Exemplary Online Learning

As the demand, and supply, for online learning and distance learning of all kinds continues to increase, it's fascinating to look at what a fully developed and highly acclaimed online university is like.

The University of Phoenix is a relatively new institution. Founded less than 30 years ago (in 1976), it was not only one of the first accredited universities to provide complete degree programs as an online college, but it has now become the leader in the field in the United States.

The size of their operation is astonishing. They've developed into the largest accredited university in the United States. Here are some of the numbers they provide: more than 17,200 instructors, 163 campus locations and learning centers in 33 states, Puerto Rico, Canada and now Mexico, and over 171,600 earned degrees since 1976. They provide, naturally, world spanning online learning through the internet.

Their curriculums are developed by working with industry and business in order to provide the skills and knowledge that are in demand. Focused on providing not only the content needed by today's professionals and businesses, they continue to upgrade their formats and methods as well as their curriculums.

An innovative program put in place by the University of Phoenix is called FlexNet. Rather than being a purely online learning experience, a portion of each course is held at a campus or learning center location. For many this feature adds a sense of personal and community involvement, giving the student a chance to interact directly with instructors and classmates.

Courses at the University of Phoenix Online are concentrated. Students need to be willing to make a serious commitment.

While online learning courses vary they tend to have certain features in common. In today's hectic environment, the ability to flexibly schedule your hours is critically important for many prospective students. Being confined to fixed hours in a fixed location for a traditional offline course just won't work for many. The demands of work and family too often cause missed classes.

Traditional college education may also involve taking subjects with little application to the professional's working life. Online education can allow you complete a degree in two or three years.

In many online college environments, all your courses will be focused on your professional needs. Generally, you'll also be able to focus on one course at a time rather than having to split your attention among several over a long period. This intensity and focus can be a significant benefit.

Since most online and distance learning is oriented toward professionals, working people, generally the materials you'll study will be up-to-date and can be used immediately in your working environment. This combination of studying things that you can implement, materials relevant to your work, can make online learning a uniquely rewarding and pleasant way to earn a degree.

You do want to make sure that wherever you decide to study, that it is accredited and that any degree or certification in a field that requires licensure or state certification will be accepted by your state. If your employer has an educational reimbursement plan, be sure to verify that the college or university you chose will be acceptable. In some cases, part of your expenses may also be tax-deductible. Accreditation is important not only for employer acceptance, but also if you are going to seek scholarship funds to help with the cost.

The University of Phoenix is not the only place offering online learning, but it does give you a pretty good introduction to what's possible. They offer everything from AA degrees to Doctoral programs with a large variety of specialized Bachelor of Science and Master's degrees as well as professional certifications and non-degree courses. You can explore their offerings at http://www.phoenix.edu/ .

With today's demands for highly educated and specialized professionals, the value of online learning has never been clearer. The fast paced and mobile lifestyles so common now demand solutions that can fit into our lives, not ones that require us to squeeze into them and disrupt our careers and families for 3 or 4 years. The growth and acceptance of online education makes it virtually certain that you can find a program and a university or college that offers what you need to get ahead - and a way to fit it into your life.

Copyright 2005 Richard Keir

Despite already being overeducated, Richard continues to enjoy learning as a part of his teaching, writing and internet business activities. The growth of the internet as medium for learning is one of his major interests. For more about online learning visit online degrees at http://tools-for-learning.com

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Online Education Degree - A Booming Sector That Bring You To A Brighter Future

Are you kind of person who likes to work with children? Are you loves to giving training and teaching to young people? Are you a good communicator especially with children? If you answered yes to the questions above, then online education degree will help you to gain the skills and enhanced you knowledge in education field. Hence, help you to advance your career working in education fields.

The booming education and health sector offers many jobs that involve working with children and youths. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the education and health sector is going to grow by 30.6 percent between now and 2014-faster than any other industries. Seeing the encouraging growth in education section, earn an online education degree will bring you to a brighter future.

In order start or advance your career in education related fields, you need to look for a related online degrees; there are many prestigious online colleges and universities offer degree in education and teaching. Among the featured online universities which offer various online education degree programs include:

• Capella University Master of Science in Education focus on area in elementary classroom teaching, secondary classroom teaching, advanced instruction in mathematics, advanced instruction in science, teacher leadership, and virtual school teaching. Master of Science in Education with concentration in Curriculum and Instruction is a specialized master degree offers to those licensed K12 teachers who looking to gain key competencies through theoretical study and collaboration with seasoned practitioners. You will acquire tools and techniques to help your district design instructional models and assessments that focus on increasing student achievement. Master of Science in Education with concentration in Leadership in Educational Administration, offer to those K12 teachers who are looking for education career advancement in school administration.
• Walden University Online master education degrees offered by Walden University include area in education leadership, Grades K-6 Elementary Reading & Mathematics, Grades 6-8 and K-5 mathematics which provide you with the key skills and knowledge to success in educational field.

• University of Phoenix University of Phoenix's education master degrees are mainly focus on education leadership and administration, education technology specialized in computer education.

If you are interested in early childhood education, then you should look for online education programs offer by Lehigh Valley College, Sullivan University, Rasmussen College, Hesser College. Since the introduction of concept "Education Start from Age 0"; the childhood education and child care management related careers are in a booming trend. Students who graduate with a childhood education degree usually go to work immediately after graduation due to high demand in this field.

If you are gaga for education, opportunities for meaningful and well-paid work abound. Some other career possibilities include: Child Psychiatrist, Children Youth and Family Counselor, Doula, Pediatric Rehabilitation Counselor, and Play Therapist.

In short, the statistics show that the education section is in the booming trend and educational experts are always in demand. Online education degrees will prepare you with the necessary skills and get you success in this highly demand job marketplace.

Take a visit to http://www.studykiosk.com for more information on all online degrees available. Earning your education is one of the biggest and most important investments in your life. Our goal is to help you quickly find online degrees and online programs. We feature over 1,000 online degrees and accredited online degree programs; you should be able to find one that meet your requirement.

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From an Associates to a Masters Degree, Online College Works For Every Age

Due to the turbulent economy and a competitive job market, many individuals who have lost their jobs are no longer connected to the career services that are offered by traditional programs offering college degrees. In turn, many job seekers who have not needed to update their resumes or write a cover letter in quite some time may not be sure what characteristics today's employers are seeking.

Conversely, some of these individuals may feel that their qualifications will not be sufficient to compete with recent graduates of campus-based and online colleges. Those students who are fresh out of school have the most current knowledge of industry leading trends for their profession. They have the advantage of having their education and skills recently fine-tuned. Employers are also reviewing resumes and looking for an advanced degree as one of the qualifications for hiring the most optimal candidate.

Although free online courses could help them sharpen their skills and gain a stronger connection to their industry, out-of-work professionals may want to consider taking advantage of the perks that can come with enrollment in an online degree program. Get down to the basics of your education, without wasting time and money on everything from a lengthy commute to high tuition fees.

A growing number of working adults are searching for ways to boost their resumes and gain marketable skills. They hope these skills will help them overcome the challenges presented by the economic downturn. Distance learning education providers have begun to develop programs that cater to experienced professionals. These working adults are aiming to be able to continue their education without compromising their other professional and personal commitments.

Many of these individuals cannot make the financial or time commitments that are required of traditional degree programs at brick-and-mortar institutions. Because of this, several online colleges are tailoring their offerings to students who wish to accelerate their professional development or launch careers in a new field.

For instance, some schools have created Internet-based student unions that allow online bachelors candidates to network with one another. Through these online platforms, these students may be able to offer one another advice on childcare or financial aid and work together on job searches or school-related projects.

Many online bachelors degree programs foster connections with their student bodies by requiring them to work with web-based cohorts. These groups may be required to complete long-term team projects or participate in periodic discussions, which are intended to help them gain a better understanding of their coursework.

Individuals who pursue college degrees through an online degree program may gain a competitive edge as they embark on their search for a new job. Because several schools online have recognized the needs of their students, many of them are beginning to offer these individuals the same perks enjoyed by degree candidates at campus-based schools. From an associates to a bachelors to a masters degree online, there are the right courses and classes available.

Career Develpment - Is Online Learning the Answer?

As you plan your career development you need to answer the question: Is Online Learning the Answer?

As the famous urban philosopher, Woody Allen once said, "90% of success is showing up." Nothing is truer than in the field of learning. And the fastest growing learning vehicle is online learning. Online learning is a favorite option for working adults who are interested in furthering and developing their careers.

Although online learning has proven it can help put you on the path to career success the question is: How do you access the online learning experience and achieve a successful outcome?

The method of delivery is the primary difference between online and traditional classroom learning. Potential formats with online learning covers a variety of delivery systems ranging from live traditional set period teacher led courses to work at your own pace software. The software can be in the form of CDs or Quicktime or Flash files or even down loadable PDF files.

What learning environment are you looking for and what best suits your available time and study habits? Do you want to have an interactive environment or do you do best studying privately? Or do you want a bit of both? Are you looking for a structured program, like a college course with exams and projects, or do you just want the learning from the course.

Usually after some investigation you'll probably find several online courses that look like they cover the same subject. You'll have to get as much information as you can about the course, the delivery system and the teacher before you take the next step.

If the course fits your career development plan, what technology is required? Will you need a broadband connection, additional software or instant messaging? Check out the school and instructor. Is the instructor an expert in the field and do they have the depth of experience to be someone you can really learn from? What is expected of the student? Will this fit into the time you have to devote to the learning?

Sometimes the school has a demo of the course you can study. Perhaps they have a miniature version of the course that you can try before you commit to the full package. How about if you are dissatisfied can you get your money back or use it as credit toward another course? Study the guarantee, is it really a "no risk" offer.

Before making any final decisions about which course format to choose, think about your situation: How much time can you allocate to studying? Can you find more time? Will you have time to do any assigned homework and/or readings?

How have you found how you learn best? Is it listening, by reading, by observing or by doing? Factor this into the course you choose. Rarely will you find a proposed course teaching method that exactly fits your learning style. Many times the information is presented in a variety of methods. Bottom line: pick the course that presents the information in the way in which you learn and respond to best.

Personal career development and growth with online learning means scheduling and managing your time effectively. The course may be structured in many creative ways but you need to participate on a regular basis. Set aside adequate and regular time for participating and studying the course material. Get rid of distractions.

Online learning is an excellent tool to help you in advancing you career and more importantly to develop your career according to a well thought plan. Online success means showing up for the results you'll achieve. If you put in the effort and the participation you'll get back many times the investment. As an added bonus, many courses have reading lists, or you'll discover new important areas to explore. This is where the big payoff comes with your additional reading and studying. Overall this makes the online course even more valuable to your career development and planning.

John Groth is a former HR executive and career coach. Find Career Development Ideas, valuable articles and a free seven day career planning guide. Discover up to date career and recruitment strategies at our career idea blog; all to assist you in advancing and managing your career.

Accelerated Online Degrees - How to Get a Degree 50% Faster

The percentage of Americans over 25 years old who hold college degrees has risen to an all-time high of 28%, according to the U. S. Census Bureau. Going to college pays off financially. Holding a bachelor's degree increases a person's yearly earnings twofold compared to a person with a high school diploma. A master's degree holder will make $1.3 million more than a person with a high school diploma over his or her entire career. Thanks to the Internet, location and responsibilities no longer stand in the way of anyone who wants to pursue a college degree. Students who want to finish college more quickly can do so by working on accelerated online degrees.

Many adults who went to work straight out of high school contemplate returning to school to earn a college degree. Why is this? For some, they want a career change. For others, they see a college degree as a way to update their skills and earn more money. Non-traditional college students have different needs than students entering college directly after high school. The non-traditional students need flexible programs that they can work at their own paces. They need to be able to fit classes into an already busy schedule. And, like traditional college students, they often need financial assistance, a choice of majors and a college that is accredited by a recognized accrediting organization.

Going to school online is a perfect way for non-traditional students to earn their degrees. Online schools offer many associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs. The choice of majors includes accounting, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, elementary education, early childhood education, library science and others.

Flexibility is also very important to students returning to school. College classes must mesh with already established outside obligations with family and work. This flexibility is built in to online learning. Using a variety of media, online studies can be conducted at the convenience of the student. Some classes do require "class time, " but not necessarily for every class session.

The ability to work through the program at his or her own pace is also essential to the non-traditional student. A student might want to complete his or her degree as quickly as he or she can. For other students, an accelerated program is out of the question. Online college degree programs easily accommodate both of these needs.

Most online bachelor's degrees take about 3-5 years to complete. For students wanting to speed up the process, accelerated online degrees can be finished in just two years. To accomplish this requires taking classes year round. The student who decides to take this route must be aware that it will take more time and effort than completing a degree in the regular 3-5 year time table. If a student has other obligations, he or she needs to be realistic about whether or not an accelerated program would work well in his or her individual circumstances.

Non-traditional college students can fulfill their dreams of earning a college degree by going to school online. These degrees are flexible and usually cost less than on-campus colleges. If the degree is from a reputable, accredited college or university, the student should have no problem finding a job.

Accelerated online degrees offer freedom to anyone interested in pursuing higher education. All of the barriers to pursuing a college education evaporate in the face of the Internet. Any student with access to a computer and the Internet can earn a post-secondary degree. This may have been an impossible dream for some only 15 years ago.

To find accelerated online degree programs right now as well as other valuable career, education and training information visit http://www.jobtrainingplace.com

Job Training Place is designed specifically to provide you with comprehensive job and career information as well as discussing the various education and training alternatives available. These include construction industry training and apprenticeship programs, conventional university and college education as well as online courses ranging form basic programs right up to full Bachelor's and post graduate degrees. If you are currently exploring your career and educational options this site will be most valuable.

Why is Online Learning Convenient?

When comparing online learning to a traditional college setting, talk about a difference of night and day! Online learning is convenient for many reasons. Lets take a look at them here.

1. When you attend a traditional school, you have to actually attend that school. This is difficult for many because the school of their choice may be quite a distance from their home. They would have to relocate in order to make attendance feasible. That is simply not possible for a lot of us.

2. When you learn at home, you get just that, the comfort of your own home. As long you can stay disciplined enough to wake up and study, complete your assignments on time, and treat it like it is important, you will do well. And, yes if you want you can study in you pajamas. You can probably get more done as well if you are a hard worker. Learn at your own pace.

3. No life interruptions. Many people choose to attend college after they have had children and established a home and lifestyle. If this is you, online college is a perfect match. It's just not practical to try and attend a traditional college while you are trying to work and raise a family.

Whatever option you decide to go with, make sure that it meets your needs and is something that you can realistically accomplish. If you have to drive 2 hours just to go to school, that may put a strain on you and your family. Why put yourself through that when there are so many online colleges that will meet your schedule and desires with perfection.

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Online Learning Continues to Gain Popularity in 2010

Over the past decade, learning online has become immensely popular amongst individuals across the globe. Individuals that are hoping to advance their careers are able to do so with online classes and don't have to put their current career on hold. By removing the restrictions on when students have to attend class, a whole new crop of students has jumped on board.

Thanks to the ease and convenience online learning offers, web classes have grown in popularity ever year since the late 90's. Plus, the unique asset of online learning is that it's specifically tailored and suited to each student's individual preferences. Most schools allow students to view webinars and live webcasts, chat with students, use forums to discuss class topics, and utilize online social networks. Plus, students can easily learn without being distracted by others, and can enjoy the comforts of home (yet they must have strong self-control and discipline to stay focused).

During the year 2010, the amount of online learners has increased significantly. In fact, about 60 percent of the world's leading companies utilize this method of learning more in 2010 than in 2009.

Additionally, online learning is being used more and more within the office environment in the modern era, and many companies now use online classes to train their employees and managers. Plus, company employees that would like to up the ante and achieve a new position or pursue a new career path can easily do so by earning a graduate degree online.

As the availability of wireless devices and networks continues to grow year upon year, it's clear that online learning has an opportunity to reach more and more new students and employees. Yet, not every online school may be all it appears to be. Thus, it's important to research each online learning opportunity thoroughly via online social networks, forums, and respected educational publications. While online learning can certainly be an excellent method of learning new skills, the competition among online schools is very high, and a little research into your potential online school can go a long way!

Fred is a writer/blogger currently residing in Austin. If you're taking an online class and are searching for school materials, online student marketplaces can be a great help. A good example is CollegeSwapShop, a used textbooks directory.