Using Online Learning to Improve Your Education

Online education has made it easier to get a music degree or nursing degree. Learning online has enabled many people to get a better education. If you know how to surf the Internet, then you have knowledge at your fingertips.

It is no longer necessary to travel long distances and sacrifice work and family in order to expand your skill set and your knowledge. You can get a degree online or in a hybrid arrangement that allows you to do most of your studies on the Internet while you visit a campus for hands-on training. Consider these examples.

Online Paralegal Degree
A bachelor degree in paralegal studies can get you into the legal world without having to acquire training in law. Paralegals do most of the research and prepare cases for lawyers. The only thing that a paralegal cannot do is represent clients in court.

Thanks to the Internet, you can now do much of the class work and reading online. You do not have to lose time traveling to a campus and sitting in a classroom. The Internet can bring all the resources you need to study into your home or any where with access to the online world.

Online Music Degree
A music degree is a good example of a course of study that can benefit from a hybrid approach to distance learning. You will need to study theory. There is no need to take that class on a campus. Instead, you could easily listen to music samples and evaluate them online.

Other classes may require you to play instruments or participate with your instructor in musical performance. By allowing the flexibility which distance learning offers, instructors can adapt courses to meet the needs of students of all kinds. This is especially true for those beginning a second career or simply trying to get a degree that they always wished they had.

Nursing Degree
Some degrees, such as a nursing degree, require a lot of hands-on training. However, even a nursing degree has prerequisites which include a lot of reading and writing. These courses are ideal candidates for distance learning and online education.

Eventually, in a course of study that required hands on experience such as a nursing degree, you will need work on campus or at another specified location. That does not mean, though, that the online world has lost all use for you. No matter how much time is spent on campus, the Internet is always a valuable resource to have.

Even courses which require daily meetings in a classroom can profit from using the technology that makes distance learning possible. Students can save money by purchasing electronic textbooks and bringing them to their classes on laptop computers. Instructors now have access to any video or audio presentation that they think will be helpful to their classes.

Whether you want a paralegal degree, a music degree or a nursing degree, you will find the Internet to be helpful. It can offer mountains of valuable information. It can also make it possible for you to enhance your knowledge without having to give up your job.

Tips Online Students Need to Succeed

Pursuing a distance education, though convenient, will come with a few challenges. Before commencing any course, students should always ensure that they dive in with a disciplined mindset, otherwise it will be a waste of time and energy.

According to a study posted by the National Center for Education Statistics, only 54% of students who enrolled in college in the year 1997, graduated six years later. That's a staggering figure of non-graduates. New students will want to avoid being a part of this statistic. So, to avoid being on cruise control throughout a two-four year quest for higher education, we've listed a few tips below to help students succeed with online college degrees:

•     Practice Good Time Management - If there were thirty hours in one day, it still wouldn't be enough without a plan. To get the most productive 24 hour day, check off the time you currently work, then schedule designated times to focus solely on studies. Students that are working may prefer free times during the weekend to unload chunks of study, or others may prefer spacing it out over the week to finish course materials and assignments. One of the greatest benefits of an online college education is flexibility, so what really matters is a routine that students can fall into for completing weekly goals.
•     Do Not Procrastinate - Many of us, even non-students, fall for the ever-present trap of delay. It's up to online students to make study time a priority. Time scheduled should not be prolonged by a favorite show or game. Just get on with your studies, one page or one sentence at a time - pacing yourself as you go along.
•     Get Into Balance - Humans strive with balance. While work and school together will take up most of your time, you should also squeeze in time for relaxation too. A little me-time, even if it's a mere half an hour per day can let students recharge, which in turn increases focus.
•     Designate a Place to Study - Eliminate distractions like the television, radio and video games. When it's to study, try to do so in a designated space in your home, like at a work desk - just as how you would in a college campus. Creating a study environment will help increase the amount of work you accomplish.
•     Communication is Key - Even though you may not see your Professor face-to-face, it's important to get in touch with them if you aren't clear about an assignment. Many online colleges will have instant messaging or video conferencing systems implemented so that you are able to speak with other students and staff members. If not, a simple email message will suffice to clear up any issues.

These tips can also be applied to all areas of your life. Discipline, time management `nd organization are key skills that every adult should learn for their personal, professional and financial lives.

A Review of the Instructional Design Models

Before we discuss what instructional design models (IDM) are, it is important to first define itself. Its also referred to as Instructional Systems Design (ISD), is thd process of creating instructional experiences that make the acquisition of knowledge and skill more efficient and effective. The instructional design discipline grew out of World War II, when the U.S. military needed to quickly train large numbers of personnel to perform various tasks.

While the terms Instructional Technology and Educational Technology are frequently used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) defines Instructional technology as "the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management, and evaluation of processes and resources for learning," while Educational Technology is defined as "study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using and managing appropriate technological processes and resources."

With the key definitions now out of the way, let us examine instructional design models. First, a model is a representation of a complex entity or phenomenon, whose purpose is to objective understanding of what it represents. Models help the designer to visualize the problem at hand, and to then to break it down into smaller, more manageable units.

It then follows that an instructional design model are frameworks for developing instruction that enhance learning outcomes and also encourages learners to gain a deeper level of understanding. In other words, IDM tells instructional designers how to organize pedagogical situations in order to achieve instructional goals. It is important to note that effective instructional models are based on learning and instructional theories.

Models are classified into prescriptive and descriptive. Prescriptive models provide guidelines to organize and structure instructional activities while descriptive models describe the learning environment and how it affects variables at play.

There are many instructional models that have been developed over the years, and most are based on the ADDIE model. ADDIE stands for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation.

This systematic IDM consists of five generic phases, which have been refined over the years in other models like the Dick and Carey Design Model and the Rapid Prototyping Model.

Common examples of these instructional models include:

    Merrill's First Principles of Instruction
    Bloom's Learning Taxonomy
    Kirkpatrick's 4 Levels of Training Evaluation
    Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction
    Kemp's IDM
    Keller's ARCS Model of Motivational Design (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction)
    ASSURE Model (Analyze Learners, State Objectives, Select Methods, Media, and Materials, Utilize Media and Materials, Require Learner Participation, and Evaluate and Revise)
    Smith and Ragan IDM
    Rapid Prototyping Model.

This of course is a non-exhaustive list.

Of importance to note is that in all models, the learner is (or should be) central to instruction. The learning context is also of importance to positive instructional outcomes. This includes instruction at all levels, i.e. K-12 education, adult learning, and higher education. Thus instructional design models are applicable to teachers, designers, trainers, and college level instructors mention a few.


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The Classroom and How to Use NLP

In a majority of classrooms in educational institutions, it is quite rare to find a teacher or professor who employs NLP training methods and principles. But if used inside the classroom, NLP will doubtless improve many aspects of the learning environment and will lead to better teacher-student interactions. For this reason, more teachers need to be aware of NLP techniques and integrate them into their own teaching style.

The question is, how can neuro-linguistic programming be used in the classroom? There are myriad ways by which an educator can apply its principles. NLP is all about improving the way people perceive themselves, the world, and other people. Thus, by learning how to perceive things better and understand people deeper, an educator can improve in facilitating a more conducive atmosphere suitable for learning.

One of the core NLP concepts that an educator should be aware of is the principle of "mind mapping". A mind "map" in NLP is the way an individual perceives the world in general. Each person has a unique map, and it is influenced heavily by one's own beliefs, values and attitudes. To successfully lead an entire classroom to a positive learning experience, the educator should first influence the beliefs, values and attitudes of students towards learning. For example, a student in a math class may be getting low grades as a result of negative attitudes towards the subject. These negative attitudes are originating from his limiting beliefs. Perhaps he is constantly saying to himself that he is not smart enough to grasp mathematical concepts. The solution to this problem is not to give him more math lessons immediately. Rather, the teacher should first identify limiting beliefs and help transform them into empowering beliefs (the "I can" attitude). Once the beliefs are influenced in a positive way, the student's "map" changes for the better and he is able to perceive the world in a different light. Understanding internal states and knowing how to elicit them is a surefire way for a teacher to have high-impact classroom discussions.

An "internal state" is an attitude, impulse or feeling that a person can readily associate with his five senses. For example, being happy is an internal state that anyone can associate with feelings of fulfillment, and is often seen in outward manifestations such as laughing, smiling, or crying for joy. Some people associate being happy with feelings of physical pleasure. There are literally hundreds or thousands of internal states that a person is capable of having at different times. One can be happy, enthusiastic, excited, or energetic at different parts of the day. On the other hand, negative internal states include being depressed, confused, hesitant, fearful and many others.

An educator should be able to put the entire classroom into a particular internal state before proceeding with any lesson or discussion. For example, before starting with a math lesson, an educator can do a sequence of NLP processes that will help elicit internal states of excitement or curiosity among students. The idea is to get the students into a positive internal state before giving them the lesson.

How to Claim Car Donation Deduction

A used automobile donation to a certified charity may be used to cut back your taxes. However, it is important to the actual Internal Revenue Services guidelines for donating used cars so as to receive the right benefit to your donation.

Depending the particular amount of your claim, you might need special forms or records to be able to qualify to get a deduction. According for the IRS, when you claim a deduction of at least $250 not really in excess of $500 for the car or truck donation, a written receipt from the charity is needed. You should have received the receipt in the use of the donation. The receipt should range from the name of the non-profit organization, an account on the donated vehicle and an announcement confirming perhaps the non-profit organization gave any services or goods in exchange for any donated vehicle. This statement doesn't need to be attached to the return, however ought to be kept on your records.

For charity cars over $500, donors will require to provide the IRS with a copy B of Form 1098-C, section A of Form 8283 as well as the following information should be in order to the return: A written acknowledgment from the charity involves a message and taxpayer identification number, the vehicle identification number, the donation date, and a statement of whether or not the charity provided any goods or services in turn for the car and, if that's the case, a description and estimate from the fair market associated with the services or goods. Donors who donate automobile in Florida or some other state may even need to avoid wasting written evidence of the vehicle donation and also the fair market value of the auto.

For deductions in excess of than $5,000, donors need the things in the above list for deductions of more than $500 effectively as Section B of Form 8283 and an itemized statement by a qualified appraiser.

When you donate your automobile to charity, the charity must offer you an itemized acknowledgment of your respective contribution. The acknowledgment must are the name from the charity, an account of the car and a statement of one of the following:

* A statement that no services or goods were made available to you in return in your donation

* A description and value any kind of services or goods had been presented to you in turn in your donation

* A statement that this goods or services presented to you consisted entirely of intangible religious benefits

Further documentation and filing requirements may pertain to claiming a deduction to your car donation. If your contribution may be valued at in excess of $500, you might need to check along with your accountant to see the easiest way for you to contribute your car to charity.

Opt for Online Tutoring to Help Your Child Excel in Studies

Today's era is highly competitive. In order to create an identity, everyone has to win this tough struggle of competition. When it comes to teaching, Online Tutoring is evolving as a modern yet effortless way of learning. This revolutionary way of learning has already assisted a huge number of students across the globe in wide range of subjects. In contrast to physical tutoring, it provides the students with a new way to learn and explore by seeking individual attention.

We are all aware that talent needs nurturing. The students who are gifted can seek enormous help in studies by the help of Online Tutors. However, the students who are not able to perform well are the ones who benefit the most. Tutoring via online learning method offers interactive learning to students. The motivational techniques of online tutoring can greatly enhance students' ability to learn.

Many a times, students tend to give up when their hard word does not seem to get rewarded despite repeated efforts. Lack of motivations may also be behind many weak students for not being able to exploit their potential well. Individualized attention by online learning can help them devote needful attention to obtain better grades.

If you have been worried about not being able to devote time to your dear child for Homework Help, then online system of tutoring can help solve your problem in an efficient way. The deficiency in certain skills like presentation, writing, analysis, and numeric problems can be simplified in a resourceful way.

The job of Online Tutors is not just to help students learn the subjects but also to discover the interesting aspects of the subjects. The long term goal of self-motivation is achieved by developing interest in the subject. The interest instills the enthusiasm that prevents the boredom from kicking in. The process of online teaching emphasizes on the fact that learning is much more than just knowing the facts.

If you have been thinking about looking for an Unlimited Online Tutoring solution for your child, it is right time that you seek one. However it is very important to devote some time looking for the best option. It is important that you choose a tutoring system that offers:

• Live tutoring or one-on-one tutoring sessions.
• Coaching by experienced and highly qualified teachers.
• Flexibility in terms of making choice of teachers.
• Help with regular homework assignments.
• Criteria for quality check by frequent sessions of barging into the classes by quality team.
• Using interactive tools to make learning easy.
• Privacy in terms of information provided.

These days many providers offer Free Online Tutoring trials to the students. It is a good way to gauze the efficacy of the learning classes by the provider. Opting for tutoring via Internet will ensure that your child will save time in getting ready for tutoring classes, reaching to the class, and related hassles. Web-based tutoring offers new-age learning and comes packed with variety of benefits. The strategies and techniques used by online tutoring system can greatly help your child grow intellectually and obtain good grades.

5 Household Student Skills

So you're living away from home for the first time, and you think you're ready for your first independent living experience, right? Well take it from us, there are bound to be situations ahead when you're at a complete loss as to what to do. We have put together a guide to those basic household student skills that you've never thought to learn.

1 - Doing Laundry

Firstly, separate your colours, whites, and delicates (such as silks) into individual loads. Items like towels that could leave fluff over your clothes should also be separated. Go through your pockets and remove anything if not you'll be picking out bits of tissue for the next few months. Turn jeans inside out to retain the colour and pay attention to care labels. Make sure you wash items at the right temperature - too hot and they might shrink, too cold and it won't get clean! Finally, always follow the directions on your washing powder/liquid and you should be fine!

2 - Boiling an Egg

Should be simple, but even the best chefs get it wrong! Firstly, never use a refrigerated egg; you'll get much better results from those at room temperature. Set a small pan to boil on the stove, with just enough water to cover the egg. Prick the fat end of the egg with a pin to stop it cracking, and drop it carefully into the boiling water. Now, for the important part! For a soft boiled egg with a runny yolk and lightly cooked white, boil for no longer than 3 minutes. For a hard boiled egg with solid white and yolk, boil for 8 minutes.

3 - Changing a Light bulb

Switch off the light that you'll be changing, and allow the existing bulb to cool before touching it. Twist the bulb anticlockwise until it is free - if it is a bayonet bulb it will only take one twist; a screw bulb will take slightly longer. Fetch your replacement bulb, making sure it's the same wattage as the original. Don't touch the new bulb with your bare hands, as you could damage the filament inside. Screw the bulb back in clockwise

4 - Defrosting your freezer

Your first task should be emptying the freezer. Once your freezer is empty (remove the drawers/ice tray also), unplug and leave the door open, putting some old towels around the bottom to soak up the inevitable deluge of water. Boil the kettle and fill a bowl with the water. Place the bowl in the centre of the freezer and use a cloth to spread the warmth around. Remove any large chunks of ice by hand, and then refill the bowl with boiling water and let the steam go to work. Repeat until all the ice is gone, dry off with a towel and you're good to go.

5 - Dusting

Empty the room entirely. This requires moving furniture as well as smaller items in the room, and you may need a helping hand. Put on some good music or a movie to entertain yourself while dusting. Get a*dust rag or a feather duster and begin dusting at the highest points of the room such as ceiling fans or the tops of window frames.Scrub and sanitize the woodwork and floors in the room thoroughly to remove all dust which may have accumulated. After dusting, many people forget that the dust eventually settles somewhere. If the room is carpeted, then vacuum the room.