job or even move away to study. These online courses vary in expense and quality, so it is important to think carefully about you decision before committing to anything.

In an online course you will still benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable tutors who should have lots of experience in the fashion business. These tutors will work with you individually, guiding you through your studies via email and interactive websites. There may even be options such as virtual lectures or message boards where you can discuss your ideas with other students.

Most fashion training courses will end with some form of coursework or outside assessment. Upon completion, you should find yourself with the skills, ability and confidence to use your talent and make your mark on the streets and on the dance floor. Good luck!

July 29th, 2010 by admin
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Distance Learning Study Tips

Distance Learning Study Tips

Distance learning is a fabulous new way to get an advanced education. It allows you to work at home on your own schedule and it allows you to set your own pace for learning. But remember, you still have to do all of the work. Its just like that old saying, easy does it; but do it!!

In order to be successful in achieving your distance learning goals you will have to develop a sense and source of personal motivation and you will also need good study habits. Just as successful students almost always have good study habits, so too is your online success directly tied to good studying in your distance learning program. Here are a few tips to help you get started off on the right foot.

Set up a study schedule and stick to it. If you need to do two hours of study for every online hour then schedule a fixed time when you will do your studying. Pick a time when you are least likely to be interrupted, it can be early in the morning before the rest of your family wakes up, or it can be later in the day when everyone is gone to work or school.

Dont pick just before dinner when everyone is unwinding and catching up on their day or listening to their favorite, and very loud, music. You need the peace and quiet in order to concentrate. Some people study in the basement or even the garage. It doesnt matter where it is as long as it is convenient, quiet, and conducive to your studies.

Plan your study time when everyone else is busy with their own activities. It might be when the kids are gone to sports or dance class or when your spouse is at their bowling night out.

It might be Saturday morning while the kids watch cartoons or your wife is sleeping in. It helps if other people are busy because they wont be able to interrupt your studying.

Another tip for successful studying in your distance learning program includes creating a space for yourself within your home where you actually enjoy spending time. Some people like to study on the back porch on nice days or in front of a cozy fire on colder nights. As long as you are comfortable it is a good place to study.

Try and protect that space by telling all of your family that this area is off limits during your study time. Make up a small sign that says Student at Work or even Quiet, Please. You may have to tell them a few times, especially your kids, but sooner rather than later they will get it and respect your need for this study time and space.

July 22nd, 2010 by admin
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Distance Learning Is Not For Everyone

Distance Learning Is Not For Everyone

Distance learning is a great advance forward in making education more accessible to millions of Americans who would simply not have the time or resources to obtain a college degree or technical certificate. It allows people from all over the country, even in remote or rural areas to plug into technology that lets them learn, at their own speed and on their own time.

But distance learning is not for everyone and some people need the familiar surroundings of a real classroom and a real teacher in order to learn. Thats because our traditional education model features three key components that have proven to be effective in helping to educate large numbers of people. Those components are human teacher expression and explanation, student note-taking based on the teachers presentation, and peer communication between the students that is facilitated by the teacher.

None of these elements are present in distance learning and as a result it becomes a foreign way for students, old or young, to receive and process the information in order to learn.

In order to be successful in distance learning we must find a way to overcome the fact that these traditional elements are missing in our online education. Some people can do that and others cannot.

Other barriers to distance learning include having the ability to be self-motivated and to do all of the necessary work including studying in order to be successful. If you cant study or complete assignments without the monitoring and occasional nudge from a teacher then distance learning may not be for you. Similarly if you dont have the discipline to participate in all online events and to protect your time and space from interruptions and distractions you will find it very hard to go through a distance learning program.

Distance learning may not be for you as well if you already have a busy life that involves a lot of time and responsibilities. You can try and study as you watch over your children at the pool, but sooner or later one of your kids will by accident or design pull you away from your studies. You can try and do a distance learning program while working 60 hours at the office, but eventually something will give, and thats likely to be your homework assignment.

Distance learning really is a giant step forward in using technology to improve our lives and education. Just remember that it may not be right for you, at least right now.

July 15th, 2010 by admin
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