Overview
Our Distance Learning System combines the
best of computer-based training and correspondence training, resulting
in a superior level of educational experience, which we refer to as
an "accelerated learning experience". This system is particularly
effective with technical content because it uses several learning styles,
well surpassing classroom style learning experience in retention.
By combining both the visual (reading), kinetic (doing work on the
homework submission process), 2 of the 3 learning styles are incorporated
into the experience. Further, our students have the ability to move
from topic to topic, according to the individual’s own priority.
Educators call this an "adaptive learning system". It enables
the learner to comprehend through the use of exploration and experimental
techniques - a very dynamic process. When a student utilizes our instructor
for questions and discussion, all elements of the learning process are
involved, ensuring that knowledge actually is stored in long-term memory.
When combined with the flexibility of the program - allowing the student
to be most focused on material - and the excellent manual as a desk
reference - our students profit from this combination of high quality
materials, learning experience and the ongoing desk resource. In addition,
by allowing the student the option of self-study, time required to learn
is reduced by a minimum of 35%, and frequently as much as 50%.
Training Materials
The student receives a "textbook" which is reading material,
organized in a 3-ring binder, and set up like a traditional textbook
with chapters and assignments at the end of each chapter.
The assignments are in the book in the form of worksheets, for the
convenience of our students. As you work through the material, we recommend
you complete the worksheets so that when you are ready to submit your
assignment, the worksheets will speed up the process.
Our students continually tell us how much
they value the binder; which becomes a desk manual and ongoing resource.
One of the advantages to Distance Learning, over classroom or computer-based
training, is the ability to review material after completion of the
course. This aspect of our training program sets us apart from other
providers and provides significant added value to our students.
Procedure
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Registration
Completing the registration process gets things
started. Complete the online registration form, which is then immediately
e-mailed to us. Note that this is a secure site, so your credit card
information is safe. If you prefer, you may also call the office to
leave your card number by phone. Checks are accepted and courses are
shipped upon receipt of the check.
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Course Work
The course is shipped to students within 24 hours
of receipt of registration. All courses are shipped FedEx 2nd day
delivery. Some of our smaller courses are available in download format,
in which case the course is emailed after registration.
Students read the material in the textbook, like
a traditional correspondence course, completing the worksheets as
described above. When a student is ready to submit an assignment,
or all of the assignments, he/she logs on to our web site, goes to
the Homework/Quizzes section and submits the assignments. Detailed
instructions for this process are provided with the course. Assignments
can be submitted as completed, or all at once, whichever is more convenient.
Our instructors are available to answer questions,
either by phone or email. Details are provided with the course text.
If a student is unable to access the Internet,
faxed grading and processing is available for an additional fee of
$35.00.
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Certificate of Completion
Upon receipt of the last assignment, we provide
an email certificate, which can be used for state compliance. All
states accept this document. An original is mailed within two weeks
of course completion.
Timing
Students have 6 months to complete a course. We recommend completing
it in a shorter time frame, for the best learning experience.
Credit hours are assigned each course. The number of credit hours is
the number of hours it would take to teach the course classroom style.
One of the advantages of distance learning is the consolidation factor.
This refers to the fact that a student will typically complete a course
much faster on his/her own time schedule than in a classroom setting.
The number of hours required to actually complete the course work varies
widely, depending on such factors as experience, education level and
learning style. In all cases however, more substantive learning takes
place in shorter time frames than classroom programs.
Proctored Exams
Some states require proctored exams. A proctored exam is one in which
the student’s identification is checked and the work performed
in the proctor’s presence. We have developed a system that gives
students the greatest flexibility possible.
Proctoring can work several ways:
