Friday, February 3, 2012

Indifference and neglect often do much more damage than outright dislike.


Negative Attitude - Bad Attitude

Science may have found a cure for most evils; but it has found no remedy for the worst of them all -- the apathy of human beings.
- Helen Keller
Indifference and neglect often do much more damage than outright dislike.
- J. K. Rowling
Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand.
- Matt Groening's TV series The Simpsons.
The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.
- Plato
Politeness is organized indifference.
- Paul Valery
The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference.
The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference.
The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference.
And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.
- Elie Wiesel
Truth is not only violated by falsehood; it may be equally outraged by silence.
- Henri Frederic Amiel
Is it ignorance or apathy? Hey, I don't know and I don't care.
- Jimmy Buffett
Apathy is a sort of living oblivion.
- Horace Greeley

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Virtual Classroom Basics_47561

Conventional classrooms
Think learning and the first picture that comes to mind is that of an organized classroom where students listen to the gems of wisdom from the teacher in rapt attention, sometimes out of curiosity and often out of fear of a chide from the stern teacher. But this set up has long been relegated to the days of yore by the leapfrogging technology. Such has been the impact of technology on learning that it has almost made traditional learning methods look obsolete.

The arrival of virtual classrooms
Even though e-learning has taken over conventional learning for better or worse, it had not been able to successfully and completely replace traditional learning methods, mainly because it provided self learning content for learners that was fed into a CD or a website. There has been much pondering over the causes and solutions to this blow to e-learning. And only when experts had started to concede that traditional classroom training has no substitute, virtual classrooms happened. And they changed the face of e-learning altogether. This, in no way, means that virtual classrooms are a worthy replacement to their traditional counterparts. But, they are definitely proving to be valuable conjuncts to live classrooms.

The arrival of virtual classrooms on the scene made way for real time broadcast of lectures given by an instructor or a subject matter expert. Also known as webcasts or webinars, the live online events are synchronous short programs that take anywhere between half an hour to two hours to get completed. Led by an instructor, the participants usually vary from 25 to 30 learners.

Virtual classroom vis a vis traditional classroom
A traditional classroom set up is essentially a learning platform,j12 chanel watches, where learning happens through communication, dialogue, and other learning aids such as text, figures, charts and diagrams. All this is done in a closed room to incubate students in an environment free of external disturbances in order to aid concentration. In this set up,imitation rolex watches, students and the teacher need to be present at the same physical location and in real time.

As opposed to this,chanel j12 automatic, in a virtual classroom, a learning platform is created in a virtual or web based environment. All other features for learning remaining unaltered, the virtual classroom liberates learning of all physical shackles, by aiding learners to learn from remote locations. The omnipresent internet has made remote learning a reality, making success stories out of concepts such as the virtual classroom. A web based classroom scores in its easy and familiar interface and liberty from geographical boundaries, with features such as discussion boards and chat rooms, but is ridden with maladies such as security concerns, copyright issues, et. al.

Features of a virtual classroom
The classroom activities inside a virtual classroom comprise of

Learning through gaming

Group discussions with peers, instructor, and guest trainers

Giving out of homework and assessment of solved exercises

Defining work modules for the complete course

Synchronous chatting and forum discussions

Quizzes and surveys

Individual and group learning activities

The virtual classroom utilizes the following tools to deliver learning material.

Power point slides

Electronic flip charts

Websites

Explanation tools like arrows or bullets

Live software applications like word or excel

Apart from this, the learner participation is aided by tools that allow learners to

Write on electronic flip charts

Derive useful notes from the content with the help of annotation tools

Practice software applications first hand

Question or discuss through voice over internet protocol (VOIP) or teleconferencing

Question or discuss with peers or instructors through public chat

Question or discuss exclusively with the instructor through private chat

Answer polls and multiple choice surveys

Visit useful websites

Play games to enhance certain skills

Other features of the virtual classroom include

Platform for posting information

Separate homepages for students

Grade books

Calendar and timetable

Equipment required for a virtual classroom
A regular computer connected to the internet is enough to join a virtual classroom session. Regardless of the speed of the internet connection, students can successfully participate in a virtual classroom, but instructors are recommended to have computers with faster processors and larger memories, if application sharing is essentially a part of the virtual classroom. In case the classroom makes use of VIOP based communication, the learner might require a sound card and a microphone, while if teleconferencing is the chosen means of communication the participant will need two telephone lines.

Wrap up
Though a virtual classroom has covered most of the benefits of a traditional one, it mainly lacks in making an optimal use of the features that its software offers. You don�t need to be no techno-wizard to pull the features together and juxtapose effective content seamlessly to deliver a rich learning experience. The key to achieving this is creativity in delivery.

University Bound- The Non-traditional Student Version_32764

Not all university bound students are "traditional" students or students who graduate from high school and enter directly into college. Non-traditional students are typically students who are adults and working professionals. They may also be older students who have not yet finished their degree program and earned their initial degree. Whatever the case may be, many non-traditional students want to be university bound, and earn their first degree or an additional degree. You may be considered a "non-traditional student" if you: Delay initial college enrollment or do not enroll in a college or university in the same calendar year as you finish high school. Attend a college or university as a "part-time" student for at least part of one academic year. Work full time (considered to be 35 hours a week or more) while enrolled in college. Do not have a high school diploma; you may have completed high school with a GED or not completed high school at all. Are a single parent with dependants or has dependents other than a spouse. Considered financially independent when determining financial aid eligibility. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) notes that while there is no concrete definition for atypical students, age and part-time enrollment status typically help to identify those students who are non-traditional. Additionally, if a student fulfills at least one of the previously mentioned criteria, they are likely a non-traditional student. It may be difficult for non-traditional, working students to find the time to attend college. Because of this, many of these non-traditional students can attend classes through an online school. Online education caters to non-traditional students,J12, allowing them to access their coursework 24/7, learn at their own pace, and complete their degree program on their own time. Because there has been such a surge in university bound non-traditional students, many prestigious ground schools like Harvard,chane watch, Fordham, Columbia and the State University of New York have implemented programs specifically designed for adult learners and other non-traditional students. These programs allow non-traditional students to take classes with other non-traditional learners or with mainstream students. With programs such as these, university bound non-traditional students have options. While these ground school programs are extremely beneficial, online education remains the frontrunner in terms of educatinguniversity bound non-traditional learners. Because online education is so flexible and accessible, non-traditional learners, who wish to be university bound, can take their classes, complete their course work and study at any time that they wish. Many non-traditional learners are working adults who hold a 9-5 job and want to go back to school to earn their first degree or an additional degree. The recent surge in online education has allowed many non-traditional learners to go back to school while maintaining their current job and other responsibilities. Like ground schools, online colleges and universities offer university bound students a number of degree program options,imitation rolex watches, financial aid opportunities, and student services. For hopeful university bound non-traditional students, there are many options for returning to school. University bound non-traditional students should take care in weighing their options before choosing the online or ground school program that is right for them and their future.

Unemployment Woes And How Schooling Can Help_43390

With unemployment rates creeping up daily and companies shutting down overnight, the whole world seems to be caught in a downward spiral of economic depression. Statistics indicate since last year, over 5 millions Americans have become unemployed with nearly half of that number consisting of 16 to 29 year olds. These numbers are the highest they have ever been over the last two decades. Alarming news for all those recent graduates and students alike. As a natural consequence of the recession, the first to be laidoff are the often the last to have been hired. Nine times out of ten, this group would consist of young employees who have recently accepted internship posts or entry level positions. Adults and senior members of the organizations are also holding on to jobs that would have normally been offered to the newer wave of applicants. It is truly a tough place to be in and one that needs a committed spirit and a pro-active mentality to survive. Recent graduates have been spending more and more time applying for a variety of jobs. While this approach should pay off in the long run, many college counselors and recruiters believe that students should be building up their portfolios of experience and education as well. Take a new class, learn a different language,chanel watch for women, start your own business. You might also want to check out job seminars and workshops. This might be the best time to upgrade your skills, so go in for a re-training in your line of work. If you haven�t got a degree,chanel j12 black, you can use this time to further your studies, thus, increasing your employability. In order to be treated as a more useful and necessary member of an institution or business, additional training and certifications by way of undergraduate and graduate degree programs are a necessity in today�s competitive market. Check with your college for a Master�s degree program in the subject of your choice or alternatively, look into other options in order to diversify your strengths and talents. Many colleges offer Associate, Bachelor�s and Master�s degree programs in fields that are still in demand such as healthcare and computers. Certificate programs are also available to add onto your resume. In the event that you find yourself recently laid off, remember that in current financial times, there is no stigma attached to unemployment. The only approach to take is to ask your employer for reference letters and any possible assistance and throw yourself back into the job market with renewed gusto. This might also be the opportune time to follow up on any long term passions and interests that may give rise to an alternative career or money-making opportunities. There is also a rise in the number of mature students in universities today, as many are treating this temporary period of unemployment as a time to refresh old skill sets and get more technologically savvy and up to date for the future. With the advent of online education, you can also opt for a degree program via the Internet. This will allow you to juggle your job search and other responsibilities as well as improve your educational qualifications simultaneously. Career counselors recommend flexibility as the key to surviving unemployment. Graduates should be willing to relocate or even accept a job that might not be that well paid. Experts believe that this period of uncertainty will pass, but it is necessary to educate yourself,dials rolex, keep a positive attitude and maintain your optimism. Keep up with current events, network religiously, and be open to any opportunity that may come your way. In a struggling economy, creative problem-solving, innovation and leadership are the only things that will get you places.

Unemployed Teachers Taking It Online_39621

In this difficult economy, many qualified and highly respected teachers across the country are finding themselves without jobs that they love due to budget cuts. With more and more students going online for homework and test help, one option for out of work teachers looking to earn extra money is to become an online tutor. In this "work from your home office" position,chanel ceramic j12, educators can put their experience and knowledge to good use. This portal can provide a temporary, part-time, or even a full-time income for teachers who aren't able to find jobs elsewhere. The internet has quickly changed our world to telecommuters and global communities, making this a great time for teachers to pursue this new career of virtual education. As an online tutor you can connect over the internet in real time and engage in profitable imparting of knowledge. Teachers are needed at all age groups and levels - from homework help, to high school and college level subjects, to standardized test prep review. You will find that some students need teachers for a particular subject such as Calculus, European History, Biology or English Literature or even a particular standardized test they are studying for,chanel watch for men, such as AP exams, SAT, GRE,chanel j12 white, LSAT or GMAT. Advantages of Tutoring Online: * Earn Extra Money * Share Your Expert Knowledge * Connect With Millions Around the World * Flexible Work Hours * No Commuting * Be Your Own Boss Another option for a teacher to earn extra money is to sell your educational documents such as lecture notes, study guides, outlines, and review materials. Students and learners worldwide are always looking for additional help in order to improve their grades or understand a subject better. You do not need to be technically savvy to be an online tutor. To get started, all you need is a computer with a high-speed internet connection, a headset with a microphone and a webcam. This experience can strengthen a resume and portfolio while giving teachers a rewarding opportunity they cannot find locally.

Unearthing The Truths Of Distance Learning_36985

Not long ago, anything but a degree earned through a traditional community college or state funded university was considered sub-par and scoffed at. Despite the fact that distance learning programs have been around for decades, there has always been a stigma attached to them. Only in the 1980s did distance learning become a more acceptable way of taking college coursework, but many times, such completion coursework was not accepted at other universities, nor recognized to meet basic course completed requirements. Today, however, distance learning degree programs are more the norm, and millions of people around the world take advantage of them every year. Back in the 'old' days,chanel j12 watch, distance learning degree offerings were limited to secretarial, medical support and technical subjects. Today, anyone can obtain not only an Associate or Bachelor's degree through distance learning courses, but their Master's degrees as well. Gone are the days when the online school degree was considered beneath the requirement levels of institutions around the country. These days, more nurses, business professionals and teachers are graduating from distance learning degree programs, thanks to their overwhelming popularity and the growth of the Internet Age. The benefits of a distance learning degree seem obvious, such as not having to attend classrooms, studying on your own time, and taking as much time as you need with certain subjects and assignments. Distance learning is the only way to go for many people who are too busy with work and family responsibilities to be able to spend several hours a day or night in a classroom. Besides that, many course work requirements don't offer evening or weekend classes,rolex mens watches, which prevent many men and women in the workforce from attending even if they wanted to. Some may believe that a distance learning degree isn't worth as much as a degree earned at a traditional brick and mortar college or university, but that's no longer true. As long as the distance or online school that you wish to attend is accredited by a viable educational program, then your degree is just as valuable as one obtained from the Dean of Notre Dame. Keep in mind however, that earning a distance learning degree may be more difficult for independent learners than for those students who attend classrooms every day. It is up to each independent learner to read and understand textbook assignments and study guide procedures to complete their class requirements. While teacher aid is available for most distance learning programs, you must be patient for your questions to be answered by email. If this is not a problem for you, then earning a distance learning degree is a prime opportunity that you should not pass up. Distance or online colleges are adding to their programs every year, and subjects and coursework for a variety of degrees is available for the finding. Books and testing fees are usually included in your semester costs,chanel j12, and while you may pay a little more for the privilege of earning your college degree on your own time, the price more than makes up for earning power and sense of accomplishment for those who have taken the plunge and gone back to school. Distance learning programs offer students and adults who never would have otherwise had the opportunity to attend the college of their choice to earn the degree they've always wanted.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

You Do Need A College Education- Here抯 Why_43887

by Diane Palmer,hermes bags If you have ever asked yourself whether it is worth it or not to pursue a college degree, you have probably first considered the economic aspects. It is clear from all available evidence that someone with a college degree will earn more in his or her lifetime than someone who does not have a degree. However there even more compelling reasons to continue your education beyond high school and I would like to present them to you. A degree is a credential that will open many doors for you, but once you walk through those doors people will expect you to 揹eliver the goods?and perform well. Your performance depends on how well you can use your mind and that is what education is all about. Memorization of facts is not what education is all about. If you are in college you will have to memorize much and to write meaningful answers but the particular facts and answers that you provide will one day become out dated,hermes kelly, and you will also not be able to remember them even a few weeks after the exam. Most likely, whoever is going to employ you will probably not be looking for someone who can merely recite memorized information,hermes handbags, but will want someone with a 揼ood head on his or her shoulders.?Should you continue your education and get a college degree, you will develop your thinking capacity and your creative capacity. This is the true value of higher education and is what would-be employers are really looking for. There is something else that higher education can give you. It is a capacity to express your ideas clearly and convincingly. Even if you can think well and think creatively, you will need to explain your ideas to others and in many cases to convince them that your approach is the correct one. If you pursue a college education you will develop your writing skills and expressive capacity. These expressive skills will end up being much more important than memorization of information that will one day be either forgotten or no longer valid. There is however one more thing that will get if you continue your education and get a college degree. You will develop a love of learning and the ability to learn even when you are not in school. Education does not stop after you attend your last class or get your degree. It can continue for the rest of your life. All you have to do is to feed your mind with the wealth of information that is available through books, the mass media, the Internet and whatever else is coming in the future. Go ahead, get your college degree. You can do it with an online degree program or you can enroll on a traditional campus. However you do it, you will get something that is priceless. About the Author: Diane Palmer is a veteran college Dean of Students who acts as a consultant to an educational publishing company which owns websites on online degree programs and online degrees for working professionals.