The Pros and Cons of Online Education

You're thinking about furthering your career or finally getting your college degree. But with so many educational choices online, how do you know whether it's right for you? Here are some pointers you should consider, before making your decision.

There are many perks associated with online study. Unlike traditional learning, distance learning can offer you greater flexibility, as you don't have to waste time- and money- commuting to the campus and you can choose a program that truly suits your interests or professional needs, because you are not confined to the classes that are offered locally.

Another advantage to distance learning is the fact that you can continue to work, because you don't have to worry about fitting your classes around your job schedule. This is a distinct advantage over traditional methods of learning, because this option allows you to continue earning while you study. Online programs often cost less than their traditional counterparts, so you can save money on tuition, if you pursue your degree through an online university.

Online study is also a great option for those students with physical handicaps, which may prevent them from travelling to a traditional campus. Likewise, if you are shy, or perhaps even language-challenged, participating in an online course may be the perfect alternative to a live class.

There are some drawbacks to online education, however. For example, traditional instructors may not successfully make the transition from the classroom to the online platform and it can sometimes be difficult for them to transfer course content or offer additional support to the students.

While the technological aspects of online learning can make the courses more interesting and interactive, some students may not have the computer hardware to support the specific programs required for the class. Many courses require DSL or a high-speed internet connection in order for the student to interact effectively with the instructor or other students. Similarly, online learning can rob the student of the conventional aspects of classroom interaction, such as being able to talk to the instructor or the other students, face-to-face.

In spite of the drawbacks, however, many new and returning students are opting to study via distance learning and are finding it to be a very rewarding experience.

Financial Aid for Online Education

You've made the decision to pursue your degree online and you've been accepted to an online program. Now what do you do? The next step in realizing your dream is to secure the funds needed for your education.

If you haven't already done so, now is the time to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FASFA, for short. This is a straightforward application published by the Department of Education, which gives lenders an idea of what sort of funding you are entitled to. The application process is fairly simple and can be completed online in minutes. Once you've filled in the necessary information, you should receive, within a matter of a few days, a confirmation letter, of which programs you are eligible for. This process is free and simple to do, and it is the cornerstone of securing financial aid for your college program.

Once you have this information, you need to contact the Financial Aid office at the college that you want to attend. There are many types of financial aid packages available, ranging from work study programs to government aid. The financial aid officer will be able to provide the necessary forms for the different lending institutions and should be able to guide you through the decision making process.

After you have completed your loan applications, they will need to be sent to the school for verification and processing. Many banks will not release the funds directly to the student, only to the college at the start of the term. This makes it easier- and safer- for both the college and the student.

Securing funds for college is a fairly easy process that needn't be stressful. The key to the whole process is being well organized and making sure that you meet all of the loan deadlines specified by both the Department of Education and your college's financial aid office.

Testing the Waters of Online Education: Reasons to Give Distance Learning a Try

Online learning is still a relatively new format for the delivery of classroom instruction. And while the benefits of attending a virtual classroom instead of a physical classroom are many -- ranging from convenience and affordability to better collaboration and accessibility -- there are still a number of potential students out there who are reluctant to give it a try.

Yet, there is a way to test the waters of online learning to figure out if online study is right for you. Unlike, say, parachute jumping or becoming a heart surgeon, you can find out without taking a big scary plunge.

While traditional colleges and universities normally require you commit to a full semester or even year of courses, that is anything but the case with most online schools. Without any commitment, and very little (if any) expense, you can decide firsthand whether or not online education is a good fit for your unique learning style. After all, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

That being said, online learning isn’t just about earning a degree any longer -- far from it in fact. There are countless certification courses out there -- offered by top-tier and accredited universities -- that can be taken to learn a new skill or brush up on an old one. From graphic design to massage therapy, certification courses can lead to a new hobby and even a new career.

‘Personal growth’ courses also abound, and range from discovering your inner peace and improving your positive thinking to photography and screenwriting. While these kinds of online courses might not enhance your resume, necessarily, the impact they have on one’s life can be profound. You won’t find a more convenient or affordable way to pursue some serious -- and seriously fulfilling -- self-improvement.

So why not give online learning a try -- or try online learning to test that career path you’ve always dreamed of?

Here are some reasons to give online learning a try.

Dream Big

You only live once, so why not look into the true dream job or career you would want most out of life? With today’s countless options online, anything is within your grasp – whether you’ve considered becoming a private eye, trial lawyer, or heart surgeon.

No one wants to be wondering years down the road whether they should have taken the chance on a career that they really would have loved. You never know what’s possible until you try!

Get Creative

Online learning isn’t just about getting a degree or improving your technical skills. It’s now an educational arena more and more people are turning to for art, music, photography, and other creative endeavors.

At the very least, you’ll liven up your current life with a fulfilling creative release. And who knows, your creative passion might even lead to a whole new career!

Try Something New

As we mentioned, distance learning can be a convenient and affordable way to investigate a new passion, learn a new skill, or sample a new career direction -- with no risk and little expense.

Maybe you’re a receptionist that’s always wanted to try graphic design? Or a paralegal itching to get into IT? Statistics show that most people change careers at least once in their lives, and gaining expertise in a new field is a great way to test-drive a new career. Online courses let you sample a new field without leaving your current one, and can generally be worked into your busy schedule with ease.

Take a Step Up

On the other hand, maybe you’re already happy with your job and chosen field, but would like a quick career boost. You’d likely be surprised at how much learning one new skill can impact your job standing. An accountant learning a new bookkeeping program, for instance, or a graphic designer getting a grasp of the newest cutting-edge software, can make all the difference in the world when a promotion is at stake.

Additionally, your employers will almost certainly be impressed with your drive and initiative -- not to mention your tangible new skill. Some businesses will even cover the cost of your tuition if the course directly applies to your work with them.

Help Yourself

If you’re a small-business owner, or just aspire to be, there’s a perfect online course just waiting out there for you. What shopkeep, e-commerce seller, or innkeeper couldn’t stand to improve their bookkeeping skills, know more about saving on their taxes, or gain crucial knowledge on business management?

Imagine the money you could save by handling your own financial ledgers, or dealing with your own tax filing at the end of the year!

And for the aspiring entrepreneur, your only challenge will be choosing the right business to explore. Whether you’re considering opening a B& B, restaurant, import-export service, or other small business, there’s likely an online course available to show you the ropes.

Strengthen a Weakness

It’s safe to say that everyone has at least one weakness -- from the technically handicapped, to the financially clueless, to those who struggle to communicate better or run their office in a more organized manner.

That monkey on your back has been there too long, but you can give him the boot with one thorough online course. You’ll feel a weight off your shoulders and won’t feel so much at the mercy of your bookkeeper or office IT staff.

Satisfy Your Curiosity

Maybe you’ve always wondered what it was like in the world of graphic design, or how those computer gamers come up with such amazing results. Everyone has something they’re curious about but never looked into. Our pragmatic side, or fear of failure, tells us “that’s not for you,” or “you’re an accountant, not an interior designer, darn it!”

With the accessibility and affordability of distance courses, you can now satisfy your curiosity without breaking the bank, or even a sweat. Even if you don’t end up making a career change, you’ll get to see how the other half lives – and gain expertise in a brand-new area.

Stop Waiting!

Regardless of your choice with distance learning, there’s no time like the present to give it a try. The field as a whole has grown to be so extensive there is literally no end to your online options.

For someone who's unsure whether or not they want to start pursuing a full degree online, a certification or personal development course can be ideal for getting a true feel for what online learning is all about. If you like it and feel you can succeed at it, then you can take the plunge and move on to a legitimate degree program. If it’s not your cup of tea, no big deal, since the monetary and time commitments are fairly nominal.

But the fact is, you won’t know how you feel about online learning, or that dream career you’ve always thought about, or learning a new skill, until you give distance education a test-run.

You have little to lose and a world of possibilities to gain.

What's behind the Explosive Growth in Distance Learning

There is a ground swell of support globally to support the growth of distance learning. Market research firms, government agencies, public and private companies, and even venture capital firms – those companies that invest in new and emerging businesses – all agree that distance learning’s future is very bright, and a good investment opportunity as well.

All this translates into a bright future for anyone looking at distance learning to accomplish their career, educational, and learning objectives. Chances are if there isn’t a program in place today for your specific needs, there will be one – soon. This article explains how the perfect storm is brewing for distance learning, in a very positive way. Several market factors are presented here, along with research from research and government agencies that show that distance learning is here to stay and may someday surpass traditional classroom attendance approaches to learning.

What’s driving Distance Learning growth?

Consider the following statistics from International Data Corporation on the market for distance learning – these figures and others are making many traditional colleges and universities re-vamp their courses and degree programs to make them available online.

* There are 133 million U.S. adults or 66% of the adult population, which have Internet access today. That’s over half the entire U.S. population and serves as a strong incentive for colleges and universities to re-vamp their programs to support this untapped educational market.

* According to International Data Corporation, over 90% of college students access the Internet, with 50% accessing the Web daily, and this is on a global scale. Colleges and universities have also found that to stay relevant to their traditional students, they have had to create online and distance learning programs quickly to stay up with their learning needs.

* 87% of four-year colleges will offer distance-learning courses in 2004, up from 62% in 1998. According to International Data Corporation, 25% more colleges and universities added distance learning programs between 1998 and 2004.

* By 2004, 2.2 million degree-seeking students are enrolled in distributed courses – CAGR of 33%. The growth of distance learning on a global scale has the attention of companies as well – they plan on spending $272B in the next five years on in-house training and education programs, according to International Data Corporation.

* 51% of all online courses worldwide have online discussion forms in 2001, growing to 65% in 2005. This is a sign of how quickly the Internet’s performance is improving around the world. The bandwidth required to support online discussions is great news for distance learning. Now even the most geographically remote student can get the education they want.

Six Reasons Why Distance Learning Makes Sense

More and more people are finding that knowledge really is power, and that they can accomplish their education goals online.

Best of all, these online learners are finding that degrees from accredited colleges and universities are increasing their earnings potential, giving them greater responsibility in their professions, and best of all – giving them the chance to accomplish a key goal without completely interrupting their existing lives.

There are many reasons to consider distance-learning programs for your goals. Instructors who have taught distance-learning courses originating in the United States to Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa and Europe, report these as the top reasons distance learning makes sense:

* Make a strong future from investing time today - Many of distance learning students are on assignment in foreign countries, and while working full-time on their jobs, they use their evenings and spare time to earn bachelors and masters’ degrees that have a direct impact on their future job opportunities and professional advancement.

* Certify your knowledge - Many distance learning students have years of experience in their professions, and just lack of college degree that proves their knowledge. Distance learning gives these working professionals a chance to share their in-depth knowledge while at the same time earning degrees that illustrate their expertise.

* Get to your educational goals on your timetable - While distance learning programs have scheduled classes online and you interact with instructors, you can move as quickly as you want through many courses. Likewise, many instructors will work with you if something comes up in your life that takes time away from school.

* Pick up more marketable skills- The depth of distance learning courses has become impressive in recent years, thanks to the Internet’s performance increasing in many parts of the world – and most importantly – schools offering courses that deliver skills immediately marketable.

* Start a new career - Distance learning is great for anyone looking to get into an entirely new field – one that they have been looking at for years, or one that has sparked their interest lately – in either case distance learning gives anyone the flexibility to take their careers in entirely new directions without stopping their lives in the process.

* Connecting one-on-one with instructors - Learning on-line gives students the opportunity to interact with their instructors to a greater depth than is typically possible in larger, more traditional classroom settings.

Bottom Line: Distance Learning is growing by 33% a year worldwide according to market estimates from International Data Corporation and the U.S. Department of Education. Universities worldwide are working to tailor their programs for this exciting new approach to learning. Chances are there are programs available today that will get you to your educational goals.

E Learning: Why Choose Online Education

The Internet boom is far from over, although it has been taking a slightly different slant in the past few years; hardly surprising as technologies advance and trends change. The World Wide Web is the largest resource of information in the whole world and whatever your needs the Internet can provide. What started as a bubble has soon become a massive tidal wave and online education is one of the areas that is still increasing, probably more than ever before.

You can shop online, you can watch TV online, and you can even book your holidays online or work online and now you can complete perfectly legitimate and recognised educational courses online. Far from being the alternative form of education used solely by working parents it is becoming just as popular with teenagers and professionals all around the world. There are no boundaries to learning when using the Internet. You can study a course that local colleges and educational institutions in your area don’t offer and you can do so without having to quite your job and leave home.

You don’t need to take three years to complete a course; you can often work at your own pace, fitting in around your commitments and according to your spare time.

What courses are on offer?

As well as courses designed primarily for completion on the Internet, many educational institutions are now leaning towards offering the major courses to be completed in the comfort of your own home. College degrees and graduate degrees are available in almost any subject you could imagine with many benefits over the traditional ‘classroom’ approach.

E-learning offers a vast array of topics too, from American History to Zoology and everything in between. Perhaps you are in full time employment and want a change in career. Not many of us can afford to just give up work and go back to college so online education could be the perfect answer.

Maybe you are unemployed and can’t find work suitable for you or the qualifications and experience you have. Online education can offer you the opportunity to gain more qualifications without the expenses of travelling or accommodation.

Why should I choose an online education course?

There are many advantages to online education. The courses are usually tailored to meet the different demands that are entailed within an online learning community. You are usually free to study at your own time and pace, so you have the opportunity to complete your chosen course quickly or as slowly as you want.

There are no travel costs involved with online education and no travel time whatsoever. The only time you will need to dedicate to your learning will be the time you spend studying and any trips to the library or other institution you may need.

Many jobs and careers demand a good working knowledge of the Internet, and by completing your course online you are already many steps closer to that end. You will have excellent knowledge on Internet research; always being able to find the information that is useful to you.

There are some factors you should consider when deciding whether to opt for online education or a more traditional classroom education. You will need a reasonably up to date PC, together with an Internet Connection. Fortunately, computer prices have dropped in recent years, so you can get a capable PC for little more than $300. If you consider using Ebay or buying a refurbished PC then you can reduce this price even more. Don’t forget, you will need a printer, operating software, word processing software and an Internet connection but again the price of these has dropped dramatically.

If you don’t have much working knowledge of a computer or the Internet you will need to find your way around at first and this can seem a daunting task for the beginner. Don’t panic, just stick with it and buy yourself (or borrow from friends or the library) books on how to use the software you are going to need. Once online the Internet has all of this information at hand, and the world becomes your playground.

A summary of online education.

Online education can help all people from all walks of like gain the education they want to better themselves or to advance in the career they already have. Whether you are a working parent or an unemployed bachelor, there are courses available for you to complete through online education.

Online education offers many benefits and few pitfalls when compared to the more traditional ‘classroom’ approach but you should carefully consider your options before jumping in.

There are costs associated with virtually all online education courses but these are usually little more than the costs to study at a college and when you consider that there are no travelling expenses and no extra living costs, you may find online education to be a much more financially viable option

5 Leading Online Schools

The internet has revolutionized many parts of our economy. You can shop, meet people online and, now, you can take college courses for credit. Five schools are influencing “distance learning” like no others before them. Let's take a look at online education providers as offered by these leading schools.

The University of Phoenix was among the first accredited universities to provide college degree programs via the internet. Founded in 1976, the university began to offer internet degree programs in 1989. The program has grown to where 150,000 students are in the process of pursuing degrees on the Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral level at any given time. Programs in Technology, Business, Education, Nursing, and Management are offered and The University of Phoenix has now become the largest private university in the US.

DeVry University offers business and technology degrees on the undergraduate and graduate level. In addition, the school offers graduate level certificate programs. Headquartered in Illinois, the school allows students to work on their degree while online, at a local campus, or both. Indeed, campuses can now be found in 21 states as well as in Alberta, Canada.

Westwood College traces its roots to Denver, Colorado where it was founded in 1953 as the Denver Institute of Technology. Fifteen campuses in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas comprise the physical campus with the internet opening up the school to students around the world. Westwood offers programs in Aviation, Business, Criminal Justice, Design, Technology, Health Sciences, and Industrial Sciences.

Kaplan University is a wholly owned company of The Washington Post Company, a publisher of one the nation’s leading newspapers, The Washington Post. Kaplan’s offerings include degrees in Arts and Science, Business, Criminal Justice, Education, Technology and Design, Nursing and Health Care, Paralegal Studies, and Financial Planning. The school offers students degrees on the Associates, Bachelors, and Masters levels as well as certificates for certain programs.

Founded in Naples, Florida in 1970 by a couple who wanted to offer a way for working adults to pursue doctoral degrees, Walden University has evolved into a large, online university offering students degrees on the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral level. Now headquartered in Minneapolis, the university features five distinct schools: School of Education, School of Management, School of Health and Human Services, School of Psychology, and the NTU School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Online education is not for everyone and that is why the first three universities give to their students the option to study on campus, while the last two are strictly internet based. However, all five schools offer to students something that traditional programs do not have: the opportunity to pursue a degree at a pace the student determines and at a place [your computer] that is appealing to many. Unquestionably, online education has arrived as a viable alternative for degree seeking students around the world.

Online Education Has The Power To Transform Lives And Fulfill Dreams

Online education is a dramatic development in the advancement of distance learning. A century ago, a person without access to a school or training program could sometimes get the information that they desired through a correspondence course. It was not a particularly efficient way to get an education but it did open doors that might otherwise have been closed. The quantum leaps in technology during the latter part of the 20th century have altered the profile of distance learning.

Students that cannot attend classes at a traditional college campus can now participate in the same course of study as those attending day or evening school. Online education programs are structured such that a student can integrate lessons into their unique daily schedules. Participants have the flexibility to complete their work when it is convenient but communicate with instructors whenever it is necessary. You can now pursue a college degree at your own pace with a course load that is appropriate for you.

Online education is rapidly evolving and courses are available for a variety of subjects. It is possible for someone to finish their high school studies and obtain a GED online. Courses and certifications are also available in a variety of technical areas. An ever-expanding number of degree programs are available. Students can earn a bachelor's, master's or doctorate degree for an impressive list of disciplines.

The Internet is moving well beyond e-mails and e-commerce. Predictions of an Information Age are proving prophetic as the information superhighway carries more and more vehicles transporting ideas opening the door to an education that may have been denied to many. Online education has resulted in thousands of virtual classrooms that offer the possibility for accomplishment and advancement for all.

In an age where everyone and everthing is stretched too thin it is refreshing to know that the Internet provides legitimate resources that allow almost anyone to learn about almost anything. You can now feel confident that life and opportunity are not passing you by. Higher education is noiw available to any person with the drive, the desire and a personal computer.

Online Education and Digital Divide

Digital Education is really coming along thanks to the US Military and their expenditures in the IT Framework to make training available. The IT companies doing this training are in fact able to pass on this technology to the private sector immediately and it is helping us with the digital divide.

The United States Navy is trying many of the online Internet learning some of which we have discussed here on this site: Online Training by the US Navy is very good

Online Education - A University on Your Desktop

Online education is spreading across the globe like a wildfire fueled by textbooks and periodic tables. Millions who previously thought that a college degree was firmly out of their reach have discovered that all it takes to attend college in today’s world are the combination of a few free hours each day and access to the Internet. Perhaps because of the ease of taking classes at one’s leisure, online education continues to be growing trend in the United States and around the world.

Online Education Equals Big Business

Originally conceived as a way for adults to earn a GED or college degree later in life than usual, online education or “distance learning” has spread to the point that people of all ages are now involved. Children as young as the fourth grade level now have access to online education in many areas, using it as a supplement to or in place of traditional classes. This translates into dollars and sense for the business community and, according to a November 2004 report on CNN’s website; it was predicted as early as 2001 that online education would become a $23 billion industry by the end of 2004.

With Online Education Everybody Wins

Part of the appeal to online education is that it is literally good for everyone. Educators can enter a new job market in writing and implementing an online curriculum and can use this income to supplement the earnings that receive from classroom education. Students of all ages have an alternative to traditional classes in which they can learn without the interference of other students’ behavioral interruptions. Adults who may have missed out on their high school diplomas or college degrees now have the opportunity, through online education, to complete or further their studies without the scheduling problems that may have made this impossible in the past. The public benefits from saved tax dollars; every student that participates in an online educational program represents a reduced burden on the taxpayer funded public education system. Finally, online education offers businesses the chance to educate their workforce at a lower cost and the benefit of a generation of computer literate and more highly educated prospective employees entering the job market.

Online education saves time, money, and offers opportunity to those who may have never had it in the past. It may truly be the wave of the future.

Online Education - An Internet Education and Course Checklist

If you’ve chosen to go to college via an online education distance learning program, there are a few things you’ll want to know before getting started. This listing should be considered as a general guide on the subject and not as a replacement for the guidelines provided by the university that supports the online education program that you’ll be participating in.

Online Education Courses are Just as ‘Real’ as ‘Real’ College

For some reason, many students that are beginning a distance learning education get the idea that it’s not “real” college, so it doesn’t matter if they do the coursework on time, pass the exams, etc. This is just as common in adults who are returning to school after a lapse in education as it is in young students who are fresh out of high school. This type of attitude is a recipe for failure in any educational program. Remember that it is your time and your money that is going into this; you want to be sure that you get everything you can out of it.

School Supplies are Your Responsibility

If you were attending a traditional university you’d expect to pay for your books, pens, paper, and other products necessary for your education. It is no different when attending online education courses. The supplies are different; you’ll need a computer, internet access (preferably broadband), email, and specific software to complete your online courses. In most cases these are all things that you’ll be required to supply yourself. If you do find a college that is offering to give you a PC, you’ll probably want to double check their accreditation or start having your email sent to sucker@borneveryminute.com because you’ve found yourself a fly-by-night university.

Financial Aid is Available for Those Who Qualify

Many students miss out on college because they believe they can’t afford it. Perhaps their parents were unwilling or unable to pay for college yet they made too much money for the student to qualify for aid. Then, as older adults, they do not continue their education because they still believe they can’t afford it. Remember that students in online education programs from accredited schools can qualify for many of the same grants that they would in on-campus programs. Don’t miss your opportunity because you think you can’t afford to pay for your online education.

Online Education and Online Degrees - Many Options Available for Distance Education

Online education is the latest trend in alternative education choices. Also known as distance learning, options in online education are being pursued by people from all over the world who are looking to further their education. And it’s never been easier to join the growing class of Internet U.

Whether you’re interested in simply getting your GED or receiving your MBA from an accredited university, your options in adult education have doubled in the past five years with the advent of online education and will likely continue to grow as more colleges, universities, graduate schools, and trade schools begin offering distance learning classes online.

How Does Online Education Work?

In most cases, it is not the specific college or university that runs the online education portion of their program. Most schools outsource their internet education duties to companies that specialize in hosting distance learning classes. These companies (who have names like eCollege, SkillSoft and such) perform the actual tasks of running the online classes, assigning work, and conducting exams, all according to the curriculum provided by the specific school. Students that enroll in online education courses are typically required to provide their own computer and any necessary software needed to participate in the online classes and take the exams. In the world of online education your books, binders, and number two pencils are replaced by a PC (or MAC – but compatibility may vary), a word processor, and some form of multimedia player. Broadband internet access is advisable as well. It may be hard to get your masters with low baud.

Things to Look Out For

Online education is a very worthwhile trend in the evolution of education in our world and it is conceivable that sometime in the future nearly all official education will take place online. The internet, however, is the real-world equivalent of George Lucas’ Mos Eisley Spaceport; a wretched hive of scum and villainy. As online education becomes more prominent, there will be more companies looking to take advantage of the trend by offering sub par classes and fly-by-night degrees from non-accredited schools. Before you commit to any online education program, do your homework and make sure that the school is accredited. The last thing you want to do is spend your time and money earning a degree online that isn’t worth a byte in the job market or to other educational institutions

Winnie the Pooh: Online Educational Fun for Children

Recently I read a very cool book called "The Tao of Pooh" by Benjamin Hoff written back in the 1980's. It shows how the popular children's cartoon bear Winnie the Pooh created by A.A. Milne in England in the 1920's, though a Western concept, actually embodies the ideology of the great Chinese (Eastern) philosophy Taoism (pronounced Daoism). I remember enjoying Winnie the Pooh stories when I was a kid so I thought I'd do the modern task of searching for his name on the Internet. Of course there are hundreds of sites based on Pooh, but I decided to go to the official site entitled: http://disney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/pooh/. Uh oh, Disney! Of course Disney didn't have the rights on Pooh Bear from the start, but where there is a dollar to be made in the realm of children's entertainment...

I may sound a little judgmental here, but I just get a weird feeling about Disney, like they are planning to take over the world one day, possibly replacing the current governor of California, movie 'star' Arnold Swartzenegger, with Donald Duck or heaven help us, Goofy. Then again maybe that wouldn't really change the world much at all! I don't want to get too political as this article is basically going to be a positive review of the Pooh website, but when I think about it, having Pooh Bear as president instead of George Bush could have some really happy and peaceful repercussions around the globe.

Getting past the idea that Pooh Bear has been 'acquired' by the Disney Corporation there are some positives in all situations (Taoist belief of the balance of yin and yang energies) and one of these is the fact that Disney have a lot of power and money behind them. Therefore, the Pooh Bear website in question sets a very high standard of how high the quality of websites can reach. The colored graphics are astounding as well as the movement and interactivity of the site in general. The main point of the site that I want to emphasize is the enjoyable educational value that it holds for children approximately 3-6 years of age, although after reading Hoff's novel, parents and people like myself can also get something out of the stories. Milne's original tales were a social commentary at the time of writing as well as promoting happiness and friendship to the youngest generation. Hopefully in keeping in character, Disney doesn't lose too much of the original purpose and perspective, though in being perpetually politically correct I'm sure all real controversy has disappeared like honey from Pooh Bear's jars.

Your kids can enjoy Pooh based on-line video games, as well as downloading coloring-in pages, mazes, and color wallpaper posters. You can also download a fun empty family tree that the child can then research to fill in. As the site is highly professional and under constant updates in construction, it says that soon there will be Pooh alphabetical flash cards and even an 'Enchanted call from Pooh and Tigger", although this sounds like a pure money/honey making exercise. Speaking of money please be careful as this site has lots of different products and merchandise your kids are bound to obsess over. If I were you, just try and choose the stories and videos that seem to have genuine educational value. However, there are a few nice freebies that you can download from the 'Characters' link, such as a Tigger mask and a valentine card for Eeyore the donkey as well as more fun activities. Whether you want to show your young children an interesting and fun time on the computer/Internet, or you are planning to build a children's website of your own, this site is an excellent choice.

Online Education with the University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix Online Focuses on Team Learning

Unlike some other schools, the University of Phoenix Online focuses on Team Learning. For all classes, team assignments can make up to 20% of the student’s total grade. Consequently, students get more than they bargained for when pursuing an education at Phoenix’s online university (UoP online).

Online Education for those Working Full-Time

UoP online believes that distance learning shouldn’t be a solely individual or isolated effort. In an effort to help their students do better in their careers, UoP online believes that its students should get more practice working effectively as a virtual team. Besides submitting individual short answers and papers, students must also work as a part of a team, usually on a single course long project where the work on one week builds on the week done previously.

UoP online targets mature adults who have been in the work force for at least five years. The majority of UoP online students have been career oriented for some time. By designing their online classes so that they don’t require meetings at set times, UoP online helps busy individuals advance their educations. But don’t get the wrong idea; UoP online is not set up like other distance learning programs, say a correspondence course, where you set your own timeline. UoP requires you to be online at least four times a week to participate and you need to post assignments on a weekly schedule.

Effective team work is an integral part to a successful career. Many an interview has revolved around a person’s “team spirit.” Even online jobs require collaboration to a certain degree. UoP’s stance on online team learning might educate you on more than what you signed up for, too.

University of Phoenix offers degree programs in the following fields:

• Accounting • Health Care

• Administration • Human Services

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Online college courses lead to salary increase

Take online college courses that you can work around your schedule. Why go back to school? How about for more money? Studies show that the more education a person has, the more that person will make over coworkers who do the same thing but are less educated.

The more education you have, the more you get paid

Another reason you should consider distance learning courses is that it can help you change careers. If you’re sick of your current job and want another career, quit dreaming and starting working toward your goals. Recognizing the need to accommodate “non-traditional” students, more colleges are setting up online courses to help educate students via online campuses. They aren’t stopping with courses either. Many colleges offer complete degree programs that you can get entirely online.

When considering what online program you will enroll in, look at the following factors:

• Costs

• Accreditation. For example, the only state that will let you sit for the bar if you get an online law degree is California.

• Program requirements. What courses do you have to take to graduate? How many classes can you CLEP out of or get credit for courses you’ve taken elsewhere?

• Distance learning tools. What does the school use for its virtual classroom? Not all schools use the same online tools.

• What kind of financial aid is available to you?

Online programs are constantly being improved so if you looked into them a few years ago, you owe it to yourself to learn what educators have been up to in the meantime.

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Distance Learning, Online Education, Electronic Education, Electronic Learning...Call It What You Wa

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.

Learn Hypnosis by the Various Training Methods Found Online

When you learn hypnosis online, you are accessing a very powerful tool for learning how to hypnotize. Before, one would learn hypnosis by reading books or taking a training course.

Now, you can learn hypnosis on the internet. The internet is considered instant gratification because if someone needs to research, buy, learn, then he/she can instantly find what he/she is looking for on the internet.

There are many sites offering ebooks, videos, and other online courses. When you learn hypnosis online you will discover that it is very convenient because you can learn hypnosis from your home at your own pace and whenever time dictates.

To learn hypnosis may seem like a mysterious form of mind control. Many people have seen the stage shows where a hypnotized person suddenly acts like a chicken or acts out his/her favorite scene from a movie.

Before you attempt to learn hypnosis, you want to approach the subject with any false perceptions eliminated. For example, a hypnotist does not have special powers over the person being hypnotized. The hypnotist guides the subject by giving worded scripts or suggestions. The subject acts on his/her own will to accept these suggestions. The hypnotist does not have any special powers over the subject.

Another false misconception people have about hypnosis is that it is dangerous. When you learn hypnosis, you will discover early on that hypnosis is very safe and actually a natural mechanism within our selves.

And yet another false perception is that one needs special powers in order to learn hypnosis. If you are willing to learn hypnosis and practice, you will soon be at the level of a successful hypnotist. To learn hypnosis is no different than learning how to play an instrument.

One of the best forms on how to learn hypnosis is through the ebook. An ebook is basically an electronic book. You may download the ebook onto your computer and instantly start to learn hypnosis. You may also print all or some of the pages. Learning hypnosis by ebook is a lot quicker than waiting for a paper and ink book to arrive in the mail or going to the store to purchase.

Another common form of tool to learn hypnosis online is by video. There are different formats of videos. Along with the different formats are the different players. Usually, the internet site will have the basic easy to follow instructions on how to download and play the videos.

Learning hypnosis by video is very powerful because you are learning by sound and sight. You can pause and repeat the steps over and over. However, you must be aware that video takes a lot of bandwidth. (internet connection) Video is best viewed with cable, dsl, isdn, or other fast connections. If you have “dial-up” internet connection, you will probably experience slow download times and videos that pause constantly.

Unfortunately, as previously touched on, to learn hypnosis by ebook or video brings various problems because of the many formats. But the good news is that along with the formats, you are able to download the correct tool to read or watch. The player or reader is usually free. Also, many of these tools are commonly found installed on your computer.

Computer Repair Online Schools Perfect for Busy Adults

If you are looking for an education in computer technology and computer repair, you may find that an online computer repair school can more than satisfy your urge to learn, to advance your knowledge, and to create more job opportunities for yourself.

Online computer repair schools design their programs for busy adults like you, who want to further their education without the hassle of getting to and from classes on some campus somewhere across town. You can get the same quality education and the same quality degree from online computer repair schools that you can get from traditional computer repair schools. And, it doesn’t have to happen on someone else’s schedule.

Online computer repair schools provide the convenience of distance education courses that can lead to diplomas, certificates, Associate of Science (AS), Bachelor of Science (BS), and graduate degrees in Computer Sciences, as well as graduate certificates in specialized studies. Diploma, certificate, and online degree programs in computer repair can be completed in less time than traditional classroom courses, because you can pace your own study sessions and devise your own course completion schedule.

Online computer repair schools may not be limited to computer repair; you might be introduced to additional electronic equipment and devices in your computer studies. You will very likely be required to complete detailed coursework in the repair of personal computers, computer system installation, upgrading, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and much, much more.

Online computer repair schools make their distance education courses available whenever you are ready to sit down and study. You will be able to access course materials and interact with your instructor via email and telecommunication when needed.

Completion of an online computer repair course will qualify you for a position as a computer service technician or as a computer support specialist. As a professional computer repair technician, you can anticipate earning an entry-level income of about $30,000 to start. Your income will increase considerably with experience.

Verify Business Before Making Investment

P.T. Barnum used to say there is a sucker born every minute and with the age of internet marketing comes the realization that there is one born every 30 seconds. About the only thing that has changed since the days of snake oil medicine and today is how fast and the number of people, these unscrupulous peddlers can swindle at the same time.

Unless you update your spam controls almost daily, you receive a constant barrage of ways to get rich on the internet. Work at home and make enough money to fulfill your wildest dreams is one typical pitch used to draw people into a web of deceit. Is there money to be made on the internet? Of course there is. Many are doing just that, but there is work involved to be successful.

Most typical scams on the internet involve multi-level-marketing, or MLM. They all promise the opportunity to make unheard of riches for working only a few hours a week. Your “upline” mentor will teach you how to grow your business and have you making money within minutes of signing up. Usually, you only have a few minutes, maybe 24 hours to sign up, before the deal is lost forever. Wait two days and go back to the site. Chances are you will still have the same amount of time to give them your money before you will never see the offer again.

With many people being unemployed or believing they are overworked and underpaid, the idea of making a fortune in just a few short months sounds promising. Beside, there are all those testimonials on the website of people who were living in their car one week and own a million dollar mansion the next. You are often told that they did it you can too. No experience is necessary and they will do all the work for you.

Out of the goodness of their heart, they want to share their secrets of getting rich on the internet. It really is not any secret. You send them money, they get rich. Get other people to send you money, you keep some and continue to help them get rich. Basically, you are making money for your upline and you make money from your downline. Now that you have this fabulous website, you need to get people to visit it in order for them to send you money.

You may decide to go back to University for additional schooling. This has an exhorbanant price tag attached to it. If you do not have the money, you end up taking out large student loans that need to be paid off. University education leaves you in the same situation as before, no money.

Why not handle your own business online and keep all your money? Because it takes hard work to build a site properly to have the search engines include you in their listings. It takes work to sell something to people on the internet, sight unseen. Maybe you have a college degree or a high school diploma. However, if you did not learn the right things in school, you will probably spend your life making someone else rich. To be an accountant you attend accounting school. To be a business leader, you go to business school. If you want to be a success, you attend University in the hope of becoming a success.

With an internet based business the opportunities are limited only by the amount of work you are willing to do to insure your future success. You can learn how to put together a viable website, regardless of the product or service, and most importantly, you can learn the importance of internet marketing. While there is money to be made, the only real promise that this University of Success called the internet makes is to teach you how to be a success

A Great Online Education is at Your Fingertips

Have you ever thought about enhancing your education by going back to school? If so, you probably have wondered whether you should go your local college or university. If you haven't been to one recently, let me paint you a picture.

There are usually acres of buildings, jammed parking lots, and lots of other students. You might have to commute for miles in terrible traffic, and then find it impossible to park near your classes. You may spend hours traipsing back and forth across campus, lugging 30 pounds of books on your back. You stand in line to register your classes, only to find that they are all full. Or if your class is available, it's at 7:00 a.m. or 9 p.m. If you have a family to juggle, it gets worse -- the kids get sick you get to miss classes. And most of the students closely resemble your youngest child, making you feel like a dinosaur.

Does the above scenario fill you with dread? Could it be the reason you haven't pursued higher education before now? What if you could achieve your educational goals without leaving the comfort of your own home, and maybe even do it cheaper?

If this is music to your ears, you should consider getting an online education. All you really need is a computer, an internet connection, and the desire to learn. No traffic nightmares, no weather worries. No scheduling conflicts or babysitter problems, and you can even go to school in your pajamas. Wow! That's my idea of school. You take the classes you need at the times you want, at your own speed, and still achieve your chosen goals.

Online education does not mean that the classes are easier, it just means that they are easier to take. You will still have to study, do homework, write papers, take midterms and final exams. Yes, you do have to work! But the good news is, you can do it in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

The advantages of getting an online education are virtually endless. If you have ever considered getting more education to improve your chances of landing a job, or making more money, or maybe even changing careers completely, now is the time to do it. There really is no excuse for not pursuing the wonderful opportunities available through distance education.

For many people this is all the motivation they need to get going. However, it is important that you know your limitations. If it's impossible for you to have quiet time on a regular basis, if you find it difficult to focus with all the insanity going on around you, or if you just can't discipline yourself to do the job, then distance education might not be for you.

However, if you are adept at managing the ins and outs of your personal life while dealing with the demands of going to school, you should be able to juggle the extra balls that an online degree program might toss at you.

During the past 10 years, distance education has finally come into its own, and now many programs are even eligible for federal financial aid such as grants and loans. So it's entirely possible for you to attend school without breaking the bank. You can find classes and online education programs in a large variety of topics, starting with getting your GED and going all the way up to masters degrees and Doctoral programs.

Some online schools have brick and mortar campuses and some don't. Some require occasional meetings with students and teachers, also called limited residence requirements. Many have no such requirements, and your education is simply based upon the classes you complete successfully. Some schools require you to attend online live or prerecorded lectures or interactive classes, while others just give you the class materials online and let you take exams when you are ready.

It is important that you research the options thoroughly and carefully. Whether you're planning to take trade courses, business classes or any type of higher education, make sure the distance learning program is accredited by the appropriate agency in your state. There's nothing worse than wasting your time, money and energy to get an education that you won't get credit for, unless of course you are doing it just for fun.

What you need to do first is decide what career you want to pursue or what subject you want to study or, then look for the online education learning program that's best suited to meet your needs. Whether you want to learn web design, culinary arts, business management or something else, you'll be able to find a distance learning program that will give you what you need.

So there you go. A wonderful education is waiting at your fingertips, all you have to do is reach out and grab it.

Computer Networking Online Schools

There is great demand in today's business world for professionals who have earned a diploma, certification or degree in computer networking. For many working adults, an online school for computer networking studies is the most convenient educational path. And, with an online degree, you will be qualified to apply for many interesting and vital positions in the field of computer networking.

Many people find that an online computer networking course provides a flexible way to earn certification or a college degree. Students learn over the Internet by downloading the comprehensive distance learning programs, and studying at times that are convenient. In addition to basic software training, online computer networking curriculums usually involve in-depth studies of computer network engineering, network support and administration, program design, and information security (from major technology organizations). They also teach students about network authentication applications and operating systems, software tools, the technical aspects of computers and PCs, and numerous other relevant subjects.

The length of the individual course can vary greatly from school to school, but those who have successfully completed an entry-level computer networking course can go on to earn higher level degrees, including Associates, Bachelors and Masters. Graduates can look forward to jobs that would include network administrators, network managers, network system engineers, security analysts, and many more.

Online computer networking schools offer many great advantages: Flexible coursework, affordability, fully-accredited degrees, and no strict deadlines. An online course in computer networking works best for the self-starter who is looking for a step up in today’s technologically advanced world of computers