Practical Home Schooling Options For The Single Parent

One of the more overwhelming challenges is that faced by a parent that wishes to take on practical home schooling, but doesn't have a partner. For many in this situation, the requirement to earn adequate income to support both child and parent is vital.

But many single parents that are determined are able to find ways each year to home educate their children. The final results are typically worthwhile. A home tutored child will typically surpass their equals on similar tests and have a high rating on college admissions listings.

The initial issue is often related to time management. A well prepared parent soon discovers that they have more available time for practical home schooling than they might expect. That is typically true if you account for the actual tuition hours offered in a public school. In a school day, there's a break between classes, lunch breaks, and a good deal of sitting about not doing much. By being certain that each hour counts at home can easily compensate.

A child can be left completely free to act on any topic that interests them, and at their individual pace. Or, they might be offered with guidance and resources to execute a great deal of individual study. The answers can be reviewed later on in the day and alterations made, if required.

Tutoring in a variety of styles is one more choice for a single parent that wishes to home school. Tutors can range from an in-house instructor to an online resource that's entirely automated. The costs are likely to vary greatly, but a lot of tutors tend to cost less than full time day care. In some cases, a tutoring role can be combined with day care service.

Some single parents will opt to begin a home based business. Once you add up the expense of gasoline for the vehicle, full time day care, and the time spent on travelling back and forth, a home based business can often appear more cost effective. This does not even take into account the potential tax savings from additional write-offs.

With a small amount of creative thinking and fair measure of research, a single parent can discover the resources and time for practical home schooling their child. Both child and parent are likely to benefit significantly if they do.

Tortilla Curtain Study Guide

It's just the notes we did in class mainly. I'll add more later when I actually do the assignment.

5 things high school juniors should be doing - CBS News

5 things high school juniors should be doing - CBS News

What рacademic fitҀ really means | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

What рacademic fitҀ really means | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

Does It Matter Where You Go to College? - The Atlantic

Does It Matter Where You Go to College? - The Atlantic

World Wide Schools: What You Need to Know

From an educational standpoint, these are exciting times, not only in your home country, wherever that may be, but globally, in almost every corner of the earth.  One type of education that is lending to this excitement is being provided by World Wide schools, also known as international schools.  World Wide schools can now be found in most countries around the world, and have literally tripled in number over the past decade.  So what is so special about these international or World Wide schools?  Actually, there are far too many characteristics and benefits to list them all here, but to give you at least some inclination as to why these institutions are becoming so popular among students and parents alike, below we will provide a brief definition of World Wide schools and summarize some of the advantages of this type of education.

What Are World Wide Schools and What Are the Benefits? 

World Wide schools are institutions that provide a different curriculum than the one taught in the local and more traditional schools.  The curriculum is either international, such as the International Baccalaureate, or the same curriculum used in United States and UK schools.  Instruction is provided either solely in English or bilingually with English, and the student body and faculty are multi-national.

In the early years of World Wide schoolstheir function was specific and very limited:  to provide education to U.S., UK or other English-speaking students living in a part of the world in which English was not the native language, thus making it difficult, even impossible for them to study and learn effectively in the local schools.  Whether the children are in the country because one or both of their parents are in the military or pursuing another type of employment-based purpose, World Wide schools give them full access to a relevant education, one that is universally accepted and provided in a language they can understand.

While serving the children of expatriates remains a primary purpose of World Wide schools, these institutions have now take on an additional role׀a function that has led to an explosion in the industry in recent years, especially in underdeveloped and developing nations.  Today there are millions of locally-born children who now attend international schools rather than the traditional schools in their area.  Parents who envision greater opportunities for their children׀opportunities in more developed countries abroad׀are now opting to send them to World Wide schools as a way to provide them with an advantage and a head start.  Not only do students study via a curriculum that is generally accepted throughout the world by colleges and universities, they also have the unique opportunity to gain valuable early language skills.  Typically, instructors at these schools are far more trained, and because they hail from countries around the world, together they offer a global educational perspective.

Students who complete their education in World Wide schools are awarded a diploma that is internationally recognized, thus opening the door to worlds of opportunity and providing them with considerably more options than their traditionally-educated peers.  Expatriate students can return home (or anywhere else) armed with an education that has more than adequately prepared them for university studies, and local children can dramatically improve their educational and professional outlook by studying abroad, particularly those students in underdeveloped countries where higher education and professional positions are severely limited.

Directory of International Schools Explained

If youҀve been searching for a school, either for yourself or for your child, you may have run across the term Ӏdirectory of international schools.Ԁ  ItҀs a term that is becoming more and popular these days, as an increasing number of these types of schools are being founded, but before we take a closer look at these directories and explain their purpose, it is first necessary that we provide a definition for international schools. 

What Are International Schools?

Simply speaking, an international school is a type of institution that offers a different curriculum than that of the host country׀the country in which the international school is located.  Usually the instruction is provided wholly in English or bilingually with English and another language (Spanish, French, etc.). Many international schools use the curriculum of the larger English-speaking countries, such as the United States and Great Britain, while others use an international curriculum, such as the International Baccalaureate.  To qualify as an international school both the student body and faculty must be multi-national and accredited by an international school accrediting body.

The original purpose of an international school was to provide a relevant education to English-speaking children who, because of their parentҀs employment position in another country, were living outside of their country of citizenship, be it the United States or the UK.  This would help prepare them for higher education opportunities back home, whereas the local curriculum may not.  In recent years, however, more and more local students have started to enroll in international schools as a way to prepare for educational and employment opportunities abroad.  In these schools, students have the opportunity to learn the English language and study from a curriculum that is generally accepted everywhere.  This trend has been especially prevalent in many of the less-developed countries around the world, particularly in India, where an estimated 20 percent of all school-age children are enrolled in international schools, usually with the goal of transferring to universities in Europe and North America.

Directory of International Schools

A directory of international schools is a type of catalogue that is loaded with helpful school information, allowing students and parents to make informed decisions when selecting an institution for their education.  Most of these directories are now digitized and can be browsed online from the comfort of your home.  With a comprehensive directory of international schools you can search by school type (all-English schools, American schools, etc) or region and you can even filter the search results by the various options offered at each school.  Two of the most important pieces of information you can discover with the help of a directory of international schools are:

• The type of curriculum used.  As you browse through the directory of international schools you will no doubt notice there are three main types of curriculums to choose from:  international curriculum, a standardized university preparatory program of study that is generally accepted at universities worldwide; United States curriculum, the same program taught at the primary and secondary schools in the U.S., including preparation for the SAT college entrance examination; and the GCSEҀs and ӀAԀ level curriculums that help prepare students for university enrollment in the United Kingdom.  If you already know the university you plan to attend, itҀs a good idea to check with them about the type of curriculum(s) they accept before making a final decisions regarding international school enrollment.
• School particulars.  A directory of international schools provides a wealth of information on every school they list׀a snapshot of the school and all it has to offer.  Some of this information includes:  the start and end dates of the school year, the duration of the school day (the time it begins and ends), typical class sizes, school lunches, number of classrooms, eligibility requirements, curriculum and school amenities, such as laboratories, and IT facilities.

Naturally, this is only a taste of the tremendous amount of information youҀll reap when using a directory of international schools, but as you can see, these directories can be very useful and will save you the time and effort of researching each school separately.

Foreign Student Exchange: The Opportunity of a Lifetime

Are you a high school student who has recently been approached by school staff and given the unique opportunity to study abroad as a participant of a foreign student exchange?  Would it be helpful if you had a bit more information regarding these types of programs and whatҀs potentially in store for you?  If so, the following article may prove quite useful.  Here we will spend some time discussing the basics of a foreign student exchange, including such topics as attending a foreign school, living with a host family and some of the benefits youҀll reap both personally and educationally as a participant.

Foreign Student Exchange:  The Opportunity of a Lifetime

If youҀre like most high school students, the chance to study and live in a foreign country for a year or even a semester is not an opportunity that comes your way very often׀if ever.  However, as a participant in a foreign student exchange thatҀs exactly what youҀll be able to do, and at a much reduced cost when compared to traveling independently.  While many people will have the chance to travel abroad later in life, after theyҀre settled, few individuals have the unique opportunity to do so when they are still very young, vibrant and adventurous.  Just imagine all the fun youҀll have on this exciting international excursion:  learning a different culture, acquiring valuable language skills and meeting hundreds of new faces, some of whom will become treasured friends with whom you will share a bond for a lifetime.  Only in your high school years will you possess the perfect combination of maturity and adaptability, the spirit and flexibility to truly immerse yourself in a fresh new way of life and absorb all it has to offer.

In a foreign student exchangeyou will study at a secondary school that may admittedly be very different than your own, but these differences will only augment your overall learning experience, giving you a fresh new perspective on the various ways people learn׀a perspective that will enhance your problem-solving and analytical skills.  Of course, the instruction youҀll receive will be in your own language and the courses will count for credit at your home school, but you will also be fully immersed into a novel environment where people, in most cases, speak a different language than your own, which, experts say, is the fastest route to new language acquisition.

As you might expect, the classroom or school portion of a foreign student exchange is enough to make the trip well worth any cost, but there are also many other program components that are equally valuable.  For example, most foreign student exchange programs allow time for several cultural excursions during the course of your stay׀field trips in which youҀll travel with other international and local students to visit some of the most significant sites in your host country, providing you the opportunity to taste the local food and mingle with the locals.  From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Coliseum in Rome to the Great Wall of China, wherever you decide to go as a member of a foreign student exchange you can bet there will be sufficient time to visit some of the countryҀs most treasured sites.

Finally, there is your host family.  It has been said there is no better classroom than a family home, a place where cultural learning and understanding takes center stage.  As a member of a foreign student exchange you will live with a family who generously donates their time and their home to make your experience a special and unforgettable one.  As most former participants of a foreign student exchange will tell you, these comfortable accommodations serve as a type of second family, a place at which youҀll learn the most about the country and forge the greatest number of friendships.  From weekend trips, in which you can explore your new surroundings, to nightly meals and informative discussions, your host family are the people you can lean on for support as they strive to make your international journey as fun, enlightening and fulfilling as possible.

International Exchange: How to Apply and Improve Your Eligibility

Are you considering taking part in an international exchange program׀a program that allows you to live and study abroad in a foreign country?  Do you know how to apply for such programs and how to increase your chances of being accepted?  Participating in an international exchange program can be the opportunity of a lifetime, but as you well know, the chance to do so is not a right, but rather a privilege.  Most students in good standing at their high school or university will be eligible for these programs, but space is often limited, which means not everyone can participate.  There are, however, some things you can do to bolster your application.  To illustrate this, below we will briefly discuss how to apply for an international exchange program, along with some other tips to help improve your chances of being accepted.

About International Exchange Programs

Prior to World War II, when global tensions ran high, there were only a handful of international exchange programs in operation, and even those were quite limited in what they offered, especially in terms of the number of countries that participated in such programs.  Since the end of the war, however, the number of companies, organizations and educational institutions providing exciting international exchange adventures has been rising every year.  Together they have offered millions of high school and university students the opportunity to study and live abroad for a time in almost any major country in the world׀the chance to learn and absorb a new culture, including its language, customs and traditions.  These are exciting times for international exchange programs, as there have never been more choices in terms of available destinations and the variety of academic and linguistic programs being offered. 

International Exchange:  How to Apply and Improve Your Eligibility

In most cases, the application process for international exchange programs is rather simple.  For high school students, applications are usually handled and distributed by guidance counselors, while at colleges and universities there is normally a separate department that deals with international exchange programs and provides assistance for students studying abroad.  Eligibility requirements vary depending on the institution and the organization operating the program, but generally speaking, you must be a reasonably good student, often with at least a 3.0 grade point average.  After submitting your application, a committee will review it, and if deemed eligible you will be scheduled for an interview, typically before a panel of educators and representatives from the company offering the program.  If selected to participate, you will be notified in writing and provided instructions on how to prepare for your trip, including the process for arranging your flight, accommodations and obtaining your travel documents.

Sounds easy, right?  Actually it is, but as we mentioned, not everyone can participate, and because of that, the process can often be very competitive.  Here are just few ways to improve your chances of being selected:

瀀         Hit the books.  The grades you earn in your classes are only one of the criteria for international exchange programs, but higher marks will often cathch the eye of the selection committee.

瀀         Get involved at school.  Much like on a college application, certain weight is given to how involved you are at your school. When grades are equal, students who participate in a number of clubs, sports and other extra-curricular activities will generally have an edge over their non-involved competition.

瀀         Participate in your community.  Participating in and helping your community says a lot about your character and trustworthiness.  In fact, there are many international exchange programs offered by community service groups, including Rotary International, one of the largest such groups in the world.

The final tip for improving your eligibility is to be flexible in terms of your destination.  International exchange programs are currently offered in almost every country in the world, and while you may not be able to go to, say, France, due to limited space, there may be over 150 other countries that would be happy to have you as a guest.

Study Abroad Programs: Adjusting to a New Culture When Studying Abroad

If you are planning to study abroad in the near future, either for a semester or full academic year, you are probably experiencing a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement and anticipation to trepidation and even a bit of fear.  These are all perfectly normal feelings, and as anyone who has ever studied abroad will tell you, adjusting to a new way of life in another country will certainly have its ups and downs. 

According to experts in the field of cultural identity and adjustment, transitioning into a new culture can be one of the most difficult parts of study abroad programs.  The reasons for this are many, but perhaps the largest obstacle people face is their own cultural perspective.  Think of it like this:  For your entire life you have been surrounded by elements of a single countryҀs culture, your own, including all the traditions, customs, language and cuisine.  But now, as an upcoming participant in one of the many study abroad programs, you are about to be Ӏthrown inԀ to another way of life, with different people, places, attitudes and perspectives.  This is bound to cause some internal conflicts.  However, by learning to recognize the various stages associated with cultural adjustment, you will be better equipped to overcome these conflicts as they arise. 

There are essentially four stages of cultural adjustment that many students will pass through when participating in study abroad programs, albeit not necessarily in the same order presented below: bummer

瀀         ӀFlying HighԀ or Fascination Stage.  Most participants in study abroad programs arrive in their host country with a feeling of excitement, anticipation and adventure.  They are spellbound by the newness of the experience and they canҀt wait to see whatҀs around every corner.  Food tastes delicious, people seem friendly and the novelty of the experience makes them wonder why they didnҀt try this sooner.

瀀         Let-Down or Discouragement Stage.  Once the novelty wears off, many students in study abroad programs are faced with the reality of trying to fit into a culture thatҀs very different from their own.  They may face obstacles in their studies; have awkward interactions with the locals; and/or struggle with the new language, complete with all of its colloquialisms.   They judge everything they see and every person they meet in terms of how very ӀdifferentԀ they are, and naturally, a feeling of discouragement and homesickness usually creeps in.  This stage can be a difficult one to maneuver, but if you find yourself feeling let-down or Ӏbummed out,Ԁ itҀs important that you remain positive and keep an open mind, because the very best part of your study abroad program is yet to come.

瀀         The ӀAh-HahԀ or Transitional Stage.  As time goes on during the course of study abroad programs, most students acquire a stronger command of the language and a deeper appreciation of the culture.  Instead of comparing things to their homeland, they essentially wake up to the beauty of the experience and begin to examine the cultural differences for what they are, as well as the attitudes and behaviors of the people.  Instead of being discouraged they begin to relish the experience as one that is broadening their cultural horizons.

瀀         The Assimilation or ӀI Finally Fit InԀ Stage.  With a renewed appreciation for the opportunities and adventures afforded them by study abroad programs, most participants will gradually begin to feel as if they are assimilating or blending in with the people and culture, rather than feeling like a square peg in a round hole.  New language skills are mastered, helping them to communicate, and with a deeper understanding of the culture, making friends, which initially seemed improbable if not impossible, becomes a happy reality at every turn.

Although many participants in study abroad programs will face difficulties as they try to adjust to a new culture and a fresh way of life, in the end most former participants feel as if they are much better off for the experience.  Some even become so immersed in the culture of their host country that they encounter many of the same adjustment stages in their re-entry phase, as they transition back to the culture and the ways of their homeland.

Safety Tips for Those Planning to Study Abroad

Are you planning to study abroad in the upcoming future; to live in a foreign country and attend classes for a semester or full academic year?  Are you a bit concerned about how life will be and how to stay safe when studying in a foreign city, a city to which you are not accustomed?  Concerns regarding safety among those planning to study abroad are perfectly normal, but once you become a bit more familiar with your new surroundings, you will undoubtedly become more comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience, without the anxiety that often accompanies adjusting to a new culture, language and way of life.  Until then, there are a number of steps you can take to help ensure your safety when studying and living abroad׀steps we will outline in some detail below.

Safety Tips for Those Planning to Study Abroad

In most cases, ensuring your safety when studying abroad is really no different than the steps you would take at home.  The only difference is you will not understand the basic rules and cultural customs of the city or country in which you are studying׀a problem that is usually compounded by an unfamiliarity of the language.  The most basic rule is to use common sense and to always be aware of your surroundings.  As a study abroad participant you must always remember you are not immune to the dangers of your host city, but if you remain vigilant at all times you can generally reduce the likelihood of becoming a target.  Good judgment is the key to enjoying life as a study abroad participant, complete with all the fun and excitement your host city has to offer.  This means following a few very basic safety rules, including:

瀀         Use the Buddy System.  One of the best parts of any study abroad program is the experience of exploring your host city, its attractions and nightlife.  However, when doing so it is extremely important that you partner up with at least one, or ideally several friends, including, whenever possible, another student or adult who lives in or is familiar with the city.  By never venturing out alone you can significantly reduce the potential of being harassed, annoyed or becoming a target of criminal activity.

瀀         Ask Questions about the City.  One of the unfortunate realities that holds true for cities around the world is that there are always certain areas or neighborhoods within that city known for their crime.  Therefore, before exploring your new surroundings with your new-found friends, check with some of the local students and ask questions regarding the areas you should avoid and the areas that are more tourist-friendly.

瀀         Avoid Carrying Cash.  Avoiding carrying large amounts of cash may sound like a no-brainer, but there are far too many study abroad participants who have made this mistake and paid the consequences.  Instead of cash use a more protected source of payment for purchases, such as travelerҀs checks or a credit card.

瀀         Avoid Alcohol.  As a study abroad participant, particularly in cities renowned for their nightlife, there may be occasions in which indulging in alcohol sounds tempting.  However, you must keep in mind that alcohol lowers your inhibitions, affects your good judgment and makes it significantly more difficult to remain aware of your surroundings.  One or two drinks are okay when celebrating, but for safetyҀs sake avoid becoming too intoxicated.

By following these simple steps as a member of a study abroad program youҀll be able to enjoy all that your host city has to offer and stay safe in the process.

DonҀt apply to the same colleges as everyone else | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

DonҀt apply to the same colleges as everyone else | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

Unsure of college? Consider a рgap yearҀ - NashuaTelegraph.com

Unsure of college? Consider a рgap yearҀ - NashuaTelegraph.com

College Admissions: What Really Matters? - Online College Courses

College Admissions: What Really Matters? - Online College Courses

50 Inspiring Gap Year Ideas for High School Students | Online College Tips ր Online Colleges

50 Inspiring Gap Year Ideas for High School Students | Online College Tips ր Online Colleges

Financial Aid Practices in the 50 States

Financial Aid Practices in the 50 States

Advance Your ChildҀs Future with Private Tutors London

For the benefit of your child education, it is important to capitalise on the available professional private tutors experienced with children education. Discussing your needs and expectations with the educational consultants who are attuned to meet the needs of your child is the best way to make sure that everything is a success. An educational consultant will enlighten you on a wide range of issues to make sure that you end up securing the most competent tutor for your child. This saves time and resources because you will take less time to secure a tutor as well as come up with the most appropriate choice for the childҀs long term educational needs. An experienced tutor will not only interact comfortably with your child but will in due course tune into his style of learning to enable the kid adapt quicker and develop his skills. Interaction with the child is an important aspect of the learning process because the more time spent at home with the tutor the more he will be able to cope with challenges in learning.

Discovering the particular learning challenges of the kid holds the key to the advancement of the learning process towards the long term goals. This is because as soon as a feasible method is developed, things start to evolve and progress faster, all other things are easy to overcome and the student then finds learning to be more fun than pressure. In case the tutor cannot come up with an appropriate formula to suit his student within a reasonable time, the parent should consult other private tuition agencies that will enlighten him on the condition and advise him on the applicable options. This might involve consultations with several education consultants to make sure that the challenge is solved for the long term benefit of the student in question. The primary role of private tuition agencies is to ensure that the interests of each client are upheld in the course of tuition. They are prepared to face any challenge, the tutors a well trained and qualified; private tuition agencies undertake the different challenges to see to it that the problem has been resolved in accordance to professional ethics.

Once such a challenge has been resolved, private tuition agencies ensures that the lesson learnt from that particular case is taken into consideration to widen the scope of private tuition. In the course of the years ahead, this has greatly enhanced the scope of the private tuition as they continue to benefit from lessons learnt from these exceptional cases. Private tutors London are guided by commitment and dedication to their duty, to ensure that every student is accorded his right in leading to the development of the intellectual aspects of his education.

Author Bio:

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Alternatives to the MBA

By Donald Asher

Today's workers need to plan on being fired. You can do a great job every day, but your division or your product line or your location may simply be eliminated by organizational realities far beyond your control. So career marketability is more important than ever. Your current employer may know what you can do, but can you prove to prospective employers that you have what it takes to make contributions? That's the acid test, and that's why educational credentials are more important than ever. To be sure you are ready in case you need to jump ship׀or just to grasp that next rung on the ladder׀you will almost certainly need education beyond a bachelor's degree. Many careerists facing this reality reflexively reach for the MBA, the Swiss Army knife of master's degrees. But is that the best degree choice for you? The MBA requires heavy quantitative skills you may lack, prerequisite courses in economics and accounting you may have skipped, and so on. Besides, the MBA, even with its second-year concentrations, is a generalized degree that may not give you the specialized training that you need. Perhaps it's time to consider some of these alternatives to the MBA
Master's Degree in Advertising or MarketingրInstead of choosing an MBA with a concentration in advertising or marketing, pursue a degree that focuses entirely on these interests. Advertising and marketing programs have rigorous curricula involving, for example, psychographics, demographics, and appropriate analytics and business metrics, but without the survey of general business topics you would find in an MBA program.
Master of Human ResourcesրIf you have a career in human resources, and intend to stay in HR, this is the obvious choice for you. It is far more beneficial to focus on the law, policy, best practices, and theory of your chosen field than to spend time on such arcane subjects as general corporate finance.
Master's Degree in Organization DevelopmentրOrganization development (OD) is a relatively new field, focusing on the human side of organizational systems. In short, OD is a human-focused, systems-based approach to addressing organizational problems. If you want to learn how to build teams, resolve conflict, design information flows, deal with organizational culture, create large-scale organizational change, or develop post-merger integration strategies, then OD might be right for you.
Master of Public AdministrationրIf you work in the public sector, for a government contractor, for a major nongovernmental organization (NGO) or nonprofit, or in any type of highly bureaucratic organizational structure, this degree may be a good choice for you. MBA programs focus on the needs of major corporate organizations, and outside the corporate world, the types of information flows, IT, finance, and regulatory environments are different.
Master's Degree in Public PolicyրAlthough popular in the same sectors as public administration, the public policy curriculum is more theoretical and more analytical than the focus of the MPA People with MPAs do things׀people with MPPs think about how things should be done. The MPP degree is popular in public-sector consulting, think tanks, policy-setting and regulatory environments, and with such glamour employers as the United Nations.
Master of Public HealthրIf you work in health care, or in a government agency concerned with health care delivery, then the MPH can be an excellent choice. The MPH is a wide-ranging degree, with curricula that may range from epidemiology to immigrant/nonnative communications and marketing, to public finance.
Master of Health-Care AdministrationրThis is a more specialized degree choice than the MPH, appropriate for people who plan career advancement within a hospital, insurer, HMO, hospice, gerontology center, adult day care, extended care facility, or similar. One variant is the Master of Hospital Administration, which is obviously for people who plan to advance within a hospital setting.
Master's Degree in Sports AdministrationրThis degree is self-explanatory, but with a caveat: It is sometimes more popular with aspirants than with practitioners. You need sports experience, either as part of the degree program or before you even enter, in order to get the maximum career benefit. If you plan to run a college athletic program, work in professional or Olympic sports, or even run a youth sports league, this degree may fit.
Master's Degree in Educational AdministrationրThis degree can focus on primary/secondary education, or on higher education, but usually not both, so be sure you choose a program with the concentration that interests you most. There are many variants, such as the MEd with a concentration in administration, or the MA in student affairs.
Master of Arts AdministrationրIf you want to work in the business side of museums, theater, public art, or music, then this degree may be perfect for you. As with sports administration, if you want this degree to help you in your career, you need to have internships or experience in arts administration at some point before you graduate.
Master of Urban PlanningրCity and regional planning degrees are not just for planning officers. Architecture firms, construction companies, commercial and residential developers, and such specialized firms as shopping center design consultants will employ and advance people with this degree.
Master's Degree in International RelationsրThe MIR will help anyone in business, government, nonprofit, or NGO environments with transnational or international business to conduct. Candidates should speak more than one language proficiently before entering this type of program. Career success with an MIR hinges on the student having lived overseas prior to entering the degree program. As with some of these other choices, an MIR without the right experiences may have little career impact. And just for the record, the U.S. diplomatic corps use the Foreign Service Written Exam (FSWE) as an entrance requirement, not a master's degree.
There are dozens more examples of alternatives to the MBA, such as the MSIA (Master of Science in Industrial Administration) or the MEM (Master of Engineering Management). Any master's degree will have career value as you gain valuable transferable skills, but some of these degrees make more sense than the MBA for people with specific career plans.
Originally published on MSN Encarta, December 2006
Article Source: http://www.gradview.com/articles/graduatestudies/alternatives_to_mba.html

Tips for Choosing the Right Graduate Program

By Hannah Roberts

You may have heard a master's degree described as "the new bachelor's." Many of today's careers call for increased training and evidence of academic commitment; however, rushing into a graduate program without all the facts could hinder your success. Before taking the grad school plunge, do your research. Take a good, hard look at what you want and what's out there to meet your needs. Tools such as www.GradView.com can help guide you through your search and provide advice on the process. Are you ready for graduate school? Take a look at five factors you should consider as you ponder your future.
1. The Whys and the Wherefores
So why are you going to grad school? Are you going because you want job stability? A bigger paycheck? Academic satisfaction? These are all good reasons, but remember that grad school is a big commitment of time and money. Be brutally honest with yourself in establishing your personal criteria; it will help when the time comes to make that important choice of which program to enter.
2. What Kind of Learner Are You?
Are you weaker on certain subjects? Would a traditional or accelerated length of study work best for you? Identifying the optimal learning conditions for you is vital in choosing the right graduate program. While there are common keys to almost every discipline׀like excellent reading, writing, and analytical skills׀your chosen track may require you to brush up on more obscure subjects before the start of classes. In general, graduate programs require students to carry a 3.0 GPA in all graduate courses, so be sure that you understand the level of knowledge and the study habits that it will take to meet your goals.
3. That Tiny Matter of Cost...
Budgeting skills come more naturally to some people than others, but finances should be a major concern for every graduate student. Studies have shown that people with advanced degrees earn more than people with bachelor's degrees. That knowledge can give you the confidence you need to attend a school with great credentials, but it can also distract you from adjusting your monthly finances now to compensate for an unpredictable economy (not to mention a big tuition bill) later. Evaluate your current financial situation and׀again, employing brutal honesty׀decide what you can afford to cut out now and how much of your graduate school tuition you can afford to pay using resources other than student loans. Also, check out the financial aid section at www.GradView.com, which provides a thorough explanation of the graduate financial aid system, advice for making sound decisions, and resources for funding.
4. Crack Those Books...Before Classes Begin
Whether you earned your bachelor's degree ten months or ten years ago, you're probably no stranger to research. Find out everything you can about your grad school by scouring published materials and indices and talking with students, faculty members, and alumni. For some students, it is helpful to list all criteria and bring that list along to fairs, interviews, and program-related information sessions.
5. What's in It for You?
A stellar education is but one of the many benefits of graduate school. Before you make your final decision, look at all the perks of a potential school, including job placement services (in the form of career fairs and shadowing opportunities), on- and off-campus networking, internships, portfolio reviews, and study abroad programs.
Choosing a graduate program requires a lot of serious thought, but the process needn't be too stressful. The competitive nature of academic institutions in the United States means that there are tons of options for prospective students. With the right amount of planning, you can find a program that will provide lifelong benefits.
Article Source: http://www.gradview.com/articles/graduatestudies/choosing-graduate-program.html

Financing Your LLM Degree

By Paul Garrard, PG Presents

Financing your LLM degree may present some challenges, but some careful attention to the following may help. Remember the Basics
Here's a refresher on finding the most common types of financial assistance available to law school students:

1. 1. First, look for grants and scholarships before applying for loans, and consult financial aid professionals on all funding matters.
2. 2. Second, fully explore the federal loans available to you-such as Stafford, Perkins, and Graduate PLUS loans-before looking to private lenders. Federal loans typically offer better terms and repayment options.
3. 3. Third, consider private loans only after federal loans fall short in covering your expenses

The Real Cost of the LLM Degree
There is more to the cost of the LLM degree than just tuition and fees, book and supply costs, and living expenses.
For starters, don't forget as you pursue an LLM that interest will continue to accrue (and possibly capitalize) on any unsubsidized loans you took out for law school, assuming you didn't pay accrued interest while earning your first law degree.
It's also important to consider opportunity costs-the income you'll be giving up while enrolled in an LLM program. Although obtaining an LLM degree can significantly increase your future income potential, you will still be likely giving up at least a year's worth of income while you get your advanced degree.
Alternative Sources of Funding
Other ways to avoid going in to debt while earning your LLM include taking advantage of:

• Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs
• Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (LRAPs), which allow loans to be repaid in full or in part in exchange for service in a particular area following graduation
• Loan forgiveness programs for borrowers who pursue certain areas of public service work

Student Loans and Credit
You may have heard that it is a lot easier to damage your credit (and FICO score) while you are in school than it is to improve it. But based on information from FICO's Web site, the majority of your FICO score comes from your repayment history. One of the challenges students often face with credit is that their credit files are "thin" and their repayment history minimal. While you are still in school, be sure to keep your loans in good standing (for example, in an "in-school deferment" when possible) so that you show no delinquencies on your account and your credit stays in good shape.
The full version of this article originally appeared in Hobsons'LLM Guide.
Paul Garrard has more than 25 years of experience working with graduate and professional students and their schools in higher education financing matters.

Article Source: http://www.gradview.com/articles/financialaid/financing-your-llm-degree.html

Distance Learning & Online Graduate Programs

By Hannah Roberts

Distance learning׀or correspondence education, as it was more appropriately called in its early incarnations׀has been around since the 19th century in the universities of London, but only in recent years has the concept earned real popularity and credibility with students pursuing degrees in the United States. Today nearly all major U.S. schools offer elements of distance learning in their various curricula, and graduate students in record numbers are taking advantage of the convenient option to earn a master's degree from home. What is distance learning?
The term distance learning refers to the attainment of knowledge from outside the normal classroom setting. In today's modern world, instructors can communicate with students through a variety of media: telephone, e-mail, instant messaging, and video conference, to name a few. In one recent case a professor actually conducted an entire course using the popular virtual reality and social networking Web site, Second Life. For thousands of busy professionals who are unable to fit even night classes into their schedules, online learning is the only option that their hectic lives can accommodate.
Is distance learning right for you?
One of the most common concerns students have when considering a distance education is whether they have the self-discipline required to complete a curriculum delivered outside classroom parameters. For some students, actual textbooks and face-to-face interaction are not only comfortable habits, but essential tools for academic success. For others who are used to conducting daily business on the go, learning and communicating electronically is second nature. Analyze your own unique learning process carefully before committing to a distance learning program that will undoubtedly demand more dedicated autonomy.
Research the online learning program
Another major concern for graduate students contemplating online education is whether the resulting certificate will carry as much weight as a"traditional" degree. Many online programs issue standard certification that is regarded equally to those degrees earned in class, but it is important to research the quality and accreditation of any graduate distance learning program you are considering. Employers will rarely honor a degree that is not sufficiently accredited. Be sure that your program is accredited by one of the six following organizations:

• North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA)
• Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (MSA)
• Southern Association of Schools and Colleges (SACS)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
• Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges (NWCCU)
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)

Article Source: http://www.gradview.com/articles/graduatestudies/distance-learning-programs.html

Online Graduate Degrees: Better or Worse than the Real Deal?

By Natalie Pezzenti

Millions of students are logging on and booting up around the world to earn their graduate degrees in a somewhat nontraditional manner: online. While they believe the degree boosts their marketability in the career world, some might wonder whether online degrees hold the same level of credibility as the traditional degree does. It's easy to see why online degrees have grown in popularity. Online learning eliminates many scheduling conflicts and geographic limitations׀and not to mention we are living in an ever-growing technological society. But despite the increase in the number of students taking online classes and enrolling for graduate degrees, seeing online credentials on r退sum退s is still a new notion for many. Many human resources representatives are questioning why applicants have chosen to study from the comfort of their home instead of in a classroom and earn what some call an ӀemptyԀ education. According to a 2005 Vault Inc. survey, 85 percent of employers believe online degrees are more acceptable today than they were five years ago. But still, the debate continues.
In short, yes, there are plenty of legitimate online programs that offer undergraduate degrees, MBAs, and PhDs. But the unfortunate perception is that obtaining an online degree is simple because of the popularity of fake degrees, also known as diploma mills. Customers can simply pay a fee and receive their diploma׀not legit of course.
But just like any traditional university or college, not all online programs are created equal. Before enrolling, do your research so you don't waste time, money, and brainpower. Perhaps the most important quality to look for is accreditation׀and verify it with an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
The CHEA says that it examines a school's performance in a variety of areas, including Ӏexpected student achievement, curriculum, faculty, services, and academic support for students.Ԁ Therefore, whether the school is online or traditional, it must meet a high level of educational standards to determine if it provides quality education worthy of the CHEA's stamp of approval.
Many students say there is a stigma associated with online learning, but others enjoy the technological aspect of a virtual classroom experience. Students become Ӏtech savvyԀ and stay up-to-date with new software.
But, while many students enjoy earning their graduate degrees solo, a big disadvantage to students is the lack of social interaction and learning from their classmates׀often a critical part of the learning process. To combat this, many online schools require online interaction with students and instructors several times a week.
The bottom line employers seem to agree on is this: if you're a resourceful and disciplined enough person to earn a degree׀whether listening to a lecture on a computer or in person׀potential employers will see your dedication and give you a fair shot at the job. In the end, a degree is a degree.

Article Source: http://www.gradview.com/articles/graduatestudies/online_degrees.html

Getting The Basics On Practical Home Schooling And The Law

One of the common concerns that parents will contemplate with practical home schooling is the aspect of legal restrictions. They fear that home schooling is either illegal, or that parents need to jump through various hoops to comply with the governments demands. This fear is somewhat justified, dependent on where the family is situated, but is often larger than necessary.

Home schooling is actually legal in all 50 states; however regulations and laws will vary from state to state. Texas and Idaho, for instance place few restrictions on those parents that opt to home educate their child. Others, such as New York and Massachusetts are heavier handed. They ask that the student's programme of study is approved by the state, parents intend on submitting their children's achievement test results, and might even expect to receive a home visit.

Legal attempts are ongoing to observe and defeat bills that would extend the power of the state to compel the attendance at a public school or to enter the home. In 2006, various such attempts were defeated. Nonetheless the overwhelming majority of families will never have to be concerned about their rights being taken from them.

In 1983, an organization was founded to defend for the rights of parents that wish to home school. The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) aims to track legal issues that relate to this and has with success fought numerous legal cases on behalf of parents.

Although rare, there have been instances of over zealous social workers that see it as their responsibility to protect a child from their parents. Sadly, they might do so even when there's no ground for parental abuse. That possible action and the legal / social issues occasionally make its way into the home schooling field. The HSLDA and others can offer resources to parents to make certain that they never need to deal with this situation in the first occasion.

Parents that are debating the option of home schooling would do best, though, to enquire about the supervision, paperwork, and other legal demands of their particular state. The first instruction required in this is that of the actual parents.

Practical Home Schooling Tips To Hiring A Tutor

Some parents simply aren't suited to offer a practical home schooling curriculum for their child. Yet they still intend on offering the finest education possible for their children and recognize that a public school just can't offer that. Private schooling is often cost-wise out of reach, and even then, not offering the best in terms of quality. The answer is to take on a tutor.

The initial stage of hiring a tutor is to explore the availability of the type of tutor you desire. That signifies, determining the style of home schooling approach you require to take. Matching child to tutor is the key element to avoiding those initial hurdles that can't be seen. Tutor or no, this is essential to the overall long-term success of any practical home schooling program.

Taking on the search for a new tutor can often be as simple as typing 'homeschooling tutor' into your preferred search engine and if necessary completing a few online forms. When it comes to accepting a tutor, parents will need to take great care when choosing a stranger to offer home education for their child. However, with the rapid emergence of forums, social networks, and other online avenues, acquiring trustworthy testimonials has become so much easier.

Some tutors will now work solely online, as they have the assistance of interactive video software, email, and other such tools. This method can function well in a practical home schooling situation, as most home schooled students are eager and motivated to learn. All they require is the resources and some guidance that an effective tutor can offer.

It is also significant that parents take into consideration the cost of hiring a tutor. Affording a private tutor is a concern that many parents will have that is hoping for a practical home schooling program for their child. Yet, once all the actual costs are calculated, parents often discover that taking on a tutor is actually quite a modest cost option.

Things to know before Hiring Educational Consultants for your Child

There are several things that every parent should check before hiring an education consultant to ensure only the best service provider is hired. An enlightened education consultant would be able to identify the learning needs of a child and strategically plans the way forward. This will not only make the learning process easier but will also ensure that the child achieves remarkable grades at the end of a given time frame. The moment, the learning needs of a child has been identified, it is possible to interact with the child and guide him to overcome difficulties in learning. This is because the learning needs of children are different from one to another and it would not suffice to handle each child's need the same. Education consultants are trained to look for ways to interact with each child to enable him to cope with difficulties in learning. This becomes an opportunity for the child to interact with the consultant as they both work out an acceptable strategy to suit the child and builds confidence. Once this has been achieved the child is set on a take off to achieve his ambitions. Every ordinary child has the ability to acquire knowledge and acquire achievements in his area of specialisation. The moment he has been assisted to overcome learning difficulties, he will be in a position to undertake the learning challenges provided by the consultant, all while maintaining close interaction with the child.

Education consultancy is an important instrument for your child education, and every parent should ensure that he maintains links with it. This is because, if your child has learning difficulties which have not been unravelled by his education consultant, the consultancy will be able to provide helpful hints to set the ball rolling. They have elaborate connections with education consultants which makes them an appropriate choice for children with persistent learning difficulties. They have the means and ways to tackle children needs provided that one has enlisted his child with recognised education consultant. The education consultant assigned to the child should make sure that he has exhausted the available means before presenting the case to an education consultancy. Once the case has been reviewed, the education consultancy will provide guidelines for the best way forward. They might opt to have the child attended by special education consultant who has in depth knowledge on a wide range of learning difficulties. The moment a special education consultant has been assigned, he has to ensure that he gives an appropriate solution to the problems and put the child on the uptrend.

Author Bio:

Harness education consultant for best identifying needs of kids. Parents can look for reputed education consultancy for children ensuring good education. The consultancies have several professionals that are dedicated to offer best learning practices to students.

A Streetcar Named Desire Study Guide

Streetcar Study Guide uploaded at 5:50 PM on May 17th 2012.

Do Civility Policies Work?

Civility polices are often used as a tool to respond to incivility. Colleges and universities were early adopters of civility policies. Today, civility-based policies are emerging everywhere. These policies run the continuum of simple and aspirational to complex and legalistic. For example, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has adopted a list of Ӏrules and mannersԀ for patrons, which include among others: be courteous, put trash in bins, and give your seat to someone who needs it more than you. 

On the other end of the continuum is the NFL. The NFL and 32 NFL teams have adopted an official code of conduct for fans. According to the NFL, the code of conduct is designed to Ӏset clear expectations and encourage a stadium environment that is enjoyable for all fans.Ԁ The code restricts conduct such as foul or abusive language, obscene gestures, intoxication, and verbal or physical harassment of opposing team fans. Fans that violate the code of conduct will be subject to ejection and loss of ticket privileges for future games. In addition, several NFL teams require ejected fans to pass a four-hour online class that costs $75 before they can purchase tickets again. 

Many critics see civility policies as a threat to free speech. Over the years, students and civil liberties groups have challenged the constitutionality of civility policies that restrict speech. For example, in 2006, a Republican student group at San Francisco State University stepped on flags representing the militant organizations Hamas and Hezbollah during an anti-terrorism rally. Each flag had the word ӀAllahԀ written on them in Arabic. Others on campus complained that the conduct at the rally violated the institutionҀs civility policy, which was a system-wide policy adopted by all of the 28 institutions in the California State University system.

An investigation found the student groupҀs conduct during the anti-terrorism rally did not violate the civility policy, which prohibits Ӏactions of incivility.Ԁ However, the group filed a lawsuit alleging that the civility policy was too broad and vague and could be used to chill freedom of expression. A federal district court agreed with the students and entered a preliminary injunction preventing disciplinary action based on a violation of the civility policy. The case ultimately settled with the college essentially keeping its civility policy in place, but amending it by adding a disclaimer that the policy could not be used as grounds for disciplinary actions against students.

With the proliferation of civility policies, one has to wonder what affect, if any, they have on the conduct of others. Are metro riders now more likely to give up their seats to pregnant women? Will NFL spectators refrain from using foul or abusive language during games? Can colleges and universities use civility policies to punish acts of incivility? ItҀs hard to say. Perhaps the more important purpose behind civility policies is to put the community on notice regarding expected standards of conduct. Clearly, civility policies cannot be seen as a silver bullet to eradicate bad conduct, but they certainly are a step in the right direction. Civility policies represent community values; however, real change requires cultural changes.

Kent M. Weeks

Online MBA Degree Basics

By Jamie Littlefield, About.com Guide

What You Need to Know Before Enrolling in an Online MBA Program

Online MBA programs are a popular choice of older adults and mid-career professionals who want to earn a degree without sacrificing their career and family life. Online MBA programs are also becoming a fast favorite of the younger crowd, who are looking for ways to earn a graduate degree while keeping their current employment. Many find that online MBA courses offer a flexibility that can't be found in traditional schools. If you're considering earning an online MBA, make sure you do your homework. Knowing the basics will help you make an informed decision about whether or not these programs are right for you. 

  How are online MBA programs different from traditional MBA programs?
Distance learning and traditional MBA programs generally share a similar type of curriculum and can be considered equally difficult (depending, of course, on the particular school). Instead of spending hours in class, online MBA students are expected to dedicate their time to studying independently.

Online curriculum generally consists of lectures, readings, assignments, and participation in online discussions. Some programs also offer multimedia components such as video lectures, podcasting, and videoconferencing. Online MBA students from some programs are expected to physically attend a certain number of courses or workshops in order to acquire residency hours. Required tests can usually be taken with proctors in your own community. Online MBA students donҀt spend less time studying than their traditional student counterparts. But, they are given the power to fit their school hours into their own schedules.

Are online MBA degrees respectable?

This question deserves a qualified Ӏyes.Ԁ There are two main factors in determining a business schoolҀs respectability: accreditation and reputation. Online MBA programs that are accredited by the proper agencies should be respected by your future employers and colleagues. However, there are many unaccredited or Ӏdiploma millԀ programs that give out worthless degrees. Avoid them at all costs.

A school with a good reputation can also add respectability to an online MBA degree. Much like law schools, business schools receive rankings from organizations such as Business Week that can affect future employment. Online students may not be offered the same high-paying, big corporation jobs that graduates from top-ranked schools such as Wharton are. However, there are plenty of companies willing to hire MBA grads with degrees from other institutions.

Why do people earn online MBAs?

Online MBA students come from all walks of life. Many distance learning students are mid-career when they decide to get another degree. Older professionals with jobs and family responsibilities often find the flexibility of online programs to be a good fit. Some online students are looking for a career change but still want to maintain their current job until they get their MBA. Others are already working in business and earn their degree in order to be eligible for job promotions.

How long does it take to earn an MBA online?

The time it takes to finish an online MBA degree varies according to the school and the specialization. Some intensive MBA programs can be finished in as few as nine months. Other programs can take up to four years. Adding specializations to a degree can take even longer. Some schools allow students greater flexibility to work at their own pace while others require that students adhere to more demanding deadlines.

How much will it cost to earn an online MBA degree?

One online MBA degree can had for $10,000, another for $100,000. The cost of tuition varies substantially from college to college. Pricey doesnҀt necessarily mean better (although some of the more expensive schools have some of the best reputations). Your employer may be willing to pay for part or all of your educational expenses, particularly if he or she thinks youҀll be sticking with the company. You may also be awarded grants, receive institutional or private scholarships, or qualify for financial aid.

Is earning an online MBA worth it?

Many online MBA graduates have used their new degrees to excel at the workplace, gain promotions, and achieve career success. Others have found that their time could have been better spent elsewhere. Those who find their degrees to be Ӏworth itԀ share several traits in common: they knew they wanted to work in the business field beforehand, they chose a school with proper accreditation and a positive reputation, and their specialization was appropriate for the type of work they wanted to do.

Enrolling in an online MBA program is not a decision to take lightly. Accredited programs require hard work, time, and effort. But, for the right person, an online MBA can be a great way to get a jumpstart in the world of business.

Article URL: http://distancelearn.about.com/od/onlinecourses/a/OnlineMBA.htm