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Is Affirmative Action In Jeopardy On College Campuses?

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:42:18 GMT

Affirmative action and other set-asides for minorities and women have come under increasing fire in recent years. These programs, first started decades ago, were once a given in higher education for everything from admission to financial aid. Today, women and minority students cannot count on the same level assistance from affirmative action that their parents may have received.

The backlash against affirmative action comes largely from the group that feels damaged by these programs--white males. As the standard of living for African Americans in the United States has risen, whites claim that the "leg up? provided by set-aside programs constitutes an unfair advantage. Similarly, white males point out that since women now make up the majority of college students, they can hardly claim discrimination. The critics of affirmative action promote a merit-based system, in which admission and scholarships are awarded to the most worthy, with race or gender not considered at all.

The exclusively merit-based system, however, has itself come under attack. Supporters of affirmative action claim that there is no fair way to determine merit. Tests, like the SAT, have always produced a mark disparity in results between blacks and whites. Other factors used to rank college applicants, such as grade point averages and advanced placement classes, vary widely from one school to another. In fact, many minority leaders claim that there is no completely objective way to measure ability. They believe that a person’s background or the obstacles he/she may have overcome are just as important as grades and standardized tests. According to affirmative action supporters, the merit system fails to produce an element vital to higher education--diversity. This, they say, is necessary for a well-rounded college experience, as well as for societal stability.

Despite the rhetoric and passions on both sides, the future of affirmative action is likely to be determined by the courts, not by the activists. Recent state court rulings have upheld policy changes in key states such as Texas, Florida, and California, that now restrict how schools can use race and gender as factors in determining admission. Although the Supreme Court has not yet issued a definitive ruling, two things are now apparent. First, race cannot be the sole factor in determining admission. Second, when race is one of the factors, the school must demonstrate a compelling interest for the government to allow it. Exactly what constitutes a "compelling? interest remains to be seen.

In order to maintain diversity on their campuses, universities have developed innovative ways of achieving the same goals without violating the new restrictions. Often called a "holistic? method, some schools now consider a variety of factors besides grades and test scores. For example, students who had a difficult home life or had to work during their high school years in order to help support their family may get special consideration. Furthermore, corporations and various private foundations have increased their funding for minority scholarships in order to make up for any drop in federal or state-sponsored aid.

It is unlikely that affirmative action will be completely eliminated. Too many schools are committed to maintaining a diverse student body. College administrators will find one way or another to achieve balance in their admissions. However, if the current trends continue, women and minorities will need to seek out new sources of college financial aid, and develop new strategies for gaining entrance to the nation’s top universities.

How to choose the right online university

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:41:21 GMT

Formal education is getting very important in today’s competitive world. Proper education and reputed college degree can help one grab better job opportunities and demand higher salary from employers. But owing to certain circumstances or due to lack of funds one is usually restrained from getting a college degree. Online universities present a lucrative option for people with time constraints. Amount of benefits achieved from completing online courses greatly depend on the reputation of the online university. An erroneous choice of online training institute results in your wasting precious time and invaluable money. Hence it is very important to choose a competent university that provides maximum knowledge with minimum cost and time involvement. Factors governing the choice for online institution of higher education are-

Accreditation of institute

Genuine accreditation of institute is a prime factor while determining its creditability. Being accredited from regional authorities renders universities a higher reputation. Students graduating from these places stand a better chance to obtain higher salaries and better jobs. Also eligibility towards student loan gets higher if concerned authority accredits the enrolled institution. Inter course student loan transfers are possible for transfers within similar regional universities.

Research the quality and relevance of course offered

Learning anything that is irrelevant in today’s scenario would result in useless accumulation of knowledge that does not turn to be fruitful. An enquiry about the university’s capability of adaptation towards changing technologies is important. Analyzing the syllabus offered by proposed university by comparing it with other online institutes presenting similar coaching would help determine whether the curriculum is exhaustive or not. An examination about the course being suitable to one’s capabilities and interests is again very important.

Cost involved

Online universities offer personalized education program for adult learners. Hence at times they might occur to be more costly. A considerably low fee charged by online university is a matter of concern as that may be due to low quality education imparted by them. Untalented faculty members are available at low costs and that may be a reason behind reduced fee structure. Sometimes even if the cost of education is higher it is worth the effort as availing student loans is easy. Expected increase in money earned after completion of the course would help repay the loan amount.

Admission requirements

Formalities and academic qualification that are essential to enroll for a particular course are indicative of the universities standard of education. Imparting admission only on the basis of money payment capacity should lower the credibility of the university. As certain minimum academic qualification must be mandatory prior to enroll for graduate courses. Not having any such restrictions results in accumulation of unworthy students who would latter be one’s fellow mates.

Investigate the faculty and alumni

Enquiry about the faculties, educational qualifications are indicative of the online universities competence to impart training. Also the university must have technological infrastructure to carry out the distance-learning program. Usually Students are required to log in for minimum number of times during the week. Although timings for logging can be adjusted in accordance with one’s comfort.

Mobile learning – an alternative worth considering

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:40:08 GMT

Although the concept of "mobile learning�? is quite new, it has developed at a fast rate and is becoming popular with all age groups. Cell phone applications are becoming easier to use while offering complex learning and education factors.

There are virtually no limits to what you can learn from cell phone applications. Mobile learning can reach all fields of study and you can use your cell phone to get new facts about business, culture, social issues, education, entertainment and more. Modern cell phones offer larger displays, which are more suitable for mobile learning. You can also see graphics and visual support implemented in some of the learning applications you can use on your cell phone.

Traditional learning Vs. Mobile learning

Learning something from a small cell phone screen is different than reading a book or browsing through an online learning application. And although most people would prefer the traditional way of learning when the conditions are appropriate, mobile learning has the great advantage of accompanying you everywhere. For various reasons including limited battery life, mobile learning is not a process that occupies contiguous hours of time. Assimilating information from an application installed on your cell phone is a process consisting of several short bursts of information intake, rather than a continuous study.

Mobile learning benefits and weak points

Although limited by screen size, the cell phone keypad and shorter battery life, mobile learning still presents users with a series of benefits that can’t be ignored. Mobility is essential in today’s fast paced world, and mobile learning applications are perfect for such situations. User interactivity levels are also high (please visit www.gotestgo.com for more information) and this makes the learning process more involving and thus it allows for easier information assimilation. Mobile learning applications give cell phones a whole new dimension and take learning at a new level of interaction and accessibility.

For updated information please visit: www.gotestgo.com

Online Degrees - Is Online Education Right For You

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:39:04 GMT

Some Universities and Colleges have opened a whole new line of education for today's busy people and for people in smaller cities and towns. You no longer have to sit in a classroom for 8 hours a day in-order to study for a Diploma, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree or Doctoral Degrees such as PhD's.

There are many Colleges and Universities in the UK and elsewhere that are now offering online courses. Of course if you're interested in the more traditional distance education courses and programs, there are some well established institutions where you can enrol. These online and distance education courses allow you to complete your degree or diploma course at your own pace. So before you take study leave from work or change your career just because your local college doesn't offer what you're looking for, find out if there are some accredited courses being offered online or through distant learning. You'll be surprised.

To reach the very top of any profession, you need to gain the right qualifications, and with a good degree course or diploma you'll be giving yourself the perfect start in your professional life. You'll learn in your own time, at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home - so whatever your circumstances, you'll have a much better chance of succeeding!

The great thing about online education is that with most colleges and universities, you can enrol at any time of the year. The courses are structured in small, manageable units, so you'll find learning very easy and enjoyable.

A growing number of physical universities as well as newer online only colleges have begun to offer a select set of academic degree programs via the internet. These programs range from Diplomas and Certificates to Doctoral programs with available emphasis in everything from Business Administration to Criminal Justice to Nursing. While some programs require students to attend some campus classes or summer classes, many are completely online. In addition, several universities offer online student support services, such as online advising, student governments and student newspapers.

Tips for beginners in wood carving by Jason Bibb

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:38:10 GMT

Wood carving is, for many people, an interesting combination of hobby and art. Just like with pottery making or other types of similar art, a wood carver is deeply involved in the creation process. The finished wood carvings are much more than a pretty piece of ornament – they have a symbolic value or the creator that is often hard to express in money or material things. Here are a few tips that will help beginning wood carvers learn how to master this rewarding hobby:

Tip1: Ask questions! There is absolutely no shame in wanting to learn something, and experienced wood carvers will always have a useful tip or instruction for you. Before you can develop your personal carving style you need to learn the basics, so joining some classes or having a tutor may just be one of the best approaches.

Tip 2: Don’t rush. There is no point in finishing a carving quickly. You should work without any time pressure and without attempting to produce something beautiful very quickly. Communicate with the wood while you are carving and create a comfortable pace for your work – this is the only way in which you can produce harmonious results. When it comes to wood carving, patience is a virtue!

Tip 3: Safety is essential. You are working with a wood carving knife and accidents are always a potential danger. Make sure to get used to holding the knife firmly and learn how to handle the wood itself. Always keep your other hand out of the way of the carving knife and wear a thumb guard on the carving hand. Thumb guards might take a while to get accustomed to, but they offer excellent protection against knife cuts.

Tip 4: Analyze your work. Compare your wood carvings with those of others, both professional and amateur. Do not do this in a competitive fashion – instead, try to adopt ideas and perspectives noticed in other wood carvings and adapt them to your own style.

Tip 5: Work smart. Don’t work on the carving for more than 30 – 45 minutes at a time. Your hands will get cramps from the work unless you are trained to do this. Don’t turn wood carving into an unpleasant and demanding experience. Valuable results are achieved in time, not in one afternoon!

If you would like to receive updated information on wood carving techniques, please visit our website at: http://www.chainsaw-bears.net

Bachelor Degrees, Online

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:37:32 GMT

Should you get your bachelor degree online? For many people this would seem hard to do. Depending on the field of study that you plan to get, it can be actually quite welcoming and a great way to get in the education that you have always wanted. Sure, it isn’t easy but neither is college for that matter. The online bachelor degree programs are a good way for many to get the education that they need without having to get into a college that is set up traditionally.

There are many programs that are offered through online bachelor degrees. If you would like to know if any of the programs or classes that you need to take are available to you on the web, all you need to do is to log on to any of the various online schools and find out. This level of education that the bachelor degree is one that is advanced and will require much learning.

One of the aspects of online education that people do not understand is how you get the hands-on training that many fields require. While you may or may not need this in the bachelor degrees that you plan to get, you will find that information about this is easy to find at the online university’s websites. In most cases, the online universities will work with area schools, offices, or establishments to allow you to get your lab time in. This is convenient and affordable as well especially useful when you consider you will be meeting some of the people that you may work with once you get your bachelor degree.

You will benefit from leaning more about the online bachelor degree that you are after. You can easily find online colleges that offer the education that you are after in an online manner. See what they are, what their classes will include and find out just how well they will work for you. The online bachelor degrees that are offered are pretty wide-ranged too!

No Knowledge No College GOODBYE Career

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:36:24 GMT

Wondering what to give the children for Christmas, wondering what gives joy, wondering how to educate/occupy and provide fun at the same time. Well stop wondering because we now have the eighth wonder of the world, and that is the Internet.

The best ever present that you could give to your child is the opportunity to further their education. We all know how the biggest majority of our kids hate school and teachers. How do you expect your child to learn when in a rebellious stage between the hours of 9am to 3pm? Yes you got it one, school time.

Let us go back to our schooldays, how much did you learn on subjects that did not interest you? If it had been a topic you enjoyed then it was a hop skip and jump through the corridor to that class. You don't see our kids doing this today.

It is only right that children should be given the chance to choose what subject it is that they would like further education on. If this course of action was put to use then expect more pass results.

Let's say your child loves science and his/her typical Monday studies consist of 6 hours of Maths, English, Religious education and 1 hour of Science

So if he/she is looking for a career in the scientific world what chance do they have of achieving this?

Studying for six hours on subjects that are of know interest you will always have failed exams. If the education system was to take into account the child's feeling and give him/her 3 hours of the taboo subjects as they see them and 3 hours of science then you have one happy pupil with a ticket on the road to success.

With online education the odds are in your child's favour to excel because they now have control of their own destiny. Online education is a difficult gift to tinsel up but the sparkle in child's eye is enough glitter on Christmas morning when presented with a computer.

Thanks will allways come later in life when the kids have grown up.

By doing this mum/dad you have just given your child a lifeline to surviving in the 21st century.

Great prospects wait for those with a good educational upbringing but sadly the ones without may find themselves standing alongside Worzel Gummidge in fields of green. The grass is always greener on the other side with the help of a little knowledge.

The internet is a place where from toddler years upwards to pension age where learning is made so easy. Online education offers so much and is the only way forward.

The internet is teacher tutor listener a friend, get more involved with the worlds biggest information centre and learn. All this can be done in your own time not when others tell you.

Children have to make certain grades to qualify for a place into college/university. So this highlights the importance of further education to secure them a position to advance forward with their chosen career.

No knowledge No College

All stories you hear about the internet should not give you reason for concern because you the parent call the shots and have complete control of your child's presence when surfing the web. Let the internet teach your children the difference between right and wrongs of the world.

Your need regarding Online Education

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:35:33 GMT

In a nutshell, online education requires self-discipline, organization, and the ability to use modern technology. Students must be able to learn through written words, not audible words. And they must feel comfortable sharing information over the Internet. Students must also believe their education can be learned without ever stepping foot in a traditional classroom setting.

To determine whether or not online education is right for you, you need to be honest with yourself and ask the following questions?

Why do you really want to return to college?

Understanding the real reason for returning to college is vital to your success. If you're returning to college just to have something to do in the evenings, returning to college is not for you. But if you are returning to college to better your lifestyle, get a raise, advance your career, or set an example for your children, then there's a 90% chance you'll not only complete your courses, but get a good education in the process.

Why do you want to pursue an online education instead of attending a traditional in-person college?

If you're a social butterfly who flourishes when others are around, attending an online course may not be for you. If, on the other hand, you're quiet and reserved, online education can be your ticket to success.

"Research indicates that quiet students often thrive in online courses," says Dr. Stella Thompson, an online Assistant Professor of English at Prairie View A&M University. "This environment enables quiet students to consider a response and to compose and revise that response multiple times before making their knowledge public."

Do you tend to quit a project due to lack of motivation?

If you can't stay motivated on your own, an online institution is not your best choice for getting a degree. Attending an online college means you must be self-motivated. You won't find the professor, or another student reminding you to get to work, stay on task, or turn your assignments in on time.

"Completing a buy a degree online demonstrates a tremendous commitment and discipline on behalf of the student," says Shari Sterling, Director of Enrollment Management at Northcentral University. "The student must be self-motivated to be successful."

Do you work better alone or with other people around?

Can you work in solitude? While you may be networking with other people through the Internet, you won't see these people face-to-face and that can feel isolating at times.

Do you need in-person study groups to help you complete assignments and shoot ideas off of, or can you find the same help from Internet interaction? Why does one method work better for you than the other?

Do you learn better by reading, by listening, or by seeing?

When you read information, do you comprehend what you've read easily or must you read the information several times to understand what is being said? If you find it difficult to comprehend information when read, and learn better through visual or audible techniques, you may want to find a traditional institution.

Can you write your thoughts down so others understand what points you are conveying?

Since online courses require the use of written words to ask and answer questions, as well as turning in assignments, you must be comfortable with sharing your ideas in written form.

How many hours can you devote to learning, studying, and homework?

You need to set aside time every day to work on your courses. Whether you're researching, reading, completing an assignment, or meeting your classmates in an online forum, your education needs to have a priority in your busy schedule.

"Just because you don't have to attend school at a particular time everyday, doesn't mean you don't need a daily or weekly regimen," says Terri Main, an online instructor and teacher of 20 years. Your schedule "may vary from day to today, or simply be spending 30 minutes a day on your education, but it needs to be consistent."

Does your work require you to travel a lot?

If you're constantly away from your home computer, it can be difficult to get your assignments done. However, it's not impossible. If you travel a lot, you'll need to invest in a laptop computer and wireless Internet access.

Do you have a working computer in your home?

If your computer is over two years old, it could be outdated and unable to handle the demands of attending an online institution. You need to find out what kinds of software programs are needed for the course you plan to take and if your computer has enough RAM, and hard drive space.

Keep in mind that you can use an older computer, but if it doesn't have enough memory or space to run a particular program it will stall and freeze, which can be very frustrating and eventually cause you to quit.

Do you have dial-up Internet access or high-speed cable/DSL?

The courses you take will determine which Internet access is best. If you have dial-up Internet access, you'll need to set aside more time for research, uploading, and downloading.

Do you understand how the Internet works?

When taking online courses, you'll need to understand more than just how to log onto the Internet. You'll need to understand:

how search engines work;
how to send and receive email;
how to attach documents in an email;
how to download programs or documents to your computer;
how to find downloads later, when you need them;
how to use hyperlinks;
how to use chat rooms, message boards, forums, or instant messaging and what the proper etiquette is;
how to protect your private information; and
how to protect your computer from hackers, spam, and viruses.

Do you know how to cut and paste?

Sometimes you'll need to take information you've written in one program and put it in another program. This is called "cut and paste." If you don't know how to do this, find out how before you begin your online education.

Do you find learning new computer programs easy or hard?

Depending on the online course you take, you may need to download new software programs. If you find it difficult to learn new computer technology, you'll need to either set aside more time for learning, or take a traditional class.

"Online learning can be completely dynamic and engaging! Whether it is due to health, excessive job travel, military personnel stationed overseas, or living in a remote or rural area, continuing your education and earning your degree online" is possible, says Sterling.

Barry Michaels-Radio is My Life

Boy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 06:31:48 GMT

Thirty year broadcast veteran Barry Michaels, ('Michaels In The Morning') has quite a few stories to tell! His early life was an idyllic one, growing up on picturesque farm land in the southeastern United States, with a Mom and Dad to admire and a support group of aunts and uncles that many don’t have today. Barry became interested in radio at an early age, becoming a ‘gopher’ for one local radio personality and quickly learning where the emphasis is placed in the term ’show business’. Barry's career began in earnest after college, when he finally screwed up his courage to apply at a small radio station near his hometown, where he spoke mostly to cows. Little did management know that he would have paid them to be on the air! From having the honor of being recognized by his peers with nominations as Major Market Air Personality of the Year to working as a towel boy in a swanky country club between radio jobs, you’ll share in Barry’s top of the mountain triumphs and bottom of the valley lows. You'll get to meet some of the most talented professionals in the business and you'll cheer the heroes and clinch your teeth at the bad guys! Barry also honors those who entertained and inspired an entire generation of radio personalities-the voices on those fifty thousand watt a.m. radio stations with legendary call letters like WLS, WCFL, WABC and more.

From sleeping in his Volkswagen 'Bug' to traveling across the United States five times in search of the perfect on air radio job, Barry's stories are poignant and laugh out loud funny. Learn how Barry was almost gunned down by a psychotic listener at a radio station in Orlando, Florida before his boss intervened. See radio through his eyes when he begins work at a rock and roll station that employs a Catholic priest as a 'DJ’, and dodges flying beer bottles in one of the many bars he makes appearances in for his radio station.

The 'Radio Road' is fraught with many bumps along the way and you may even see yourself as Barry attempts to raise three young sons as a single father and tries a comeback after a bitter divorce and child custody battle. You may not want to enter the thirty five dollar a week almost condemned house Barry was living in while awaiting the court’s ruling. You really don’t want to wake up in his room during a thunderstorm as rats prepare to feast on his toes! Meet his new landlord, who’s down on his luck too, and has a secretive past with the United States Army. Barry's adventures have taken him from the beautiful stillness of his blue Virginia mountains to the golden Pacific ocean--all seen through the window of his beloved Volkswagen Beetle, which he still owns. It's radio, it’s life, and it's real. Come along for the ride, and find out the true stories of those 'masked riders of the hertzian wave.' With photo and audio collection. Read more about Barry's life here-http://www.thebarrymichaels.com

What to Do If You Are Injured

Boy — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:03:54 GMT

In a busy city like Oklahoma, you might often meet some sudden cases for example accidents on road, accidents at work that may possibly lead to terrible body injury. Most of the people who get injured due to sudden accidents don't know what exactly they should do as it will cause them a major financial and emotional set back. An injured person is already in problems caused by the physical pain as well as loss that he has to suffer. Also, people are financially drained as the medical expenses are touching skies. This generally happens with people who are unaware concerning the subsequent step they ought to take after they are injured. So, you should be aware of the essential steps you should take once you are injured. Below are a few legal tips that may perhaps help you to take imperative actions as soon as you're injured in Oklahoma.

1. Find a Oklahoma City injury lawyer immediately: Whether you're injured at work or in a major accident at road, firstly, you need to talk to Oklahoma City injury attorney. You should be sure that you don't pay any consultation fees to your injury lawyer as the first consultation is free of charge.

2. Choose a trustworthy and also expert Oklahoma City injury attorney: Never get carried away by any lawyer who sounds experienced. You should seek out an injury attorney who is expert enough in managing such accident cases. Moreover, your Oklahoma City lawyer should also be reliable so that you can discuss your accidental case with him. He should try to help you in all practical means and also make your case rather powerful so that you will get the desirable compensation.

3. You should contact the Oklahoma City injury lawyer as soon as possible: Once you encounter with a major accident at work or accident on road, you should contact your injury attorney instantly. He should know all the incidents while the accident took place so that he can help you get maximum compensation. Besides, you should be watchful whilst giving any statements, because any false statements can easily direct you to serious outcomes.

4. Choose a lawyer who is honest: The Oklahoma City attorney you select ought to honestly notify you if your case is powerful or not. This way you will come to know if you will be winning the case or there is no point in filing the case and wasting time money and efforts. Besides, he will also let you discover your rights and also offer complete guidance in documentation and records.

Thus, these few tips will surely help you to get the experienced and reliable Oklahoma City injury lawyer if you meet with any accident at work or accident at road . Moreover, your lawyer will fight for your case so that you get desired compensation immediately. Besides, all the documentation and also paperwork will be completed without any hassles as your Oklahoma City injury attorney will guide you at each step and also is rather efficient in managing all such incidents.

Now if you are unaware as to what to do if you are injured, then these few tips will surely help you to claim your compensation easily and win the case quickly.