The Changing face of the Classroom

In today’s age, educators know that the traditional lecture is not the only way to learn. The Internet is destroying the traditional educational delivery system of an instructor speaking, lecturing or teaching in front of one or more learners. The Internet represents the biggest technological aid helping people to learn in 500 years, according to many educators (Thieme, 1996).

Our busy schedules are now a mainstay of today’s lifestyles. To cope with the increasing need for selfimprovement, increasing numbers of students are elearning, that is, accessing information and communicating with online instructors through the Internet. An online classroom can be a dynamic learning environment that fosters the creation of global communities of learners.

Based on studies by research companies, they predict that in this century, e-learning will constitute 50% of all learning and education. The rapid rise of learning on the Internet will occur not because it is more convenient, cheaper, or faster, but because cognitive learning on the Internet is better than learning in-person. Recent research reported in the Washington Post cites studies showing that e-learning is equally as effective as learning inperson. The outlines of the potential of e-learning are already showing.

As a result, e-learning allows more focus to be put on the learner as it is mainly learner-centric. With this mode of learning, the learner can bring up issues to the instructor who is only an email, discussion room or chat room away.

One such e-learning lifelong service provider is PurpleTrain.com where the use of the web has enriched the learning process. PurpleTrain.com has developed its own Learning Management Centre (LMS) known as Bluefin with an exciting new visual interface sporting new colours.

Through Bluefin, PurpleTrain ensures that students get a smooth and friendly e-learning environment. They can login through a centralised login system, that will bring them to a personalised page reflecting the various course modules in which they are enrolled. From there, students can select the class and enter the virtual environment through the newly-designed feature icons.

Online interaction tools such as the chat and discussion rooms have also been upgraded, to carry a new cool look, with very user-friendly functions and interfaces. Besides the current features, the new Learning Management Centre provides an acknowledgement of submission of assignments, through which students can check if their assignments were safely uploaded. Also the course contents will also have a new refreshing and clean look, with drop-down lists for easy selection of subject topics for each module.

Speed-wise, students are able to enjoy an ultra-smooth online session on PurpleTrain, up to almost 5 times the previous speed. So navigation within and through the various interaction tools on PurpleTrain will happen in the blink of an eye!

At PurpleTrain.com, students can choose from an assortment of courses ranging from diploma level to even doctorate level to pursue. Online collaboration is alive and well on this platform through the use of discussion rooms and chat sessions. This is where a hive of online activity takes place with questions and answers flowing back and forth via these two modes.

The potential of communication and collaboration to form global communities is now here. The ability of an online classroom to foster communication and collaboration is one of the greatest benefits to online learning. Indeed, it should be the heart and soul of an online course.

To sum it all up, the fact that e-learning is here to stay and the early adopters who embrace this technology will stand to benefit. There is no running away from the sweeping new wave that is pervading all of us who believe in lifelong learning in today’s context.

References
Thieme, Richard (1996), in a presentation at the Metcom conference, Chicago. IL.

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Salem University Online facilitators give their comments…

Some of the e-learning programmes offered on PurpleTrain.com include degrees and Associate degrees in Business Management, Computer Science and Information Technology. In collaboration with Salem International University, these programmes are designed for students anywhere in the world interested in obtaining tertiary education. These online programmes come complete with expert guidance by our qualified on-line facilitators. At PurpleTrain.com, we often get positive comments from our students regarding their fruitful elearning experience. So it would be refreshing to hear how the SIU on-line facilitators feel about teaching the programmes.

We spoke with two Salem University on-line facilitators regarding their experiences.

Facilitator: Geraldine R. Finn
I teach full time for the University of Findlay, Findlay, Ohio, USA. I am currently a Director of Women's Studies and Assistant Professor of History. My education comprise of a Bachelor of Arts from Findlay, a Master of Arts from Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, and a PhD from The Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, Ohio. I also teach Power and the Social Sciences, Geography, and Ohio History online for my university.

On e-learning:
I find on-line teaching to be both exciting and challenging. The thing I like the most about online teaching is the interaction with the students. When on-line, they tend to be able to speak more freely than in the traditional classroom.

I have come to view e-learning in a new way. In the beginning I was against students not being in the classroom but as I got more involved I came to see that students can learn in both venues and that is what teaching is all about. On-line teaching had been a challenge for me due to the apprehension in dealing with computers. However, I find that it is a great way for students to receive a college education without actually going to the classroom.

Do you feel that the programmes offered are suitable?
I think the programmes at Salem is one that most students can take because of the variety of classes offered.

Message to the students:
The barriers to getting an education are much lower now especially with the availability of e-learning.

Facilitator : Garth Kemerling
Facilitator for HSS 240 (Ethics and Society) is also the course developer and facilitator for HSS 215 (Society and the Individual) and HSS 230 (Philosophy of Human Nature).

On e-learning:
On-line teaching is both exciting and challenging. The asynchronous structure of on-line education permits individual students to learn at their own pace and to pursue their own interests in greater depth. The facilitator's task, then, is to keep track of individual progress and respond appropriately to individual concerns. With a lively group, this can be a stimulating and demanding experience. On-line facilitation permits me to engage in non-academic work at home while also participating in a significant educational enterprise. Each day provides a delightful balance between my electronic existence as a course facilitator and the daily chores of operating a small farm.

On-line programmes from Salem International University are designed for students anywhere in the world who are interested in obtaining a traditional liberal-arts education along with sound technical training.

What I most enjoy about the process is the preparation of course materials that maximize the freedom of individual students to exercise their freedom as learners. Giving students lots of options makes the structure of the course like that of a tree, branching off in many distinct directions. (The traditional classroom is like a river, mingling all waters together in a single channel.)

Message to the students:
My message to students is the reminder that on-line learning places great freedom and responsibility upon the individual. Success requires a great deal of selfdiscipline. Although it is possible to work at your own pace and on your own schedule, it is also vital to complete all of the written work for the course. Remember that your PurpleTrain.com facilitator will always be happy to answer questions and provide encouragement.

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What Learners Say About Capella University

Founded in 1993 and accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Capella University is the world's leading elearning institution. Its innovative, online course delivery format leverages the speed, convenience, and flexibility of the Internet to provide a quality education at a time and place most convenient for you.

Capella University and PurpleTrain.com are dedicated to helping working adults integrate advanced education into their busy lives. We offer three of Capella’s most popular courses:

MBA
Specialization in E-Business, International Business or Marketing and Brand Management

MSc, Organisation & Management
Specialization in Information Technology Management or E-Business

PhD, Organisation and Management
Specialization in Information Technology Management or E-Business

Our typical learners are established and successful professionals like William A Malek, a business owner, trainer and management consultant and Phutut Subroto, an Aeronautical Engineer, and specialist in strategic industry development policy with Ministry of National Development Planning in Jakarta.

Mr Malek is a MBA graduate from Capella University with a specialization in E-business.

"I am retooling for the network knowledge economy, and Capella provides a self-paced learning environment that allows me to complete a graduate degree while I work full-time. This is all done from the convenience of my computer, no matter where I am or what time of day. The flexibility makes all the difference." Says a happy William.

His views are echoed by Mr Subroto, pursuing a PhD in Management and Organisation,

"As an engineer, I am anxious to study about management with an international business focus. I believe one of the most critical issues faced by the developing countries is a lack of professional management. Because of that, I am interested in continuing my education in a field that is complementary to my profession, while holding my current position in the government sector. After searching for a distance education program for two years, I chose Capella University because it meets my expectations and objectives most closely."

Capella University Awards and Recognition
"Capella University embodies the best principles of adult and distance learning." Dr. Leslie Cochran - President of Youngstown State University and Chair of the North Central Association Accreditation Team.

Capella University Named to North Central's New Academic Quality Improvement Project
-- DENVER, September 25, 2000

Department of Education Selects Capella University as Participant in Distance Learning Financial Aid Pilot Program
-- June 30, 1999


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Tips to help you work and learn

Taking on a higher degree is a formidable challenge, especially if you're already have a demanding day job. Successful survivors reduce their secret to the basic essence of time management, focus and knowing when to schedule some downtime to let -- your brain loosen up. Some useful tips to consider:

1. Break down your lesson preparation and assignment requirements, and tackle these components one at a time. You won't feel as overwhelmed, and this lets you spend some time each day to focus on one manageable aspect at a time. Use a planner or PDA to keep two important lists updated: Short-term and long-term course deliverables. Spend some time every day studying these lists and anticipating in advance how you will address each item.
   
   
2. Draw timelines - but with practical deadlines - and stick to them. Arrange your workload using flowchart diagrams so you can quickly judge how long each task should take. Resolve to stick to this schedule, and give yourself a small treat if you're reasonably successful.
   
   
3. Set up a workspace that inspires but doesn’t impede your concentration. Keep distractions out of sight - flowers, hand-held games, even confectioneries and newspapers. Even well-meaning family members can also be a source of distraction and it takes tact to handle this. Be meticulously organised. You would be spending less time looking for your notes and more time reading and reflecting. Keep a summary sheet on top of each stack of notes to quickly remind you of what you've put away. It may sound tedious but you will find it a boon once you are accustomed to it.
   
   
4. Draw up a schedule, and stick to it. Set your timer, if it helps, to make sure you don't take short cuts on your own time. Decide on the best study time where you feel your concentration is at its peak. Try not to schedule it during your children's favourite television programmes, so that you don't get disturbed for as long as it is on.
   
   
5. Give yourself short breaks to stretch yourself will keep your blood circulating enough that your brain does not feel drowsy.

Research or checking your course web site for updates is good but diverting off to look at an extended survey of horoscope sites or delving into World Cup statistics is a definite no-no.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, so indulging in simple treats helps to refresh the mind and body while you are mugging.

Adapted from an article by Don Bosco, TODAY

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PurpleTrain Presents BSc (Hons) in Business Administration (Marketing) With Wales!

PurpleTrain.com is proud to present yet another online programme with the prestigious University of Wales -- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Business Administration (Marketing).This marks another major accomplishment in the launching of quality programmes for the convenience of PurpleTrain’s e-learners worldwide.

“The programme satisfies the growing demand for courses that offer in-depth study with a high degree of specialisation. It is highly professional and aims to train and prepare managers with a blend of educational knowledge and practical experience,” says Kelly Ng, Sales Director of PurpleTrain.com.

This three-year degree programme will arm learners with knowledge and disciplines required for the effective running of business, and offer them an insight into the challenging and dynamic field of sales and marketing.

At the end of the programme, the learners will have:

• A sound theoretical knowledge and practical skills relating to the marketing function.
• A high level of interpersonal and mass communication skills, the capacity for selfdevelopment, and the capacity to respond to changes in business environment.
• The ability to identify and analyse business problems, collect relevant data so that business, marketing plans and policies can be effectively formulated and implemented.

A programme with proven track record
This programme has registered a commendable pass rate of 90% for the past 21 intakes (Taught Mode).

Professional Accreditation and International Recognition
It will lead to the award of a degree issued by the University of Wales. This degree shall be governed by the regulations for the award of a higher degree from the University of Wales. The University of Wales derives its rights and privileges from Royal Charter by the Act of Parliament. It is also a member of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).

Programme Advancement
Graduates may gain direct entry to the Master of Business Administration by the University of Wales online or may apply to pursue other Master degrees upon successful completion of the programme.

The University also enjoys close links with other higher education institutions in Wales and with a number of institutions overseas. The University has nearly 80,000 students registered on courses within Wales and overseas.

For more information on the programme, click HERE. For programme enquiries, email enquiry@purpletrain.com

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Shanghai student finds e-learning interesting and enjoyable

The University of Wales (UOW) has a tradition for excellence in education and its qualifications are well sought after in the United Kingdom and internationally. The University continually makes a distinctive and distinguished contribution to higher education in Wales, the United Kingdom and the international community.

We recently received this feedback from this student who is studying in the University of Wales MBA programme who is also taking the BA603 module (Business Quantitative Analysis). Ms Puah Sun Sun has found that she enjoyed her online session immensely and looks forward to having more lessons in this new medium.

Below is the email that highlights her valuable feedback:

Posted by: SUN SUN PUAH Posted on: 05/25/02 at 11:22:46

Dear Johnny,

This is my first module and I find it interesting in learning through the e-way, especially having a facilitator who is always fast to respond to our queries. In addition, I’m also happy to have electronic interaction with all the classmates. The only thing lacking here (in Shanghai) is that I hope to find a group of regular discussion room members who can share ideas and opinions more often. Sometimes I feel I am the only student based in Shanghai for this module during the session although I know there are others who are enrolled!

I sincerely hope that Informatics Shanghai will get more students in my area to sign up. As a result, I will be able to have group discussion for my other modules in future whether online or in person. I wish the other course mates all the best and good luck in the exam.

Cheers,
Sun Sun

With feedback such as this, we see that the e-learning perspective is beginning to grow on students in China who are getting more technologically savvy. At PurpleTrain.com, we realize that the potential for greater efficiency in learning in limitless and that more individuals can be educated anytime anywhere.

Please click HERE for a more detailed description of University of Wales Master of Business Administration (MBA) or email enquiry@purpletrain.com for more details.

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BSc (Hons) in Business Computing & IT

In line with its continuous efforts to bringing even more quality programmes online, PurpleTrain.com is proud to announce the launching of yet another new programme from the University of Wales, UK -- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Business Computing & Information Technology*.

“With e-learning, you have the freedom to complete your degree at your own pace without interrupting your career mid-stride. E-learning makes learning more varied, and you also get the opportunity to interact with fellow students from around the world. Each of them has different qualifications , professional experiences, unique characteristics and backgrounds. Electronic learning eliminates the space barrier and therefore allowing knowledge transfer no matter where you are. Therefore, enlarges both the internal and external network of its learners. This is a very enriching experience.” said Kelly Ng, Sales Director of PurpleTrain.com.

The BSc (Hons) in Business Computing & Information Technology is a three-year degree programme validated by the University of Wales, UK. It provides learners with a firm theoretical and practical background in computers for optimum proficiency in both information systems and information technology.

Objectives

• To provide a basic knowledge of computer hardware and software, introduce the business functions to which computers are applied, and examine the ways in which computers are integrated into business organisations.
  
  
• To provide the specific statistical and accounting skills required for the practical understanding of the use of computers in the business computing environment and to introduce analytical and design techniques sufficient for system development.
  
  
• To provide an introduction to business organisation and systems, and develop the skills of oral and written communications required within the context of business computing.

Programme Advancement
Graduates can apply to pursue a Master degree upon successful completion of the programme.

Programme Duration
Students should aim to complete the programme within 3 years. The maximum duration of the programme is 4 years.

Professional Accreditation and International Recognition
The University of Wales derives its rights and privileges from Royal Charter by the Act of Parliament. It is also a member of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).

For more information on the programme, please click HERE.
For programme enquiries, email enquiry@purpletrain.com

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About PurpleTrain.com

PurpleTrain.com is Asia’s first e-learning service provider offering a one-stop service for Business and IT education programmes, corporate training courses and education-related services.

By combining innovative technology with world-class training content, PurpleTrain.com delivers anytime, anywhere learning. It offers both companies and individuals a high value, quality and effective online training solution. Over 1000 online courses are available, ranging from certificate, diploma, degree to master programmes, in business and information technology as well as technology and business training & development courses. Our e-community now stands at over 42,000 users, globally.

Look out for more of PurpleTrain.com's continuous efforts to provide more and even better services to our students. To be added into our mailing list, write to pr@purpletrain.com.

For more information, visit www.purpletrain.com or email pr@purpletrain.com

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