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<title>Latest Articles by jimzorn</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Activities to Learn Spanish Greetings</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Language/activities-to-learn-spanish-greetings.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Language/activities-to-learn-spanish-greetings.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Lessons to learn Spanish greetings are very important, since they help you to master the practical use of the language in the real world. The reason why people learn language at an accelerated pace, using various non-conventional techniques, is to start using it correctly as soon as possible. This is exactly what activities to learn Spanish greetings achieve.

Learning How to Greet in Spanish

Activities to learn Spanish greetings help people to greet native Spanish speakers in their own language. Psychologists are of the opinion that greeting someone in their own language creates affinity and breaks cultural barriers. Business executives, students or even the casual visitor can hope to be accepted easily if they are able to greet locals correctly in their language. This builds confidence in the learner while the locals value the effort taken by a foreigner to learn the positive elements of their language. A proper greeting also creates that all-important first impression that goes a long way to achieving one's objectives. It is therefore very important to know exact phrases and their proper pronunciation while making an effort to greet someone in Spanish.

Technologies to Learn Spanish Greetings

Audio tapes and CDs are the most common methods that are used to learn Spanish greetings. However, one-to-one classes are considered to be the best in providing activities to learn Spanish greetings because a teacher would be able to point out mistakes right at the time when the learner make them. Since greetings are the first words that one uses in the real world, it would be disastrous to a take a chance with words and subsequently damage the first impression. Certain sites such as the multilingualcenter provide one-to-one learning through the internet or voice conferences. Learning the words directly from a teacher improves confidence and reduces errors.

Activities that simulate real situations in the classroom also go a long way in helping learners to master the right greeting. For example, mock dramas provide learners with a first hand, but 'safe' environment to test their skills at greeting someone in Spanish. Learning by association helps one to remember words that may be difficult to keep in mind.

Learning the proper greeting is important as a confidence-building measure that also goes a long way in helping you to learn other elements of the language. Learning the appropriate greeting in it's is proper nuance is therefore very important. It will help you to make a good impression on native Spanish speakers. ]]></description>
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<title>Conversational Spanish - for Personal and Professional Growth</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/conversational-spanish-for-personal-and-professional-growth.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/conversational-spanish-for-personal-and-professional-growth.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Conversational Spanish would open the door for you to interact with millions of Spanish-speaking people across the globe. Be it for enhancing your journey experiences or for improving your career prospects, learning the Latino language would definitely add value.

Who Should Learn Conversational Spanish and Why?

Over 350 million people in the world speak Spanish, making it the third most widely spoken language, and the second most in the USA, which is mainly due to the South American immigrants and the Mexican proximity.

In any kind of career, one has to interact with clients or others in corresponding businesses. With the steadily increasing number of people speaking Spanish, joining the league of Spanish speakers around the world will definitely help most individuals trying to find a job or to grow in already established careers.

Knowing how to hold a conversation in Spanish would make potential customers in any business feel at ease, thus resulting in increased profits. It will save time (and money), thanks to an increased and faster understanding of the customer's native language, hence eliminating the potential linguistic barrier that might ruin (or delay) an important deal or two.

Apart from the factors mentioned above, learning how to converse in Spanish will also enrich your knowledge of English, as many English words have their origin in Latin, the language from which Spanish has originated.

Why Conversational Spanish is Important?

Yes, an ordinary Spanish course might be sufficient for you, without the training in any conversational skills. However, in certain cases like booking a flight or reserving a hotel, knowledge of conversational Spanish might come in extremely handy. These are simple examples of situations (there are others) in which a thorough bookish knowledge of the language might not suffice, one might need to give it the extra touch that comes only from an expertise in the day-to-day conversational approach to the language.

There are certain aspects of language usage that might not be common in literature or letters, but might be a regular component of the ordinary conversation of laymen. It is essential that one picks up such phrases and jargons, which might be achieved only through a thorough knowledge of conversational Spanish.

Yes, picking up a foreign language is not easy at all. However, among them, Spanish is one of the easier ones to learn, more so for conversational Spanish, even more so for those who are more or less well equipped in conversational English already. ]]></description>
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<title>Considering the Negatives - Disadvantage of Distance Learning</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/considering-the-negatives-disadvantage-of-distance-learning.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/considering-the-negatives-disadvantage-of-distance-learning.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It helps a student to know the disadvantage of distance learning while considering taking up a course offered through this medium. New Age educational tools like e-courses are a godsend to people who want to study further but do not have the means to do so, however it is not necessary that every individual is cut out for distance education. So while weighing your options for advanced learning through distance courses, be sure to assess the downside of it and determine if your personality is compatible with distance education.

No Space for Procrastination

The greatest disadvantage of distance learning is the constant self-motivation that a student needs to keep himself from lagging behind. In distance education, a teacher and student are not in the same room physically, and there is no real inter-personal interaction between them. In case of an assignment submission in the traditional form of education, the constant reminder by your ever-present teacher may put the necessary pressure on you to perform. However, due to the remote nature of distance learning, the students might find themselves putting work off for another day. Moreover this procrastinating attitude hurts student's prospects, as they will find it difficult to keep to timelines and complete the necessary assignments.

Technological Know-How is Critical

The reach of online means of distance education has increased over the last few years as the IT sector has flourished. However, not everyone has access to these upgraded technologies, and there are millions who might not have the technical proficiency to utilize these resources to their optimum. People who live in remote areas may not have access to computers; moreover the high cost of computers keeps some people from purchasing one. Even if they do, their systems might not be compatible with the new technologies and they would be unable to use the educational tools. In such a case, distance learning is rendered futile, as low penetration of computers and high internet costs turn out to be an alarming disadvantage of distance learning.

Further yet, even though distance education has seen an unprecedented rise in the last few decades, the mindset of many people is still negative about its effectiveness. Though educational institutions are fast adopting this means of teaching, there is still time before online education becomes a first choice for students. A positive attitude and greater technological awareness seem to be the cure for this disadvantage of distance learning. ]]></description>
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<title>Online Accredited College Degree Program: for the New Student Committed to Success</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/online-accredited-college-degree-program-for-the-new-student-committed-to-success.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/online-accredited-college-degree-program-for-the-new-student-committed-to-success.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ An online accredited college degree program allows you to take individual online college courses and to get an impressive college degree, without having to attend on-campus classes.

These programs are ideal for non-traditional adult students, who can study at their convenience, while meeting their work and family responsibilities. They get a second chance to complete their college education and to acquire a degree that will add to their career portfolio.

You can join an online accredited college degree program and get a Bachelor's degree, Master's degree or Doctorate in a subject of your choice. Some of the popular subjects are business, information technology, computer science, education, psychology, social work, counseling and journalism.

Many students prefer to join professional certificate programs in subjects like stress management, security management, law enforcement and public health nursing, that will help them in their careers.

What you need to consider before you sign up

Before you join an online accredited college degree program you need to be sure about your personal goals and how an online college degree will help you to reach them. If there is a clearly defined benefit that an online college degree can provide, like a pay raise, promotion or a better job, you must go ahead and join the course.

A college degree doesn't come cheap and you need to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of joining an online accredited college degree program. Find out if your employer offers some type of tuition assistance as an employee benefit.

You need the support of your family and employer and be prepared to find time to work on the online degree program, in spite of having a packed schedule. You must be fully committed, have a positive attitude and believe that you can succeed through your own efforts.

Two-year schools offer associate degrees and certificate programs, while four-year schools and universities provide bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. Two-year schools are suitable for students who are very concerned about the cost and are not sure of their long-term goals or academic capabilities.

Four-year schools are suitable for students who are clear about their goals and are confident about their academic capabilities. Certificate courses are suitable for people who want to update their work skills, while degree courses are suitable for people who require an advanced degree and want to enter a professional field.

Institutions offering accredited online college degree programs

The University of Maryland University College (UMUC) offers several online bachelor's degrees and undergraduate certificates. It is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Philadelphia.

The University of Phoenix Online is the nation's largest, accredited private university. It is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Before you sign up for an online accredited college degree program, you must be clear about your career goals. Look for a school and a program that will help you to achieve what you want and be fully committed to success. ]]></description>
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<title>Grant Money for College: A Boon for Students with Financial Needs</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/grant-money-for-college-a-boon-for-students-with-financial-needs.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/grant-money-for-college-a-boon-for-students-with-financial-needs.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Grant money for college can be a godsend for students who cannot afford to pay for a college education. A study grant is a sum of money that is provided to a college student to help to meet at least a part of the college expenses.

Grants do not have to be repaid and they are usually based on the need of students or on a combination of need and merit.

Graduate students may be offered grants in return for services like research and teaching that are performed under the supervision of members of the faculty. Grants may also be provided in exchange for professional service after graduation and this is especially prevalent in the health care profession.

Grant money for college is available from a variety of sources that include local, state and federal government, universities and colleges and public and private organizations.

Grants for non-traditional students

Non-traditional students have to juggle their work and family lives and most of them find it difficult to finance their college education. People are living longer and more working adults are choosing to take up a college education at a later stage in life.

More and more non-traditional students, who don't belong to the usual 18 to 24-year old age group, are returning to college.

Online distance learning is one of the most significant trends in the present day and online degrees are being offered by many universities, including the University of Phoenix.

More grant money for college is available for traditional students than for non-traditional students, but due to the growing numbers of non-traditional students, educational institutions are moving to remedy this.

People who are avoiding pursuing a traditional college education due to financial problems can fill out a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for federal aid and apply for a Pell Grant.

Pell Grants are available to students in financial need, who are enrolled for at least half the time. These grants have been a major source of financial aid, mainly for undergraduate students.

Are you eligible for a grant?

Grant money for college is available for special populations that may be identified on the basis of demographics or health conditions. These include minorities, women, veterans, international students and disabled people.

Grants are also provided to those who want to return to school to pursue a specialized professional subject like nursing or criminal justice. There are also some grants that are meant for the general population.

People who work for worthy social causes in areas like crime prevention, health care and education can qualify for educational grants. Details of work done for a worthy causes can be mentioned in your resume or career portfolio, and can give potential employers a good impression of you.

As a non-traditional student, there are many grants that you can apply for and all you need to research the grants you are eligible for is a computer with Internet access. ]]></description>
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<title>Working Towards Positions of Leadership in Nursing - Distance Learning Doctoral Nursing Programs</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/working-towards-positions-of-leadership-in-nursing-distance-learning-doctoral-nursing-programs.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/working-towards-positions-of-leadership-in-nursing-distance-learning-doctoral-nursing-programs.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Distance Learning PhD nursing programs are designed to prepare nurses to serve the community in innovative ways. The courses aim at expanding and broadening the scope of nursing and rehabilitation services in traditional areas of practice and advancing the research base. Most of these courses are directed towards post professional education of nurses. The distance education program makes use of an optimal combination of formats and media to reach out and deliver content to the student.

Course Content

Distance learning PhD nursing programs emphasize the discipline of nursing through an examination of historical development, legal and professional regulations, conceptual models and theories, research theory and practice, clinical reasoning and ethical principles. The program generally includes theory development, domain knowledge development and research and statistics concepts. The student will be able to critique, use, test and develop theory from nursing perspectives at the end of the course. The domain knowledge development will help them focus on substantive areas of knowledge unique to nursing particularly in areas of human health, environment, relationships, health disparities, directed self care and effective care. The statistics section of the course will include statistical analyses, research design, data collection and measurement. Synchronous and asynchronous methods of program communication are used to reach the students located across the globe.

Colleges and Universities Offering PhD Programs

The College of Allied Health and the Department of Occupational Therapy at NSU offer distance learning PhD nursing programs. These programs require that the student has a Bachelor or a Master in nursing. If the student does not have the necessary certification, he is expected to acquire the certification before entering the program. However, if the student is a graduate from the Nova Southeastern University and has a good GPA he is guaranteed direct admission. The Texas Women's University College of Nursing has one of the oldest doctoral programs in the country. The program provides internet based courses and on campus activities. The Wyane State University College of Nursing adopts an asynchronous mode of teaching for the convenience of working nurses. The UCSF School of Nursing offers a Doctor of Philosophy Program in Nursing for students seeking advanced studies in nursing practice, research or teaching.

The variety of online distance learning PhD nursing programs available makes the selection of the course difficult for the student. However, the student should keep in mind that some of these courses involve on campus activity and proximity to place of work may have to be considered a determining factor in the selection of the course. ]]></description>
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<title>What's on Offer in a Distance Learning Degree Program?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-s-on-offer-in-a-distance-learning-degree-program.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-s-on-offer-in-a-distance-learning-degree-program.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When it comes to a distance learning degree program, the options that are available to a willing student are indeed quite substantial. There is a wide range to choose from, as each college tries to offer on a platter, something for everybody. From the classic degrees of law, technology and humanities, to the more specialized, professional courses like nursing, public relations and accounting, most colleges today want to reach a greater student audience, and distance learning allows them to do just that.

Some Example Programs

Most of the colleges classify their online degree programs by levels or specializations, and may offer Associate Degree Programs, Diplomas, Graduate and Post Graduate courses. The University of Phoenix online offers a range of courses for students wanting to enroll into a distance learning degree program, offering courses in business, technology and nursing which students can finish in a matter of 2-3 years. The Boston University also offers online degree programs, and has a cutting edge distance learning degree program for the IT sector. For those seeking management degrees, Devry University's Keller Graduate School of Management is a great option, where working professionals are the faculty members and the students can apply whatever they have learned during the degree program, at their workplace for better practical knowledge.

Most of the universities and colleges, understand that the students of an online degree program are faced with other demands in their non-student lives. To make it easier for an online student to learn and to encourage them to perform better, most colleges take care of bringing flexibility into their course design. This makes learning a much more comfortable experience for students who are willing to learn, but might be hard-pressed for time.

Admission Requirements

There are many choices available for anyone wanting to opt for a distance learning degree program. While some colleges require an admission test, or a written essay for enrolling into their courses, some others may look for your High School Diploma, along with letters of recommendation. Still others are more lenient with their admission procedures and might allow non-traditional students to enroll as well, and one needn't necessarily have a high school diploma to enroll into a distance learning degree program in such a case.

Be certain to research the various colleges offering the course of your choice, and upon making sure that you have all the necessary requirements, go ahead and chase your dream of earning a degree. ]]></description>
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<title>What Makes for Distance Learning Best Practice?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-makes-for-distance-learning-best-practice.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-makes-for-distance-learning-best-practice.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Over the years, people have worked towards developing a distance learning best practice core, to be followed by all institutions and individuals connected with the distance learning revolution. Education has been one of the most celebrated rights of any individual, and it is imperative that educational institutions and teachers alike uphold the high standards that are required of an educator, especially when it shapes the future of innumerable human beings.

What is a Best Practice?

The term best practice entails a series of strategies and tools that any educator can implement to improve teaching and learning. It means creating a learning environment in which students can optimize their skills and achieve their potential in the best possible way. When it comes to distance learning best practice, it essentially relates not only to the educational tools, but also to a cutting edge administrative, support and technical framework, which can aid the cause of remote education. Since teacher and students are not geographically together, it is necessary for the technical and support backbone of any institution to be a cut above the rest.

Must-Haves for Distance Learning Best Practice

Most institutions are striving today to define for themselves a quorum of best practices to follow. However, it would be safe to say that most institutions believe that defining a healthy learning atmosphere - one which encourages dialogue, inspires creative thinking and sets the highest goals for learning, is of utmost importance. Couple this with a sound support and technical structure which allows people from across the world to debate and discuss in real time and one has a veritable best practices code. For example, University of Guelph, Ontario has a set of best practices, chief amongst them are promoting active thinking and problem solving; accommodating a variety of teaching techniques and providing students with access to resources. 

Best practices are meant to benefit both the teaching and the student community. By defining clear objectives and goals, an institution can create the right learning and sharing atmosphere. In the realm of distance education, it's vital that these objectives be defined, since the parties involved are not physically together and are working asynchronously. Distance learning best practice assumes huge significance in the light of the fact that teacher and student are apart, and to maintain high levels of motivation it is necessary to have a set of fair objectives and goals to follow. ]]></description>
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<title>What is Distance Learning?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-is-distance-learning.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-is-distance-learning.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ If you want to know what is distance learning, the traditional definition is that distance learning is a method of education in which a student is not required to be present physically in a classroom, and does not need to follow a traditional term period. In place of face-to-face interaction between students and teachers, the interaction is carried out through the mail, email and even audio/video-conferencing. Though distance learning has been around for ages, with the latest technology boom it has become possible for students and teachers to interact in real time.

What is Distance Learning and Who can Pursue It?

Anyone who has the will to study further, regardless of where they are, what they do and what their age is, is free to pursue distance learning. All one needs is the drive to study further and a zeal to keep oneself motivated. Distance learning is good for house-wives, school drop outs and working professionals alike. It is possible for you to get a degree, with the help of technology and distance learning.

Courses Available and the Schools that Offer Them

What is distance learning in terms of the courses that are available? There are course at various levels be it under graduate, graduate, post graduate and technical. One also has the options of pursuing full time or part time courses. Baker College Online, which is an accredited university offers training and education in fast expanding fields like business, health, computers, technology, human services, and education. Even the National Amercian University offers attractive programs at various levels, and these programs are eligible for Federal financial aid, military tuition assistance, G.I. Bill and employers' tuition assistance. Also, The Art Institute online, a division of The Arts Institute of Pittsburg, offers online courses in exciting fields like web design, residential planning, advertising, interactive media design, as well as fashion and retail management. There are various courses available for a student, and all he needs to do is study well the options open to him and then go ahead with the application procedures.

Student Participation

What is distance learning in terms of student participation? Distance learning is a democratic process, it gives equal opportunity to anybody with a will to study. With the onslaught of technology, distance learning has become very attractive, and a lot of universities are beginning to offer it. Distance learning gives you ultimate flexibility in learning, it also lets you work at your own pace. It allows interaction with fellow students and teachers in real time, thanks to audio/video conferencing. It makes education available to a greater plethora of people at a much lesser expense than traditional methods of studying. ]]></description>
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<title>What is Distance Learning Technology?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-is-distance-learning-technology.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Culture_and_Society/Education/Online/what-is-distance-learning-technology.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers and counselors need to know: what is distance learning technology? They should be prepared to answer this question. Education is not confined to the classroom anymore and distance learning technologies allow students to decide where, when and how they want to study.

Types of Distance Learning Technology

Distance learning technology can be divided into four basic categories - print, audio, video and computer. Many of them overlap and combinations of these technologies may be used for some programs.

Print-based distance learning programs use text books, work books, study guides, fax, etc. Printed materials were used for correspondence courses, the original form of distance learning. Print still remains an important component of most programs.

Many new methods are now being used and before you select a distance learning course, try to learn a little about what is distance learning technology.

Audio-based distance learning programs use audio tapes, radio, audio conferences, the telephone, etc.

Video-based distance learning programs use satellite delivery, video tape, desktop video, broadcast video, microwave, etc.

Computer-based distance learning programs use CD-ROM, collaboration software, web-based software, video conferences and e-mail. Before signing-up for a computer-based distance learning program, find out what is distance learning technology.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Technology

Printed materials are cost-effective, and can be used anywhere. They are easily available and learners are generally comfortable using them. However, they offer no interaction and there are no audio/visual elements. It takes time to deliver them and students require reading skills.

Audio-based methods are cheap, accessible and easy-to-use. The downside is that they lack visual information, need to be scheduled and tend to be impersonal.

Video-based distance learning programs offer both audio as well as video communication. They allow instructors and students to see body language, expressions, etc, and allow a higher level of interaction. The downside is that they require technical support and are expensive. They also need preparation, planning and scheduling.

Computer-based distance learning programs are inexpensive, allow students to move at their own pace and provide a high level of interaction. There is a written record and they can be accessed from anywhere. They offer graphics, text, audio and video. However, they often rely on written communication; need planning, a computer and an internet connection. There is also a danger of viruses and of computer network failure.

To select a suitable distance learning course, you need to know what is distance learning technology. Be sure to select a course which uses the technology that maximizes your learning experience. ]]></description>
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