Methodologies of Online Education

There were many myths and misconceived notions about online education until recent past. Some people believed that online learning is a good option only for students who have a good track record. It was also believed that only those students having access to computers and modern means of communication would benefit from online education. However, with time such notions are giving way to an open acceptance where people have started accepting online education as a viable alterative for conventional education.

Not all online education options have a similar methodology and approach. There are various modes of online education available and it would be better if you have an understanding of different methodologies in use by online education providers so that you can select the course with the methodology that suits you the best. Here we are discussing the learning methodologies for online education:

Online Education Methodologies- Different Options

Live: This methodology is also known as synchronous mode of learning. In this mode of online education, there is instant communication between the students and teachers and at times even among different students. Herein all the participants get access to information simultaneously. Virtual classroom using the facility of video or audio conferencing and real-time chat are some examples of this mode of online education.

This learning methodology has its advantages and disadvantages. This mode is more akin to the conventional education except for the fact that the students don’t have to travel to the classrooms. The biggest advantage of synchronous method of online education is that it allows instant feedback for the student’s performance and allows active interaction among the students and teachers. Thus the students can get the training and education that is tailored suit their needs. Moreover, live education also facilitates the setting up of learning communities and groups for a better interaction among the learners.

This method has the disadvantage that the students cannot plan their schedule and they are bound by the pre-set schedule.

Asynchronous: Asynchronous mode of online education is popularly termed as store and forward education. In this method, the communication between the student and teacher is not instant. Self-paced courses are the examples of asynchronous online education where the students communicate with the teachers and amongst themselves by exchanging emails and posting messages on online bulletin boards and discussing groups. This is the more popular mode of online education because it offers more convenience and flexibility to the students and they can decide the pace and schedule for their education and training.

Despite of the advantages, this mode of online education has its disadvantages too. The students in this mode of learning, lack discipline and motivation and generally tend to develop a lackluster attitude towards education.

The mixed mode of learning in online education combines the advantages of both the modes and it is a combination of personal lectures or face-to-face interaction learning through online activities.

Now that you have a better understanding of different methodologies of online education, you can pick up the right one for you and enhance your skills.

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Online Education to Become a Teacher

You might want to consider acquiring an online degree if you are interested in becoming a teacher. The field of education is one that gives you plenty of opportunities to try out different roles. As a teacher, you can focus on early, middle, or secondary aged students. You can also take on administrative roles with an online degree focused on teaching.

Kinds of Online Degrees:
Similar to any other field, there are lots of options available for you when it comes to online degrees. To start with, you can go for a bachelor’s degree in education. You can become a teacher in any college or university by earning this degree along with a certificate in teaching. Normally your college major will decide which subject you are going to teach. Once you have earned a bachelor’s degree in education, you can further go for a master’s degree in education. This degree can come in real handy for individuals who want to advance their career.

Different Areas in the Field of Education:
The education field consists of various specializations that include elementary education, early childhood education, administration, higher education, secondary education and middle school. Each of these specializations needs a specific educational qualification and certification for becoming a teacher. For example, it is mandatory for teachers to get a license from the state in which they are teaching.

Online Bachelor’s in Education:
To start a career in teaching, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree in Education. The course structure of this online degree program includes planning lessons, handling discipline related issues, psychology of learning and making sure that students do not face any problem in understanding concepts. You can earn between $25,000 and $30,000 as a first year teacher with an online bachelor’s degree in education.

Online Master’s in Teaching:
Certified teachers can attain promotions as well as pay raises with the help of online a master’s in teaching degree. Another good thing about this degree program is that it gives teachers more opportunities in private schools and universities. Upon graduation you can also enroll in a PhD in education degree program.

Schools Offering Online Education Degrees:

o Western Governors University: Regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Western Governors University offers Bachelor in Education, Masters in Teaching, Masters in Education, Higher Education, Secondary Education and Special Education.

o Ashford University: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Ashford University offers Associate, Bachelor and Master degrees in teaching. Some of the programs conducted by Ashford University are Bachelor in Education, Masters in Teaching, Masters in Education, Masters in Teaching, Higher Education, Early Childhood Education, Secondary Education and Elementary Education.

o Grand Canyon University: Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, Grand Canyon University offers Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education in Secondary Education and Master of Education in Special Education.

The acquisition on an online degree in education can help individuals in acquiring better career opportunities and go for well-paying jobs. But before enrolling in an online college or university, you need to make sure that it is accredited.

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Database Technology – Educational Options

In order for businesses, colleges, and government agencies to use the information stored on computers employees must be able to retrieve the data. Setting up computer databases store all the information needed by employees. Students can learn how to work with stored information by entering a degree program in database technology.

Students can enter programs through a college’s computer science or information technology department. Educational options are offered at all levels leaving students with the option to work as:

  • administrators
  • data architects
  • database librarians

and more. The curriculum worked through inside a degree program teaches how to work with computer databases to handle all areas from developing to managing databases. The wide skill set is usually taught at every level and knowledge becomes more advanced as students enter higher degrees. The use of a database has to be maintained and updated to ensure the best possible function and to use the best information retrieval methods. Employees rely on databases to work correctly so they can perform their job duties at the optimal level. Students thinking about entering education should research all of the industries options before beginning a degree program.

Learning to program and troubleshoot systems can be learned through a two-year associate’s degree. Schooling stresses learning different applications and software programs. C++, Delphi, and more are some programming languages that students will become familiar with inside a degree program. Curriculum may cover topics on:

  • visual basic programming
  • database analysis
  • algorithm design

and more to provide students with an educational base of the industry. To gain a complete understanding, students need to continue education at the bachelor’s degree level.

The entire industry is covered inside a bachelor’s degree program. Students work through specified courses that teach them how to create, develop, and implement a database. Further study is entered to prepare students to manage and distribute stored information on databases. At this point in education students can branch out and work through a specialty within database technology. Some areas include database software, programming, design, and analysis. Curriculum changes based on the concentration students enter but all students take some general courses. Courses could include:

  • database concepts
  • microcomputer applications
  • communications
  • information systems
  • relational databases

and more. Students learn through a comprehensive degree that provides them with the knowledge to work in every area of the industry. Businesses use databases to store information on an increasing scale making education on how to operate and manipulate data a highly coveted skill.

Students who continue education at the graduate degree level should expect to be trained in advanced concepts and learn to become an administrator. Knowledge expands to include supporting, installing, and designing systems. Courses on architecture of databases and development techniques explore how to work as a leader. A PhD examines:

    database design
  • data mining
  • retrieval
  • application usage

and more. Students work through a concentration and conclude with a dissertation paper on their specialty.

Students can enter all four-degree levels and enter the field successful. The skills learned through each degree option are directly relatable to a career. Complete an accredited database technology degree program and enter the field a must have employee. Full accreditation provides proof that the program offer students the best quality education possible. Agencies like the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training ( http://www.accet.org ) are approved to fully accredit schools and colleges.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised at PETAP.org.

Copyright 2010 – All rights reserved by PETAP.org.

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Parenting Tips on Effective Record Storage For Your Child’s Special Education Records

Does your child with autism have a massive amount of school records, and you are not sure what to do with them? Would you like a organized system, so that you can find important information at a moments notice? Then this article is for you; it will give you some parenting tips, on how to store your child’s special education records. Short and Long Term storage will be discussed.

Before you are ready to store your child’s records here are a few things to do first:

A. Get a complete copy of your child’s school record, from special education personnel, in your district. Put them in order, older records on the bottom, newer records on the top.

B. Number each document with a pencil. Do not write on original documents, use post it notes. That way, they can be copied later if needed.

C. Make a decision about how you want to keep the records; hanging files or in binders to put on a bookshelf.

D. Write or type a index for each binder or hanging file. Put the numbers of the documents, and also what is in the files. Be very specific, so that you can find what you need. For Example: Document 6, psychological from 04-11-07 includes academic testing, psychological testing, good statements about Bobbie’s educational needs. Social worker report includes great information about Bobbie’s adaptive skills.

Short Term Storage for current special educational records:

1. Go to an office supply store and buy clear Top Loading sheet protectors. You can buy them by the box. Also purchase a snap locking large ring binder, for short term storage of records.

2. Put each document in the protectors. This way they cannot be destroyed.

3. Put the current documents in a snap locking large ring binder, older documents on the bottom, newer documents on the top. Add the index to the front of the binder. If your child has a lot of current school records, you may need to purchase more than one binder.

Long Term Storage:

1. Go to an office supply store and buy clear top loading sheet protectors.

2. Also purchase Hanging storage binders or large 3 ring binders, whichever you have decided to use. If you choose 3 ring binders, make sure that the rings are large, so that they can fit more documents.

3. Place the records in the clear top loading sheet protectors, older on the bottom, and newer on the top. Then put in the binders.

4. Put an index in the beginning of each binder, and a date on each binder. You can separate the documents by years if you would like to.

5. Place the records in the binders. For the hanging storage binders you can put those in a file cabinet. The 3 ring binders can be put on a book shelf.

By knowing how to store your child’s school records, they will be organized and easy to find at a moments notice. Happy storing!

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iPhone Apps and Android Apps Play an Increasing Role in Education

With impacts on virtually every aspect of the daily life, mobile technologies can greatly enhance learning experiences. Internet-connected mobile devices with imbedded sensors, cameras, and GPS are bringing unprecedented possibilities in education.

Statistics from the mobile app marketplace reflects an expanding world of resources that fits into the palm of a hand. Thus, in March 2012 Apple announced about more than 25 billion downloaded apps from its App Store by the users of the more than 315 million iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices worldwide. The App Store offers more than 550,000 apps to users in 123 countries around the world, with more than 170,000 native iPad apps available. Customers can choose apps from a wide range of categories, including business, education, games, news, sports, health & fitness, travel and more.

Google Play Store (formerly Android Market) has also hit a major milestone in app downloads from its site. It has sold 15 billion apps.

According to Juniper Research, consumer app downloads to mobile devices are expected to reach more than 66 billion per annum by 2016. This number scratches the surface of the anticipated growth of mobile applications.

The increasing availability of network access, growing capabilities of mobile devices, advances in electronic data flow together with the convergence of search technology and location awareness make mobile applications a powerful tool in the learning process.

Education institutions are seeing mobile apps not just as an affordable solution for learning, but also as a feature-rich tool for lab work, often replacing expensive and cumbersome devices and equipment. The leading universities, including Stanford, Yale, Oxford and UC Berkeley, as well as colleges have already deployed their own apps.

To name a few selections, mobile apps can embrace the following features:

  • Campus directory, maps and virtual tours;
  • Transportation information;
  • Course lists;
  • Digital distribution of course materials;
  • Dining locations, hours of service and menus;
  • Sports schedules;
  • Updates on interesting events and breaking campus news;
  • Possibility to check grades;
  • Access to library resources and digital textbooks.

The abundance of resources and relationships easily accessible via the Internet is increasingly challenging the educational environment. Students expect to be able to learn and study whenever and wherever they want to. More and more institutions around the world begin to understand the potential of mobile access, and they are investing in software that extends learning outside of the classroom.

Industries and Technology Areas:

Industries: education, E-learning

Technology Areas: mobile application development, software development, iOS, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone

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The Importance Of Early Education For Children And How To Get Started As A Parent

Most parents do not fully understand the importance of early education when it comes to their children. There is still the idea that a child doesn’t need any special attention before he starts school. While this is certainly true for most parents, other parents are realizing the benefits of early education and how it can help your child later on in life. While the importance of early education is over-emphasized it can play a pivotal role in your child’s upbringing.

It has been proven through studies and research that children who have had parents that help them focus on early education prosper more later on in life. They have the ability to do better in school and in the work force. The developmental areas that are focused on when educating your child do not only remain in the intellectual sphere. Parents also focus on their creative, physical, social and emotional well-being. All of these aspects need to be worked on so that your child can develop normally. By emphasizing on these developmental areas at a young age, it will be simpler for the child and a parent when the child grows older.

Getting Started on Early Education

When a parent is first introduced to early education for their children there seems to be thousands of resources and researchers saying different things. It can be confusing for a first time parent trying to find a way to approach early education.

The best way to start is to start slowly. When purchasing games, books or toys that you think will be educational for your child make sure to review them thoroughly. Often manufacturers sell games that actually have nothing to do with education. Try finding a reputable online store that sells quality books that have been developed by teachers and professors.

Also make a habit of reading every single day to your child, regardless of how old they are. Reading is one of the most important aspects of early education and should not be easily dismissed. Research has shown that you should be reading to your children every day for at least twenty minutes a day. This can help improve their imagination, creativity, their vocabulary and general knowledge.

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The Best School Supplies Stores

Parents work hard to be able to put their children to good schools. It is one of the best things they could ever give them. Parents shower utmost support to their schooling kids. And part of showing their support also, aside from enrolling them to good schools, is to make sure that their kids are complete with all the books and other school supplies needed.

Come school time, the parents would troop to their favorite school supplies store to buy the items their kids will need for school. Sometimes, it is a hassle, when they would have to stop by two or three different stores to complete their list of what to buy. This is why it is very helpful to know which stores have the widest range of inventory. A one-stop shop is what you need to save you from many unwanted trips. Here are some of these stores:

William K. Sheridan & Associates, Inc.

This store is based in Lewis Center of Ohio. It has been known to provide high quality and high value educational materials to all the teachers, students and parents since 1982. They have provided customer satisfaction with their products and services. They have a variety of materials in all their retail stores in the north of Columbus.

Their store hours are all the same except on Wednesdays and Saturdays. They are open from 8:30 in the morning to 6 six in the evening. On Wednesdays they have the same opening hours but their closing hours is 8 in the evening. On Saturdays, they have shorter store hours. They are open at 9:30 in the morning and closed by 4 in the afternoon.

Education Works

This store is located in Hartford Turnpike Waterford, CT. They offer online services and accept order and payment through online. They have a complete selection of educational supplies that are high quality. They provide great supplies for home schooling parents or professional teachers who have tough schedule ahead.

Even the day care providers can get great furniture where their small students. There are also available organizers that have footprints or other learning games that are interactive. Kids will surely enjoy these things if they are presented in class. Though they have a store in Hartford Turnpike Waterford, CT, they are reaching out to other parts of the world. That is why they are making their store to go online.

Most of their shipments are very successful. Their online customers would worry nothing because they have a thirty day money back guarantee. Before the shipment, the online customers should be fully paid before the supplies will be shipped.

Fun Learning Stuff at Education Station

This is established in 1998 by Lisa and John Martin. This store was made to make people see that learning does not to be boring. Learning should have some fun to persuade all adventurous kids to go on learning. This store also persuades parents and teacher to have some fun way of teaching.

They also have a wide range of selection of books aids and equipments. They have pre-school supplies, furniture and equipment.

There are lots of school supplies stores that have complete products. The most important thing to look for these stores is the modern materials that are used in teaching. They should offer these materials at an affordable price. Try looking for cool supplies of learning now.

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How to Find Educational Games For Kids

When it comes to games for kids, there is a never-ending supply. You go to the grocery store and you see games. You go to the thrift store and you see games. Games for kids even come in $1.99 meals you buy at the drive through. So why is it so hard to find educational games that your kids will want to play?

Finding Educational Games Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

When it comes to finding educational games, it does not have to be hard. In fact, it can be as easy as looking in your own home. With the rise technology, educational games have taken on a whole new meaning. No longer do you need to go to the grocery store or department store to buy board games or card games for the kids to pay. You can now go to the computer.

Computer Games Offer Hours of Educational Fun

Many different computer games can be purchased online and in stores for children to play. They range from Barbie adventures to Soldiers of Fortunes. Even cartoon characters take part in wild adventures that help your child learn and travel through imaginary worlds full of adventure and learning.

While all computer games are educational, you need to be careful which games you purchase. Since your child will learn something, make sure your child is learning something useful.

Online Games Take Learning to New Levels

Whole websites are developed and geared towards children. They are kid friendly and are full of educational value. Kids learn a variety of things from playing these free online games. One such site is Neopets. In this online world, kids play games, run shops, and take care of their Neopets all in a kid friendly environment. This site is just one of many kids like to explore online at no cost to parents.

Parents wishing their children to explore educational games online only need a computer and Internet access. While sites like these are kid friendly, it is always a good idea to watch your child. While they work hard to protect children, it is always a good idea to instill good web browsing habits.

Games for the iPhone/iTouch

This is the latest in games for kids. Over the last few years, games for the iTouch and iPhone have skyrocketed. Thanks to iTunes and the app store, finding educational games for the iTouch has never been easier. Apps are being added daily so keep an eye out and you will find on you like.

Games are added to the free games and the paid games. If you see one you are not sure about, try finding one in the “Lite” version. While you can’t always find a “Lite,” they are nice to try. They generally are a super short version about five minutes or one level, but they give you an idea and they are free.

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Buy Your Educational Supplies From A Dollar Store Supplier

As the end of the summer draws near, it is time to focus on getting ready to go back to school. One of the biggest things on your to do list will be shopping for the proper school supplies. Whether you’re a teacher, parent or student, you know that the cost of these supplies can really add up. It seems as if every year the list of what’s needed gets longer and longer. There is one way, however, to get all of these that you need for a very low price… order them from a dollar store supplier. Ordering your educational supplies in this manner is one of the easiest and most effective ways to get ready for the new school year.

Doing your shopping with a dollar store supplier has some great benefits. Almost all of their products are sold at a wholesale price. This means that no matter what you buy, the cost will always be cheaper than it would be for any equal product at a retail store. Most people are aware that these types of suppliers exist, but what they don’t know is that the general public can buy from them as well, allowing you to take advantage of their very low prices. A dollar store supplier usually sells their items in bulk. This makes it easy for you to get what you need. Keep in mind that the minimum quantities are usually very low. You don’t have to buy enough product to stock a store, but it would be beneficial for you to buy enough so that you can maintain the cost of your requirements throughout the whole school year. Another perk that comes from ordering these supplies from a dollar store supplier is that you can shop at home, instead of having to go to the store. That reason alone make this kind of shopping a pleasant experience. If shopping for educational supplies is something you are going to be doing, then nothing could be more advantageous for you than making your purchases through a dollar store supplier.

One of the best things about deciding to order your educational supplies from a dollar store supplier is the ease with which it can be done. It will take very little effort on your part. No traveling, walking through crowded aisles or standing in long lines is required. All you have to do is look for a reputable wholesale dollar store online, place your order for your new educational supplies and wait for the package to be delivered to your door. Nothing could be simpler, right? There are a few things you will want to keep in mind, though. When looking for a dollar store supplier online, you will want to find one that has thousands of products available, including all of the educational supplies that you will be needing. You will also want to remember to order in bulk if you can. You will probably use most of what you order, but if not, you can always donate any extra educational supplies that you might have. Shopping with an online dollar store supplier for your educational supplies could be one of the most effortless shopping experiences you’ve ever had.

Now that you see how much money you could save, and how easy it could be, what are you waiting for? Find a reputable dollar store supplier and start ordering the educational supplies that you need today!

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Pick Toys For Your Baby From An Educational Toy Store

Wondering why an educational toy is essential for your baby? Well, it is for you to know that the initial eight years of a person’s life has the crucial development occurring, so it is vital to give your child an educational toy. This is the best stage for introducing educational toys to your child.

The learning process of your child naturally begins while playing, thus you can say that the toys serve as educational materials also. Gift your child toys that will develop the social, intellectual and emotional sides of his/her personality. Help your child have all round growth and development.

Be very careful when you are choosing toys for your baby, as they should be able to help the learning process of your child. Moreover, you should keep in mind several factors, such as the kind of toy, age and stage development of the child, the benefits of the toy and the material used in the making of the toy.

The toy stores

Go to an educational toy store and personally pick up toys for your child that will satisfy your baby’s playing as well as learning needs. Usually the toy stores have tie-ups with the toy manufacturing companies. There are some stores that have retail outlets of their own production house.

The toys in the stores are categorically classified into different departments, like the age groups, types of toys, puzzles, construction toys, dolls and arts and crafts. There are also separate sections for the boys and girls. A toy store that has good organization will make shopping comfortable and easy for you.

The toy stores also have their own websites that allow you to make your order directly online. However, depending on the terms and conditions, the delivery and payment policies differ from store to store. The prices vary according to the age group, the brand, the various uses of the toy and the different toys on the offer.

Different toy stores

The Growing Tree Toys, specialty toy store offers educational toys for encouraging and stimulating small kids to express their creativity. The store also provides advice to parents on the quality of the latest toy products. They can recommend the toys that will best suit the age of your child and help him/her to have fun as well as learn.

The Fat Brain Toys toy store has come up with toys that not only will be loved by kids but also their parents. At Fat Brain Toys, you will also find a range of puzzles for the different age groups. The puzzles are unique, for instance there is the above four feet tall human anatomy puzzle.

There is also a craze for magnetic toys, as kids love magnets. Fat Brain Toys bring before your kids the Geomag Magnetic Challenge game, which is a timeless and interesting game. It takes a long time to master the game and offers educational fun. The child can play this game even when traveling in the car.

The “Brain Play” section of the Fat Brain Toys has educational toys, like Lincoln Logs (classic) and Techno Gears Marble Mania (new). The toys are great for the young kids and also for you if you are still young in heart.

Some of the other toy stores are Toyworld Store, Early Learning Centre, The Big Top Online, Kids Cottage Toys, Amazon.com, Fisher-Price Store, Kaboomzone Toys and Online Games, WonderBrains Educational Toys, The Largest Kite Store in the World, Rock-A-Bye Baby Toys, Once Upon A Time, and Trend Times Toy Stores.

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