Education and Politics

Texas School Board Approves Teach of Evolution

admin — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:08:47 +0000

If there is one issue being taught in schools that could win the contest for the most contentious it would be the subject of evolution. Ever since Charles Darwin came out with his theory there have been debates raging on both sides of the issue between science and faith. Whether or not to teach evolution alongside creationism is an issue that is raised every time a local school board decides issues pertaining to curriculum. The most recent was the Texas Board of Education voted overwhelmingly to allow public middle schools in the state to continue teaching evolution.
At this same session the Texas board also rejected any materials that referred to Darwin’s theory as being unproven. This matters a lot because Texas is where many school book publishing firms are located. The textbooks that are written in Texas end up being shipped out all across the country. Obviously a decision like this is not to make everyone happy. There are some on the conservative fundamentalist side who would like to see intelligent design taught right alongside evolution as an alternative theory of the beginning of our world.

This decision comes on the heels of a previous Texas school board vote that was leaning more conservative and made many changes in history text that some feel had a more conservative slant. As they say elections have consequences and nowhere can this be felt more directly then with school board elections. If you really care a great deal about her child’s education you might just consider running for a school board position in your community.

Elearners.com: Providing Support for Online Learners

admin — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 17:27:45 +0000

The advent of the internet has had a huge impact on many industries, as well as changed the entire nature of communication. One of the industries that will forever be changed by the online world is education. Now, in addition to standard classroom environments, many education providers are either offering online courses or a combination of online and physical classes for many different programs, certifications and degrees. Of course, some subjects will always be in the classroom (it would be hard to paint a picture online), but for many, the choice of an online education vs. a classroom education is a very viable option.

The decision between traditional learning environments and online learning opportunities is one that has many different variables, and consequently may not be a quick or easy decision. Primarily, it is important to understand the learner and what is important for that individual to achieve academic success. Additional factors to consider are what the student’s preferred method of learning is and how do they achieve optimal retention of the material. For some, learning from the quiet and privacy of their own room or home office would be the best possible scenario, while others require a classroom environment with activity and noise to keep focused.

It may also be helpful to consider the subject as it relates to the learner. For example, some students would be able to take all of their courses online, yet others may choose that while most courses would be fine in an online setting, some specific courses, such as languages, might be better learned in close physical proximity to the instructor. There are many online resources dedicated to helping with these decisions, such as elearners.com, which provides invaluable insights, links, information and references. They also provide tools for finding the right programs based on location, need, specialization and interests.

Get A Great Education

admin — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 13:52:44 +0000

Students today don’t fit any particular demographic. Senior citizens and working mothers are getting their degrees for fun or to move ahead in their careers. There was a time when sitting in a classroom and listening to a lecture was the only viable option for an education. But now you can skip the campus completely by going to school online. Do you need to receive a degree, but only have weekends or nights available to study? No problem. Via the internet, find colleges that instruct students in law, psychology, education, hospitality, art and design, IT technology, and more.

If you’re worried about accreditation, don’t be. Online colleges and universities have the ability to grant associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Learn a certified trade and begin working in your chosen field quickly without waiting for classes to become available. Apply for student loans, have access to your instructor via email, and find your grade posted quickly after assignments. Working with an online college or university you find on onlineeducation.com is a snap and fits into your schedule, not theirs.

The differences between an online education and brick-and-mortar schools is substantial. Many students at a campus-based school must wait for over-crowded classes before they can take them. Not so for an online institution. Once you’ve been accepted and begin the program, you get classes in order and won’t be turned away. If you’re worried that you don’t have straight As, that’s not an issue. A private college or university has more flexible guidelines and want each individual to reach their goals in education. Speak to a school representative to work out the specifics of school loans and funding. Many online schools will work out monthly payments and offer planning to help you get into school. Check out all the options of an online college or university and see if the fit is just right for you.