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  • How Corporate Education Solutions Benefits the Adult Learner

    September 07, 2010

    BY LYNN GILATH

    In his book, The World is Flat, Thomas Friedman writes about globalization in the 21st century and how it affects us all. It is impossible to avoid being part of worldwide telecommunications, even if you just watch TV. For most of us, we can't imagine life without it. On a daily basis, we find more and more communication tools and available media that change the way we communicate with each other and how we learn.

     

    One of the good attributes of globalization is in education. We have more choices about how we learn, and where we learn, than just the traditional classroom, not to mention, an infinite variety of subjects available than ever before. In a way, we are now all global students.

     

    Why CES?

    Like a lot of schools and websites, Corporate Education Solutions (CES) offers online courses in a large variety of great subjects. What makes us different (and better) is we specialize in Live Student Support, and give our students the best online product for what they want and need. For example, want to learn about how to interview or be interviewed? We have courses, videos and eBooks. Don't know which course to choose? Which video(s)? Our staff is trained to help you do just that. If you already know what you want, then we'll be there to assist you so you don't feel lost in this (global) world of Internet education.

     

    In addition, our courses are flexible, self-paced and reasonably priced. A few years ago, Bill Gates stated, that during a recession was the time to re-invent yourself or at the very least prepare yourself for the job you will have in the future. Let us help you, help yourself.

     

    For more information how CES and iStudySmart.com can help you complete college credit, click here.

     

    --  Lynn Gilath is the Executive Vice Preisdent for Corporate Education Solutions.

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    istudysmart corporate education solutions

  • Go Back to School and Keep Your Job

    August 06, 2010

    Deciding to go back to school and earning your degree can be one of the most rewarding decisions that you can make. However, it can sometimes be easier said than done, especially if you’re working full-time, raising a family or both. How do you manage your time and meet deadlines with work projects as well as course assignments?

     

    Because of your busy schedule with work and family commitments, you may find it difficult to attend classes, which can further delay earning your degree even more.  An option to help adult learners is completing college credit by examination, more commonly known as “testing out” of class. Over 3,800 colleges and universities, both traditional and non-traditional, allow some college credit to be earned by examination.

     

    The three most widely accepted credit by examination tests are CLEP (College Board), DSST (formerly known as DANTES Subject Standardized Test) and ECE (Excelsior College). By completing college credit by examination, you can earn your degree faster at your own pace while focusing on your work and family commitments.

     

    iStudySmart.com offers over 60 study courses in business, nursing, humanities, natural science and social science to help you complete college credit and pass these exams. Courses are affordable and special discounts are available for adult learners. Please click here for more details.

     

    For more information about how iStudySmart.com can help you complete college credit, visit our website  and check out the course options.

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    ECE CLEP complete college credit DSST iStudySmart.com credit by examination

  • 2 Smart Ways to Cut College Costs

    July 12, 2010

    The fall semester is starting soon and it’s time to think about returning to college. You know why you want more education but you’re not sure about the how.

     

    College fees and tuition have increased over the past years, with the greatest increase being in public universities, according to an annual survey by the College Board. The College Board creates and administrates standardized tests such as SAT, AP and CLEP.

     

     

    Your schedule is more jammed than ever and money may be an issue. Is it possible to cut costs, save time and still get the education you need?

    The answer is yes – if you utilize a shortcut known as credit by examination or “testing out.” More than 3,800 colleges and universities offer credit by passing CLEP, DSST and ECE exams. You pass the test and get the credit, whether you’ve attended a class or not. These exams allow you to complete college credit for what you already know or to self-study and bypass classroom time.

     

     

    The “Testing Out” Option

    Some schools offer their own proficiency exams, which complete credit for those schools only.  For example, Excelsior College offers ECE exams. There are a few colleges that accept credit for ECE exams, but, generally, the credit completed by a school’s specific exam is not transferable if you transfer to another school.

     

    How Many Credits Can You Get?

    The number varies from college to college and sometimes even by department. But many schools allow you to complete up to 30 credit hours this way.

     

    If you have a program or school of interest, ask admissions these questions:

     

    ·         Do you accept credit by examination?

    ·         Do you only accept certain exams?

    ·         What are the passing scores?

    ·         Is there a transfer fee for these credits?

     

    The fees for taking tests are generally between $77 and $355. Many college testing centers administer the tests, even if you are not a student at that school.

     

     

    The Self-Study Option

    Suppose you don’t have the knowledge of the exam yet and would like to study at home instead. How do you get ready for such an exam?

     

    There are companies that sell study guides for students who want to complete college credit by testing out and need to prepare for the test. Some of these guides are simply outlines and some are more in-depth. If you go to the website for a particular exam, the information about the tests also includes a bibliography. It may be that your local library has the books you need to prepare for the test.

     

     

    You may be thinking, “This is too good to be true. What’s the catch?” Here’s one: self-study requires some discipline. With a little effort, it’s possible to study at your own pace, in your own space and save on class time. If you test out of an introductory course or elective, you can move more quickly into advanced courses and core classes.

     

     

    This clearly saves you time – and money! You save the cost of sitting in class, not only in tuition fees, but in missed work to attend class, babysitting costs, gas, etc.

     

     

    So complete college for you what you know – or will know with home study. It’s a smart way to get an education!

     

     

    For more information, contact an iStudySmart.com Educational Consultant at 1-800-737-2222.

    - Article by Sue Perkins, iStudySmart.com

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    ECE CLEP cut college costs complete college credit self-study DSST testing out

  • What You Need to Know About Online Learning

    June 10, 2010

    iStudySmart.com has entered into an educational alliance with Kaplan University. By partnering with Kaplan, iStudySmart.com is helping you earn a degree online, at a reduced tuition rate, so that you can have a richer career.

     

    What is online learning all about?

    As an accredited university, Kaplan University has demonstrated that it meets the rigorous standards of quality established by higher education accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

     

    The increased awareness of the quality of online degree programs is also driving greater acceptance by both adult learners and employers. Eduventures, an independent education research company, recently highlighted the following statistics regarding online degree enrollment: 

     

    • By 2010, online learners will represent 10 percent of all degree-seeking students.
    • Enrollment in online degree programs is the principal force driving growth in U.S. postsecondary education enrollment.
    • Online academic institutions (like Kaplan University) grew enrollment by 54 percent since 2004 versus only 7 percent enrollment growth by traditional nonprofit universities. 

    Online degree programs greatly appeal to adult learners for a variety of reasons. First, Fortune 500 corporations are establishing alliances with online universities, like Kaplan, as a way to further educate their employees. These alliances provide employees with a reduced tuition rate, which allows them to maximize their company’s tuition assistance program.

     

    Kaplan University’s online degree programs also allow you to pursue your degree while maintaining your career and family commitments. You can continue to focus on your career while obtaining the new knowledge and educational background often required for advanced career success. 

     

    Lastly, Kaplan University’s online courses allow you to work on projects that reflect your interest and work responsibilities, allowing you to connect your learning to your existing knowledge base and work experience.

     

    Is Kaplan University a respected education provider?

    Kaplan University has over 100 different degree programs in a variety of disciplines including business, criminal justice, education, information technology, legal studies, and health care. Many programs allow you to tailor your educational program to your career goals.

     

    It is also important to know that we are part of a company that has a long history and tradition of being an academic pioneer and career-maker. Founded in 1938, Kaplan, Inc., is a leading global provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools, and businesses. The company serves more than one million students annually and has four main areas of focus: Kaplan Kids and Schools, Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions, Kaplan Professional, and Kaplan Higher Education, of which Kaplan University is a part. A subsidiary of The Washington Post Company, Kaplan Inc., had 2007 revenues of more than $2 billion. Earning your degree at Kaplan University means that you can become part of this rich tradition of quality education.

    Do I have what it takes to be a successful online student?

    If you are a working professional hungry to pursue new career possibilities, an online degree is definitely worth considering. Yet, while Kaplan University can provide the rigorous online educational experience you are looking for, only you can determine if it is right for you.  Successful online learners …   

     

    • Show self-motivation: Successful online learners understand that the freedom and flexibility provided by online programs comes with individual responsibility because most of the online learning happens on your schedule. Learning online requires a student to be committed to their educational goals.  
    • Make a time commitment: One of the myths about online education is that it is easier than traditional classroom programs. That is not the case. Online programs offer a rigorous academic experience; they just happen to be more flexible and accommodating to working adult learners.
    • Have a support system: Successful online learners do a wonderful job of eliciting the support of work colleagues, family, and friends. Because of the time commitment involved in pursuing a degree online, it helps to surround yourself with people who respect what you are trying to do. 

    How do I learn more about enrolling at Kaplan University?

    If you are ready to pursue your goal of earning a degree online and feel that Kaplan University is the right choice for you, contact a Kaplan University Admissions Advisor to get started. Your Admissions Advisor will determine if you have transfer credits or experiences which could count toward your degree. They will also figure out which program is right for you based on your career goals. Lastly, your Admissions Advisor will explain financial options including how to maximize the reduced tuition rate provided to all Nurse Together employees.

     

    To learn more and to get started, check out the Kaplan University website designed for iStudySmart.com at www.istudysmart.kaplan.edu or call 800.926.9836 (Toll Free).

     

    --  Article by Dr. Robert Rodriguez, Assistant Dean at Kaplan University

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    online student Online learning Kaplan University iStudySmart.com

  • Testing out of Courses is a Good Thing

    March 30, 2010

    According to a 2009-2010 US Census press release, 19 million students are pursuing a college degree, with 36 percent attending school part-time. For the part-time student, testing out of courses and completing college credit by examination is a great alternative. As someone who tested out of general education subjects while in college, I appreciate the option of completing college credit by examination since it allowed me to focus on my core classes for my degree.

    Of course, having the “college experience” is important, too. But for students who have work, family and personal obligations or for military students serving our country, having the choice to test out of classes is especially appealing. It allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to get a head start on their degree and their potential professional career. 

    iStudySmart.com offers over 60 courses to assist students in completing college credit by examination through CLEP, DSST (formerly known as DANTES) and ECE exams. From business to nursing to English and other general education courses, iStudySmart.com’s wide variety of courses helps students work toward their academic and professional goals.

    Testing out of college classes shouldn’t be seen as a way of “rushing” through college. Instead, it offers an alternative to the non-traditional student with other responsibilities looking to earn their college degree and venture into their desired career field.

    *Source: 2009-2010 US Census Press Release –
    http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/013847.html

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    Earn College Credit CLEP Test Prep courses on-line courses College Student College courses DSST iStudySmart.com college degree

  • Online Learning Reaches Beyond the Traditional Classroom

    February 26, 2010

    How often do you use the internet? Think of the different ways you log into the fast-paced, virtual realm. Whether you're checking your email, reading up on the latest news story, or comparing the benefits of an iPhone to a Blackberry, the internet offers a vast amount of information at your fingertips.

    One of the internet's most intriguing characteristics is its global convenience. No matter where you are or what time zone you're in, the internet allows access to its information network at anytime. This is especially appealing to the online student who seeks to receive education outside the traditional classroom setting.

    Online education removes the geographic limitations and boundaries of brick-and-mortar buildings and allows students from all over the world to learn. Those in the military, for example, are able to earn a degree while serving their country.

    Military.com talks about the benefits of online education, mentioning "thousands of duty standing, single parents, and even deployed members earn their college degrees each year using online education."

    The e-learning world allows students the opportunity to access academic support from all experience levels and geographic locations. Through message boards, discussion forums, and online chats, e-learners are exposed to diverse perspectives from both faculty members and their fellow students across the world.

    Online education provides the opportunity to connect with others globally with convenience and ease. If you're considering e-learning, don't think you will "lose" anything from stepping away from the traditional classroom. Think of what you'll gain and how online education can best benefit you.

    Source: Military.com, The Online Option.

    (http://www.military.com/education/content/finding-a-school/the-online-option.html)

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    Lauren Fuino

    Adult Learners

    success distance education learning on-line courses courses on-line education distance learning