http://www.schoolsworldwide.org/blog

Archive for March, 2007

Online education offers a whole host of opportunities to get on and improve your personal education. To begin with, online courses usually last five to six weeks and they are to be conducted entirely online. With its job-oriented and career-friendly approach online learning offers a great flexibility. It allows working people to program their own schedule and join online classes whenever it is convenient for them. There are a wide range of online courses available for students with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in multiple branches.

Online learning is considerably less expensive than traditional college programs. It is noticeable that college tuition, books, housing and so on demands a huge amount of money. Can you really afford it? If you are not certain that you can, you can explore other options without accruing a large financial risk. In the long-term, online learning will cost a fraction of what you would dole out for a traditional college education. Moreover, online degree programs are very convenient. You can continue to work around your current schedule. For instance, you work in health care and you want to advance your career but you do not have time to go to college. It is worth considering what the real benefits of opting for one of nursing schools online.

Clearly, traditional college education is a huge time investment that working people cannot afford to make. Working professionals have responsibilities and commitments and they cannot simply take breaks for multiple years. Online degres let them keep their commitments, while also giving them an accessible way to earn a college-level education. Some universities have even offered 20 % discount for all military personnel on all new course registrations. Students can also get a good loan for their online degrees as the competition is not very strong.

Online learning is a perfect trade-off, because in exchange for lost experiences, you get convenience. Instead of being exposed to total collegiate immersion, you can rely on your Internet connection and web browsing capabilities to learn new ideas, people and places. One of the great disadvantages of online degree programs is that you will not have the same level of social interaction and live exchange. The traditional university support network is replaced by your self-motivation and Internet access. In other words, the social component is removed from the equation.

Although online education can be isolating at times, there are different ways to learn over the Internet and enhance your social network. Here are some tips how to take best advantage of online learning.

· Search for online courses that involve group learning. Working together with fellow students to complete assignments will be beneficial for your social interactions. Maintain contact with them as much as you can. Make sure you get the phone numbers of some of your classmates so that you can keep in touch with them. When it comes to having social interactions, you would be surprised how important it is to hear an actual voice.

· Find out something about your classmates, for instance, where are they from. Find out about their opinions. The great thing about online education is its accessibility – you might find people from different countries, communicate in different languages, have a different type of lifestyle.

· Join an online learners’community or forum. There are a lot of subjects to discuss with students involved in a similar course of study. Oftentimes members of a forum will not be able to help you with your assignments, but they can certainly give you support.

· Make sure you get out and socialize. Should you are incredibly busy with studying, work and family, leave yourself some time to get out and meet friends to have a chat with them. Make sure you are not spending every waking moment staring at a computer.

The choice between traditional college and an online degree program is a very personal decision. Ask yourself what you expect from your educational experience and be aware that you can be left feeling isolated and unconnected despite your constant access to school facilities.

In the last decades online learning has become increasingly popular. Many students, who can not afford to pay for the high fees of full-time courses, has benefited from study formats online. Many factors come into play to make it successful for students. There are, however, a great variety of online schools, which makes things difficult for students to find a good school where they can earn an AA, BA, BS or MBA online. Here are some tips for working people who want to find a good online school.

  • Decide what type of degree you would like to obtain.
  • Use search engines like Google to browse schools that provide the degree you are looking for. Check out different online directories to find out about the course you search on.
  • Read carefully through the programs to learn everything about them. Find out what type of pre-requisite classes you will have to take along with the program.
  • Learn more about the asynchronous versus synchronous learning. Know that synchronous learning is for real-time online communication and asynchronous relates to more flexible interactions through elecronical forums.
  • Make sure you have chosen an accredited online college. You can check with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation on www.chea.org.
  • After a thorough and careful research contact the colleges you have selected. Fill out electronically forms for their schools. Then, wait for a school representative to contact you and continue through the complete process of enrollement.
  • Get started and earn a degree.

Here are some extra tips on how to succeed in online learning.

· Learn discipline, determination and time management.

· Make full use of school facilities.

· Do not forget to make credit transfers for courses that you have already taken in other schools.

Make full use of new technologies: web resources, online books etc.

With the increasing popularity of the Internet over the last decade, the world we live in has been completely changed. The type of education that we used to take for granted underwent many changes. Not only has the Internet greatly enhanced traditional education, but it has also transformed the way students can follow their education. Originally, the only way for someone to earn a degree was by attending college for a minimum of four years. This program of study, however, was not compatible with many students’ lifestyle. People got tired juggling a job, school and family, while they were still interested in receiving formal education. What are the pros and cons of traditional and online schools? The issue of online versus traditional learning is one that requires a thorough examination.

The pros of traditional education

One of the major questions that has accompanied the growth of distance education is whether or not it is better than the traditional one. As with most generally questions, there is no clear cut answer. There are instances when a traditional learning is the best option. From the good old day until now, most of the students around the world study at a place called school. The only choice for many children is but to go to school where they actually grow up. Thus, a school is a place where children get together and study together.

A traditional education provides a balance between educational and social development. It promotes interaction and communication, children start to get alone with their peers and help each other. The classroom setting makes it possible for students to ask questions whenever they deal with difficulties as well as to discuss easily their problems with teachers. They are available as far as students have questions.

The pros of online education

The most obvious limitation of traditional education is that many people are not able to juggle a full-time job and family and can not devote to a four your program of study. For those people, online colleges are by far the best option. They can earn their degrees on their own schedule as far as they have a reliable internet connection. What’s more, online degrees are convenient, flexible and can usually be completed in shorter periods of time. The lenght of time is reduced, partly because the class layout is streamlined and partly because students conduct their coursework individually.

A signicant benefit of online education is that it is considerably less expensive than the traditional one. If you decide to invest in a college education, you have to make sure that you can afford it.

To sum up, there is no clear cut answer to the question of online versus traditional education. It is absolutely impossible to give a definite answer that would apply to every single possible situation. If you have to choose between traditional and online education, balance the pros and cons that are specific to your personal situation. Do you look for prestige or convenience and affordability? While making your final decision, it is important to understand the major difference between online and on-site college education and to take into account your professional hopes and goals.

The Internet has grown into a veritable wealth of information over the last decade. The college seekers can complete all the college formalities online from applying for financial aid to taking a course. Nowadays they can even earn online degrees from one of many online schools offering online education. Thus, online schools became a viable alternative to a traditional classroom education. What is the difference between these two methods of teaching, and do either prove better for the students? We know for a fact that online education is becoming increasingly popular for students all over the world.

First and foremost, online colleges have a big advantage over the traditional ones. Juggling a job, school and a home prove to be very difficult as far as commuting to the classroom every day. With online education, you eliminate the need to attend classes, and instead complete your coursework from an Internet website. Thus, overworked college students enjoy considerable advantage in terms of commute. Moreover, most of the online programs allow students to complete the coursework when it is convenient for them, while still adhering to overall deadlines. In fact, one of the great benefits of online education is the flexibility that a traditional classroom setting can not provide.

However, is an online college truly comparable to the traditional education a student would receive in an actual classroom? The answer is yes. Not only does online education provide a stimulating environment for students, but it benefits the interaction among students, as everyone has a say in ‘virtual classroom discussions’. Moreover, online learning allows college students to study at their own pace applying methods they like best.

Many college students choose to follow the online education path for the diversity of material they have access to. What’s more, for some reason or other teachers are more approachable via the Internet than they would be in a classroom setting. Another great advantage of online education programs is that they are work-oriented and career-friendly. Thus the skills students learn will be beneficial to them in the workforce.

Online degrees are becoming an increasingly popular way to receive a college education and many students are opting for online learning because of the diversity of material, convenience and the level of flexibility inherent in distance education programs. In fact, there is no great difference between an online education and a traditional one, but there are definite plus points of the online learning.

Many parents are facing the difficult task of finding a school that will meet their children’s needs. But how do they deal with the dilemma of choosing between public or private school? Here is a sample listing of criteria that can help you to make up your mind:

  • Cost: Private schools usually cost a lot of money, whereas public education is funded through state and local taxes.
  • Admissions:  Unlike public schools which admit all children, private schools are rather selective. In accordance with the law, public schools must provide education to all children, including those with special needs. On the contrary, private schools are under no legal obligation to accept all children and admissions are usually competitive.
  • School program: Unlike the flexibility of the curriculum in private schools where is offered a program specially designed for students, public schools offer a general program, designed for all children, which usually includes English, maths, science, history, physical education etc. While private schools can create their own curriculum and assessment system, public schools must stick to the general program. Private schools can offer specialized programs that blend lessons, using art as well as science. Public schools may also offer programs in art and science but they are an integral part of the general curriculum.
  • Educating staff: While all teachers in a public school are state certified, those in private schools may not be required to have certification.
  • Students: Public schools admit all children and they do not apply selective admissions process, while the students at private schools are determined by a selection process. This means that they must apply before being accepted at the school.
  • Class size: Generally,  the class size in public schools is bigger than that in private schools. This is one of the reasons why parents tend to prefer private schools instead of public schools. Smaller class size, more individual attention to students.
  • Children with special needs: While private schools are not obligated by law to accept children with special needs, public schools are under the legal obligation to educate all children and provide all the necessary means to meet their special needs. Unlike public schools which offer special education programs for students with special needs, private schools do not have special education programs.

Whatever you decide, remember there are very good private schools and there are very good public schools. The trick is to find what’s important for your kid.

Why online degree in Business ?

It may be worth getting an online degree in the field of business as it could provide many career opportunities for different people. Furthermore, the business school offers a great variety of options such as marketing, sales, management, accounting, human resources, advertising and finance.

Why taking the chance to earn a business degree through an online program?

Virtually all pеople ask themselves: Am I giving myself the best chance at success? It is worth considering what the real benefits of getting online degree or diploma level might be.

Online schools offer the range of possibilities for improving your personal education. To begin with, they are job-oriented and the diplomas that everyone was given grant the same rights as a degree get through conventional education. Online education has come a long way in the past few years and it is now regarded as a legitimate way to obtain a college or university degree. Online programs’flexibility and career-friendly approach allows the busy people to choose their schedule and join the class when it is convenient for them. Secondly, they provide the perfect opportunity for studying while continuing to work. Moreover, it could be very helpful for people who want to continue their education while taking care of their families and having social life. Last but not least, online schools could offer the chance of a lifetime for recent immigrants with diplomas which are not valid in their new country. Therefore, if you aspire to improve your business education or your professional skills without attending an ordinary university it is advisable to enrol on an online course.

How about the career opportunities with a degree in business?

Earning degree in business opens doors for career development in a wide range of area such as accounting, economics, management, marketing, sales, human resources and purchasing. In fact, a degree in business could be the golden opportunity for those who aim for career advancement.

There are many business degrees available for the students, including Bachelor’s and Master’s with specializations in multiple branches. Online learning could be the golden opportunity for everybody who pursue a career in business.

What is Erasmus?
Erasmus is the higher education section of the Socrates programme, the European Community action programme in the field of education.
It was created in 1987 to enhance the quality of higher education in Europe by encouraging cooperation between universities of different countries, boosting European mobility and improving the transparency and full academic recognition of studies and qualifications throughout the Union.
In more specific terms, Erasmus aims at promoting language learning and encouraging mobility and innovation.
What does Erasmus do?
The most well-known activity of the Erasmus is off course the students exchange programme. But Erasmus also consists of other different activities such as teacher exchanges, joint development of study programmes (Curriculum Development), international intensive programmes, thematic networks between departments and faculties across Europe, language courses (EILC) and the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
In which countries is Erasmus active?
Erasmus exchange and cooperation is possible in 31 countries: all 27 member states of the European Union, the three countries of the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) and Turkey.
How long does an Erasmus student exchange programme normally lasts?
The student exchange programme offers the possibility of studying abroad for a period of between 3 and 12 months. Normally, students spend either the first or the second semester, or a whole year abroad. Academic calendars, however, can vary in the different countries.
How about the funding?
You may receive a study grant. The awarded amount, however, varies significantly from country to country. In any case, don’t expect a full scholarship, Erasmus only offers a contribution towards covering the difference in living expenses abroad. This contribution might be combined with other funds provided by the member state, by the university, or by other public or private bodies.
In any case, you won’t have to pay university fees (for tuition, registration, examinations, access to laboratory and library facilities etc.). Only little costs such as insurance, student unions, copying expenses … can be asked of you if the local students have to pay for them too.
The application procedure for an Erasmus grant varies from country to country. For more information you can contact the international relations office at your university.
Will my studies abroad be recognised by my university?
Yes, your studies abroad will receive full recognition from your home university. However this can only be assured if you comply with the requirements of the Learning Agreement.
What is a Learning Agreement?
The Learning Agreement is a very important part of your Erasmus exchange. It describes the programme of studies which you will follow at the host university. It also sets out the confirmation of academic achievement protocol. The Learning Agreement must be agreed on by your home university, your host university and yourself. Also changes have to agreed on by all parties.
What is an EILC?
When doing an Erasmus exchange, you can improve your language skills by participating in one of the Erasmus Intensive Language Courses or EILCs. Those courses are offered at host universities.

More information about language schools:
Abroad Languages
Language Courses Abroad
Quality Language Schools
ESL (English As A Second Language)

What are the conditions for participating in the Eramus student exchange programme?
  • You have to be a student enrolled in a formal programme of study at higher education level leading to a degree or a diploma (including doctoral level) in one of the participating countries.
  • You have to be a citizen of one the participating countries. If not, you have to be recognised as having an official status of refugee or stateless person or permanent resident.
  • You have completed at least the first year of your university studies.
How do I participate in Erasmus?
To participate in the Erasmus student exchange programme, you should contact the International Relations Office of your home university. Normally, universities will also organize information days in which they give you all the information you need.
What are the advantages of Erasmus on the labour market?
According to recent studies, your prospects of employment increase somewhat if you spend time abroad. In particular long-period (6 to 12 months) Erasmus students benefit from this. An exchange experience is especially taken into account when the work tasks are linked to the use of the international competences; for example language, professional knowledge of the host country, first hand knowledge of the host culture and society, etc
The European Commission has several funding programmes in the field of education. This programmes support participants financially but also pass them the necessary knowledge to go abroad. There is also a close collaboration between the European Commission and the organisations and institutions that take part in the programme.
Lifelong learning programme
The Lifelong learning programme is the flagship European education funding programme that covers learning opportunities from childhood to old age.
The Lifelong Learning Programme is actually the umbrella programme of four sub-programmes.
- The Comenius programme addresses pupils of pre-schools up to upper secondary education.
- The Erasmus programme addresses students and teachers of higher education. Especially trans-national student placements in companies and institutions and organisations providing or facilitating education and training.
- The Leonardo da Vinci programme addresses students of vocational education and also provides funds for those doing internships.
- The Grundtvig programme is focuses at adult education.
Other programmes
- Erasmus Mundus promotes the European Union as a centre of learning around the world. The programme supports inter-university European Union Masters Courses. It also provides scholarships for non-European students that participate in European postgraduate programmes, as well as scholarships for EU nationals studying outside of Europe.
- EU/USA cooperation is an official agreement that set up a cooperation programme between the European Community and the United States of America in the area of higher education and vocational training.
- EU/Canada cooperation is an official agreement that set up a cooperation programme between the European Community and Canada in the area of higher education and vocational training.

Information about English language courses:
ESL (English As A Second Language)

Information about French language courses:
Abroad Languages