Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Kenan-Flagler Business School launches online MBA program

UNC shared Monday its plans to develop an online MBA program, the first to be offered by a top-ranked business school and a major move by the University into the business of online higher education.
The program, MBA@UNC, is a joint one between the Kenan-Flagler Business School and 2tor, a New York-based startup focusing on online education. MBA@UNC Executive Director Susan Cates said it is a chance to “redefine global business education.”
“We’ll offer something that’s better than anything out there,” Cates said.
For-profit online degree programs have long been seen as lesser versions of traditional programs. By collaborating with 2tor, UNC is challenging itself to prove its online courses are just as rigorous as those taught at the McColl Building.
The plan fits with UNC-system goals to make higher education more accessible. And the program can be expected to bring in money for the school at a time when state funding is dwindling due to budget cuts.
Still, the gamble with the Kenan-Flagler name has left many students wary of the impact it will have on the future value of their degree.
“The one answer we can’t get is what defines success for this program?” said Brad Hudson, a second-year MBA student. “Financial gain? Rankings? How do you judge the success of the program?”
Designing an online MBA
Like the executive MBA programs that run on weekends and in the evenings, MBA@UNC is targeted at professionals looking to advance their careers. The full-time MBA is geared toward those looking to change careers.
MBA@UNC’s curriculum isn’t developed yet, but will be modeled after the full-time MBA program, Cates said. Only core classes will be offered initially, and electives will be added as the program expands.
Students in the first class, beginning in July, will go through the same admissions process, will take class with the same Kenan-Flagler professors and will pay what students in the weekend MBA program pay — $89,000.
Coursework will include independent readings as well as live video conferences with professors and classmates. 2tor will advise on online instructional methods, but UNC faculty will create each course.
Whereas a full-time student might be assigned a case-study to read at home and then discuss in class, those in the online program might watch actors re-enact the scenario and then discuss via video chats, Cates said.
And each quarter, students will gather in-person for three-day workshops and instruction.
A unique partnership
2tor jumped into the online education market in 2009 with the launch of a Master of Arts in Teaching program through the University of Southern California.
The program won a best practices award in February from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, and USC has since launched a second program with 2tor, this time in social work. Fast Company identified it as one of five education “startups to watch.”
UNC faculty traveled to USC earlier this year to observe their two programs. Their example will help UNC, said Douglas Shackelford, a long-time faculty member and the program’s associate dean.
“We’re at a big advantage,” he said. “We’re not the first.”
The exact relationship between UNC and 2tor is unclear. Shackelford said profits would be split by the two groups but did not know more specific details. Initial costs will be fronted by 2tor, Cates said.
“They’re investing heavily on the front-end of developing this in a way that minimizes the front investment required by the University,” she said.
In an October memo to students, business school dean James Dean said money from the partnership would help supplement state funding and an endowment that lags behind its peers’.
Cates said the contract between the two was protected with a confidentiality agreement. UNC spokesman Mike McFarland said the contract would have to be reviewed first “in case there are any proprietary terms that require redaction.”
Students point to the University’s withholding of the contract as another reason to be wary. N.C. public records law makes most University records public.
UNC began talking about the program earlier this year, Cates said, and discussed it with a variety of stakeholders. “People were not surprised” by Monday’s announcement, said Dillon Twombly, a second-year MBA student.
Students said Monday they hope to be more involved testing out curriculum and giving feedback.
“The faculty and students live with the brand for the rest of their lives,” Hudson said.
“A program like this deserves to be fully vetted.”

BY : SARA GREGORY

Friday, November 12, 2010

5 Questions To Ask Yourself When Considering Online Graphic Arts Colleges

Interested in a career in graphic arts? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most graphic design jobs require a bachelor's degree. So if you're already busy with family commitments, a full-time job, or a long commute that makes attending traditional classes impractical, then look through the following questions to figure out whether a graphic arts school online could be right for you.
Five Questions to Ask Yourself About Online Graphic Arts Schools
1. Can you work well independently? Those who are interested in online graphic arts schools should be self-motivated and disciplined. The freedom and flexibility of online graphic arts schools means that there will be no one checking to make sure you completed your homework, listened to the lecture, or are even progressing toward the end of your coursework. If you don't think you'll handle the freedom well, online graphic art schools may not be for you.
2. Do you thrive on community? If you are the type of person who enjoys face-to-face interactions, you might do better in a traditional graphic arts classroom. If you enjoy working with others but are still interested in online graphic arts courses, then look for an online school that offers plenty of opportunities for discussion and feedback, which could include online discussion boards, peer reviews, and plenty of correspondence with the instructor.
3. Do you know where to find scholarships? According to the New York Times, most online schools charge tuition similar to that of traditional schools. So even if you're saving money on commuting gas, room and board, or by working at the same time that you're studying, finding scholarships can save you even more money. Look at the College Board Web site and http://Fastweb.com; these are two free Web sites that can help you get started.
4. Is your online graphic arts school accredited? Buyer beware: there are online schools out there that offer diplomas at a price, but aren't actually accredited. If you want to make sure your degree actually means something, check the accreditation status of your online graphic arts school at the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
5. Does your school's graphic arts program mesh with your career goals? If you're just looking for basic training in graphic design, you may not need to be as picky about what graphic arts school you attend. If, however, you are interested specifically in graphic design with an emphasis in advertising, magazine layout, or art direction, make sure the online graphic arts school you enroll in offers courses, if not an emphasis, in your secondary field.
If you have done the research, know your career goals, and know your learning style, then you are probably ready to attend an online school for graphic arts. Keep working hard and don't let yourself get sidetracked, and you should be well on your way to a career in graphic arts.

By Kelly Smith 

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Sign Up for Free Nov. 18 Webinar Describing Online MBA, Master of Management Degrees at Southeastern Michigan's Walsh College

TROY, Mich., Nov. 10, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Walsh College, southeast Michigan's only all-business college, will host a free lunchtime webinar on Nov. 18 for professionals interested in earning an online MBA or Master of Management with a specialization in Health Services Administration.
Featured presenter is Sheila Ronis, Ph.D., director of the Walsh MBA and Master of Management Programs and current chair of the Vision Working Group of the Project on National Security Reform in Washington, D.C.
The webinar runs from 12:15 - 1 p.m. EST. Participants can register by visiting www.walshcollege.edu/webinars  until Nov. 18.
The webinar will cover the online MBA and MM degree Health Services Administration specialization, which includes coursework in health economics; health administration finance; health care policy, law and ethical issues; and quality assurance for health services.
The webinar will also cover online MBA and MM course and program content; online course delivery; admissions requirements; registration and the academic calendar; and a Q&A session from participants.
The health services specialization is designed for those who work or aspire to work in the health services field. "As our population continues to age and the health services industry continues to expand, the demand for health services administration expertise will increase," Dr. Ronis said.
Enrollment for the Walsh College winter semester begins on Monday, Nov. 22. Winter semester courses begin on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011.
Founded in 1922, Walsh College is a fully accredited all-business college based in the Detroit suburb of Troy, Mich.  The College offers five graduate and four undergraduate degrees completely online. To learn more, visit www.walshcollege.edu/onlineprograms/. For more information on the Walsh College MBA and MM programs, visit: www.walshcollege.edu/mba or www.walshcollege.edu/mm.
About Dr. Ronis
Sheila R. Ronis, Ph.D., is director of the MBA and Master of Management Programs at Walsh College. She has worked with profit and nonprofit organizations of all sizes, including General Motors Co.; Ford Motor Co.; the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Departments of Energy, State, and Commerce; the U.S. Institute of Peace; the National Academies of Sciences; the National Science Foundation; and the State Council of the People's Republic of China.
Dr. Ronis currently chairs the Vision Working Group of the Project on National Security Reform in Washington, D.C. She has worked directly with the U.S. Department of Defense and the national security community for more than two decades.
WALSH COLLEGE
Walsh College (www.walshcollege.edu) is a private, independent all-business college in southeast Michigan where application and theory are integrated to prepare graduates for successful careers. The College offers upper-division business and technology degrees at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels.
Walsh College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org), The Accreditation Council for Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP, www.acbsp.org), and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE, www.iacbe.org).

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Popular online degree programs at the University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks is a university town of 50,000 in the Red River of the North. It is a comprehensive research university and the main center of education and training in the state. North Dakota State University also called UND was founded by the Dakota Territorial Assembly in 1883. It is a university with a strong liberal arts base, surrounded by a variety of professional and specialized programs.
University of North Dakota is one of 47 public universities in the nation accredited graduate schools of law and medicine. The university campus is spacious and spread over 549 hectares and has 223 buildings. The University has earned an international reputation for its large number of resources and academic and research programs.
UND enrolls students from around the world for online singles, doctoral and professional degrees. The university offers associate degree courses, degrees and diploma courses. The UND offers distance education and online degree courses, including undergraduate programs, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program, Graduate Certificate and Endorsement Programs and Doctoral Programs.
The study area in North Dakota online degrees include computer science, legal professions, security services and health sciences. Students enrolled at the University of North Dakota may participate in interactive online courses. Students may participate in independent study and receive the education they want, the flexibility they need and the quality you deserve.There are courses in various streams such as Arts, Humanities and Languages, Business, Education, Engineering, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Nursing, Nutrition and Health, Social Sciences and Technology. Benefits of an Engineering degree program distance-

Distance Engineering Degree Program in UND is tailored to adult learners, who are busy working full time. They are not able to participate in traditional courses on campus.Offer distant learning
courses through the Engineering degree program have the same content as courses on campus. Students can access online versions of lectures on campus and participate in the labs on campus that are held in June.
Curriculum Student 's is convenient and flexible. They may take courses during their stay in work and care responsibilities at home. It 's up to the student' s convenience of choosing the time and place to review lectures and complete assignments.

Distance Degree Program at UND helps students improve their skills and apply in their current jobs.
Popular online degree programs at the University of Dakota are:
Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Graduate Certificate

Graduate Certificate Autism Spectrum Disorders
Geographic Information Science
Health Administration
Instructional Design


By shahnaz

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Test Drive College Online Partners with New Colleges

 BY BOCA RATON
In a proactive approach to combat the alarming rise in the college dropout rates facing many higher education institutions, Test Drive College Online offers free online courses to prospective students considering an online undergraduate degree program. The program, which was introduced earlier this year by EducationDynamics, was re-launched this week with additional courses, and partner colleges. Test Drive College Online has added San Diego Christian College, Stevens-Henager College, and St. Leo University as alliance partner schools.
When students successfully complete the college competency exam and the Test Drive College Online course, the earned credit hours are transferable for free to any of the partner schools upon acceptance and enrollment. Students can choose courses from subject areas pertaining to their desired field of study including: Introduction to Psychology, English Composition I, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Business and Medical Terminology. With the recent addition of new partner schools, and more agreements presently under review, students and partner colleges will continue to benefit from Test Drive College’s unique proactive approach to address student retention before students enroll in a degree program.   
“In the past, students were already enrolled and paying tuition by the time they had their first true online college course experience,” said Richard Capezzali, Executive Vice President of EducationDynamics and creator of Test Drive College Online. “Too often students enroll in a degree program without a clear understanding of the requirements and expectations for their success. This can create complications for both the student and the school. Now with Test Drive College Online, students and schools can be more confident in the relationship they are entering into, before committing time and money, and schools receive clarity on a student’s likelihood to graduate,” Capezzali continued.
About Test Drive College Online
Test Drive College Online addresses the issue of student retention facing higher education institutions in the United States by offering a proven approach for students to experience the realities of online degree program, and choose for themselves if they are adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. Prospective students begin by taking a college competency exam and upon passing, have the opportunity to take an online course at no cost or obligation after a thorough interview. Successful students who complete the online class, and undergo an advisory interview are permitted to transfer the credits to a full-degree program at a partner school. Test Drive College Online was designed to help serious students make informed decisions during their pursuit of an undergraduate degree online. The service provides the benefit of “test driving” the online format before committing to a degree program or paying tuition dollars. Test Drive College Online creates a real-life college experience that closely replicates a typical online degree program, giving students the confidence, motivation, and academic skill to fully commit to higher education. With this program, students can save up to $2,000 in tuition costs by earning credits toward a full degree. To learn more about Test Drive College Online, visit http://www.testdrivecollegeonline.com
About EducationDynamics     
EducationDynamics is higher education’s leading marketing information and technology services company dedicated to helping institutions find, enroll and retain students. Its content-rich and highly visible education websites, including EarnMyDegree.com, EducationConnection.com, eLearners.com, GradSchools.com, StudyAbroad.com, TestDriveCollegeOnline.com, TestDriveGradSchoolOnline.com and its more than 50 special interest microsites, make EducationDynamics the premier provider of qualified prospective students for colleges and universities. In addition, the company offers a full suite of web-delivered services proven to drive enrollment growth and reduce student attrition, as well as other innovative solutions including LeadWatchLive, its web-based inquiry management solution. Through its Market Research and Advisory Services, the company brings a decade of proprietary research, unparalleled market and student intelligence and best practice insights to its clients. For more information, visit http://www.educationdynamics.com.

St. Thomas University Adds New Advanced Degrees in Earth/Space Science, Divinity, and Online Elementary Education

"St. Thomas explored ways to help Florida teachers advance in the state's public and private school systems as well as young adults needing to attend evening classes," says Marivi Prado, Chief Marketing Officer. "A new M.S. in Elementary Education is now offered online to benefit those facing full-time jobs and after-five family pressure. Its curriculum includes the teaching of language arts to provide added insight and specialization to thousands of teachers and teaching assistants who deal with South Florida's diverse populations." In recent years, St. Thomas adapted a doctoral level degree with a minimum timeframe to complete the title, as the Ed D in Educational Leadership, while the M.S., Education with a concentration in Instructional Technology aligns its curriculum to the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers and is competitive with the country's top IT programs.
STU School of Leadership Studies' Master in Art Management has been steadily growing in enrollment as Greater Miami's international art scene has been increasing its presence. Few universities provide a specialization in "Art as a Business". STU designed the program to empower managers and entrepreneurs in art galleries, museum and other cultural or public service institutions through a curriculum concentration in the economy of art, its marketing, legal aspects, production, financing and fund raising.
Also within that School, the online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Executive Management synthesizes within an online 18-month timeframe, cutting-edge concepts and the student's professional experiences, serving the working adult who wish to advance their careers. The degree is geared to employees who hold managerial, executive and other leadership positions in industry, government and non-profit organizations. Meanwhile, STU School of Business recently added a curriculum in Global Entrepreneurship under the expert advice of Dean Tony Villamil. A graduate Open House will be held on campus November 18, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., covering all St. Thomas Schools. There is no need to reserve space and inquiries or applications can be taken via www.stu.edu

SOURCE St. Thomas University.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Distance learning: Obtaining online degrees

It takes people away from the traditional methods of teaching and learning. Degrees, certificates and diplomas are now obtainable through studying with the help of the Internet. Accessible around the world, Internet-based facility has enabled people to juggle work and study.
There are a good number of accredited institutions and universities running online programs in different parts of the world. In Nepal, the British Council and the International Center for Academics – College of Distance Education and Online Studies (ICA), two well known institutions, are such places of learning.

“On behalf of various universities and authorized UK bodies, The British Council administers examinations and organizes all stages of exam administration, from initiating contact with exam boards, registration, conducting exams to forwarding exam papers. It guides the students of the programs available in different universities in the UK,” said Bhawana Syangden, projects officer at British Council, Nepal.
Students are encouraged to attend the counseling classes about distance learning which requires registration beforehand. Some of the institutions the British Council represents are: The Open University, The University of London, The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), The Royal College of Physicians (MRCP), The Royal College of Pediatrics & Child Health (MRCPC), and The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MRCS).

The application process is similar to normal procedures. Students can apply online. However, the deadlines differ according to the courses. There is a variety of subjects to choose from, be it Science, Humanities, or Commerce. The degrees earned are globally accepted. Information on the mode of payment and the required eligibility can be obtained from the official websites of the educational bodies mentioned above.
Although the British Council gives sufficient information on the courses available, it does not hold classes. Students accepted by the international institutions must study on their own.

This is different with the ICA.

Established in 1997, the International Center for Academics – College of Distance Education & Online Studies (ICA), Gyaneshwor, has been providing distance education in Nepal. Approved by the Ministry of Education, Thamel, the college has been a partner institution of the Indira Gandhi Association of Open Universities (IGNOU) since 2002. IGNOU is the largest open university with centers in 33 countries affiliated to it.

As the solo member of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) in Nepal, ICA caters for IGNOU’s Master Degree Programs, Bachelors Degree Programs, Post-Graduate Diploma Programs, Diploma Programs, and Certificate Programs in 41 diverse areas of Management, Humanities and Social Sciences, Tourism, Computer Science, Journalism, Mass Communication, Rural Development, and Health Science.

IGNOU’s degrees are also accepted internationally. In Nepal, they are recognized by Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu University, and the University Grants Commission (UGS).

“The course of study is very flexible. Students need to fulfill certain academic requirements to join the classes. The requirements differ according to the courses. Classes are not held on daily basis, and only one counseling session is offered every Saturday,” says Amit Giri, ICA’s assistant coordinator. “99 % of the students are professionals, balancing their work and study,” he added.

ICA has a fully equipped laboratory and a well facilitated library. Self-instructed study materials are provided to the students. All the important information on examinations, admissions, registration, assignments and counseling classes are circulated via SMS.

Raksha Sharma, a teacher at Brihaspati Vidya Sadan, and also an ICA student, said, “I’m a Bachelor’s student here, and the organization is very cooperative and well facilitated. The study is very time-manageable. The counseling classes help us connect, queries are answered. This is very helpful.”

According to ICA brochures, the academic session has been divided into two categories. The January cycle is from January to June, and the July cycle is from July to December. Under the supervision of the Embassy of India in Kathmandu, IGNOU conducts examinations through ICA in Kathmandu and Dharan.

Distance education is very time-effective. Study can be completed at home, and working students don’t need to resign their jobs to study abroad.

Most people join online degrees because they can manage work and study simultaneously. Moreover, and financially too, studying online is convenient and affordable.
But it has its drawbacks, too. Students may lose focus. There are not strict regulations to be followed, and studying is optional.

Report by Paridhi Rana
 

Monday, November 1, 2010

Best Education Degree Programs Online

Get your online teaching degree from American College of Education. Our distance education degrees provide all the tools necessary to getting your online teaching degree.. Online Education Degrees and Programs Ashford University offers a wide range of programs for students to advance their careers or change fields. . Top education guide is a comprehensive directory of colleges, universities, career schools, trade schools, vocational training and online degree programs. Find a . 
1. Walden University - It is an accredited online learning program having over 36,000 graduates. The university's mission is "serving the higher education necessities of experts whose work impacts others." It offers doctoral, master's and bachelor's programs in education. Undergraduates can earn a bachelor's degree in educational studies, child development as well as instructional design and technology. Also, it provides an education teacher endorsement program. Alumni can take master's degree programs in higher education, education, instructional design as well as technology, and a Ed.D. or Ph.D. in education and education specialist. 2. The University of Phoenix - It provides learning opportunities in online and traditional formats. The accredited college offers both bachelor's and associates degrees online, and a wide diversity of graduate programs. Prospective teachers can get a bachelor science degree in education and elementary education in a university's teacher prep program. Besides, the college offers online courses for the teachers' continuing education that cover such topics as technology in a classroom, bilingual education, teaching and counseling methods. 3. Argosy University - The university provides a wide diversity of online graduate-level courses for those pursuing educational administration and leadership positions. Also, students can earn an Ed.D. in teaching and learning, educational leadership, and community college executive leadership. In addition, they could pursue an education master of arts degree, with a concentration on learning and teaching, adult education & training, and higher or post-secondary education. It is accredited by the important Higher Learning Commission as well. 4. Northcentral University - It offers undergrad and grad programs. Also, it has twelve certificate programs for those teachers searching to add an indorsation to their present teaching certificate. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission as well as the North Central Association of Colleges & Schools. Northcentral's courses offer flexible beginning dates. 5. Capella University - It offers grad programs in K-12 specialization programs. The university's mental health counseling, school counseling, marriage & family therapy programs are accredited by the famous Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
This can be a great program if it's time to make a decision about higher education. Seeking an associate degree may be the best If the best choice is online, the experience .  to help you choose the best online degrees Student in an online degree program? Alumni of an online Find the best online education and accredited degrees to launch or . 1113 online degree programs; Save money and avoid online education scams; Find the best online degree programs for you and get ahead; Online Degrees By College.

Montana State University

Capella Education Company Reports 3Q 2010 Results

Capella Education Company, a provider of exclusively online post-secondary education through its subsidiary Capella University, announced financial results for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30.
"Third quarter 2010 was another quarter of strong results," said Kevin Gilligan, chairman and chief executive officer of Capella Education Company. "Quality post-secondary education remains very attractive due to the opportunity for high life-time return on investment for graduates. Capella has built a leadership position in online learning and a strong reputation for academic quality. Coupled with the breadth of our educational program offerings and focus on learner success, Capella is well-positioned to benefit from the long-term growth drivers in the higher education market."
"In the near-term, the market environment is becoming more challenging as competition increases for high-quality prospective learners and consumers react to the prolonged uncertainty around the economy," said Gilligan. "We are responding to this challenge in a disciplined way and remain confident our brand, advanced marketing analytics, and highly differentiated programs will set Capella apart in an increasingly competitive environment. We remain committed to managing our business for sustained long-term growth by differentiating through high-quality learning and career outcomes."
Total enrollment increased by 25.7 percent from the prior year to 38,634 learners. Graduate program enrollment increased by 19.4 percent year-over-year to slightly over 30,000 learners.
-Revenues increased by 25.7 percent to $105.0 million, compared to $83.6 million for the third quarter in 2009.-Operating income for the quarter was $21.0 million, or 20.0 percent of revenue, compared to $14.5 million, or 17.4 percent of revenue for the same period in 2009.Net income for the third quarter was $13.5 million, or $0.80 per share compared to $9.8 million, or $0.57 per share for the same period in 2009.During the quarter, the company repurchased approximately 300,000 shares for total consideration of $21.1 million. The remaining authorization under the current share repurchase program is $61.2 million as of Sept. 30.
For the fourth quarter ending Dec. 31, enrollment is expected to grow 16.0 to 17.0 percent year-over-year with revenue expected to grow 20.0 to 22.0 percent year-over-year. The operating margin is anticipated to be approximately 24.5 to 25.5 percent of total revenue for the fourth quarter of 2010.
Total enrollment growth for fourth quarter 2010 is anticipated to moderate due to tougher comparisons related to significant process improvements implemented in the second half of 2009 and lower new enrollments.
"New enrollment is anticipated to be slightly down from fourth quarter 2009, due to an increasingly challenging external market environment and our continued focus on attracting high-quality learners prepared for Capella's rigorous academic experience," said Steve Polacek, senior vice president and chief financial officer. "We plan to make modest increases in marketing expense while driving productivity and fixed cost leverage to deliver strong operating margin expansion."
Based on reported year-to-date results and expectations for fourth quarter 2010, we anticipate fiscal year 2010 performance to be within the previously provided guidance ranges of 26.5 to 28.5 percent for annual revenue and average quarterly enrollment growth and operating margins of 21.5 to 22.5 percent of revenue.

Capella Education Company is a provider of online education and parent company of Capella University, a regionally accredited online university. Capella University offers online graduate degree programs in business, counseling, education, health administration, human services, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, public health, public safety, and social work, and bachelor's degree programs in business, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, and public safety.

By Capella Education

Online vs traditional degrees: Which is better?

As tempting as a 100% online business degree is, there are drawbacks. A 'blended' approach is the way forward.As the higher education sector is flooded with graduate degree options, Gulf News asks the experts how online degrees measure up to traditional face-to-face degrees
You’ve seen the advertisements on websites, billboards and newspapers selling top-notch business degrees fully online. The allure of attaining a graduate degree for a fraction of the price of a full time programme while still being able to earn an income is a powerful one for professionals.
Why then would students fork out tens of thousands of dirhams, take precious time off work and possibly lose an income to attend a full time programme?
As the higher education sector is flooded with graduate degree options, Gulf News asks the experts how online degrees measure up to traditional face-to-face degrees.
Blended learning
‘Online’ is an old notion that refers to asynchronous education, where the student signs in, learns content and submits information, and it is a passive conveying of information, said Dr Greg Jones, vice-president and provost for Global Strategy and Pro grammes at Duke University.
“That’s a weak model for anything than just the basic conveying of information. But what I would say is that web-based learning is now often synchronous — you’re interacting with people in real time and that can be quite significant and actually a better optimization of learning,” he said at Duke University’s Dubai campus.
“Web-based learning works best as a supplement to face-to-face, not as an alternative.”
The university takes a blended learning approach with some of its business pro grammes where students based in Dubai attend short, intensive sessions at Duke’s campuses around the world followed by a period of distance learning from home through online classroom sessions and assignments. Many top business schools in Dubai use this model allowing professionals to enjoy the best of what online and face-to-face learning have to offer.
Duke University incorporates online learning in its pro grammes but Jones emphasises the importance of face-to-face contact that students need. “What we do with global executive learning is that there’s face-to-face contact and the development of those relationships really matter.”
Business schools are incorporating online learning but traditional full time programmes are still very popular with students. Dr Arnold Longboy, Director of Executive Education and Recruitment, Europe at The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business said online components could help “but if it’s 70 per cent online I would be opposed to that.”
“A lot of our students choose our programme because it’s more traditional and the number of applications continue to increase – this shows what we offer is still in demand,” he said.

A graduate business degree is more than just the qualification says Dr Roy Batchelor, Director of the Cass Business School’s Executive MBA programme in Dubai. “Apart from picking up skills and current thinking about marketing and so on, part of the MBA experience is working alongside people like yourself from different backgrounds and different sectors.”
Uses of online learning
Professor Alain Senteni, Dean of School of e-Education at Hamdan Bin Mohammad e-University (HBMeU) in Dubai says that online learning helps people prepare for the 21st century society, which will comprise “digital natives”.
Despite the HBMeU being primarily an online institution, it still incorporates the face-to-face component in some of its pro grammes.
“The problem is that our current digital natives are still young — about 15 years old – but people who are decision makers are not digital in nature. There is a need for a change in mindset.”
He says the way to make this happen is the blended approach by using technology to enhance what already exists. “Traditional learning is based on spoon-feeding and this is not what’s needed in the present time.”
Senteni said the university was working on building credibility for online education in the region. “I think credibility and providing evidence that it’s as good as face-to-face is major issue.”
He explained that e-universities use blended learning and they are not allowed to be fully online. Students have a combination of face-to-face classes in the beginning of their pro grammes and then virtual classes which are not physically constrained.
Jones pointed out that very shy people and women students, especially in the region, are less likely to speak in public and are far more likely to ask questions and make comments in a web-based setting.
Online learning also allows for more engaged learning when students are in the classroom. When students can access lectures and other content online as part of their homework they are more likely to engage in more lively discussions than passively listen to a lecturer he said.
“It’s important that we recognize that there are all kinds of ways that technology can enhance learning but we have to move away from viewing it as either online or face-to-face. I don’t think there’s any substitute but at some point we also have to think about what constitutes a class.”
Jones added that it is a myth to think that those students who are based in the same city are interacting with faculty for any more time than in web-based learning. “We now have video conferencing and tele presence. This is an extraordinary way to interact and you can interact in three or four setting simultaneously.”
Longboy said that there are certain topics that lend themselves to online learning such as computer training, finance or accounting.
Perceptions
Commenting on how online degrees and universities are perceived by employers Senteni said employers don’t see a major difference and in fact many traditional universities are trying to move toward online content and support.
“One of the criteria employers look at is to see how technically proficient they are and online learning is a real advantage.”
Perceptions of quality also need to be addressed. “Quality assurance is what they [employers] want and online pro grammes need to be quality assured. We need a systematic and serious quality assurance process to make sure online degrees are meeting the same standards or even better standards than traditional universities. I agree that we want to avoid degree mills,” Senteni said.
Long boy said employers are more open to degree holders from top rated schools. If it was less well known then there is skepticism.
Mohammad Sabunchi is a recent graduate of Cass Business School Dubai’s Executive MBA programme and has noticed that online learning is being offered by several business schools these days.
“I would say I prefer the sit down learning with the online as a support facility. It really works well in executive education,” the managing director for an IT consultancy firm said.
Sabunchi pointed out that online learning has improved significantly in the case of video conferencing where students still have the element of the classroom situation.
“At Cass Business School I was impressed with the structure of the programme which combined an online facility and face to face. It worked perfectly for those at a managerial level and who were busy with life and work.”
Tim Travers, a current Cass Business School EMBA student, also prefers a combination of face to face and online learning. “You couldn’t do these classes without online support — the networking is enhanced by a strong online support coupled with regular workshops and fairly regular social events held by the business school,” he said.

By Amelia Naidoo

Saturday, October 30, 2010

$20 Million Grant Awarded to Kentucky and Pennsylvania Schools

By Sandra Kelly

Low income students in the Louisville, Ky and Erie, PA areas just got a boost to their college educations.  As a part of the Investing in Innovation program, which was created as a part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is granting $20 million dollars to increase college access for first generation, low-income, minority students.  The $20 million dollar grant was awarded to the D.C. based, non-profit Council for Opportunity in Education which will give out the money to specific schools.

This grant money will be used to support the Using Data to Inform College Access Programming in the 21st Century High School initiative, which aims to get help from local colleges and businesses to help raise college access for students who are least likely to seek a college education after graduating from high school.  These low-income, minority students attend and graduate from college at a much lower level than other middle and upper class students, which makes this grant money all the more important.

The program aims to help these low-income students in a variety of ways including combining online courses with physical classroom settings to help determine a student’s learning progress.  Computer programs will then determine the various subjects certain students need to focus on in order to be successful at the collegiate level.  Students will also receive extra counseling and academic advising as part of this program. This counseling will surely help less successful students focus their academic paths and figure out what classes they should take during their first couple of years in college.  By providing structured advertising, the Using DICAP program will allow students to get on a fast, concise track to graduation and not waste any precious money on college classes that will not be used towards a specific college degree.

Indian Catholic University Launches Seven Online Degree Courses

A Catholic university in the northeast Indian state of Assam is offering global access to its degree courses in seven programmes in three disciplines.Claiming to be the first of its kind in the country, Assam Don Bosco University based in Guwahati, already in its third year, is all set to launch its first online degree programmes.




``We hope to target thousands of working-class young people across the globe,`` says the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Dr. Stephen Mavely SDB, explaining how the classes and study will take place on the Web, enabling students to have access to the best professors from around the country.

Using the state-of-the-art Virtual Classroom Technology, the varsity will run the programmes designed for working executives and professionals looking for study projects that complement their work and their need to juggle a career, a family and a degree programme.
           
These programmes give an option for anyone anywhere to be part of Don Bosco University (DBU) backed by its worldwide network in education and other developmental works.

Currently Don Bosco Society operates in 132 countries.
           
The DBU OnLine programme director, Dr. Joseph Anikuzhikkattil, says, ``From this year, we are offering study programmes in the following subjects: Executive MBA (1 year), MBA in Information Technology (2 years), MBA in Entrepreneurship (2 years), MBA with Specialisation (2 years), MS (Information Technology) (2 years), Bachelor of Business Administration (3 years) and Bachelor of Computer Applications (3 years).``

Details of registration are available at www.dbuglobal.com
           
Programme coordinator, Arnab Kumar Choudhury, adds: ``This will be followed by many more degree/diploma/certificate programmes in a modular structure in quick succession.``
           
Currently, DBU conducts regular degree courses in Management, Engineering, Information Technology and Computer Applications from Don Bosco College of Engineering and Technology at Azara and Don Bosco Institute of Management at Kharguli, Guwahati.
           
Construction work on the 272-acre main campus at Tapesia Gardens, 16 km from state capital Dispur, is to commence shortly. Within three to five years, the DBU main campus residential complex is expected to house some six thousand students and staff. Besides the academic and administrative complex, the campus will also have a tea plantation, orange grove, sports complex, chapel, convention centre, hospital facilities, bio-diversity park as well as a free high school for one thousand poor students.
BY SR SHIJI JAMES MSMCH


Friday, October 29, 2010

ASU partners with Pearson to boost online presence

Arizona State University is beginning an aggressive push to increase online student enrollment.
It is partnering with Pearson eCollege, part of Britain-based Pearson, a global leader in education, technology and services that occupies a large office building at Loop 101 and Ray Road in Chandler.
"ASU is partnering with Pearson eCollege in order to rapidly accelerate the development of high-quality course work and achieve enrollment goals of 17,000 to 30,000 undergraduate students within the next five years," said Philip Regier, executive vice provost and dean of ASU Online.ASU now has 1,600 online students.Regier said ASU will increase marketing and call-center enrollment services."What we do really well at ASU is curriculum and instruction," the dean said.Regier said he wants to "really give the for-profits a run for their money."Currently ASU resident undergraduates pay $975 per course plus fees. That cost will increase a bit in the spring.Non-resident students will pay the same for online classes that on-campus resident students pay."We're obviously focused first and foremost in the Arizona and Phoenix markets, but . . . we welcome (out-of-state students) very much," he said.The Board of Regents gave ASU the authority to grant out-of-state students an online degree and to price their tuition at a rate comparable to in-state students.
"Our end goal is to graduate students," the dean said, "to graduate them, not to get them in, but to get them degrees."At least a dozen degrees are offered online, including nursing, sociology, political science and criminology and criminal justice. The offerings meet 80 to 90 percent of the demand for returning students, Regier said. The two most popular degrees are in interdisciplinary studies and liberal science. A degree in psychology will be offered online in January. Online business degrees will follow, he said.
Department chairmen and faculty will stay in control of the online programs, he added. More faculty will be hired."We want to meld the best aspects of the private sector with the best aspects of ASU, and . . . we think we can retain and graduate students far better because of our partnership (with Pearson)."
Under the agreement, ASU will design and teach classes and set and enforce instructional and academic policies. Pearson will provide software - a learning management system for the delivery of online programs. It will provide enrollment services and monitor and analyze trends in student performance. ASU will take in online students every eight weeks, and classes will run 7 1/2 weeks, half the time of an on-campus semester.
"There will be required interaction between students, and they will write papers. It will be very much a class," the dean said.

Luci scott
The Arizona Republic

Bridgepoint Education's Ashford University Introduces Bachelor of Arts Degree in Adult Development

Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI), a provider of post-secondary education services focusing on higher access to higher education, announced today that Ashford University has created a new Bachelor of Arts degree program in Adult Development.  This targeted degree will be the foundation of many careers that support America's growing adult population, applicable to industries such as health care, social services, public administration, legal representation and law enforcement. According to the United States Administration on Aging, the number of Americans between ages 45 and 64 has increased 38 percent since 1997.  The National Institutes of Health has declared that the over-65 population will double in the next 25 years.  As the adult portion of America's citizenry continues to grow, Ashford University has recognized that segment-specific knowledge and training is necessary to serve the members of that population.
"This new degree mirrors changes in the world around us, as more and more disciplines focus research on adulthood," stated Dr. Alice Vestergaard, Ashford's Health, Human Services and Sciences program director. "Multi-disciplinary perspectives of adulthood incorporate psychology, education, health, social sciences and anthropology.  This new degree reflects the collaborative nature of the emerging research and study of adulthood."
Instead of modifying an existing degree to include adult topics, Ashford University built the Bachelor of Arts in Adult Development from the ground up.  The Adult Development degree can also be specialized for gerontology, training and development, teaching, workforce services or health studies.  Through the program's courses, students will be able to focus on the growing adult-specific demands on the public and private sector, including education, health and human services, counseling, social work, psychology, career services, legal representation, law enforcement, sociology and public administration.
"By incorporating learning theories and instructional design into this innovative degree, graduates are able to work in a variety of adult education settings serving diverse populations across the continuum of adulthood," added Dr. Rebecca Wardlow, program director for the College of Education.
Ashford University's Bachelor of Arts in Adult Development is currently available online.  This degree does not lead to licensure or certification of any kind.

About Bridgepoint Education
Bridgepoint Education's postsecondary education services focus on offering associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs in such disciplines as business, education, psychology, social sciences and health sciences. Bridgepoint Education's regionally accredited academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies – deliver their programs online as well as at traditional campuses located in Clinton, Iowa, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. For more information about Bridgepoint Education, visit www.bridgepointeducation.com or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.668.2580.

About Ashford University
Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

Courtesy  - SAN DIEGO, Oct. 29 /PRNewswire/

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Columbus State University Receives New Nursing School Accreditation

Columbus State University has just received approval from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which is the leading accrediting body for baccalaureate and advanced degree nursing programs.  This accreditation states that Columbus State’s School of Nursing meets or exceeds the nation’s highest standards when it comes to preparing and advancing the training of nursing professionals.
This accreditation comes on the heels of Columbus State’s recent changes to their online master’s of nursing program and two track bachelor’s program.  In addition to these programs Columbus State has recently launched an online undergraduate program for registered nurses as part of its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.  This online program is offered completely online, with no need to visit the physical campus, year round in 8 to 10 week sessions.  This online program was designed for the full-time working nurses who are looking to advance their careers by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
In addition to this new online Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program, Columbus State is also planning to offer a new online Master of Science in Nursing Education and Administration program.  This new online masters program is still pending University of Georgia Board of Regents approval, but should not have any problem being approved especially after the undergraduate program was awarded this prestigious accreditation.
This new accreditation is great news for Columbus State.  Add in a recent $1 million grant from St. Francis Hospital and Columbus Regional Health care System and Columbus State is well on its way to doing its part in reaching the statewide goal of a 22% increase in registered nurses.  With more Americans looking to start a career in the medical field, these new online nursing courses will make it that much easier for working individuals to meet their own personal goals and start a fulfilling career in the nursing field.


By Sandra Kelly

New Elementary Education Adult Degree Program in Portland Prepares Students to Teach in Oregon

Newberg, Ore. (Vocus) October 28, 2010
George Fox University will introduce an elementary education degree program for working adults at its Portland Center location, with the first cohort scheduled to begin course work in the fall of 2011.
Applications for admission to the part-time bachelor's degree program are now being accepted. The 41-credit-hour major offers course work that prepares students to apply for the Initial I Teaching License, with authorization to teach in Oregon in both public and private schools at the early childhood (ages 3-4) and elementary (grades 3-8) levels.
The program's format is designed to accommodate the schedules of working adults, with classes scheduled one night per week and one Saturday per month at the Portland Center near Tigard, located at 12753 S.W. 68th Ave., Suite 222, in Portland. An information meeting about the program is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Portland Center.
Among the admission requirements is the completion of 62 semester hours of transferrable credit made up of general education and electives and passing scores on either the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or Praxis 1 Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST).
Some classes are offered in a hybrid format, which combines face-to-face classroom time with online courses. The curriculum also includes opportunities to work in the field, sending students into elementary schools to provide quality student-teaching experiences.
Those who enroll are a part of a small, supportive cohort consisting of no more than 20 people. Major classes are completed with the same group of students, allowing colleagues to provide motivation and support through the process. Students typically complete the degree in five or six semesters.
As an option, students may add the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) endorsement to the elementary/early childhood authorization if they meet the testing and course work requirements in a content area and take the required courses.
To learn more about the program, including cost and admissions information, contact admissions counselor Kristie DeHaven at 503-554-2266 or visit the university's adult degree programs website.
George Fox University is ranked by Forbes as the top Christian college in the Pacific Northwest and among the top three Christian colleges in the country. George Fox is the only Christian university in the Pacific Northwest classified by U.S. News & World Report as a first tier national university. More than 3,400 students attend classes on the university's campus in Newberg, Ore., and at teaching centers in Portland, Salem, and Redmond, Ore., and Boise, Idaho. George Fox offers bachelor's degrees in more than 40 majors, degree-completion programs for working adults, five seminary degrees, and 11 master's and doctoral degrees.

By Kristie DeHaven
Admissions Counselor
503-554-2266

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Kaplan University Signs Agreement with International Union of Police Association to Expand Education Options for Law Enforcement Officers

Kaplan University, a leader in higher education innovation, and the International Union of Police Association (IUPA), AFL-CIO today announced an alliance agreement that will provide the union's estimated 100,000 members with opportunities to pursue online degrees. The degrees are designed to help the IUPA members advance in their law enforcement careers, get the skills they need to start new careers or prepare for retirement. The partnership will also provide IUPA members and their immediate family members with a special reduced tuition rate.
“Our working with Kaplan University opens up a whole new set of career opportunities for our members,” said IUPA International President Sam A. Cabral. “By taking advantage of Kaplan's programs, our officers will ensure a much more secure financial future for themselves and their families. Too often, law enforcement officers find themselves forced to take early retirement for serious career-ending injuries. An advanced degree opens whole new career opportunities in less strenuous fields and allows an officer to be financially secure.”
The Kaplan/IUPA partnership gives law enforcement personnel the opportunity to earn associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees as well as professional certificates. The University offers a wide variety of legal, criminal justice and law-related programs, including Crime Scene Technician and Corrections certificates, criminal justice degrees with emphases in forensic psychology and homeland security, and a juris doctor degree. Concord Law School of Kaplan University was the nation's first fully online law school and is the only one that is part of a regionally accredited university. Additionally, Kaplan's more than 125 online programs and offerings make it possible for officers to continue to work full time while pursuing higher education.
“Kaplan University's programs are designed to provide customized education options for non-traditional students who are looking for innovative, high-quality degree options that are also convenient,” said Gregory Marino, president of the Kaplan University Group. “In addition to a wide portfolio of law-related degree programs, the University also offers information technology, business, education and health care-related degrees that could satisfy a wide variety of education interests.”
IUPA members will receive a 10 percent tuition reduction on all of the University's programs. Additionally, members will receive a 10 percent tuition reduction on Kaplan Virtual Education's online high school programs and a 15 percent reduction on all Kaplan Continuing Education online certificate programs. Also, as part of the partnership, Kaplan will be a sponsor at both the 2011 Conference and the 2012 Convention for the International Union of Police Associations, AFL-CIO (IUPA).


News By kaplan University

Computer Science Degree now offered online at Stevens-Henager College

n a move that will make IT education more accessible to students, Stevens-Henager College’s Salt Lake City/Murray campus is now offering a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree online.

The Computer Science degree was previously offered only on campus. The online availability of this degree will provide students additional flexibility since they will be able to complete their coursework from anywhere and follow a schedule at their convenience.

The Bachelor’s of Computer Science degree can be earned in 36 months or in as few as 30 months at Stevens-Henager College on a flexible schedule. The curriculum covers diverse courses including computer fundamentals and technologies, database design, networking concepts, Internet programming, and telecommunications. The program is designed to train prospects in advanced theoretical and practical aspects of computing and qualifies graduates for a broad range of IT careers such as programming, network administration, and database management.

Graduates are also prepared for additional professional certifications to widen their knowledge base and enhance their prospects in the job market. However, certification examinations may require additional coursework and preparation by students appearing for them.  

Stevens-Henager College, which has seven campuses across Utah and Idaho, offers various Bachelor’s degrees online through its Salt Lake City/Murray branch, including Accounting, Business Administration, Nursing (completion)
, Nursing Administration, and Graphic Design. The Computer Science degree is the latest program to be made available online by the college.

Online degrees offered by the college are ideally suited for full-time professionals since these career-focused programs are available on flexible schedules.  Classes at Stevens-Henager College start every month.
 
By Stevens-Henager college

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Capella University - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in - Education - Postsecondary and Adult Education

Enhance your qualifications in adult education and college teaching, one of the 10 fastest growing occupations in the country. You will earn two valuable credentials as part of this specialization—a PhD in Education with a specialization in Postsecondary Adult Education and a Post-Master's Certificate in College Teaching. The curriculum focuses on theories of adult learning and distance education, critical analysis and research skills, best practices in postsecondary adult instruction, and application of theory and research to develop effective learning environments for individuals from a variety of backgrounds. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing postsecondary faculty positions or education leadership positions in a variety of adult learning settings, including higher education institutions, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and the military.

The residential colloquia experience:

As a doctoral learner, you will attend three five-day colloquia at specific stages in your program, in addition to your online courses. These energizing residencies provide you with insights and knowledge that will be valuable during your doctoral studies and beyond.

By Capella University

Monday, October 25, 2010

Online colleges are helping more adults return to schools and earn degrees

More adults have turned to online colleges to finish their education and earn a degree. California Southern University (cal southern), an online school, announced this week that it will sponsor the distance learning page of the Social Psychology Network website. The institution's goal is to continue to encourage individuals in the psychology field to return to school and advance their careers. "With many adults returning to school to complete their degree and further their career goals, there is an increasing need for quality online education that can be accessed from anywhere in the world," said Barbara Grimes, the dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences at cal southern.
Grimes also noted that the sponsorship is symbolic of the college's commitment to online education and distance learning for working professionals.
The school has been an advocate for distance learning since it was established in 1978. Not only does cal southern allow students to work toward psychology degrees through online courses, but it offers internships and practicum opportunities as well.
The demand for psychologists is expected to grow by 12 percent by 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Online colleges can give adults the flexible schedule they need to work toward a degree.

By  Barbara Grimes

Bryant and Stratton College to offer scholarship for online associates degree program

Bryant and stratton college online, an accredited post-secondary institution, is offering up to ten full tuition scholarships awards to study in its associates degree program. The program also offers five $5000.00  to remaining finalists.
One unique feature in this scholarship program is that it offers the recipient the opportunity to award their second scholarship to a deserving  friend or family member to also study in the college. This program is known as the Pay It Forward Scholarship.
This is an excellent opportunity for adults that, for personal or family reasons, were not able to continue their post-secondary education.
Distance education is a rigorous form of learning comparable to classroom lectures. Students considering distance education must first feel comfortable working with technology and also remain highly committed in learning and applying time management skills. This is a definite plus for those looking to add transferable skills to their resume in addition to studying for a new career.

By George Narvaez

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Capella University

Capella University, an Accredited Online University, to Host Panel of Public Service Leaders to Discuss Best Practices During a Pandemic Crisis

The three winners of the online university’s Public Service Challenge will be recognized and awarded for their accomplishments
MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Capella University, an accredited online university* that has built its reputation by providing high quality online degree programs for working adults, will host a discussion panel with public service leaders from multiple disciplines to highlight the effective preparations and responses of public service leaders during a pandemic crisis situation. The discussion will be held on Friday, Oct. 22, 2010, at 7 p.m. in conjunction with the online university’s PhD colloquium at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta. The panelists include:
“The challenges in today’s public sector call for leaders with the skills and abilities to collaborate across jurisdictional and organizational lines”
  • Aaron Brown; Facilitator/Moderator
A recipient of numerous awards for journalism, Brown has covered some of the world’s most memorable news stories. He is the first Walter Cronkite Professor of Journalism at Arizona State University in Tempe, and is an anchor on PBS' Wide Angle.
  • John Hawkins, PhD; Lothian & Borders Police
A recipient of the Fulbright Scholarship, Hawkins is a senior British police officer and an adjunct member of faculty at Capella University. His areas of interest are leadership and leadership development within the public service arena.
  • Theresa Kyzar, RN, MSN, MBA; Northwestern State University (NSU)
Kyzar is a frequent speaker at national and international professional nursing organizations. She is an assistant professor at NSU’s College of Nursing in Shreveport, Louisiana; and a health management consultant to long term care companies in the southeastern U.S. Kyzar is earning her PhD in Health Care Administration at Capella University.
  • Charles Little, DO, FACEP; University of Colorado Denver
As medical director of emergency preparedness at the University of Colorado and The Center for Integrated Health and Disaster Preparedness, Little led the hospital response during the H1N1 outbreak. He developed the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment pandemic triage and treatment policies.
  • Justin Lombardo, PhD; VP & CLO Children’s Medical Center, Dallas
Lombardo has more than 10 years of experience building integrated learning and development systems for large academic medical centers in adult and pediatric settings. He has served on advisory boards on workforce development at the regional, national and international level.
  • Joyce Anne Wainio, MHA; VP National Center of Healthcare Leadership (NCHL)
Wainio is responsible for supporting the work of NCHL Councils and networks, program development, and coordinating content for the NCHL’s external communications. Her career has spanned work in innovative non-profit healthcare organizations, the Federal government, national and state associations, and hospital management.
  • Tyler Zerwekh, MPH, DrPH; Memphis & Shelby County Health Department
Zerwekh oversees the pollution control, vector control, environmental sanitation, and emergency preparedness programs as the deputy administrator for the Environmental Health Services Bureau at the Memphis and Shelby Health Department.
“The challenges in today’s public sector call for leaders with the skills and abilities to collaborate across jurisdictional and organizational lines,” said Aaron Brown. “Capella University is educating its students to become successful public service leaders who will benefit their individual organizations, the public as a whole, and their own careers.”
A special ceremony will follow the panel discussion to celebrate the three winners from the online university’s Public Service Challenge. They will each receive either a $10,000 scholarship to Capella University, or a $10,000 charitable donation to an approved organization of their choice. In addition, each will be invited to serve on Capella's Public Service Advisory Council, which helps shape Capella's educational offerings to best meet the needs of public service professionals.
Recognized for its quality programs, Capella University’s School of Public Service Leadership multidisciplinary approach is designed to expose learners to parallel disciplines, so that they can partner with health care, public safety, and public administration professionals to solve public service challenges. Programs are developed and taught by expert faculty who are recognized within their field. More than 38,000 students are pursuing an online degree at Capella University, with 31 percent enrolled in Capella’s doctoral degree programs, and 47 percent enrolled in Capella’s master’s degree programs.
About Capella University
Capella University is an accredited online university* that has built its reputation by providing quality online degree programs for working adults. Nearly 80 percent of Capella students are currently enrolled in master's or doctoral online degree programs in the fields of business, counseling, education, human services, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, public health, public safety, and social work. Capella also offers bachelor's degree programs in business, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, and public safety. Within those areas, Capella currently offers 137 graduate and undergraduate specializations and 16 certificate programs. More than 38,000 learners were enrolled as of June 30, 2010, from all 50 states and 52 other countries. Capella is committed to providing high-caliber academic excellence and pursuing balanced business growth. Founded in 1993, Capella University is a wholly owned subsidiary of Capella Education Company, headquartered in Minneapolis.
By Capella University.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Online education for international students

For international transfer students, integration into the U.S. university system brings challenges. Potential roadblocks include English proficiency requirements and an inability to transfer credits from an overseas school. Online education can help international students orient themselves in the U.S. system and accelerate their progress toward a degree.
International students can get a head start on their U.S. education by earning transfer credits. You can accelerate your progress to your U.S.degree by taking online education courses and proficiency exams.


Preparing for University in the U.S.

International students may be vulnerable to academic difficulty, as they struggle to integrate into a new education system.

International Student Preparation

International students face potential obstacles transitioning from their native schooling to an entirely new system. While many international students boast a stronger math and science education than their U.S. counterparts, English and reading skills are likely to elude a non-native English speaker. Language difficulties and pedagogical differences can also make math and science education a challenge.
Any deficiency in preparation threatens to delay degree completion and increase the cost of university. U.S. universities generally require international students with foreign transcripts to take remedial courses before they can progress to the university curriculum. Remedial classes can extend time to degree completion to three years for associates degrees and six years for bachelor's degrees.

Strategies to Help International Students Get Ahead

There are several ways to overcome the obstacles:

1. Pass Entrance Exams

International transfer students can demonstrate their abilities and skills by taking the following required and recommended tests.
SAT or ACT, TOEFL , IELTS or PTE.
In addition, many colleges and universities allow international students to satisfy remedial and even college-level requirements by demonstrating their proficiency in a specific subject area.
Remedial tests. Most schools administer remedial tests to assess basic writing and reading skills, mathematics, science, or foreign language proficiency. In addition, the College Board offers SAT subject tests in high school curriculum areas: literature, U.S. and world history, biology, chemistry, physics, foreign languages, and more.
Advanced Placement (AP) exams. The AP system assesses student proficiency in college-level subjects, allowing students to test out of basic degree requirements. AP exams cover 31 subjects ranging from U.S. history to Japanese language and culture.
High scores on these subject test series could instantly accelerate your progress to the university degree, saving you time and money.

2. Take Online Courses

Online courses offer international students another chance to start university ahead of the competition. An online degree program administered through a U.S. school provides prospective universities with a recognizable sign of your ability to perform in the U.S. higher education system. Online education is available in:
  • Remedial core subjects such as English and mathematics
  • Advanced placement subjects
  • Basic college courses
  • TOEFL preparation and English as a Second Language training
Online courses in these areas can help you test out of the remedial or lower-division university course requirements. Some schools offer transfer credits for courses taken through an accredited U.S. online degree program.

3. Talk to an Admissions Counselor

Admissions counselors at your prospective schools can help you determine your options for accelerating your education. Depending on school policy, transfer credits may be available for:
  • AP and remedial test scores
  • U.S. online degree program transcripts
  • International school transcripts.
For example, some schools offer "acceleration credits" for international students with a more advanced high school background in key areas.
Accreditation is an important factor in the transferability of credits, both from international and online domestic schools. Each U.S. college and university is accredited by a regional or national agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Although there are some international accrediting agencies, few international schools win recognition by U.S. institutions. The rate of transfer is low even among U.S. institutions, which may not recognize schools accredited by another agency. Ask admissions counselors about credit-transfer rules and keep accreditation in mind as you shop for online courses.
International students face an uphill battle in the transition into the U.S. higher education system. With a little planning and remote online education, you can arrive in the country academically ahead of your American peers.
By clare kaufma

Friday, October 15, 2010

Kaplan University Partners with Kauffman FastTrac® to Offer FastTrac® Courses in Entrepreneurship Specializations

Kaplan University, a leader in higher education innovation, today announced that it has teamed up with Kauffman FastTrac®, a premier provider of learning curricula for entrepreneurs, to integrate FastTrac courses into two online master’s degree specializations—the new Entrepreneurship specialization within the Master of Science in Information Technology program and the Entrepreneurship specialization within the Master of Business Administration program.
“Kauffman has a premier reputation for entrepreneurial training and development. These specializations provide Kaplan University with an opportunity to expand its online curriculum with the highest quality tools to help students successfully pursue entrepreneurial ventures,” said Thomas Boyd, Ph.D., dean of the School of Business and Management.”The FastTrac courses are particularly beneficial as entrepreneurial opportunities continue to grow at high rates in today’s business world.”
According to the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity, a leading indicator of new business creation in the United States, the number of new businesses created during the current recession increased. In 2009, business startups reached their highest level in 14 years – even exceeding the number of startups during the peak 1999-2000 technology boom.
The new Entrepreneurship specialization within the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) includes FastTrac New Venture™ courses, such as Foundations of Entrepreneurship: FastTrac® New Venture and FastTrac New Venture Lab. The existing Entrepreneurship specialization within the Master of Business Administration program has been updated to include FastTrac New Venture™ courses, such as Small Business Administration and Corporate Venturing.
”Nearly all net job growth in our country comes from companies less than five years old. So, today more than ever, we need graduate business and IT students to understand the importance of entrepreneurship and to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and skill set to encourage the startup and growth of new firms,” said Carl Schramm, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation, which created the FastTrac program. “By adding the FastTrac program to their MBA and MSIT course curricula, Kaplan University will effectively equip even more business leaders and entrepreneurs with the skills they need to start and grow firms—thus creating the innovations, jobs and wealth this country needs to recover and prosper.”

About Kauffman FastTrac

Kauffman FastTrac is the leading provider of learning curricula that equip aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the business skills and insights, tools, resources, and network to start and grow successful businesses. Kauffman FastTrac was created by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the largest foundation in the United States devoted to entrepreneurship. To learn more about Kauffman FastTrac, visit www.fasttrac.org

About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University has more than 125 academic programs and offerings, and serves more than 75,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 12 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.
Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education, which serves more than 112,000 students online and through more than 70 campus-based schools across the United States and abroad. Kaplan Higher Education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan Higher Education is part of Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO), and its largest and fastest-growing division. For more information about Kaplan University, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu.

If you found this information useful, live a comment bellow.(This report is via kanscity)

SOLUTIONS TO JUVENILE DELINQUENCY

There are possible solutions to juvenile delinquency.They include the following:
1.ENACTMENT OF GOVERNMENT POLICY AGAINST POOR PARENTING.As discussed already that parental responsibility is a cause is a pointer to the government to put up an adolescent-parenting or childhood parenting policy.Such policy will redirect most parents' attitude to good parenting while offenders will be made to face the wrath of the law.
2. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY.One thing that is capable of making someone get involved in such crime is unemployment.Most children, on the street today ,may be willing to stay far from crime if probably given a gainful employment.In most developing nations where gainful employment is scarce,its common to see young school leavers easily lured into torgery.What could have been responsible for some well educated fellows becoming an assassins or kidnappers other than joblessness.Providing meaningful employment is a natural way of  take evil far from the minds.
3. ADMINISTER SCHOOL DISCIPLINE.This will help, a great deal,to culture the kids as offenders shall be subjected to certain percentage of punishment depending on the degree of crime committed.At this juncture,parents must be reminded that if one spear the rod,one would spoil the child.Therefore, should allow the school authorities to be in full control over their children and accept when they are punished for wrong doing.
4. EXTRA MORAL STUDIES.It should become a matter of urgency for schools to add extral moral studies to her school curricullum as it will teach the kids morals and increase the fear of the creator in their heart.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

CAUSES OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY AND HOW IT AFFECTS THE KIDS

Juvenile delinquency refers to the violation of laws and antisocial conduct in children bellow 18years.When it starts, in a kid,usually such children are never yielding to control from their parent.Its a serious menace in societies today that must not be taken with levity.The causes amongst others and  possible effects is on focus.

CAUSES OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY

1.PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY.In today's world,most parent have failed in their responsibility of naturing their children due to career pursuit.A situation where dad and mum lives home early in the morning and returns home perhaps late at night, 360days of the year, has ruined many kids.In this case, where the kids look towards no one for correction and exhibits whatever comes to mind. when nobody is there to watch over them after school has exposed some children to drugs addition, immorality, gangster etc.

2.PEER GROUP.Just as the saying goes " show me your friend and i will tell you who you are" , explains that bad company is a cause of juvenile delinquency.Those children who keep bad company  as friends have been lured to drugs ,immorality, gangster,drunkenness, robbery just to mention a few. Research has shown that many cases of antisocial vices among kids are as a result of who they hang out with.

3.IDLENESS. "An idle heart is the devil's workshop". When kids are idle, it easily puts them in a state of invention and discovery.But in this case, negative invention and discovery.Some children, took break hours in schools, as an idle time for to achieve their evil desire. Several schools' report has shown this.At home, many other kids took to watching adult labeled movies for lack of nothing to do.Some  are on the streets  and party,most week-ends just to keep themselves busy. All these put together has resulted evil among the kids.

4.MORAL FACTOR.We live in a world that has no regards for God ,our creator.Immorality has since replaced morality. Imagine what a child that has no regards for her parents or any one else would do.Some times, it amazes to find some kids' character questionable because their traits are so different from their parents.Other times , one may hurry to conclude that such kids are alien. Being moral makes any one to do what is right supposedly.
Putting all the above to consideration, it is obvious that its effects are inevitable. Some of them are as follows:
1.INCREASE IN SCHOOL DROP-OUT. Many school children have been advised to withdraw as a result of something bad they did like rape, engaging in robbery, impersonation, exam cheat etc after which many don't ever get back to school.This is affecting our society as it further leads to increase in crime.

2.CRIME ON THE MOVE. Of cause thats it. Crime, certainly ,is on the move daily so long as people, especially the under 18years have taken to evil. Juvenile delinquency made it easy for crime boost .

3.UNWANTED TEENAGE PREGNANCIES. For every action, there must be a reaction. Juvenile delinquency has resulted to  increase in teenage pregnancy in our every day society.A kid that often watch immoral films or hang out with bad friends would some day be influenced to practice.And when this happens, many a time, the casualties are never expected or ready to accept parenthood.Hence, the next door for them is abortion.

4.INCREASED ABORTION RATE.Abortion is rated high especially among the teenagers globally as shown from statistics.Although it is accepted in some countries legally does not mean it is right.Countless couple that take to child adoption may be as a result of reckless living in their teenage days, due to multiple abortion.The fetus or womb is very delicate and as such must not be stressed before marriage.

5.EARLY MARRIAGE.This concept is common with less civilized areas where some parent send their pregnant daughters to early marriages, caused by juvenile delinquency. When this occurs, that could be the end of education for such fellow and suffer the pains of illiteracy ever after.

6.SUDDEN DEATH. Death is inevitable to everyone but can be much earlier with juvenile delinquency.Many kids never lived to tell the story of what happened as death occurred in the process.Some other die daily as they have to suffer from the agony it has caused them ever after.

If you have benefited from this post, make a comment below.

Monday, October 4, 2010

HOW TO BE SUCCESSFULL WITH LEARNING

Learning has several meaning to different people.but all meanings boil back to the fact that one takes-in a knowledge.To become knowledgeable about a thing  should be taken seriously and for a successful learning, every learner should consider the following;

1 .READINESS. Readiness is very strong step to learning.A student who often lack proper preparedness to a class would certainly be half bathed in that topic.And because of this,such could hardly be successful in her test.Imagine a factory worker who is never ready to learn new things in the companiesor her area of specialization will soon be outdated in output.
2.MATERIALS REQUIRED.For anything worth learning requires materials.In some industries, its called tools.In the act and process of learning, the trainer,tutor etc must usually perform physical examples or exhibitions to the trainee or learners after which each learner must perform on her own following the trainer's instructions.So, it will be difficult for any trainee to practice without materials.
3.CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT.Many a time,most people learn in an un-conducive environment.The environment where one learns can help in facilitating quick assimilation and understanding.For example,students in a college built very close to a busy center will find learning very taskful because of the continuously noise often generated.Environment varies according to industries.There are industries where the best conducive environment is busy centers as others would prefer solitary or remote areas.
4.PASSION. Passion is the very determination any one needs to learn.During the process of learning, obstacles usually arises as challenges.but opting out at that time wont be necessary because
of the passion to learn.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

How to Motivate Your Kids doing His or Her Homework

In exerting effort to allot time for your kids to provide homework help, you are making them feel important in the process. This isn't that simple to do, specially when both moms and dads are working. These days, times are really challenging. As much as possible, mothers and fathers will do everything to ensure that they will be in a position to earn as much so as to send their kids to good schools, give them healthy and good foods and give them what they want at most occasions.

With such hectic mindset, your children will surely appreciate it if they will see that your with them, guiding them through it all. It is insufficient that you inform your kids to do good or you remind them about what you want them accomplish. You have to hone your kids into developing into who you want them to be. But there are certain rules that you must follow in shaping up the minds of your kids and helping them towards what they would like to achieve. Here are some tips that you can apply on your own endeavor about the matter.

1. You have to teach your children to always think positive. The first thing that you are able to do in this regard is to show a good sample. You have to teach them the values that they can gain by looking at the brighter side of things and situations. You must guide them in shaping up this type of behavior.

2. In shaping up their young minds on to reaching their objectives, you need to set that ones which are realistic. You cannot let them dream something that they don't have the proportions to accomplish. You cannot be too harsh on them in this regard. They have to feel free to choose the avenue they wish to take in life. You are simply their mentor and their guide to make the operation easier for them. You are there to help them clear the obstacles on the roads that they have decided to take.

But you should never force them into doing something that they cannot really do. You mustn't make them feel like you will love them more if they will become another person or change who they are actually. This can create more harmful effects onto their personality and growth over time.

3. You have to help them in setting objectives for your children to reach whatever it is they wish to gain. You can also use rewards system to enthuse them in accomplishing the set objectives. You must do this a step at a time. You can begin with one goal that is easy to do, then add some more objectives that might challenge them more. This is a procedure. You need to make them realize that they cannot do it unexpectedly. You have to be there by their side whenever they need you. And you likewise have to let them be on their own if the occasion requires such.

4. Your and your children should be very clear with respect to the goals and the steps to accomplish them. By being there to provide homework help, you are on your way to having a better relationship with your children. This is a great foundation for them to become you whenever they will make important decisions on life and in taking the steps to reach their goals through your motivations.

College Scholarship for Students in Music

Education is the key for a prosperous career, which is why it is the main responsibility of all mothers and fathers to send their kids to school. Although education is a necessity, not all moms and dads are in a position to fund their child's schooling. Others usually stop after they graduate from high school.

This is truly happening in almost any an area of the world, and as reported by statistics, the number is increasing every year. And this is more than likely why the government and different private organizations are searching for ways to give scholarships to capable students with limited finances.

Students are not alike; in fact, every single has his/her own distinct characteristic and talent. Some students have talents in the arts, dancing, singing, and music. Now, there are scholarships for particular fields of interest. And if you do love music very much, you might know some scholarships for college music.

Music is hot, and lots of students are becoming curious about this certain area. However moms and dads may not like their children to pursue a career in music (because what they want is a more stable career), students have a choice.

Here is a directory of some of the music scholarships available for students:

1.    vocal scholarship from Bel Canto; this foundation awards over $15,000 to opera singers with ages from 20-37 who want to pursue an opera career in the US
2.    John Lennon program for BMI scholarship; this is a scholarship awarded to songwriters who are able to write original compositions. But you can only capitalize on this scholarship if your invited
3.    Scholarship award by String Magazine; this is open for students who are currently in undergraduate program; the award is typically established on academic merit, public service and financial need.
4.    FAME also awards school scholarships for students who are nominated for professional achievement for senior college students.

The web can give you a broad range of music scholarship resources. There are different websites which you can visit, and once you're in their site, see what requirements are needed as a way to entitled to the scholarship.

Almost any big university offers a type of scholarship, talk to their registrar for scholarship information. There are universities in your area, take time to see them. It would be better if you make a list of the various college scholarships awarded to pupils with interest in music.

Music is a field of interest which only only a couple of individuals take interest. So if you are one of the few individuals struggling to get a school degree in music, begin your rummage for the scholarship. If you consider, you can pass the required qualifications, go and take the chance.

Like any other pupil dreaming of a life in school, you ought not to be discouraged by the trouble that you're now facing. People have problems, and that can't be avoided.

Financial constraints are not enough to stop you from getting that school education. Choose the best alternative available for you. This is your way to a dazzling career in the near future.

You are a gifted individual. Share your talent with others, and show them your passion for music. And who knows, you could just be the one that the music industry is awaiting all these years.