March 8th, 2010
The English language has long been accepted as the official language of international trade. Globalization has made it even more important for individuals to learn the English language irrespective of where in the world they are from.
In addition, the breaking down of trade and immigration barriers especially in Europe and the United States have increased the need for immigrants to learn the English language in order to integrate themselves into society. As a result, there is a huge demand for individuals trained in the art of teaching English as a second language (ESL). Training in the art of teaching English as a second language can be gained from institutions offering accredited online ESL degree Programs.
Benefits of the Online Degree in ESL
An online degree in ESL has many benefits. The online degree in ESL exposes teachers to individuals of varying cultures and languages. Some also travel the world working with international agencies providing English training to individuals. ESL teachers by just being in foreign countries for an extended period also get the opportunity to learn the culture and language of the local population.
Types of Online ESL Degree Programs
There are two main types of online ESL degree programs and the program you choose depends on the long-term goal of each online student.
- Juvenile ESL - targets individuals interested in teaching at the K-12 level. At this level, students gain knowledge that covers the theories and fundamentals of language instruction. Here, students of the online ESL degree learn how to design ESL programs specific to children. It takes into consideration class management, culture and language acquisition.
- Adult ESL - is for individuals interested in teaching adults. At this level, students focus on issues such as cross cultural communication and advanced linguistics. The approach here is different from that used to teach children and focuses on areas of pronunciation, grammar and other verbal weaknesses.
Qualification Required of ESL Teachers
Most ESL centers require teachers to have at least a Bachelor degree in education with ESL as an additional specialization. Although the approach of ESL teaching may be slightly different from the methods used to teach original English speakers, the teaching experience proves invaluable to teachers in the design of classroom curriculum. During the online Bachelor degree in ESL, students studies in curricular planning and development, assessment and evaluation, classroom instruction for varying learning levels and critical issues affecting education. Other ESL teachers go on to pursue online Masters and PhD programs in ESL where they conduct extensive research into methods of improving the delivery of English language to non-English speakers.
Universities for online ESL degree Programs
The outlook for holders of an online degree in ESL remains positive. As international trade, globalization and immigration increases, there will always be a need for ESL teachers who give non-English speakers the ability to communicate with their business partners. Various online universities have seized the opportunity to train these teachers to fulfill this demand.
Tags: Online Degree Program, Online ESL Degree
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March 5th, 2010
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Online learners are finding new and interesting ways to make online learning fun and beneficial. If you are an online student or plan to attend an online institution, here are the 10 best internet savvy tips for effective online learning.
1. E-Mail
Even though there are probably better and newer way of communicating online, e-mail will always play a part in the way we communicate with each other and a great way to pass important information on to groups of people at one time.
2. Online Flashcards
Since kindergarten, flashcards have always been an excellent tool in the classroom. Flashcards helps you to learn and memorize terms and definition with ease. There are a number of websites offering the tools necessary to make online flashcards. Make use of them!
3. Wikipedia
Wiki is used as a valuable resource for online students. As an online learner, you can find the answers to anything and everything in one place at Wikipedia.com, so take advantage of this additional resource. Keep in mind that Wikipedia in a user edited site, so it is a good idea to verify the authenticity of the information.
4. Posting Your Notes Online
Posting your notes online can be of great value to other online students who may not have the time to read an entire book about the subject. So if you are an excellent note taker and think your notes will help other students, then by all means do it.
5. Blogging
Blogging is another wonderful way to get your ideas and opinions across to others. Blogs gives an opportunity to discuss topics of interest to you and to learn other perspectives on the topic at hand. There are a few free sites such as WordPress or BlogSpot if you are interested in blogging or even participating in discussions.
6. Join or Create Discussion Groups
Joining or even creating an online discussion group on a topic of interest to you allows you to collaborate with other online classmates or other online students. Online discussion groups give you a broader picture of the topic and a chance to get a different perspective on certain issues.
7. Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is an excellent way to collaborate with two or more locations via two-way video and audio transmission simultaneously.
8. Online Interactive Platforms
This is another wonderful idea to discuss topics of interest to you and to collaborate with others who have similar interests.
9. Podcast
You can create a podcast if you have the right equipment and the skills to get this in motion. This is a wonderful way to broadcast your presentation and what you are learning to an online audience. This is also an excellent tool to help you re-learn and retain information.
10. Broadcasting Online
Broadcasting your presentation on YouTube can reach a wider audience who may find your presentation useful.
Finding savvy tips for online learners can be a wonderful idea to make your online learning experience a memorable one. These 10 best internet savvy tips for online learners will be of great value to you throughout your online learning. Give them a try! |
Tags: Blogs, Online Education, Online Learners, Online Students
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March 4th, 2010
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A PhD is one of the most significant investments any professional can make towards the advancement of their professional career. At the PhD level, aspirants would already have significant experience and knowledge in their area of specialization and only want to top it off with a scholarly research that will prove their dedication to the profession or provide it with new ideas that can be used to enhance it.
PhDs are not cheap, the usually cost an average of $90,000 to $100,000 and take three to five years to complete. During the program, students conduct extensive research on sensitive areas of their respective profession or specialization that they then defend before a dissertation committee prior to graduation. After graduation, they can earn employment as senior managers, consultants, university lecturers and policy makers.
Choosing a Top Online University for PhDs
Applicants to online PhD programs must ensure that the university they apply to is fully accredited. The accreditation of the university has a direct bearing on how easily you will be able to gain employment in the working world. The department of education has set up several regional offices that are responsible for the monitoring and approval of accreditation for online universities. This body ensures that the standard of education delivered by a university is at industry acceptable standards and that the students receive all aspects of their program as advertised by the university. Students can easily visit the website of the department of education or other professional association to carry out a check on the status of a university.
Top 3 Online Universities for PhDs
Many online universities offer PhDs in various subject areas. However, as it is said only the cream will rise to the top. As a result, some of these online universities will receive recognition than others. These recognized online universities receive the full support of industry players and the government through funding, research documentation and equipment that enhances the training of their pupils.
Some of these top online universities for PhD programs include:
- University of Phoenix: The University of Phoenix is one of the most recognized names in the industry of online education. With more than two decade of experience, the University of Phoenix has perfected the science of online education. They have consistently been at the forefront of cutting-edge innovations that enhances the learning experience of their students. This thrust is also applied to their PhD programs, as they are fully aware that these graduates are future policy makers and help to shape societies.
- Walden University: Walden University offers accredited online doctorate degree programs in some of the best subjects like management, education, psychology health and human services. These programs are designed to help you fulfilling your life long goal whilst adding credentials to your career.
- Capella University: Capella University offers students the option of many high quality PhD programs that range from education, business, information technology, public service leadership to psychology. With the use of highly trained lecturers, Capella remains at the forefront on online education delivery by presenting its students with applicable PhD programs that are current and relevant to all industries. Residential colloquia at Capella University give you the chance to interact with faculty, advisors and peers.
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Tags: Online Education, Online Universities, PhD Degree Program
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