Five Ways Consolidating Student Loans Can Save You Money

 by: Chris Studer

Most students take out numerous loans for college, each with its own interest rate and its own monthly amount. The plethora of different loan sources is a great benefit in terms of paying for college, but when it comes to credit rating, this long list of outstanding loans can put a serious damper on your overall score.

By consolidating student loans, your credit report will show one combined loan, usually with a much lower overall payment, which equates to a more favorable credit rating. By consolidating student loans, you most likely also benefit from a much lower payment, thus lowering your debt to income ratio.

Consolidating Student Loans Reduces Debt to Income Ratio and Increases Buying Power

Having a low debt to income ratio, or the monthly amount owed compared to the amount earned, makes an incredible impact on the amount of money you'll be able to borrow and afford for a first home or reliable transportation.

The total amount of household debt in the US last year was more than 100% of disposable income. Rising education costs have created a vicious cycle for today's graduating students. As your debt to income ratio rises, so do the interest rates of each new loan. Keeping this ratio low by reducing your monthly bills can literally save you tens of thousands of dollars over a lifetime.

Consolidating Student Loans Reduces Dependence on Credit Cards

Having lower bills in the years following college means less reliance on high interest credit cards and other loans. The average college student carries a whopping 6 credit cards with a total balance over $2100.

This means that the $100 credit card purchase for new work attire could cost more than $200 over the 12 months it takes to pay the full balance. Fortunately, smart financial planning, including consolidating education loans, can help students and young professionals live a life free of high interest debts.

By Consolidating Student Loans, You are Locked into Today's Low Fixed Rates

Just because interest rates are low today doesn't mean they will stay that way. In fact rates over the last several years are lower than they've ever been in recent history. It's amazing how much a small percentage point can save or cost on a college education bill over the course of a loan repayment.

The Federal Consolidation Loan allows you to lock into today's low interest rates when consolidating student loans. Consolidation loans usually have a longer repayment period and a lower monthly payment than is available on the underlying education loans.

By Consolidating Student Loans, you can Receive Additional Interest Rate Discounts

Companies that specialize in consolidating student loans like ScholarPoint.com offer additional consolidation benefits such as auto payments, and consecutive payments.

Auto Payments: Receive a reduction in your interest rate for making your payments automatically from your bank account when you consolidate your student loans.

Consecutive Payments: Some student loan consolidation companies give you the opportunity to reduce your repayment interest rate up to one full percentage point by simply making payments on time.

No Interest Deferral: Take advantage of the flexibility of student loans by deferring loans during qualified times. While enrolled in graduate school, serving in the military, or volunteering with the Peace Corps, you can not only defer payments, but stop interest from accruing as well.

Grace Period: Consolidating during your grace period allows you to lock in a rate that is lower than the standard repayment rate.

About The Author Chris Studer ScholarPoint Financial, Inc. is a national online consumer lending company specializing in student loans. We believe in combining state-of-the-art technology with world class service to help students and parents easily gain access to data, become informed, and enjoy the process of obtaining a college loan. Learn more about Student Loan Consolidation at http://www.scholarpoint.com.

Concept of E-Learning Solutions: Better or Worse

 by: James Marriot

Increasing demand for corporate training as well as the logistical headaches associated with assembling instructors and students at a single location has been the main reason for the birth of E-learning services. In an attempt to avoid the logistical complications of on location training, many companies have opted for a virtual approach to training. Stand-alone CD-ROM modules, enterprise-wide, Web-based programs comprised of hundreds of courses custom-designed for thousands of users all fall under the concept of E-Learning. However, there're many who're skeptical of E-learning services and believes it to be just a lot of hype.

E-learning is basically a new or different form of learning. E-learning enables learners to combine traditional methods of learning with the internet facilities. In fact, some learners opt for a mix of face-to-face experiences with network-based education. However, like everything, E-Learning programs have its pros and cons. It has been found that often, E-learning provides a more individualized, self-paced, self-directed learning experience.

A main advantage of E-learning services is flexibility. With E-learning services there is no need to go to an institution in order to learn a subject or a skill. Also, you can work as well as study because E-Learning solutions don't have fixed classroom timings and therefore you've the freedom to learn at your own pace and at your convenience. E-Learning solutions also have the flexibility of being CD-ROM-based, Network-based, Intranet-based or Internet-based.

It's a hands-on learning experience without the disadvantages like crowded classrooms or a huge auditorium, where your questions and views might not get addressed. Another advantage is the amount of time you can save. With E-learning services you can save the time as well as costs that you'd otherwise spend commuting to your classes. But, you'll however miss out on the experiences that come with campus life and the social interaction that are a part of traditional classrooms and institutions. And with E-learning solutions, you can learn as and when you need it and your learning options aren't constrained or limited by your geographic location.

Another unique feature of E-learning services is that the instruction can be more personalized and flexible. Therefore it's more effective for particular kinds of learners like, shy, reflective, language challenged or slow. Within E-learning the focus is on the students and not on the instructor.

However, like everything, it has its share of disadvantages as well. For example, E-learning services that have ineffective online instructors are not very useful. Also, many instructors find it difficult to use E-learning services for traditional content. And it's at the same time more time consuming as instructors have to provide individualized feedback. Also, often there is the matter of equipment needs of students and learning providers as well as the technical training and support of learners and instructors.

Another issue that needs to be addressed is the academic honesty of online students, especially when it comes to testing and assessment. In this matter the absence of face-to-face interaction is a big set back. Another fact is that E-learning services are not available to all learners from all walks of life, because it needs special infrastructure to support it as well as new skills and responsibilities from the students.

However, E-learning services provided by offshore E-Learning solutions provider companies have now become more universal, and is now giving people and organizations the competitive edge that allows them to stay ahead of the quickly varying global information economy. In the long run, this will help the Indian economy grow, since many companies have now started to outsource their E-learning services to India.

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About The Author James Marriott is a finance writer with more than 15 years of experience in writing financial content, including those related to credit cards, mortgages, stocks, investments, and funds. He has been with RNCOS, a premier financial writing services company, for 2 years as head of financial writing. He is also a regular financial columnist with renowned business journals. For your comments on the article and further financial assistance, please contact our staff writer at info@rncos.com. ezine@rncos.com

Navigating the Special Education Maze

 by: Nadine O'Reilly, M.A.

As a school psychologist, as well as the mother of a child with a chronic health condition, I understand all too well the intimidation that accompanies entering the 'bargaining' sessions of IEP meetings. There are ways, however, to stack the proverbial cards in your favor. Read on'

To begin with, be prepared for anything. Keep accurate documentation and note the dates and times that everything occurs. I'm not exaggerating ' EVERYTHING. Every phone call, every progress report, etc. Nothing is more intimidating to IEP teams than a parent who has prepared for their meeting. A parent with a Plan of their own is scary for us, because what if we look like idiots, or offend you' That's why you have to come into meetings prepared for anything, almost as if you're documenting for a Due Process hearing. You never know, you might have to 'go there.'

Second, know your rights. Ask for a copy of your State's Parental Rights in Special Education (PRISE) for your review before you attend any meeting at all. You can find the PRISE for your State by entering a search on Google.

Third, know you're an active participant and that no one can force a program on you or your child. For example, some schools will hand you an IEP that they've already devised before you got there, with hopes that the meeting will go quickly and you'll just sign and leave. But that's like going to an Italian restaurant and all that's on the menu is spaghetti. Your child is unique and to truly devise an individualized plan, all of those involved should plan on spending at least one hour talking through the parts of the plan that are going to affect the child academically and socio-emotionally.

Know what you want before you go in there. Have a Mission in mind, know your goals, and outline your strategies before you even step foot in that room. For example, you'll need goals for your child. Make sure you've broken them down to the smallest components before you ask for them ' you'll be surprised how much more you get out of your request.

I.e., Goal: I want my child to be able to get ' and hold ' a job when they graduate.

Well, that's plain, isn't it' If you broke it down, however, you'd have:

I want my child to learn:

How to respect authority;

How to type;

How to honor time commitments;

How to respectfully interact with peers;

Etc.

Now, doesn't that look more like what you were thinking'

You may not get all of them, but you'll get some ' and that's way more specific than 'get a job,' so there'll be a bit more work required of your Team. Good.

Third, know you'll run into snags. There will be red tape you'll have to circumvent; you'll meet people whose goal it is to keep children from receiving services (yes, after all of those years of education, you would think we're all in this for the children. Yet some of our colleagues are actually naysayers); you'll hear all about how 'this is not how we operate' when you present documentation proving otherwise; etc. You'll certainly learn a lesson in frustration tolerance.

If you're lucky, you won't have to deal with any of the above. But I doubt it.

Fourth, learn from the negatives and appreciate the positives. You will also learn some positive things, such as knowing when to give up. By this I don't mean walking out on your plan, but knowing when to compromise.

Fifth, know your child is entitled to individuality. If you look at evaluations, they might all seem the same. You don't want your child's IEP to be just like everyone else's, or they'll be ignored. Trust me on this one. I have seen 1,000's of IEPs and rarely does the school hold itself responsible for child failure. It's always 'Johnny X' or 'Johnny's mom Y.' Make sure your child's IEP delineates what has NOT been done for him ' not just what has been.

You just want us to fix what you've done wrong.

Did that statement infuriate you' It's what most school staff thinks when you demand fair treatment.

My advice' Listen more than you speak and ask very specific questions ' questions that merit elaboration on the part of your Team. Most of all, remain respectful. No one likes a bully, or someone who blames everything on everyone else.

Oh, and smile graciously as you lay your tape recorder on the conference table' ;)

About The Author Nadine O'Reilly, M.A., doctoral student is a school psychologist and Coordinator of Special Services. She is responsible for creating 1,000's of rock-solid Individualized Education Programs and 504 Plans for disabled children each year. http://www.special-education-ieps.com http://www.my-section-504.com http://www.access4allergickids.com nadine@access4allergickids.com

Reading to Learn: Turning Kids into Lifelong Learners

 by: Aldene Fredenburg

Along about third grade, children reach a level of reading competency which allows them to read independently for the purpose of gathering information and learning new skills. At this point, a whole world opens up to them. They are developing the tools to pursue interests of their own, and wise teachers and parents will take advantage of this phenomenon to build on their children's educational success.

Poetry and fiction are always favorites among children: case in point, the unprecedented success of the 'Harry Potter' novels. But kids are thirsty for knowledge about people and places around the world, as well as history, science, math, and art. A varied collection of books and magazines in the classroom will keep exciting information at students' fingertips. A scheduled weekly trip to the school library, with lessons on how to find books and research specific topics, offers skills that children will use throughout their school career and beyond. Kid-friendly online search engines provide more opportunities for students to research their favorite interests.

Targeted book reports and a plan for integrating the curriculum can help expand learning for every member of a class. For instance, say the kids in a classroom are studying Greek mythology; providing a variety of books and magazines on the topic, as well as on the history, social structure, scientific and mathematical concepts, and literature of ancient Greece can be the basis for an exciting group learning experience. Children can choose a book or magazine article and write a report to present to the class; other children can write poems or short stories based on what they've read, or paint or draw pictures. These creations can be presented to the class during a sharing time, and then, using a computer and printer, copied and distributed to every member of the class so each student can create a book or notebook of the work of the entire class. Students may want to expand on their work by illustrating another child's report or poem, or by writing a story based on someone else's drawing. Additional topics can be chosen for independent research, and the end product can be put on display for other students' use in the classroom, and even for inclusion in the school library.

Learning on display: a great motivation for lifelong learning

Displaying students' work in the classroom and the school library helps create an environment where learning is valued and the learner recognized; looking beyond the school environment can bring an entire community into the process. Consider creating a place in the local public library where children's work can be displayed, and work with the librarians to create student readings. A local for-profit or public access TV station may also find it valuable to cover school events which incorporate student works; by middle school, children may even be in a position, properly supervised, to help produce public access programs about their school. Particularly in areas where schools have trouble motivating students to learn, this kind of public exposure can only help excite children (and their parents) about their school and their own learning process.

It's important in any project involving student learning that kids of all ability levels are included; books and magazines need to reflect the varying abilities of the children in a class, and if a class is going to focus on public display of student work, then all levels of work need to be respected and presented in a dignified manner. Students involved in the production end of creating a classroom book on a particular topic can be credited in the book; children who contribute to a public access program can receive an on-screen credit. The idea is to praise both the work process and the creative end product of learning activities, and to give kids the idea that their learning, and their effort, matter.

About The Author Aldene Fredenburg is a freelance writer living in southwestern New Hampshire, who has written numerous articles for local and regional publications. She may be reached at amfredenburg@yahoo.com.

College scholarships for adults

 by: Kate Lindemann

If you are an adult returning to get your college degree, you know

that it can be expensive. Whether you are commuting to classes or doing an Online college degree, the tuition is about the same. Paying for college can be a problem.

But did you know that there are scholarships just for adult students'

Yes, and you could be the recepient of one of those scholarships.

First you need to get clear about how scholarship grants are designated so you do not waste time looking for money from programs for which you are not eligible.

There are some scholarships that are only for graduating high school

students. But there are many others that are 'general' ie., not restricted

by age or current attendace in high school and you as well as

a high school student could win one of these. And there are a

number of scholarships designated for adult or returning students

only.

If you really want a scholarship, you will apply for both the

non-restricted grants as well as the programs restricted to adult,

returning students. "Casting a wide net is more likely to land

some fish!"

Here are some tips about finding scholarship money.

First, look locally. Go to your local library and explalin that you are about to return to college to get your degree. Ask what books or

references they have about college scholarships for adults.

Now, you will need to be prepared to stay for awhile and to take notes. It is likely that books about shcolarships will be in the reference section and you will not be able to take them out.

But copy down any leads. Write or call the organizations listed as potential sources of money. Ask what their requirements are, when their deadline are. If you call and get a secretary, you may be able to get some hints or tips about applying. Do not be afraid to ask. You can explain that you have been away from school for awhile and would be glad for any suggestions.

When you fill out applications, be sure to type or write neatly. If

you are asked to write a letter or essay, do a draft first. Read it

aloud to make sure it 'flows'. Ask a professional, a librarian, a teacher, pastor or someone with a professional position to read your draft. If they make suggestions, pay attention.

Apply for as many scholarships as you can. There is money out there and you can obtain some for your college degree. they have about scholarships for adults.

About The Author Kate Lindemann is a college professor who has created an web site for adults returning to get their college degrees online. There are more tips about obtaining scholarships at: http://www.online-degree-info.com/Adult_scholarship.html. This article may be reproduced as long it is used as written and this bio and link are included with the text.

The Curse Of The Easy A

 by: Chad Criswell

Many current music educators grew up in a time when being in an ensemble was solely about playing the music for the next concert. I personally cannot recall ever doing a worksheet or any real music theory work while in high school. It seemed that all I had to do to get an "A" was come to my lessons, play at the concerts, and otherwise stay out of trouble. Outside practice was expected but not enforced. I did not realize until many years later that this method of teaching had set me up for years of mediocrity and frustration.

The primary effect of giving a student an A for doing very little work produces much the same effect that we see in society where people become dependent on entitlement programs. Being given something for nothing slowly undermines a person's motivation and softens their personal initiative. In the music classroom this translates into producing a stagnant musician that has no driving force to improve his or her musical abilities. For many years I suffered with wondering why the members of my ensemble wasn't improving the way I felt they should. Finally I concluded that it was my fault for not pushing them hard enough. I had fallen back into my mentor's footsteps and had been cranking out the easy A's to my students regardless of what they truly deserved.

The grading rule of thumb that is used in other classes should also be used in the music classroom. This rule of thumb states that an A is to be reserved for excellent work while a C is given for work that is simply average. If you were to take this rule and apply it to your students, would they get the same grade that you gave them on their last report card' How did they come to earn the A that they received' Was it simply for showing up to class or was there real, verifiable learning going on'

The day that I realized my mistake and started requiring more work from my students the ensemble seemed to blossom almost overnight. I began requiring two hours of home practice each week, weekly theory worksheets, and mandatory private lessons or group sectionals. By the next concert I was already seeing a difference. By the end of the third quarter the new scale memorization requirements I threw in had turned my jazz and pep bands into the best groups that I had ever conducted. The attitudes of my students also changed. They realized that they were improving and that their hard work was indeed paying off. This in turn made them more interested in performing and made them want to practice even more.

Perhaps most important of all, requiring more of my students also required more of myself as a teacher. I started reading educational journals again, determined to improve myself as a conductor and as a teacher. I started writing about my experiences to help other people improve and learn from my mistakes. These simple things breathed new life into a career that was on the verge of being consumed by apathy. I love teaching again, and it is all because I finally broke free from the bonds of being a mediocre band director. If you care for your students and want them to come to love and appreciate music as much as you do, never again give away an easy A.

About The Author Chad Criswell is an accomplished Iowa music educator. He hosts a web site dedicated specifically to music education topics of interest to students, parents, and teachers located at http://www.musicedmagic.com. He is also the music appreciation editor for the information site http://Suite101.com located at http://musicappreciation.suite101.com.

Students Engage More in Term-Time Jobs

 by: Linda Correli

Nowadays students are increasingly likely to work while studying at college. The majority of them have to rely on the supplemental income to support themselves at college or university. The accelerating proportion of students with term-time jobs rose from 47% to 58% in the recent decades. According to the new research, students spend less time in the classrooms than they used to 10 years ago.

Learning and earning have become the norm for a good chunk of students, especially for those who are in financial need. As long as most government loans and bursary programs provide the minimum funds to cover the tuition costs, students have to eat, catch the occasional movies and remain on the fringe of fashion. Proverbially term-time working kills two birds with one stone ' it pays the bills while allowing students to gain invaluable work experience.

It really stands for some reason, because combining work and school offers benefits beyond just earning the keep. However, the overwhelming number of students has to work, because they need money for basic essentials. The figures show that 80% of students can't manage on their students loans, another 20% are bound to work simply because their families can't support them or just because they don't want building up debts.

A recent study found that that term-time employment has detrimental consequences for students, both in terms of their social experience and academic performance. Working students miss out on everyday experiences of college or university.

They skip lectures and seminars; spend less time in libraries, using their university's computing facilities, devote less time to studying independently, reading, and preparing their assignments because of their jobs. 42% of students reported that working hurt their grades and limited their class choice. At the same time, 63% reported that they wouldn't be able to afford college if they didn't work.

The employed students work an average of 25 hours per week, earning roughly $7.50 per hour, mostly in unskilled jobs unrelated to their courses. Even having a full course load, the majority of students work that much, straining themselves with irregular shifts and insufficient sleep, feeling fatigued and exhausted during the classes. It results in declining of students' academic performance and persistence, and raises the likelihood of students being dropped out. But for all that, working students usually can't afford vacations, because holiday time equals extra work time.

While evidence shows that a slew of students work at levels that negatively influence the quality of their studying and their academic achievement, they can't afford to cut back their jobs. All in all, rising academic costs and failure of the government to keep pace have forced the majority of students to work a number of hours that negatively impacts their academic performance.

However, term-time working is not only about negative influence and making sacrifice. It is also about pleasure and gaining invaluable working experience.

Many students agree in opinion that part-time working is beneficial and claim that they are able to handle their work and studying, enjoying the process, and feeling incentive and motivation to study in overloaded time-schedule. It is also an effective way to discover what types of jobs students like, and more likely to engage in after graduation. A host of students believes that working is an excellent opportunity to acquire practical skills and knowledge, and to feel a sense of achievement and accomplishment.

Though, working leaves little time for a broader learning experience the majority of students infer to receive at colleges and universities, and apply at their jobs. Also time-term working deprives students of the opportunity to engage in community service, volunteering, extracurricular activities, and enjoy students' years at full blast, getting the most of the best time in people's life.

About The Author Linda Correli is a staff writer of http://www.CustomResearchPapers.us/ and an author of the popular online tutorial for students "What Teachers Want: Master the Art of Essay Writing in 10 Days", available at http://www.Go2Essay.com/ Visit Linda's web log at http://custom-research-papers.blogspot.com/

How Do I Determine The Length Of The Home School Year?

 by: James Masterson

Homeschooling is a practical alternative or replacement to schooling institutions. In conformity with your state laws concerning this kind of education, children study and learn under the parents' supervision.

Parents have several explanations and justifications why they need or want education at home. They have concerns regarding the safety of their children, the quality of education that is offered in public schools, the expensive cost of private schooling and the struggle of the child to keep up with the entire class.

Parents usually feel defenseless when their kids come home from school with accounts of emotional cruelty from peers, labeling them as 'slow learners'.

With a large class, teachers usually have little options and remedy to act on these children who are so called 'slow learners'. This is why often they are advised to be tutored, so that they will be given the attention that they need, and can learn at 'their own pace', not competing with others as well as not having the teacher's undivided attention.

Also, a student who is very enthusiastic in learning and who generally does well in class is a good candidate for homeschooling, as he can successfully struggle against the absence of interaction with his peers and encouragement for excellent work that are components of a regular classroom.

The homeschooling teacher must be someone suitably eligible, which means that he or she at least finished a 'high school education' to educate children of lower elementary.

The teacher or parent must be well inspired and encouraged to educate the students, as homeschooling entails a lot of hard work as well as rewards; it is, nonetheless, a fulfilling job, when you achieve effective results.

The parent or teacher should be available each day of schooling, should not be interrupted by any chore and be reliable and dedicated to the homeschool program.

Planning what your child needs:

Your child will need a certain study area that is quiet, with few or no distractions at all. Study time should be scheduled well for each day.

Display a focused attitude towards your child; this is essential, as your child needs to realize that you are committed and enjoying your time together rather than irritable or unsatisfied with your child's shortcomings.

You must reward, stimulate and encourage your child to create an affirmative emotional and informative experience. You must provide your child with basic school materials such as textbooks, globe, encyclopedia and dictionary. Consider also the resources the internet can deliver as an addition to your homeschooling program; the net offers information that continues to grow.

Have a supply of educational games of different varieties, art materials and supplies and reading books, in an accessible place. After your homeschool hours your kids can play games, do crafts, and read books independently.

How to define your 'homeschool year'

In order to begin the lesson planning process, you have to determine your timetable or what is the 'school year for your homeschool'

First of all, know the total number of 'school days' in the school year.

When determining this there are two main factors that you should consider. One is the certain number of teaching or tutoring days as obliged by the State you are residing in. Generally, 180 days are required, although some States do require more and some less. Consequently, this is the number of minimum or lowest recommended days for that you should plan.

The other factor is the total number of days which is necessary to move throughout the longest type of curriculum which you planned for the forthcoming school year. When that certain 'longest' curriculum will necessitate less than the lowest number of teaching days, then it won't be a reason in outlining your homeschool school year.

If it should need more than the lowest or minimum days, its duration will conclude the duration of your homeschool year. For instance, your State requirement is 180 minimum days of teaching. Upon examining your curriculum, you discovered that one such curriculum, for example algebra, will necessitate 200 days of teaching to finish. Then your homeschool year must be 200 days in length.

When you have already resolved and finalized which days is more, that of the lowest number of your State's or your longest duration of curriculum, then you should determine the 'total number of days' in your homeschool year. This now will be the total amount of days that you should base your lesson plans upon.

About The Author James Masterson It doesn't matter if you just want to explore home schooling possibilities or have made the decision and are looking for a guide to point you in the right direction, "The Parents Guide to Home Schooling" will provide you with the information you require. http://www.free-online-course.com/homeschool.

Four Learning Styles

 by: Jean Morgan

There are four learning styles that most people fit in to. Visual/verbal, tactile/kinesthetic, visual/non verbal and auditory/verbal. These four learning styles will help you to understand and process any information given to you. Once you know which style you fall in to, you can begin learning the best ways for you to study.

The visual/verbal learning style means that you learn the best from viewing information both visually and in a written format. It works best for you when your instructor uses the blackboard or an overhead projector. If the most important parts of a lecture are put into a bulletin format or used in an outline, you will find it much easier to follow along. Textbook information and class notes will be a great way for you to study and when you're trying to retain information or remember something, you often can "see" it or picture it in your mind.

Of the four learning styles, the visual/verbal person will want to use color coding to help them retain information from books or notes. Highlighters and different colored pens are a great way for this learner to absorb information. Summarizing important information from your notes or textbook is another good way for you to retain what you have learned. This person might also try flashcards, diagrams, illustrations and print-outs to aid in studying.

The second of the four learning styles is visual/non verbal. This person learns best when they are presented with pictures or visual aids. Instructors who incorporate film, videos, maps or diagrams will hold the attention of the visual/verbal learner. You may not find study groups helpful and would prefer to work in a quiet room. If you're trying to remember something, you might picture it in your mind. These learners often tend to be very artistic.

To aid in your retention of information, the visual/non verbal learner should try using flashcards that have important information on them. Illustrating them with pictures and symbols is another good way to help the information to be retained as well as using highlighters and pens.

The third of the four learning styles is tactile/kinesthetic. This learner enjoys "hands on" activities in the classroom. Any type of lab setting or field work will help this type of person to understand the information given. Instructor's that provide their students with demonstrations, presentations or student learning experiences will be helping the tactile/kinesthetic person learn.

Lectures might be hard for this person to sit through, and that's why it's important for them to sit in the front and take notes. Spelling shouldn't be a concern when you're writing notes and you should write down important words you here or draw pictures to depict them.

When you're studying, try incorporating action into it- read when you're on the exercise bike or walk back and forth while reciting information.

The last of the four learning styles is auditory/verbal. The auditory/verbal learner works best when information is given to them in an oral format. Lectures and group discussions work well for you and listening to audio tape information is a good idea too.

To study more efficiently, you might want to join a study group or find a person that you work with every day for a few hours on certain material. Read information out loud and tape record your lectures.

About The Author Jean Morgan has several learning websites: http://www.businessstudent.co.uk http://www.kinverweb.co.uk http://www.myinternetmarketingresources.com jean@jeanmorgan.org

The Invention of the Atomic Clock

 by: Steve Gink

Louis Essen was born in 1908 in a small city in England called Nottingham. His childhood was typical of the time and he pursued his education with enjoyment and dedication. At the age of 20 Louis graduated from the University of Nottingham, where he had been studying. It was at this time that his career started to take off, as he was invited to join the NPL, or National Physics Laboratory.

It was during Louis's time at the NPL that he began working to develop a quartz crystal oscillator as he believed they were capable of measuring time as accurately as a pendulum based clock. Ten years after joining the NPL Louis had invented the Essen ring. This was an eponymous invention which took its name from the shape of the quartz which Louis had used in his latest clock and which was three times more accurate than the previous versions.

Louis soon moved on to newer areas of research and began to study ways to measure the speed of light. During World War II he began to work on high frequency radar and used his technical ability to develop the cavity resonance wavemeter. From 1946 it was this wavemeter which he used, along with a colleague by the name of Albert Gordon-Smith, to make his lightspeed measurements. It has been acknowledged recently that Louis's measurements were by far the most accurate to have been recorded up until that time.

During the early part of the 1950's Louis began to take an interest in research which was being carried out at the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) in the United States of America. He learnt that work was being carried out to invent a clock which was more accurate than any other. The American scientists were using the idea of maintaining a clock's accuracy by using the radiation emitted or absorbed by atoms. At that time the Americans were using a molecule of ammonia but Louis felt that this was not working as well as if they were using different atoms, such as hydrogen or caesium, and so he began working on his own clock using these materials instead.

1953 saw Louis and a colleague, Jack Parry, receiving permission to develop an atomic clock at the NPL based on Louis's existing knowledge of quartz crystal oscillators and other relevant techniques he had learned from the cavity resonance wavemeter he had previously designed. Only two years later Louis's first atomic clock was running, Caesium I, designed by the UK scientists. Development in the United States had all but stopped due to political difficulties.

Louis continued to work on his atomic clock and by 1964 he had managed to increase the accuracy of the atomic clock from one second in 300 years to one second every 2000 years! The continued success of Louis's work resulted in the definition of a second being changed from 1/864000 of a mean solar day to being calculated as the time it took for 9192631770 cycles of the radiation in an atomic clock.

Louis Essen died in 1997 and before his death had been honoured with, amongst others, an OBE and the Tompion Gold Medal of the Clockmakers' Company.

About The Author Steve Gink uses atomic clocks, you can find his articles about them at atomic clocks or visit www.atomic-clocks.org the site contains information about atomic clocks and some images. steve.gink@gmail.com

All Scholarship Applications are Alike, Right?

 by: Dale Clifton

Evaluating thousands of scholarship applications has definitely left an impression on me. I still remember some of them, because the students who submitted them managed to get into my head in a personal way.

Many books and articles will tell you that "personalization" is good, but they don't tell you how to accomplish that. I saw a photo attached to an app showing the senior student shaking hands with the President of the United States. Another enclosed an audio tape that revealed his talent to play the fiddle in a country band. A girl had her photograph taken with a well-known professional golfer after she had won a state tournament. A boy included a picture of his debating trophies. Another had won a two day fishing tournament and held the trophy in a picture to prove it. Another had built his own computer. Still, another had patented her own invention, a device for counting inventory units. In each case the items were part of the requirements of the scholarship award, not just thrown in for effect. These are super examples of "personalizing" a scholarship application, but it doesn't have to be that noticeable.

There were also attempts at personalization not well received, a picture of a girl in a very tiny bikini. The word thong comes to mind. Another included prize ribbons with a request to return them when the judging was over. We had to send them back at our own expense! Another application had an algebra homework assignment inside, oops. We sent that back, too. Her siblings were probably blamed for its disappearance. One application had a Santa Claus hat inside. It came from Alaska. I'm still trying to figure that one out.

Why is personalization so important' Imagine that you are on the committee, sitting around a table with 247 scholarship forms. It is the committee's job to pick a winner. All of the apps appear to look alike. All things being equal, which one is going to be chosen' It's impossible to say. But, let's suppose that one personalized his/her request and made it stand out positively from the rest. Now, someone has taken the time to be bold, inventive and creative. They have made it possible for the scholarship committee to know more about who they are. They are more than a just a piece of paper with a name on it. They have revealed intimate sides to their personalities. Who will win now' The choice is obvious.

Personalize don't dramatize. Use good judgment and common sense when personalizing. Try to imagine who the people are making up the committee. Then, send in your request knowing that, out of all who sent their forms, you are the one who will win. You are the person who deserves the money.

Planning produces positive outcomes when the scholarship effort is truly a family affair.

About The Author ©2006 The Scholarship Doctor, Dale Clifton - All Rights Reserved - Dale is an educational consultant and expert at helping families win college scholarships. To learn more about planning to win scholarships visit http://ScholarshipDoctor.com My newsletter is full of tips and ideas. No cost. MailTo:signup@ScholarshipDoctor.com

How To Prepare For Tests and Guarantee an A

 by: Scott Palat

These five tips will help you get A's. Read each tip carefully an start applying them today.

1. Create a timeline. Once you determine the day of the test

work backwards. Budget a specific amount of time every

day. Consider other homework, projects and time needed

to study for other classes as you create your schedule.

2. Review a little each night. Do not wait until a test is

announced to begin preparing for your test. Consider what

would be easier ' reviewing for 5-10 minutes a night or

cramming for three hours the night before a test and only

remembering a fraction of what you studied'

3. Don't just re-read notes or the text. Ask questions. Create

flash-cards. Redo assignments. Create time-lines. Play

games. Re-write your notes. Get someone to quiz you.

Find websites online that review the same material. Make

up questions that you think will be on the test. Create new

outlines of the material by writing some specific topics and

filling in the details from memory. Studying should be an

active process, not just time spent re-reading something.

4. Ask the teacher what the format for the test will be. Will it

contain multiple choice, true-false, short answer, essay,

diagrams, graphs, equations, etc.' Will any information

such as a periodic table or equations be provided for you

on the day of the test' Do you need to bring a calculator'

5. Visit your teacher or tutor for extra help. Bring questions

that you may have or ask for ideas regarding the best way

to study for a particular assessment.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

'

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

Read Efficiently and Get Better Grades

 by: Scott Palat

How Too Read Your Text Book Efficiently And As A Result, Get Better Grades

Below are eight tips to help you read and understand your text book so you can guarantee yourself better grades.

1. Skim through all titles and headings before reading the

first paragraph. This will give you an idea regarding the

material covered in the chapter or section and help you

create a mental picture of the material as you read.

2. Quickly read through the material in the section the first

time to pick out the basic concepts. Do not try to remember

or write down specific details yet. Just get an idea of what

is discussed in the reading.

3. Re-read the section carefully and take notes as you read.

Read a paragraph or even a few sentences if the

paragraphs are complicated, stop, and think about what

you read. This is the RST method. Read, Stop and take a

few minutes to digest the material and Think about what

you read. Paraphrase the material. Put it in your own

language; what does it mean to you' You may even want

to recite what you read out loud. A lot of students find the

Thinking part easier when they actually get their thoughts

down on paper. Do not try to write everything, just little

phrases to remind yourself of what you just thought

about.

4. Be sure to look at figures, diagrams, and inserts. One

picture or graph may contain the same amount of

information found in a lengthy paragraph and be much

easier to decipher. Be sure to read all captions.

5. Record all boldfaced words and their meanings in your own

words in your notes. They must be important if the

textbook authors and publishers went out of their way to

boldface them!

6. Once you are finished reading, summarize what you just

read out loud. Your ability to discuss this will serve as a

true test to determine whether or not you understood

what you just read.

7. Skim through the text a few more times, especially prior to

and after lectures that compliment the material in the text.

8. Try to organize all of your notes to create the big picture.

Add information from your class notes to your text notes

and/or add information from your text notes to your class

notes. This combination is easily accomplished if you type

over your notes, leaving yourself with a neat, organized

and thorough copy of everything you need to know for

that chapter/unit.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

Graduation Announcements

 by: Michael Hargrove

Often times a school will provide a graduation announcement for the actual graduation ceremony. However, if you plan to have a large family gathering for this monumental event, an additional announcement is in order. The type of graduation announcement you order depends on several factors.

Depending of whether the graduate is graduating from High School or College the wording and type of invitation can be very different. If it is a high school graduation, the announcement may contain a phrase about the graduate who will be going on to college. If it is a college graduation, the announcement may contain a phrase about beginning life outside of school and starting a career. In either case, a phrase of completion and achievement will work well.

Graduation announcements can be gender specific or just generic. For girls, an announcement may be floral and very elegant. For men, the announcement may be more technical and architectural. More generic graduation announcement ideas are listed below.

Graduation announcements can be themed around the type of education of the graduate. Choose artwork that coincides with the degree. For example, if the degree is in the arts choose something related to art or literature, such as a pen or paintbrush or musical notes. For the science major, choose some scientific theme for the graduation announcement. If the graduate is going into business choose a professional business like theme.

There are some other great ideas for themes for graduation announcements. Choosing school colors is a great way to incorporate student life into the invitation. Another great idea is a diploma theme, which can be incorporated into the announcement as well as a graduation party, cards, and gifts. These themes work well with men or women and those graduates who do not fit in to a certain group.

There are lots of factors to consider when selecting graduation announcements. Choose a quality graduation announcement for this special day so it has that special touch. There is such a great variety of themes and color for announcement so it is easy to find one that is perfect for the graduate.

About The Author Michael Hargrove is an author for www.dependableprinting.com, providing providing invitations for all celebrations and special occasions with a large discount on all online orders. Visit the site for a wonderful selection of graduation announcements here, http://www.dependableprinting.com/special_occasion.htm.

Fully Prepare Any Student For Class

 by: Scott Palat

These six steps will help you prepare for class and as a result, you will become more and more confident every time you enter the classroom. In time, you will feel excited about going to class and your grades will drastically improve. Remember that attitude is everything and you must start today by changing your attitude about class. Being prepared for the classroom will certainly help.

1. Pre-read material in your text before class. Having some

exposure to the material will make it much easier to follow

along with what the teacher says.

2. Review past material. Understanding what you did in

previous classes will make it much easier to make

connections to new material.

3. Make a list of questions that you may have from the

previous day's activities or homework. Try to get all

questions resolved before moving on.

4. Do your homework. At least try each and every problem

and make notes when you don't understand something. At

least the teacher will know that you tried.

5. Stay organized. Punch holes in all of your papers and keep

them in the binder.

Come to class prepared with the appropriate materials such as your text, loose-leaf paper, and something to write with. You wouldn't want to miss part of the class because you are busy looking around for a pencil!

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

Student Loans

 by: Dave Lympany

Student loans in Canada are provided by a joint Federal and Provincial program with the amount of and eligibility for a loan different between the Provinces and so depends upon the Province you are a resident of (your Province or territory of residence is decided by where you have lived for the last 12 months consecutively whilst NOT a student). You may, however, attend any educational establishment in the country provided both the establishment and the program of your choice are listed by the assistance office in your province.

There are several different types of funding for post secondary education that include grants and bursaries (which you wouldn't have to pay back) but there are 2 main types of student loan ' the Federal and Provincial programs. Whichever type of loan you wish to apply for it all has to be started off by applying to the Provincial/Territorial Assistance office for the Province you are officially a resident of.

The main attraction of a student loan is that although they are REAL loans that do have to be repaid, they are interest free while you remain enrolled in an eligible education program. Once you graduate/leave education the repayment terms are set (normally low interest and you agree the repayment term) and you begin to pay them back. Banks and other lending establishments are no longer involved in offering new loans as all funding is provided by the federal or provincial governments.

Quebec, Northwest Territories and Nunavut are NOT involved in the Canada Student Loans program and have their own systems. If you are a resident of one of these 3 provinces or Territories then you need to contact the particular office for that Province.

To start the ball rolling with the application for a loan there are several processes that you should consider. Your eligibility is the most important ' both you (the applicant) and the course you wish to undertake must meet the criteria laid down.

The applicant: The main factor of eligibility is whether you are intending to be a full or part time student. If you are a part time student (20 ' 59% of full course load) you may only apply for federal assistance though you would apply through the provincial/territorial assistance office.

A full time student (60% + of a full course load) may apply through the same offices but will be considered for both Federal and Provincial support (depending upon the province in question) though this would have to repay both the loans. The difference between the Provinces and Territories is prevalent here as these provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and the Yukon all would entail paying the loans back separately. If you are from Ontario or Saskatchewan then you would make one payment back to the NSLSC which would cover the total amount borrowed from both the federal and provincial programs.

The course you wish to enroll on must be listed on the Master List of Designated educational Institutions ' it is strongly advised that you ensure the establishment you wish to attend is recognized by your provincial provider and the course choices meet the necessary requirements before you commit to it. This also applies if you wish to attend an overseas establishment.

Your personal financial status will determine the amount of assistance you will be offered with the Federal loan system covering up to 60% of the total you are assessed as needing and the provincial system contributing up to the remaining 40%. Your 'needs' are assessed by the provincial office when you apply as they handle the initial application and will forward you the loan documents. Once the Provincial or territorial Student Assistance office has received and processed your application, it will establish the amount of loan you are entitled to apply for and carry out credit checks. Once approved, your Canada Student Loan will be administered by the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) through to its termination (full repayment).

This agency is responsible for all loans supplied since 1st August 2000 and has two distinct sections. The Public Institutions Division (looking after anyone attending a course at a Public facility such as a University or Community college) and the Private Institutions Division (for those who are receiving instruction at a privately funded facility like a technical college or trade school).

For more, detailed information on Student Loans in Canada please visit http://www.onestopimmigration-canada.com/student_loans.html

About The Author Dave Lympany and his family arrived in Canada in 2003 as permanent residents and have developed a Onestop information resource for Canadian Immigration and Life in Canada ' http://www.onestopimmigration-canada.com. davelympany@shaw.ca

How To Get The Most Out Of Class

 by: Scott Palat

Some students spend too much time studying because they did not take the time to learn what was being taught in class the first time. If you follow these four tips, you will learn how to understand each lesson being taught in class so you will not have to put in extra time studying. This does not mean you will not have to study, but this will become a guide so you can use your time wisely. While you are in class, sit back and learn as much as you can and you will almost certainly get better grades and have more free time.

1. If possible, try to sit near the front to eliminate

distractions. Teachers will probably not have a problem

accommodating you if you ask them to sit you in a specific

location in order to help you focus.

2. Avoid distractions such as chatting with friends, looking

around the room, doodling, dozing, and daydreaming.

Keep busy by participating in the discussion, asking or

answering questions, and taking notes.

3. Contribute to classroom discussions. Raising your hand

and offering your thoughts or ideas will help the discussion

progress, make the teacher notice that you are actively

taking a role in your education, and finally, help you sort

out what you do and don't know or fully understand. Try

not to feel intimidated about raising your hand and

answering questions. Start offering answers to questions

or topics that you feel comfortable with and eventually this

will become a habit. Eventually you will build enough

confidence to contribute on a regular basis.

4. Listen not only to what the teacher is saying but to what

your classmates are contributing to the discussing. You can

learn a lot by listening to your peers.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

'

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

Diagnosis of a Level of Simple Mental Computational Skills

 by: Victor Guskov

If you are worried about the future of the school mathematical education or about concrete pupil's lack of success in math, then do not hasten to think that the problem of elementary mental computational skills is insignificant or trivial. The level of progress in simple mental computations defines the first threshold of school math's learning ability. To put it mildly, it is a little bit higher than the level of standard requirements. The pupils who have not crossed this threshold are doomed to poor progress.

Many children in secondary school have bad results in mathematics. My experience show that problems start in primary school ' the root is in bad practical skills in count and simple mental computations. All kids who have problems with addition and subtraction within the limits of 20, multiplication and division within the limits of 100 can not master many basic topics of school math successfully. They have difficulties with common fractions, simple algebraic transformations, simple equations and so on.

When make a diagnosis of quality of the simple mental computational skills we must pay attention not only to correctness but to swiftness of computations too. It is a very important criterion, but we often underrate its significance. Slow mental computations are one of possible causes of failure in understanding more complicated operations: reducing to a common denominator, operations with brackets and similar terms, solving simple equations.

The results of my investigations have allowed figuring criteria of permissible level of the simple mental computational skills for different ages. All pupils who have not reached this level could not learn mathematics without big problems. In contrary, in those cases when it is possible to improve the skills, they begin to make progress.

I offer you a simple computer test for diagnosis of a level of simple mental computational skills. You can download it free at my site

http://www.simplar.boom.ru

You can find there also a short description of the implemented study with some figures and diagrams and a description of two effective ways for improvement of the skills.

Undoubtedly you have one or several familiar persons more or less successfully (maybe more or less unsuccessfully) gnawing a granite of sciences in a primary or secondary school. If they have learnt the multiplication table already, offer them this simple test and you will see that many of them will not pass it. A pupil must implement a sequence of 64 simple operations not only nearly errorless but quickly also. The speed of mental computation is one of the two criteria of automatism ' the top quality of skills. Whereas a minimal number of errors is permissible (an error will be caused not only by lack of knowledge), a testing will end in failure because of slowness even if there will be no mistakes. The values of parameters using in the test were figured experimentally in correspondence with time passed after the multiplication table was completely studied.

About The Author Victor Guskov, a teacher of mathematics, PhD. Pedagogical Sciences. simplar@mail.ru

The Art Of Note Taking

 by: Scott Palat

By following these ten steps, you will become a more efficient note taker and this will help improve your overall study skills. With good note taking skills, better grades are just around the corner.

1. If possible, sit near the front and center of the class. You will be

less likely to become distracted and will probably find staying

focused easier.

2. Use a binder instead of a traditional notebook. This way you can

add, rearrange, or rewrite pages of your notes, insert handouts

and assessments in the appropriate chronological order and

review the material covered in the chapter/unit much easier.

3. Put headings and the date on all papers. Organize them

chronologically in your binder.

4. Take notes on loose-leaf paper and keep them organized in a

three-ring binder. Make sure that you hole punch and add all of

the handouts, assignments, quizzes, tests, etc. to your binder. It

usually is best if everything for the entire chapter/unit is kept in

chronological order in your binder.

5. Think about what is being said before you write anything down.

Do not write down everything the teacher says. Pick out

important phrases, terms, and concepts to focus on.

6. Record any examples the teacher may give while lecturing.

Examples are extremely important in creating connections in your

brain and in helping to jog your memory while studying.

7. Look for cues that teachers give to indicate that something is

important. For instance, they may repeat something a few times,

change the volume or tone of their voice, write it on the board or

overhead, and/or creates lists for you. Be sure to ask them to

repeat what they have just said if you miss the initial cue but later

realize that you should be writing the material down.

8. Leave some space between portions of your notes so you can

make additional comments as you study or read the text.

9. Re-write or even re-TYPE your notes. Not only will your notes be

much more organized and make studying easier, but the practice

of re-writing notes gives you another opportunity to think about

the material as you write or type it again. Make sure that you re-

write them in a timely manner. The more time that passes

between taking the original notes and re-writing them, the less

effective this strategy is.

10. Review these notes often. The more times you see them, the

easier it is to commit them to memory and the less time you will

spend studying them prior to the test.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

E-Learning ? An Opening

 by: Mike Bon

www.affordabletraining.co.uk marked a new era in learning process by giving a chance to learn about computers on the computer. It was the first of its kind in the field of education started a decade ago. The pioneers of this organization are the famous names like Sohail Khan and Conrad Wilson who became fascinated with the massive potential of the emerging dimension that was the World Wide Web.

Although affordable company was started to show other companies how to sell the Internet and as of its only kind then it offered free phone number to meet with the queries of other companies.

Affordable Training reached the height of success and was marked as the leading self-development training portals for the IT-professional and IT user.

They collaborated with a development house, which made multimedia training projects for companies based in united nation. The unique system behind the courses was called e-campus' - a virtual university environment that linked to the courses both on CD and online. Affordable Training was very early adopters of an LMS (Learning Management System), which is now a buzzword in e learning!

Affordable training continues to serve as the best developing and delivering instructor led CBT courses in U.K.

The advantages one gets on registering as a student of the virtual university campus of Affordable Training are like the free demos, Free Training Newsletter and free E-learning Comparison report. To add to these advantages one gets the Money back Guarantee, Lowest Price Guarantee and Certification Guarantee.

To make the study materials more understandable the course is divided strategically into three parts as the Course for the Beginners, Course for the Professionals and the Course for companies.

The expert training advises are available for 24 hours and all 365 days of a year.

Affordable training supports you with the live mentor, e-campus login, online training login, and course feedback, general FAQs, taking exams, job assistance and training evaluation.

About The Author Mike Bon is a freelance writer of www.affordabletraining.co.uk, provide the best of the e-learning courses with all the advantages and support one can give to a learner at any age in his life.

Learn These Study Skills and You Can Expect Straight A's

 by: Scott Palat

By following these twelve tips, you will be guaranteed to get straight AAAAA's. Read each tip carefully.

1. Find a quiet area in your house in which you are

comfortable and can isolate yourself from distractions. Be

sure that this space includes a chair, table or desk, and

sufficient lighting. Ask others not to disturb you while you

are in this special location and turn off all phones, beepers,

televisions, videos, music, or anything else that your mind

will wander to instead of focusing on the schoolwork.

2. Find the best time to study. Some students tend to do

their best work as soon as they get home from school

while they are still in the school mode. Others need a

break and don't settle down to study until after practice,

playtime, a nap, dinner and/or family time. Just be sure to

allow yourself enough time to get everything done and still

get enough sleep each night.

3. Organize your day, week, month, etc. Set aside a specific

time each day to do your homework and study. Decide on

a reasonable minimum amount of time that you will spend

in this quiet place each day. For instance, lets say you

decide on 45 minutes as a reasonable amount of time to

dedicate to schoolwork each day. This means that even if

homework is completed in the first 35 minutes that you will

still stay in this area and study or review notes for the

next 10 minutes until the 45 is up.

4. Reward yourself for sticking to your schedule and being

productive. Decide on an activity to do once your study

time is completed. Plan on watching a television show later

in the evening. Tell yourself that you will play five minutes

of a video game for every fifteen minutes that you study.

Create goals and their rewards before you start studying

and work hard to reach them each and every day.

5. Variety is important. Vary the topics that you are spending

time studying. Get the mandatory homework out of the

way first and then go back and spend the additional time

reviewing material from different courses each day. If you

spent extra time reviewing history yesterday, spend the

additional time on science tonight. Some subject areas

may require more time than others. You should get a feel

for this a month or so into the school year.

6. Study the difficult subjects first and get them out of the

way. You will be able to absorb material quicker and make

more connections when you are mentally fresh.

7. Take regular study breaks. This can also serve as a mini-

reward. For instance, tell yourself that you are going to get

a drink or snack or listen to a specific song after you finish

re-copying your notes for science. Make the breaks short,

3-6 minutes or so, so you won't get side-tracked or lose

focus for the day.

8. Don't just re-read notes or the text. Ask questions. Create

flash-cards. Redo assignments. Create time-lines. Play

games. Re-write your notes. Get someone to quiz you.

Find websites online that review the same material. Make

up questions that you think will be on the test. Create new

outlines of the material by writing some specific topics and

filling in the details from memory. Studying should be an

active process, not just time spent re-reading something.

9. When you need to remember a group of terms use the first

letter of each to create a word (acronym) or a sentence

(acrostic). For instance, an easy way to remember the five

Great Lakes is the word 'HOMES'. By just remembering

the word 'homes' you can easily remember the names of

the five Great Lakes . H stands for Huron, O for Ontario , M

for Michigan , and so on. You can also create silly

sentences to help you remember long lists of terms. For

instance, remembering the sentence 'Martha Visits Every

Monday, Just Stays Until Noon, Period', will help you

remember the planets in the order they are found. M for

Mercury, V for visits, E for Earth, etc.

10. Become a teacher. Find someone who is willing to listen to

you ', a classmate (this would be a great review for them),

Mom or Dad, a sibling, the family dog ' and explain your

notes to them. Have them (except the dog) ask questions

about the material that they themselves don't understand.

It's amazing how much you can retain when you have to

actually teach material to someone.

11. Repetition, repetition, repetition. The material should

become second nature to you by the time test day arrives.

If it is not, then you need to devote more time to preparing

for the test.

12. Exercise often and before you sit down to study. Research

shows that students retain more after being physically

active. Go to soccer practice, take a jog, rough-house

with your dog, break a sweat first, then settle down and

focus on your school work.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.

Top Ten Reasons For Consolidating Your Student Loans

 by: Mike O'Brien

From saving money to improving your credit score, there are many benefits to consolidating student loans. Here are the top ten reasons why you should streamline these debts.

1. Peace of mind

Have you had sleepless nights worrying about whether or not you can afford to pay your bills' By consolidating your student loans, you can save up to 60% on monthly payments.

2. Lock in a low interest rate

By organising your Federal student loan consolidation before June 30th of this year, you can take advantage of the current low interest rate of 4.7 percent. As well, you will secure this interest rate for the life of the loan, so you won't have to worry about a rate increase.

3. Streamline your payments

Have you racked up multiple loans with varying amounts over the course of your time in school' It can be confusing to keep track of all of the bills. When you consolidate, you will simplify your life by only having to pay one amount to one lender.

4. Auto-pay

To further simplify your bill paying, sign up for auto-pay at the time of the consolidation, and you can save yourself the cost of a stamp and the time it takes to write a check. The lender will simply deduct the amount from your bank account on a regular schedule. Most lenders provide a discount for borrowers who sign up for auto-pay.

5. Improve your credit score

When you consolidate, the new lender will pay off your existing student loans. This process of loan payment, along with reducing the number of outstanding loans will improve your credit score. And, don't worry if you don't currently have stellar credit. Because your loans are guaranteed by the U.S. government, your credit score won't be checked as part of the application process.

6. Help your parents

Did your parents borrow money to help pay for your education' They, too, can consolidate their PLUS loans and lock in the current interest rate.

7. 'On Time' payment discount

Like auto-pay, lenders reward borrowers with an interest rate discount for paying on time for a certain period (usually 36 months). Make sure to ask your lender about discounts when you apply for a loan consolidation

8. Forbear or defer

Once you have consolidated, you will retain these Federal borrowing privileges.

9. Financial Savvy

Maybe you weren't a straight 'A' student, but everyone will think that you're a financial genius when you tell them what you are saving on your student loan consolidation.

10. Get out of default status

You can stop the harassing phone calls or wage garnishments by consolidating loans that are in default and get back on track with your financial status.

About The Author Mike O'Brien offers advice and information about student loan consolidation @ http://www.wwwloanconsolidation.com. This is a quality web site with a choice of student loan consolidation and general debt consolidation information and the best way to deal with it.

The Benefits Of An On-Line Degree, Are There Any?

 by: Robert Thatcher

Believe it or not, a diploma straight out from college is not a sure fire and effective means to assure success. Currently, people are now going back to school to earn more than a college diploma. There is that Masters Degree, additional training, that all-important certification.

The competition now is so cut throat that being educated means actually going out of your way to update yourself with the current business trend, software, theory, medicine, etc.

Currently there are various means to get that vital education, one form is via the internet through an online degree. First it has to be asked, is this an effective and is this the best way to get a degree'

Read for yourself and find out.

An Online degree is convenient and hassle-free but just as effective the internet has made the world such a smaller place. To be competitive means one has to be knowledgeable. To be knowledgeable, one has to study. If you are among the many who do not have enough time, enough money and the energy to go to school full time and carry all those books to the classroom and walk through all those halls, there is a solution for you: the online degree.

What the distance learning is then, may just as be called the online degree now. Distance learning provides anyone the ability to study in his or her own pace, in his or her own time. the internet has made the same process so much easier. Lectures, classmate interaction, materials are just as readily available online and with just a simple click of the mouse and viola ' you could do any of all things mentioned in real time and in the convenient comfort in your own home.

Online degree, where you need not be absent ever

There are no more excuses about being late because there was no parking space, or the traffic was terrible. In an online degree study, commuting does not exist. Lectures and classes may be attended to online and in real time.

The best thing about online degrees, besides saving time, saving money is possible since this is cheaper compared to the traditional degrees offered by universities.

What are its benefits'

The benefits of an online degree are many. For one, having a degree boosts your ability to earn and be in demand more -- professionally speaking. According to a survey, almost seventy percent of supervisors consider a degree attained online as just as a significant factor in their decision to promote or advance an employee. This statistical fact helped bolster most major universities to offer online degrees in their curriculum.

Online degrees most especially benefit those students who have families and children and who find it so difficult to combine family life, work life and study life. Compared to a degree attained from a campus, online degrees provide one with a flexible and manageable time. There are no annoying fees that you have to put up with like football or marching band teams.

Research is also very much available as most online degrees have a system wherein the library could be accessed and materials could easily be ordered from other schools.

In summary, online degrees works best for one who wants to receive the same quality education in a lot less pricey package and in a lot less stressful condition and a lot more convenient environment.

About The Author Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides online degree resources on http://www.about-online-degrees.info.

Law School Know-How

 by: Robert Thatcher

Getting into law school can be a very arduous task for aspiring students. You need to start as early as your freshman year in high school if you decide that being a lawyer is what you really want to do for the rest of your life.

Do not be misled by the rosy portrayal of a lawyer’s life in TV or in the movies. In real life, lawyers would have 12 to 18 working hours, especially for those who are aspiring to be partners in their respective law firms.

In order to achieve your goal, first, you need to have the correct mindset. Here are some tips on how students can realize their lifelong goal of becoming a lawyer:

1. Know what you want, and how to get it.

First, reflect on the reasons why you would like to pursue this career. If you are just looking for the 'flash' or recognition of becoming a lawyer, remember that becoming one is sheer hard work. Just like in every profession, you need to give yourself into studying, then working as a lawyer.

You may have this idealistic view as a kid that you want to save the world from the injustices that is why you would like to become a lawyer.

If you find yourself still passionate about this cause, there is no harm in pursuing your dreams.

More importantly, remember that once you decide on taking up law, you need to work very hard as a student.

2. Take off your rose-colored glasses.

You need to understand that not every student who takes up law ends up with a job as a lawyer once they graduate.

You will not necessarily end up as a courtroom hero saving an "innocent criminal" in this field.

You may find yourself dealing with real estate, corporate law, divorce cases, or even drafting up wills.

Prepare yourself for all possibilities because anything could happen.

3. Ask yourself, "Am I competitive enough'"

>From the time that you send in your applications, to the time that you take the exam to be a licensed practitioner, there will be competition.

Applications for entry into law schools soar every year. What are your chances of being chosen and accepted as compared to thousands of other applicants'

Check the skills that you have and once you are confident enough that you can get into law school, then you have gone through the first step in achieving your goal.

4. Go to a university which has a record of getting a lot of students into law school.

It is safe to say that if you are a graduate of a school which "produces" a lot of great law students, then this should be a plus factor for you.

There are universities that help the students get into law school by providing mock exams and interviews, and also offer letters of recommendation.

5. Having a good grade-point-average (GPA) is not enough, you need to pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) with flying colors.

Maintain your GPA, and make sure that you perform well in the LSAT's. There are web sites where you can take practice tests at a certain cost. You may also enroll in a course that aims to prepare you for this particular exam.

6. Be an early bird.

Once you have decided on entering law school, make sure that you submit your applications way before the deadline. This should give you ample time to prepare.

Finally, you need to organize your letter of recommendations, transcripts and all the paperworks that you will need to get in.

You may seek the advice of a consultant, undergraduates or lawyers who have already passed the stage that you are now going through as a hopeful law school student.

If you combine hard work with determination and you prepare everything in advance, you will surely gain entrance to the prestigious law school of your choice.

About The Author Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides law school resources on http://www.justlawschools.info.

Graduation Announcement- Some tips for the graduate

 by: Dawn Rowlett

If you are graduating, it is a busy time. There are lots of loose ends that must be tied up around campus. Finals and term papers are taking up a lot of your time. But now is the time to put out a graduation announcement to proclaim your accomplishment and share it with friends and family.

Addressing the envelopes and announcements can be difficult for a beginner. On the outside of the envelope the address should be written formally. Use the full title such as Mr. or Mrs. and the full name of the recipient. Inside the announcement can be less formal. If you are sending the graduation announcement to a close family member, use their family name such as Grandma or Uncle Tom.

Knowing when to send the announcement is an important issue. The graduation announcements should be sent 1 to 2 weeks before the graduation date. This will allow time for people and family members to make plans to attend. It will also give people plenty of time to call and congratulate or send a card.

Graduation announcements are not request for gifts. Do not expect gifts from those to whom you send an announcement. In some cases, family members will provide gifts or throw a party. If you do receive gifts be sure to send a thank you note. It is a very nice gesture for those who have gone out of their way to congratulate the graduate.

Sending graduation announcements is a great way to present your great accomplishment. It is also the time to send your respect to those who helped you along the way.

About The Author Dawn Rowlett is an author for www.dependableprinting.com, providing providing invitations for all celebrations and special occasions with a large discount on all online orders. Visit the site for a wonderful selection of Graduation Announcements here, http://www.dependableprinting.com/special_occasion.htm.

Why You Should Consider Online Tutoring

 by: Scott Palat

When most parents hear the word online tutoring, they can't quite envision it, but when students hear the word online tutoring, they are intrigued. Online tutoring allows a tutor and student to communicate from computer to computer. Most online tutoring sessions take place inside an online classroom.

Many online tutoring services offer a whiteboard so words can be written or drawn with the mouse and keyboard. Only the best online tutoring classrooms offer voice over ip. This means both the student and tutor can speak through the computer as long as both have a microphone and speakers.

Once the parent understands the concept of online tutoring, they are often times amazed. Their child can ask any question and the tutor is able to walk the student through the entire problem solving process and help the student to solve each problem. This one on one communication is what most students need to overcome learning obstacles.

In the classroom, most students are left behind if they don't ask specific questions to help them understand what they are learning. Once a student starts falling behind, tutoring must be provided to prevent failing grades. Often times a personal face to face tutor intimidates students and still might not help.

Online tutoring allows any student to get the one on one attention they need without the intimidation factor. Students feel comfortable learning online and the fact that each lesson can be printed is a wonderful study tool.

If you never tried online tutoring, I suggest you give it a try and allow your child to learn online. The cost is usually less than a private tutor and you won't have to drive and worry about scheduling issues. Your child can learn from any computer as long as there is an internet connection.

Go to www.live-etutor.com to learn more about online tutoring and watch a virtual tour inside of our online classroom. All tutors are screened, qualified and ready to help your child get better grades!

About The Author Scott Palat graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Health and Physical Education degree. In 2002, Scott started www.ehomeworkhelp.com because he saw a need to help struggling students complete their homework assignments and understand their schoolwork. Since this time, E Homework Help inc. and http://www.live-etutor.com have helped hundreds of students get better grades. See what online tutoring with voice is all about. Our private tutors will help you get better grades and this is a guarantee. View a demonstration right now. Go to http://www.live-etutor.com for more information.