Online Degrees

RSS to JavaScript

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Online Learning Visual Design Principles

Before we discuss what are some of the design principles that you can apply to on-line content, we should define what we mean by "Design". This is one of those words that are ever-present in every industry that produces something, but it often means something different to every person invoking its meaning.

For this discussion, we are making the argument that to design something is to plan its inception, production and use, and that the application of consistent principles can improve the utility of that thing. In the case of on-line educational content, this means a plan of the purpose, presentation and evaluation of that content using accepted instructional design principles. Yet, we are working in a format that requires the consideration of other applications of design ideas from other fields. The use of media types such as typography, images, and audio are directly constrained by the on-line distribution method in both presentation and technical considerations.

In other words, if we are going to produce educational content on-line, we either need to be adept in the realms of education, project management, Internet technology, graphic design, audio design and web development and design, or we need a competent team to support our efforts. However, the development procedures of each team will vary to such an extent that we may be responsible for several areas within a project or be forced to change hats due to resource constraints. We may not be experts in every area, but we had better be certain that we are at least passingly knowledgeable, if for no other reason than to know how to assign and evaluate tasks for other members.

In a nutshell, we should look at design as applying certain general principles taken from various disciplines to the varied elements of our content in order to make that content more usable and effective. To do this, we need to draw from ideas as varied as graphic design, information architecture, instructional design, web design and development, typographic design, audio development and others.

Basic Visual Design Elements

It is likely that a large portion of the on-line content we develop will be presented in a visual form. For this reason, it is relevant to consider what are some accepted visual design principles being used by professionals and what we might learn from them to apply to our work. However, the principles are typically applied to elements, or building blocks of visual representations that we should at least note in passing, though they may not all apply to our definition of elements or how we will apply the principles. A list of these elements might include:

  • point
  • space
  • shape
  • tone
  • form
  • mass
  • line
  • texture
  • pattern
  • time
  • light
  • color
  • Basic Visual Design Principles

    Though lists of visual design principles will differ from individual to individual, most lists will contain some arrangement of the following:

  • scale - typically contrasting one object with another
  • proportion -typically comparing elements of an object to its other elements
  • balance - often represented as an idea of symmetry
  • pattern - typically referring to the movement or placement of elements within a design
  • emphasis - usually a focal point
  • These principles are interpreted with differing intent depending on the application, so it becomes difficult find a definitive list, so we will merely suggest this list as an example:

  • Symmetry/Asymmetry - positioning elements in relation to one another
  • Proximity - grouping of elements or objects to signify meaning
  • Alignment - an application of symmetry that includes positioning of elements along a line in relation to one another
  • Repetition - the repeating of elements to build significance the in the eyes of the viewer
  • Dynamics - the "movement" or apparent progression of elements according an orderly or disorderly pattern
  • Hierarchy - assigning a visual order or dominance to elements
  • Emphasis - to create a visual focal point
  • Contrast - using obviously disparate elements to create emphasis
  • Unity - combining all elements into a harmonious presentation
  • Symmetry/Asymmetry

    Symmetry is naturally attractive to viewers, because we are taught that it is beautiful. We appreciate symmetrical elements because we immediately understand elements better when they are reflective of each other. Equal and opposing elements make sense and, in the visual sense, are usually considered beautiful. Asymmetrical elements within a group are often disturbing and even unnerving to many observers. The outward appearances of our own bodies are symmetrical, so it is understandable that this is a naturally attractive construct.

    Proximity

    The proximity of elements denotes their relationship to each other. Elements that are closer have a stronger relationship than those that are visually distant. This can apply to images or text, and is a clear visual indicator for the viewer as to relationships.

    Alignment

    When objects are aligned along an imaginary or apparent line in a composition, relevance and order is strengthened for the viewer. Arranging visual elements within grids is a long-standing and common practice within visual design.

    Repetition

    Repetition reinforces relevance of an element by signifying the importance of that element to the viewer. They may miss it on the first viewing, but after a sequence of repeated elements appear, they begin to understand that the element is important. Repeated elements such as colors or shapes also form a connection between different functioning elements, and provide a subconscious link to them in the mind of the viewer.

    Dynamics

    Every visual collection of elements has some type of "feeling" to it. If that dynamic is organized and focused, then the "feeling" experienced by the viewer should be close to what the creator intended. If however, the elements do not support the intended dynamic, then the impression of the viewer may be inconsistent with what the creator intended.

    Hierarchy

    People inherently wish to understand what is most important in a visual arrangement, so that they can more easily derive meaning from the work. By providing a clear delineation between the relevance of visual elements, the viewer can more easily know what they should be looking at, in what order, and for what reason. Lack of a hierarchy leads to confusion and wandering of the eye.

    Emphasis

    This idea is related to hierarchy, in that, by providing one particular aspect for the viewer to immediately focus upon, the creator can then establish an order for the viewer to follow, or at least get across a main point.

    Contrast

    Sometimes, the best way to emphasize an element is to present its antithesis to the viewer. This highlights the significant features of the element by their absence in its opposite.

    Unity

    The ultimate goal of any visual design is not to draw attention to this or that element in isolation, but create a coherency between all elements, in order to present a message. Design that holds no message is flat and uninteresting, and ultimately ignored by the viewer as being irrelevant. If design elements can be coerced into reinforcing a unified message or impression then, the design serves its purpose.

    The http://www.unseenaudience.com site is devoted to assisting developers of on-line educational material to produce better content through a deeper understanding of: instructional design, project management, information architecture, distance-learning design techniques, and electronic media creation methods and technologies.

    Thursday, June 21, 2007

    The Benefits and Drawbacks of an Online College

    The proliferation of the internet is truly remarkable, especially in the realm of education. Twenty years ago, the only way to take college and graduate-level classes was through the traditional path (i.e. either commute to school or reside there until you complete your degree). Now, classes come to you and are available at your convenience. You can even obtain a legitimate degree entirely online. So is an online college the best choice for you? That's a difficult question to answer since it's totally dependent on your schedule and lifestyle.

    Here are the primary factors that usually determine whether or not someone chooses an online college:

    1.)Busy schedule

    The rigors of daily life are stressful enough without having to commute to school. This is especially true if you're working full-time and/or have children. Re-arranging your busy schedule in order to take a morning or afternoon course really isn't attractive either. That's why online colleges are so appealing. A majority of these institutions provide the course material in downloadable links or in a discussion board format. This allows you to incorporate the coursework into your schedule when you have the time (as opposed to the other way around).

    2.)Feel like you're "too old" to go back to school

    There are many people who would love to go back to school in order to obtain an advanced degree, or simply just learn something new. Unfortunately, they fear being ostracized and embarrassed by taking a class with a bunch of teenagers. This makes the idea of an online college very appealing since you never have to set foot in an actual classroom.

    3.)Not close to any traditional college

    Even if you'd love to attend a traditional college, that option may not be available if you live a good hour or more away from the university. Choosing an online college eliminates the need to commute or worry about going to any physical location (with the exception of the room where your computer resides).

    Here is some basic information you should know about online colleges:

    1.)Graduate degrees are much more prevalent online

    If you do a search of the degrees that can be completed entirely online, you'll hve a much easier time with advanced degrees. This is especially true for business and technology degrees. That's not to say an undergraduate degree is impossible to complete exclusively online. Obtaining your associate's degree (about 60 credits woth of work) is very attainable online. The options are just more limited. This is primarily due to the popularity of online colleges with people in the work force trying to get a graduate degree in order to achieve an advancement at their job.

    2.)You have to go to a testing center for exams or acquire a proctor

    Most online colleges require you to go to a testing center for mid-term and final exams. If this is not logistically possible for you, then you're responsible for finding a qualified proctor. Essentially, a proctor is someone who acts as a temporary professor watching over you while you take an exam. They cannot be family members and the completion of a proctor application is usually required. Of course, this varies institution to institution.

    3.)Online colleges are not easier than traditional colleges

    If you think an online college will be easier than attending a traditional college, you're mistaken. It can actually be more challenging, in certain respects. For example, people who attend traditional colleges have the guidance of an experienced professor. Some provide helpful hints before tests and can even be lenient when it comes to grading, if you make a good impression. This is not so with online courses. Yes, you have access to a professor, but it's usually through e-mails. Obviously, this decreases the chance of you developing any sort of relationship with the professor so grading is usually by the book. The online coursework is comparable to the coursework you'd be forced to complete at a traditional college, so you'll still need to study. And yes, the tests can be just as difficult.

    Check Out the Best College Information Site on the Net

    Monday, June 18, 2007

    Get Your Diploma Through Online Degree Programs!

    Online degree programs leading to a diploma, number in the thousands on the web. To research all of the different online degrees being offered would take more time than most people have. In fact there are well over a hundred million pages devoted to the subject of 'online degree' on the internet so just making a start can be a daunting process. Deciding to go ahead and pursue an online degree has been the first big step that you have taken. This will have the effect of making your dream of a better career turn into a reality. Many people choose an online degree, or a diploma course, because they were or are simply not in the position to be able to get a degree whilst still at home and this has always had the effect of limiting career options. People who live in remote places have often had to forego a degree because of their isolation, but now obtaining an online degree has closed these miles. It was not all that long ago, that their only choice was that of the cumbersome and slow correspondence courses which often proved to be a long drawn out and frustrating option.

    The speed of the internet has brought about these very welcome changes, enabling many people to obtain an online degree or diploma who would under any other circumstances be prevented from pursuing this course. An online degree will allow those with no time to be able to complete their degree in their own time. Cost factors are another consideration that will bring an online degree within the reach of many who would not have been able to afford to attend the traditional teaching establishments. Online degrees now offer fast-paced, personal discussions amongst students and teachers, as well as live chat rooms, teleconferencing, bulletin boards and listservers that have revolutionized the area of remote education.

    Before choosing an online degree or diploma study, you need to keep in mind whether you are going to need a synchronous course that is one that happens in real time, with live chat, streaming audio, etc., this being the closest thing you will find online to an actual bricks-and-mortar college. The other type of online degree is the asynchronous type, which is time-independent. This online degree makes full use of email and listservers for communication. This latter type of online degree is fully suited to the busy person, with an unpredictable schedule who has to study in his own time. It is this flexibility that has been such a help in allowing so many to change their lives around by obtaining an online degree. With either type of online degree, it is essential that you check the accreditation of the school to ensure that your online degree carries the weight of a real school.

    Diplomas and courses are first on Sam Ness' mind right now, as he is seeking a chance to gain more specialized qualifications, for better employment prospects.

    Friday, June 15, 2007

    Online Masters in Education - Choosing The Best Online Program

    Those who are considering taking an online masters in education would do well to understand the key factors that can enhance the experience. There are many aspects to choosing the right online program as well as making sure the program meets individual needs. In a fast paced world it isn't always easy to attend regular classes to earn a degree. Demanding schedules and hectic family and social life can impose on time limits and as the old saying goes; there is only 24 hours in a day. Deciding to get your masters in education is a great start but there are elements that have to be carefully observed.

    In seeking a great masters in education program there are several components that have to be addressed. Any online institution that is to be considered should first and foremost be an accredited educational facility. Accreditation is the number one factor that can ultimately kick start a fantastic career as the working world considers online education an acceptable medium given the right set of credentials are met for the school.

    There are as many different options of online institutions that offer the online masters in education as there are people who demand them. However, there are some requirements that also have to be met in order to successfully participate in the programs. Taking an online masters in education will translate to having a high-speed internet connection, video camera, microphone and a set of speakers. Although the requirements are not too intensive, there are some factors that have to be considered. Many people are in remote areas that don't offer a high-speed connection as well as other conditions that could restrict internet access.

    There is also the matter of the instructor's credentials when taking an online masters in education. The online teacher is a relatively new area and can be a rough lesson with an inexperienced teacher. Research all that is required to find out what credentials he or she has and any past student testimony before committing to a specific course of action. A masters in education is a timely course and finding out that the instructor has never taught online and is computer illiterate could influence the outcome of the individual student.

    Pursuing an online masters in education is a very flexible alternative to attending a university. There is no need to relocate or quit a good paying job in order to become well educated. If you are ready to commit to an exciting and rewarding education experience, the online masters in education is the road to take. Open up career opportunities in areas that you never before dreamed. Join the modern movement in online education and be a graduate of an online masters in education.

    Troy Degarnham is the author and webmaster of http://www.onlineeducationteaching.com, an informative website about Online Education.

    Extensive help and tips on online education teaching, learning, degrees, and available courses.

    Monday, June 11, 2007

    Benefits Of A Distance Learning Degree

    Getting a college degree can be one of the single most important things a person can do to help ensure a higher income and opened doors down the road. While it isn't a guarantee for success, it is a key factor in it for many. With this in mind, more and more, people are turning to distance learning degree programs to help them achieve this vital goal.

    A distance learning degree program is nothing more than a regular college-level program, but without all the driving and sitting in class time. Instead, these programs operate using the Internet as their classrooms, giving students the freedom to work on their own schedules. This can present a fantastic opportunity for those who must work while they learn.

    Distance learning degree programs tend to vary a bit from institution to institution. Some classes, too, can deliver very different requirements. In some online courses, for example, students will be expected to show up in "class," an online chat room at set times on set days. In other cases, all correspondence with the professor is handled via e-mail, chat and telephone on a less stringent schedule. Either way, these classes and programs all add up to a degree at the end of the road.

    The benefits of distance learning degree programs are many. They include such things as:

    * Less formal setting. Since the setting is the Internet, it means students can live and learn as they go. Whether they roll out of bed and get online or they do their course work in the middle of the night, the reality is the less formal, more intimate setting helps those with a fear factor toward large, lecture courses thrive.

    * Individualized attention. Many of these programs actually make it easier - not harder - for students to interact with professors. The time lost driving and organizing a class can be regained online quickly and easily.

    * Lower fees. This is not the case with all distance learning degree programs, but many offer slightly lower fees that physical classes do. Plus, activities fees often charged annually on college campuses tend not to apply to these cases. This cost savings with some distance learning degree programs can open doors for those who cannot afford regular tuition requirements.

    * Recognized degree programs. Whereas distance learning degree programs used to be restricted to a few set areas, this isn't the case anymore. Accredited colleges and universities are learning to tap into this opportunity to draw more students. To do so, they're tailoring more programs for online learning.

    * End result. The end result of a distance learning program remains the all important degree. As long as the institution involved is accredited and the program is, too, the degree is just as viable as one earned by spending years sitting in a class.

    A distance learning degree program can be ideal for anyone who doesn't think they have to time to achieve. The reality is these programs are available around the clock, removing one of the biggest roadblocks for many.

    For more information on distance learning, visit http://www.distancelearningopportunities.com - a website that specializes in distance learning resources including information on distance learning degree.

    Tuesday, June 05, 2007

    The Top Ten Reasons To Take An Online Degree

    Online degrees are becoming more and more popular by the day as a result of more individuals wanting to better themselves and achieve something that they can be proud of. Getting a university education can be extremely expensive, but getting an online education gives everybody that degree of flexibility and thus actively encourages those who may have been priced out before. Finance is one of the many reasons why so many people opt for online courses in universities. If you are having trouble deciding whether to apply for an online degree or not, then have a look at the top ten reasons why you should below:

    1. Improving your education – Getting an online degree can only serve to enhance any education you had previously undertaken. Education, it seems will get you anywhere these days and online courses in universities seems like a great place to start. Even if you do not intend to use the online education that you receive, the sense of achievement is extraordinary.
    2. Improving your career prospects – Many employers look to hire college graduates because they have more life experience and honed personal qualities in comparison to high school graduates. Online degrees can give you an edge that other applicants may not have. They can also cement your position in an existing career and help to propel you forward.
    3. Mental stimulation – Many people apply for online courses in universities because it provides them with mental stimulus. This especially applies to housewives and mothers/fathers who rarely escape the home. An online education is something different and really works your mind.
    4. The challenge – Online degrees often prove to be a challenge because you are constantly working off your own initiative, more so than attending a college for classes. Taking online courses in universities provides something new and different that can push you to your limits at time, but the reward is ultimately worth it.
    5. Learning from home – An online education can allow you to work in the comfort of your own home, which is an environment that relaxes some people and is where they work best as a result. Online degrees are also therefore perfect for students with learning difficulties or personality traits that may hinder them in a classroom environment, painful shyness for example.
    6. Tailor your education to your circumstances – Online courses in universities afford you a degree of flexibility that any regular course doesn’t. You can fit an online education around existing commitments so that you do not have to alter your priorities to get where you want to go.
    7. Course availability – If you are interested in a specialist or rare online course in university, it may not be offered in your area. However, the wide variety of online degrees available often means that you can find it somewhere in the world to complete online!
    8. Resources at your fingertips – Search and click. That is all you have to do to complete assignments and fulfil your online education. Universities offering online degrees often have archives and libraries online so everything that you need is right there just waiting to be accessed.
    9. Easy but effective communication – Completing online courses at universities means that sending an email will get you into your tutor’s office with just a click of a mouse, which is much better than having to track him or her down on campus to ask a question!
    10. Saving money – No travel costs, no commuting, and no rent – just tuition and materials fees. Online degrees definitely save you money so that you can stretch your funds further and complete your online education at less personal expense.

    Online degrees do not suit everybody, but after reading the reasons to choose an online education above you will have a better idea of whether it is a viable option for you. Can you really afford not to give it some thought?

    You can also find more info on Top Online Universities and University Of Phoenix Online College Degrees . Onlineuniversitydegreehelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know importance of college degree.

    Friday, June 01, 2007

    The Top Ten Reasons To Take An Online Degree

    Online degrees are becoming more and more popular by the day as a result of more individuals wanting to better themselves and achieve something that they can be proud of. Getting a university education can be extremely expensive, but getting an online education gives everybody that degree of flexibility and thus actively encourages those who may have been priced out before. Finance is one of the many reasons why so many people opt for online courses in universities. If you are having trouble deciding whether to apply for an online degree or not, then have a look at the top ten reasons why you should below:

    1. Improving your education – Getting an online degree can only serve to enhance any education you had previously undertaken. Education, it seems will get you anywhere these days and online courses in universities seems like a great place to start. Even if you do not intend to use the online education that you receive, the sense of achievement is extraordinary.
    2. Improving your career prospects – Many employers look to hire college graduates because they have more life experience and honed personal qualities in comparison to high school graduates. Online degrees can give you an edge that other applicants may not have. They can also cement your position in an existing career and help to propel you forward.
    3. Mental stimulation – Many people apply for online courses in universities because it provides them with mental stimulus. This especially applies to housewives and mothers/fathers who rarely escape the home. An online education is something different and really works your mind.
    4. The challenge – Online degrees often prove to be a challenge because you are constantly working off your own initiative, more so than attending a college for classes. Taking online courses in universities provides something new and different that can push you to your limits at time, but the reward is ultimately worth it.
    5. Learning from home – An online education can allow you to work in the comfort of your own home, which is an environment that relaxes some people and is where they work best as a result. Online degrees are also therefore perfect for students with learning difficulties or personality traits that may hinder them in a classroom environment, painful shyness for example.
    6. Tailor your education to your circumstances – Online courses in universities afford you a degree of flexibility that any regular course doesn’t. You can fit an online education around existing commitments so that you do not have to alter your priorities to get where you want to go.
    7. Course availability – If you are interested in a specialist or rare online course in university, it may not be offered in your area. However, the wide variety of online degrees available often means that you can find it somewhere in the world to complete online!
    8. Resources at your fingertips – Search and click. That is all you have to do to complete assignments and fulfil your online education. Universities offering online degrees often have archives and libraries online so everything that you need is right there just waiting to be accessed.
    9. Easy but effective communication – Completing online courses at universities means that sending an email will get you into your tutor’s office with just a click of a mouse, which is much better than having to track him or her down on campus to ask a question!
    10. Saving money – No travel costs, no commuting, and no rent – just tuition and materials fees. Online degrees definitely save you money so that you can stretch your funds further and complete your online education at less personal expense.

    Online degrees do not suit everybody, but after reading the reasons to choose an online education above you will have a better idea of whether it is a viable option for you. Can you really afford not to give it some thought?

    You can also find more info on Top Online Universities and University Of Phoenix Online College Degrees . Onlineuniversitydegreehelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know importance of college degree.