What is Connected Learning?
By Kris Powers | March 4th 2014
Connected learning builds on what researchers have long known about the value and effectiveness of interest-driven, peer-supported and academically relevant learning. This type of learning seeks to tie together the knowledge we have on how youth best learn with the opportunities made available through today’s networked world. Connected learning calls on today’s interactive and networked media in an effort to make these forms of learning more effective, better integrated, and broadly accessible to expand the reach of meaningful and sustained learning.
Can Online Learning be as Effective as Classroom Learning?
By Tricia Seymour | February 25th 2014
In 2103, Ed4Career launched the first in our series of ‘In Your Opinion’ polls. The first question we posed to the public was, “Can online learning be as effective as classroom learning?” The results, while revealing, mirrored the heated debate that is still taking place in academic circles – with 68% of respondents indicating “Yes, it can be” and 32% having serious reservations and even outright hostility to the concept of online learning. With many more college students taking online courses, we must continue to have these discussions.
Stay Away From Clichés – Create Your Own Motivators by Angela Caban
By Guest Blogger | February 18th 2014
Going back to school as an adult is hard enough on your own but what happens when you throw in a toddler, full time job and deployed husband? It could be the perfect recipe for a disaster if you don’t have a good plan. Most importantly when you put too much pressure on yourself you will start to notice a pattern of “Keep Calm and Carry On” motivational quote clichés. This won’t work in your favor, trust me. We are all unique individuals with different situations in which why we decided to go back to school. You need to be able to find the motivators that speak directly to you. If not, it’s more like a leaf in the wind and not something that will keep you motivated and focused.
8 Benefits of Online Competency Based Training
By Kris Powers | February 11th 2014
Competency Based Training (CBT) is designed to allow a student to progress through a course at their own pace. Through regular assessments, the student shows that they have mastered the skills and knowledge necessary to move on to the next module, or to complete the course. CBT courses are learner-focused and not dependent on time, place or individual pace of learning. In contrast, traditional on-site college courses are dependent on time, requiring a student to complete the course over the semester term, even though they may have been able to complete and pass the course in a much shorter time.
Moving On: Military Spouse Education by Angela Caban
By Guest Blogger | February 4th 2014
A large part of my life has ended. I closed the doors completely on that day we said goodbye to each other and entering a new and exciting part of our lives. I can clearly recall the day that my husband’s orders for a 15 month deployment landed in my hands. I was still in shock from the overall news but this made it real, there was no way out of this and it was happening. Who would have known that the horrid thought of deployment would change my life for the best?
National Mentoring Month
By Kris Powers | January 28th 2014
January 2014 marks the 13th anniversary of National Mentoring Month
National Mentoring month was organized to highlight mentoring and the positive impact it can have on both mentors and the people they assist. Organizations including Harvard Mentoring Project, MENTOR, and the Corporation for National and Community Service have banded together to raise awareness of the benefits of mentoring as well as the positive impact mentoring offers. Through this effort, they hope to increase the number of mentors and assure brighter futures for the nation’s youth.
President Barack Obama recently stated, “In every corner of our Nation, mentors push our next generation to shape their ambitions, set a positive course, and achieve their boundless potential. During National Mentoring Month, we celebrate everyone who teaches, inspires, and guides young Americans as they reach for their dreams.”
Pick Three Wins for the Day
By Kris Powers | January 21st 2014
Pick Three Wins for the Day
Yesterday, I stumbled upon an informative and inspirational blog post; "5 Morning Rituals to Keep You Productive All Day Long” by James Reinhart.
As I’m always on the lookout for tricks and tools to help me become more efficient, I was interested to see what he had to say. Among his toolbox of suggestions was one that excited me and motivated me to action; “Pick Three Wins for the Day”.
The Power of Just One Word
By Kris Powers | January 14th 2014
I recently came across a post by Jon Gordon who was sharing the concept of “Just One Word.” This concept is explained fully in the book entitled Wisdom Walks, co-authored by Dan Britton and Jimmy Page.
The Blessing of Online Education by Mandy Baker
By Guest Blogger | January 7th 2014
Online colleges are a fantastic option for military spouses. We move so often and trying to plan classes around our spouse’s schedules is near impossible, online classes make it easier to continue your education. When taking classes online, you can take them anywhere you transfer to and you can work your class schedule around your family’s needs. The important thing, like when choosing any college, is research. Make sure you pick the one that is right for you and your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and even ask about special assistance for military families.
Ideas for a Great Winter Break
By Kris Powers | December 17th 2013
When I was in college, everyone looked forward to winter break. It was a time to hang out with family, reconnect with high school friends, and get some much needed rest after exams. It was also a time to make plans for the upcoming semester; as well as some wonderful memories to sustain me during the spring.
When I began my research for this blog, I found many sites that offered sound advice on things that students could do before resuming their studies in January; suggestions included advising students to:
Consider online courses. Whether for credit or certification – this is a great time to take an online course in a topic that interests you. How about…