Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Online Degrees Pros and Cons

Online Degrees Pros and Cons - What You Need To Know About Accreditation

By Tara Peterson

Accreditation is the most important thing you need to know about distance learning or online degrees. Accreditation separates the “real” schools that are accepted by other schools, employers and professional associations. A diploma from a non-accredited school is probably a waste of your time and effort.

Unfortunately, there are schools advertising for online degrees that are considered “diploma mills”. These are for profit sites that may offer “fast” degrees that will not be recognized by potential employers as being an adequate education for the position you are seeking. There are also online programs that promote free credit for “life experience”. Again, these credits may not be recognized as legitimate.

There are many accrediting agencies.
For instance the National League of Nursing accredits nursing schools. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accredits Teaching or education schools. Law schools are accredited by the American Bar Association. Other professions have their own accrediting bodies.

There are regionally accredited schools. The United States is divided into 6 regions that accredits colleges and universities: the Middle States Association, North Central Association, Northwest Association, New England Association, the Southern Association and the Western Association. Attending one regionally accredited school allows you to transfer credits from on university to another.

The Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), or The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) may accredit Online or distance learning colleges and university.

Become informed
about the type of accreditation that is needed for the type of degree you are seeking. The Council for Higher Education can provide you with a list of recognized accrediting bodies. Then make sure that the school you are considering actually has that accreditation.

This is probably the single most important thing you can do when checking out an online college degree education program. You don’t want to be at the end of your academic career and find out that you have invested time and money into a degree that will not be valued by your employers, other school, or professional organizations.

You can start your search for school at an online website for online schools, but don’t let your search end there. Do your homework, make sure you are going to a college or university that is accredited!

Just click on the following link to get online college degree information. It's fast, it's free, and you're under no obligation. You can get information about many types of online bachelors degree programs from many colleges. They also offer information about programs and schools that offer distance learning online masters degree programs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Peterson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Online-Degrees-Pros-and-Cons---What-You-Need-To-Know-About-Accreditation&id=701194

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Sunday, August 26, 2007

Do Employers Look Down On Online Degree?

Do Employers Look Down On Online Degree?

By Amelia Turner

Online education has become a trend and popular channel for many students and working adults to earn their degree. Online education creates a flexible and convenient environment for students to earn their degree while maintaining their preferred living style. But, many still doubt about the value of online degree, you may concern on how your potential employer will look at you during the job interview if you degree is earned through online education. Do employers look down on online degree? You may ask. This is an important question that needs to be answered because you need to ensure that your degree you going to earn through online will helps you to start your career smoothly after graduation.

According to Market Data Retrieval, a Connecticut-based firm that supplies education marketing information and services shows currently there are more than 4,700 accredited higher education institutions nationwide and nearly half of these schools offer an accredited degree, with the majority putting courses online. In fact, more and more prestige and reputable traditional universities offering online degree program that enable their students to attend online classes from remote locations. This is a good indication that online degree programs are widely acceptable in the job market else the online education will not grow so tremendously.

In fact, employers are more concern about "fake degree". If you are earning a degree through online degree program from a reputable and properly accredited online university, your online degree has no different than those earned from "brick & mortar" universities. There are many online degree scams, most commonly known as diploma mills offering fast-track degree through their "fake" online degree programs where you can earn your degree extremely fast, some are within a few days. The degree earned from diploma mills is totally unacceptable in the job market. If you apply a job position using degree issued by diploma mills and is found out by the employer, the employer will definitely look down on your degree in concern to the "fake degree" instead of online degree.

If you have decided to pursue your degree through an online degree program, you need to spend some time to search for a right online university. There are many online universities offering the degree of you choice. What you need to do is get as many program information as you can from those online universities, then review each and every one carefully, eliminate those online degree programs that are not meeting your requirement AND those sound suspicious to be "fake" degrees. Once your short listed the degree programs that at the first glance are recognized and properly accredited, your next step is to confirm the accreditation of those online universities with the accreditation database from CHEA.org. Those legitimate and accredited online universities are listed in this database. As long as you are getting online degree from properly accredited by a recognized accreditation agency, you shouldn't face any problem when you use this degree to start your career later.

Summary


Online degrees is compatible with on-campus degrees and it's accepted by most of employers if your online degree is earned through a reputable online university that is properly accredited by an accredited agency that is recognized by U.S Department of Education.

Amelia Turner, an educational article writer for http://www.your-online-degree.info You can find more details information and free resources about online education and financial aids and other online degree programs information that can help you to make decision to earn your degree online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amelia_Turner
http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-Employers-Look-Down-On-Online-Degree?&id=700193

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Saturday, August 25, 2007

e-Education

A Brief Explanation of What e-Education is

By Hendrik De Villiers

A global revolution is taking place in education and training. It is driven by the changing nature of society, the realities of the information age, new global partnerships and an awareness of the need for equal distribution of educational opportunities.

Information and communication technology is central to this global revolution. Digital media has revolutionized the information society. These advances in information and communication technology have dramatically changed the learning and teaching process, and have expanded new learning opportunities and access to educational resources beyond those traditionally available.

Internationally education systems have an obligation to deliver on public expectations of quality education for economic growth and social development and it seems the solution or answers lie in e-education.

But what is this e-education? e-Education is more than developing computer literacy and the skills necessary to operate various types of information and communication technology. It is the ability to:

• apply information and communication technology skills to access, analyze, evaluate, integrate, present and communicate information;

• create knowledge and new information by adapting, applying, designing, inventing and authorizing information;

• enhance teaching and learning through communication and collaboration by using information and communication technology; and

• function in a knowledge driven society by using appropriate technology and mastering communication and collaboration skills.

What is the significance of e-education? Information and communication technology create access to learning opportunities, redress inequalities, and improve the quality of learning and teaching and deliver lifelong learning. Information and communication technology can accommodate differences in learning styles and remove barriers to learning by providing expanded opportunities and individualized learning experiences.

Experience worldwide suggests that information and communication technology does play a role in the transformation of education and training. Information and communication technology can enhance educational reform by enabling teachers and students to move away from traditional approaches to teaching and learning. In a transformed teaching and learning environment, there is a shift from teacher-centered, task-oriented, memory-based education (with technology at the periphery), to an inclusive and integrated practice where students work collaboratively, develop shared practices, engage in meaningful contexts and develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

What are the benefits of e-education? There is sufficient empirical evidence that investments in information and communication technology yield positive results for students and teachers. Studies have demonstrated improved student achievement in:

• Application and production of knowledge for the real world;

• Ability of students to manage learning;

• Ability to promote achievement for students who experience barriers to learning; and

• Access to information that increases knowledge, inquiry and depth of investigation.

Furthermore, the use of information and communication technology has demonstrated improved inventive thinking skills, such as creativity, problem solving, higher-order thinking skills and sound reasoning, along with improved effective communication. Improvements in interpersonal skills, such as writing, public speaking, teamwork and collaboration, and improved productivity skills, including creating high-quality products, have also been reported.

Information and communication technology encourages a teaching and learning milieu that recognizes that people operate differently, have different learning styles and have culturally diverse perspectives. Information and communication technology embraces inclusive education by providing opportunities, alternative methods of instruction and flexible assessments for students who experience barriers to learning.

Benefits to the broader society include increased opportunities for lifelong learning, communication and exchange essential to democratic living and the creation of a pool of globally competitive human resources.

Our world is changing, and information and communication technology is central to this change. Digital media has revolutionized the information society. e-Education - the future is here and now!

http://hendrikd.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hendrik_De_Villiers
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Brief-Explanation-of-What-e-Education-is&id=698977

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Fast College Degrees Online

By Tara Peterson

Is there such a thing as a fast college degree online? I hear that there are places where you can get a lot of credit for “life experience”, and places where you can practically purchase a degree called diploma mills. But if you are looking for a quality education that will open doors for you and provide you with the knowledge and skills that you need to succeed in your chosen field, then no there is no fast college degree online.

But if you are self-motivated and have no trouble setting deadlines for yourself an online college degree education program may be the fastest way for you to earn a college degree from an accredited college or university.

You can find out more information on specific degree education programs at an online college degree program website. There you can search for the level of education, such as associates, bachelors, masters, or doctoral, that you are seeking. You can search for type of program, such as engineering, medical, nursing, computer science, criminal justice, education and teaching, or science, for example. You can also search for various schools like University of Phoenix, Vanderbilt, City University of New York, Loyola or many state universities.

With a program in mind, you can then decide on courses. Since all the courses are online you will be able to work through the material at your own pace. You will have access to other students, as well as your instructors through e-mail, blogs, and forums. Tests can be done online. Internships or clinical experiences can be arranged locally.

So, yes there are fast college degrees online, but sorry, they are quality, accredited, real college programs that carry good reputations with educators and employers alike. And you still have to do the work.

Just click on the following link to get online college degree information It's fast, it's free, and you're under no obligation. You can get information about many types of online bachelors degree programs from many colleges. They also offer information about programs and schools that offer distance learning online masters degree programs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Peterson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Fast-College-Degrees-Online&id=698793

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Online College Degree

Online College Degree Education Programs - From A to W

By Tara Peterson

What do Ashford College, Baker College, Bowling Green State University, Concord Law School, Gonzaga University, Loyola University, Mountain State University, Northwestern University, Polytechnic University, Texas A&M, City University of New York, Tulane, University of Phoenix, Vanderbilt University, and Walden University have in common? It’s not basketball, or football. They all offer long distant accredited college or university degree programs online.

Most of the colleges or university listed about have a regular campus, and online degree education programs have been added to meet the increasing demand for such programs. As adult learners discover the benefits of online education, schools have been forced to compete. Adults with established careers are returning for further education, or even looking at a career change. At home parents are finding that an online education program allows them to take care of their children and do coursework according to a home schedule.

Other, totally Internet bases universities have developed to meet the ever increasing demand for online courses. It yet remains to see how employers will perceive the value of a totally online education program. However, as more and more campus based colleges and universities develop online programs, the novelty of online degrees will wear off, and acceptance will increase.

Modern day technology now allows a student to take advantage of quality education programs that was not possible before. If someone has a job and family in a rural area of the country, now there is no reason that they couldn’t earn a degree from the City University of New York, for example.

US Department of Education has a website that allows you to check on the accreditation of any college or university. That means that the online school you are considering has to meet the same standards as a campus based school.

You can obtain further information about online college degree education programs, online courses, costs, and financial aid at many online college degree education program search sites. They will often offer you free application, and lots of free information as well. You can even request a free online or over the phone appointment with a counselor.

Just click on the following link to get online college degree information. It's fast, it's free, and you're under no obligation. You can get information about many types of online bachelors degree programs from many colleges. They also offer information about programs and schools that offer distance learning online masters degree programs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Peterson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Online-College-Degree-Education-Programs---From-A-to-W&id=695589

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Friday, August 17, 2007

Distance Learning (1)

Long Distance Learning -- Obtaining Higher Education On Your Own Schedule

By Chonticha Marijne

If you're over thirty and work regular, or not so regular, hours, the thought of going back to school may seem like an abandoned dream. Who's got the time? Between work and family or home responsibilities, finding the time to be able to go back to a college campus and spend hours sitting in a classroom is no longer an option. You may want to rev those dreams back, because these days, long distance learning makes all of your goals a possible reality.



Millions of men and women around the world have let loose of their dreams for higher education because of these considerations, and more. The cost of tuition, books and campus fees, in addition to the fact that some campuses are plain beyond the reach of many without transportation add to the dismal prospects of continuing that quest for knowledge. Today, more students than ever before are attending long distance learning colleges and universities. No matter what they're called, Online Schools, Distance Education Learning, Long Distance Learning or Correspondence Schools, they are offering degrees in more areas of study than ever before. Whether you want to earn an Associate or Bachelor's Degree, an online or distance program will more than likely offer you what you need in regard to coursework and testing options. Want to pursue your Master's? Those are available as well.



Do distance learning colleges offer the same course of studies that traditional colleges do? Yes! Is long distance learning a viable way to obtain a degree? Again, yes. Most online colleges and universities are accredited, but always make sure before you start coursework with any particular college, whether online or off.



Also, find out ahead of time about testing requirements and how exams are handled. Some people must drive to a specified testing location, depending on course of study and location of your nearest brick and mortar university. Long distance learning schools offer most students the opportunity o complete exams in a proctored situation, which can be accomplished at a library, a neighboring school or college, or within any office or location approved by your school of choice.



Because of the overwhelming and growing popularity of online colleges, most major universities in the United States are now also offering online coursework within certain disciplines at campuses across the country. Whether you want to go into nursing, education, business or other disciplines, there is a long distance learning program that will suit your needs, and your budget, perfectly.



Most online or distance learning degree programs offer student financing or payment options that will enable you to budget your school costs, rather than having to pay hundreds, if not thousands of dollars up front for complete course study units per semester. Many online colleges also offer scholarships and financing options as well.



There's no longer any reason to put off higher education. Now your time is your own, and you can decide where and when you study. Sure, it's going to be difficult to balance school with other responsibilities, but at least now you don't have to commit to someone else's schedule.



About the Author: Do you have what it takes to earn your degree with a long distance learning program? Find out more at http://DistanceLearningRevealed.com .



Source: www.isnare.com

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Sunday, August 12, 2007

Online Degree 2

Free Online Education Opportunities

By Mats Lonnstrom

Since education is a vital factor in the success of every generation in today’s ever changing society, taking advantage of the Internet and all of its resources is a good way to start on the road to knowledge.



If there were ever a word in the English language ranked number one, it would have to be the word free. That little word implies many different things. Like everywhere else on the planet the Internet has its own large variety of free offers. One of the most useful and beneficial free offers found online is a free online education. Education is easily the most important gift any individual can give to himself or herself and with the help of the Internet, advanced learning can be free of charge.



Besides just being free there are a lot of other advantages to a free online education. Most programs available on the Internet offer many incentives that not only save money, but also your valuable time. These online courses save time by being entirely based on the Internet saving you long commute times and scheduled class periods.



Since they are completely online, you have the flexibility to choose when it is convenient for you to work on your studies. The capability to set your own pace makes time management and scheduling easier as well. Another advantage to learning using a free online education is there is no class standard to be met. The student determines the level of achievement they want to attain.



There is also no need to be concerned about expensive textbooks and transportation worries. Considering that the courses are conducted entirely online the need for those things is eliminated. Of course the biggest reason to take advantage of free online education is that it is free and as such won’t place a financial burden on you or your family.



One of the biggest questions most people have about free online education is what types of programs and courses are available. Fortunately the creators of these websites have been creative and proactive in their approach to education. The interested student will find programs geared to a variety of different disciplines.



Help with obtaining a GED, high school tutoring, and college preparation are just a few of the kinds of courses on the Internet. For those people looking to move beyond the basic educational levels, courses in career and vocational training and college level classes are the answer. College graduate advancement courses are proving to be very popular in aiding graduates in obtaining a more prestigious education level.



Lifelong learning courses and home schooling curriculum are just a couple of the less known, but vitally important options available in a free online education environment. Online education is versatile enough to benefit anyone looking to expand his or her educational experience.



So, Since education is a vital factor in the success of every generation in today’s ever changing society, taking advantage of the Internet and all of its resources is a good way to start on the road to knowledge.



About the Author: Mats Lonnstrom is the webmaster of Education Made Easy. Receive his free report, Grants and Student Loans, by visiting http://education.ml-online-marketing.com.



Source: www.isnare.com

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Saturday, August 11, 2007

Online Degree 1

Should You Earn Your Degree Online? by Amelia Turner

Should I earn my degree online? You may ask this question when you are in middle of deciding which channel to go for in earning your degree. Earn a degree online have many advantages and an online student can benefits from the flexibility and convenient of learning environment provided by an online degree program. But, not all students who pursue their degree online will be successfully complete their degree program, because you need to have certain characteristics in order for you to success as an online student. This article will help you to understand the advantages of pursuing your degree online and what are the characteristics of a successful online student.


Advantages Of Online Degree Program


Flexibility to fit into one's busy schedule is one of major advantages offered by an online degree. If you are a working individual who are looking to enhance your knowledge and get an extra degree that is related to your working field, but you don't intend to on-hold your current job just to meet the purpose; then, an online degree offers a perfect solution.


Nowadays, online degree programs cover almost every subjects offered by traditional "brick & mortar" colleges which you can choose one that meets your needs and fit into your busy working schedule.


In general, it is more cost effective pursuing your degree online as you can cut off many expenses such as traveling or transportation cost and other college expenses because you can attend the classes online from home. In additional, many college books are in electronic format which you can view or download from the online school learning system, it save your expenses in buying the text book. Besides that, the tuition fee for online degree program is cheaper and you can complete your degree in much shorter of time.


An Online Degree Program May Not Right For You


Many students follow the current education trend and taking their degree through online education without considering whether they are the right candidate for this new education channel. That's why many students fail to complete their degree after wasting their time and money but without meeting their purpose of earning a degree for any reason.


Self-motivation and good time management are two important factors for you to success as online student. If you prefer to follow a pre-set schedule like what traditional degree programs do and your need someone watching at your back to encourage you in completing your study. Then, online study might not be your call.


You must also be able to adapt to a new learning style of online education. If you think like most students who failed their online study, online education is just the same with the class-based learning style; then you might end up at same result with theirs. You must be able to effectively learn by reading text format learning material instead of learn by listening in lecture hall. In additional to that, online learning style requires you to be able to get yourself familiar with the uses of online resources such as internet, online library and online learning system offered by the online school. If you do not like this type learning styles as needed by online study, traditional education might be better suite you.


Summary


There are many advantages of pursuing a degree online and you can benefit from these advantages if you decide to earn your degree through online education. But, be sure to evaluate yourself to ensure that earning a degree online is a right decision.



Amelia Turner is the author from http://www.your-online-degree.info Visit her website if you want more FREE and detailed information on choosing the right Online Degree, accredited online schools and other online education information.



Article Source: ArticleRich.com

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