The trends in the job market have changed. This is observed particularly in the IT and computing industry. Now it’s so unpredictable that nobody knows who will manage to impress the employer- those having traditional degree or the self-learners.
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Traditional learners take formal training from campus based education format. Where students dedicate reasonable amount to time and money to get the qualification. Whereas self-learners might opt for Online IT diploma courses. Online diploma in information technology programmes allows students to take quality and flexible study option at affordable cost.
Online education has the potential to engage and deliver key learning and skill to the students. Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is the online learning platform that offers standard education for free. Here students can learn the latest IT and computing skills. Besides, there top online institutes which dispense comprehensive, qualitative, practical and industry based learning.
10 Smar Tips For Effective Online Study
Learning In The New Format
According to the Global Developer Economics: State of the developer Nation, a survey conducted with 13,000 plus developers by the VisionMobile shows that 46% of the prompt developers have not learnt computer science from institutes. The report shows that 45% HTML5/Javascript developer belongs to this group. The survey reveals that HTML5/Javascript developer comprising 29% had learnt self and have no formal training for scripting languages.
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The survey also shows that the providers of MOOCs have the pivotal role which has helped developers to obtain skills in the related field. This includes skills such as Ruby and Python. Besides, there are MOOC programmes for Android, iOS app and web development alongside data science.
According to Coursera Technology Vertical Manager Kevin Mills, “The typical Coursera learner taking a programming or other technology course has a bachelor’s degree, is currently employed, and is between 22 and 35 years of age. Among these learners, it is about an even split between those looking to begin a new career in programming versus those seeking to advance their existing programming skills.”
There are also e-learning institutes delivering essential learning through online diploma in computing courses which facilitate relevant skill building to the students.
Time & Money Factor
Time and money are two most valuable things in life. Effective use of time is indispensable. Ask any person on the plant what is the importance of time? I am sure even school children would be able to tell you the importance of time. In the present day, time management is crucial for success. Now the question arises- Does one have ample time to attend hours of lecture in the classroom, travel and study at home? What if education system allows students to study from anywhere and anytime, which will save plenty of time. I have seen students taking the online diploma in computing and using remaining time for enhancing their knowledge.
Online IT diploma programmes including that of the MOOC does not only saves crucial time by money as well. Online diploma in information technology courses offered by online institutes is low priced. Whereas in MOOC app and web development and others are free.
So, why would anybody spend additional time and money? Especially when they have the tool like online learning that helps them to attain their purpose?
Zukerberg And Priscilla Foundation To Facilitate Education
November 16, 2015
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook has greater aim beyond digital communication. He believes to with knowledge mankind can develop his abilities. He feels with the help of the available resources necessary assistance can be provides so that the children can attain education. In his recent Facebook post Zuckerberg wrote that he and his wife Priscilla Chan are expecting their first baby. An article published in CNN Money has confirmed the news. In the article Facebook CEO told, “Soon we’re going to be parents,”.
He also said, “And we care deeply about doing everything we can so all children — not just ours — can grow up and achieve their full potential.”
Image source : 1.usa.gov/1N6sZ0n
The article published in CNN has reflected the bigger goal of CEO of the Facebook. To cater meaningful education to the whole, particularly the underserved, can transform many lives and upgrading the knowledge system. Read on.
The Foundation
Zuckerberg is exploring all the meaning full and possible ways to engage the underserved into education. The CNN Money wrote that the a non-profit education foundation “Startup:Education” formed in 2010 , is owned by Zuckerberg and Priscilla has granted $120 million to abet education programme for five years in the local community of the of San Francisco.
Essence Of Knowledge
The essence of education cannot be denied. In fact, Zuckerberg plan to support the cause for education is part of long term vision. He has understood that knowledge could bring desired changes in the society by eliminating the illiteracy and poverty. This the capability of self-reliance could be developed among the uderserved, particularly the student.
Need Based Learning System
Facebook CEO intends to develop a learning system with personalised education. Where the study material and instruction by the educators is designed to meet the want of the learner. The CNN report said, “ Chan is starting a K- 12 school called ‘The Primary School,”. It wrote, “The private, nonprofit institution in East Palo Alto will be geared toward low-income students and attendance will be free. Healthcare will be included.”
Image source : 1.usa.gov/1kzXFus
The report says, “Zuckerberg already supports Summit Public Schools; KIPP, a network of 183 charter schools; and AltSchool, a small group of private schools that focuses on mixed-age learning,” according to the article.
Going The Right Way
Zukerberg and Priscilla want to use the fund in the most appropriate manner. The intend to make public schools a better place for learning. The betterment of these schools would happen at interstate level instead of not focusing at particular area or the region.
Supporting The Noble Cause
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The drive to support the cause of education is a welcome initiative. Mark and Priscilla have realised to need to uplift the underserved. Their health issues and other aspects has been critically understood by the the Facebook couple. Mark has many times pointed that with the available technology and resources the underserved can be served. Referring the noble programme we hope that the goal is achieved. The society learns from the Facebook couple and steps forward to support such endeavours.
Post your comments by sharing your experience and insights.
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Technical Innovation – 5 Most Enriched African Countries
September 23, 2015
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The age in which we live is an age where science and technology forms an integral part and, thus, it becomes a governing element of the human life. In the present day, almost all of the continents are technologically advanced and are keeping up with the rapid development of the technical aspects that are being developed. America is in its utmost position in the implementation of technology. Europe and Asia are following it and they too have already incorporated what was needed.
Africa has been the continent which was less developed than these continents but presently it does not remain in such a position as it were. It has seen an influential entry of the technology based science which was successful in elevating the continent in such a position where it can be identified as a continent desperately endeavouring to implement scientific features to heighten its condition.
Here is a brief discussion on the 5 topmost technically developed countries and the state of their scientific improvement in Africa.
South Africa
The most technologically developed countries in the continent is South Africa. It has seen technological developments in almost every sphere of it. It ranks as one of the topmost countries in the Global Innovation Index or GII. The improvement in the fields of the IT industry is impressive. Added to that the South African Universities shave gathered quite a fame. Even the country made some wonderful contributions in the fields of invention.
Egypt
Egypt is one of the most notable countries in Africa. The Pyramid, the use of calendar, the use of written language – all of these are the wonderful features of Egypt. Civilisation began in Egypt an innovation also found its place in this amazing country. It was responsible to extend science and technology in the entire continent. It has some of the best universities in Africa providing support to technology. The government has assisted Egypt to reach this height as the former encourages technological expansion from the country to the industries. It has an influential technological force amongst the other countries of Africa.
Nigeria
Nigeria is one of the most populous countries in the continent having a lot of potentials in the industry. The country has seen impressive innovations that will lead it to a brighter future. Apart from that, the country has experienced a significant development in web apps and mobile technologies. The penetration of the internet connectivity is less though. But the country also has skilled people who can make better innovation in the future.
Kenya
The country has a vast range of invention. Added to that, startup of the private companies are also one of the notable factors of the present development of the country. The IT sector have influentially developed. If this startup from the technological companies grows, then one day the country will become one of the platforms for technological improvement.
Ghana
With the stable government and a growing economy, Ghana can provide the suitable opportunity for the growth of technology. It is a country where a lot of innovations have taken place. It belongs to west Africa and is being speculated as the next ‘great’ African country.
A Newer Africa
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With the advent of technology, the process of Africa’s innovative improvement has already started. It is wrong to say Africa is not technologically equipped. The technical innovation inaugurated its journey in Africa and it will be persisting, bringing a variety of vibrant changes in this amazing continent.
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Planning for an Executive MBA programme? But can it actually help you in becoming a better manager and business leader? Will your MBA knowledge help you boost your business and career? Well, the fact is the knowledge you gain about the business world, the economic scenario and the external market during your course, will boost your business acumen and empower you to become a better professional. Let’s take a look….
Need For Hands-on Learning
Experiential learning is an integral part of every management programme. Last year, 110 participants from 2 separate EMBA programmes at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM) tool part in a process of exploring business across South Africa. It was basically a study trip which focused on hands-on experience of business and developing business strategies for Africa.
Source – bit.ly/1AHEd5W
One of the groups, which included 62 participants visited various establishments in Johannesburg, including vehicle financier SA Taxi Finance, a beer and soft drink company SABMiller, and entertainment firm MultiChoice. They also studied a number of local NGOs and businesses in Alexandra, a township in Johannesburg and is considered among the poorest urban regions in South Africa. Moreover, lectures were also organised on topics like entrepreneurship in South Africa and it’s global competitiveness, Africa as a growing market etc.
Tamkara Adun, a Nigerian participant, said the trip was “a valuable time of learning and discovery” and a learning experience. She added “I emerged with a better understanding of the dynamics of doing business in Africa.” Adun claimed that the classroom sessions helped her in being “better able to appreciate the enormous potential for economic growth that is Africa. Via consultations with the business owner, we were able to understand his business, recognise the challenges his business faced and appreciate the uniqueness of his business.”
Exploring Potential For Growth
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During this period, another group of 48 EMBA participants visited Cape Town to explore business practices at different companies including, life assurance firm Old Mutual Finance, supermarket chain Pick ‘n Pay, Villiera Wines, beverage firm SABMiller and retail business PEP. The students had a learning experience and got a clear understanding about the business scenario in South Africa.
Duna Uribe, a Brazilian-American student, said “We had the opportunity to take a glance at not only the South African business reality but also at the human reality. Even though I come from an emerging economy myself and have been quite exposed to social struggles, I found it fascinating to see how South Africa is dealing with all of it: politics, economics, health, and diverse society and languages.”
An Executive MBA programme allows you to learn what you need and acquire all the right skills that will boost your effectiveness as a business leader. You will learn how to efficiently manage Operations, Marketing & Sales, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources and other business aspects. However, if you are an aspiring entrepreneur planning for your start-up or a professional trying to land the next big promotion, then pursuing a full time EMBA course may be challenging for you due the requirement of time and money investment.
Source – bit.ly/1cv9ehC
A Better Way To Learn Business
In this scenario, there is a better alternative available for you to study management in an affordable and effective way. Simply opt for an online MBA top-up degree as it will enable you to understand core management concepts without shelling out too much cash. Moreover, as you will learn the necessary skills, you will be able to face various business challenges and transform risks into opportunities. However, one of the biggest benefits of studying a top-up MBA programme is that you can study at any time you want. As these courses are highly flexible, you can easily work throughout the day and focus on your job or start-up, while studying at a time that is convenient to you.
Furthermore, online MBA top-up courses allow you to interact with fellow learners from different economies via online forums. This will allow you to learn how the business sphere operates in different economies. You will also have the opportunity to fast track your degree to the final year of an accredited Executive MBA or any other related programme without any hassle.
So what are you waiting for? If you want to meet new experienced professionals, expand your network and add value to your professional credibility in the long run, then a top up degree in MBA can certainly help you achieve your business goals.
What do you think? Want to add to the discussion? Feel free to share your opinions and thoughts below.
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Improving Education In Nigeria Through Technology
April 16, 2015
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Although the Nigerian government is taking numerous steps to improve the education system in the nation, it seems that making education easily accessible to all still appears to be a distant dream. Why? The reason is Nigeria continues to make a notably poor appearance in the global ratings.
Nigeria Is Lagging Behind
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In the recent Global Competitiveness Index for 2012/2013, a survey that analyses the quality of macroeconomic environment, the condition of national public institutions and their level of technological acceptance, Nigeria was ranked 148 among 196 nations and retained a 3.50 score. This same score was also recorded in the 2011/2012 review. The country is currently behind other African nations namely Cameroon (3.61); Ghana (3.65); Benin (3.78); Kenya (3.82); and South Africa (4.34).
According to the World Economic Forum, which conducted the study, the 3.50 score recorded by Nigeria is pretty low in the rating index, especially when compared to other African countries. Academic experts believe that this is a result of the void present in the existing educational system. Adeyemi Abdul-Rasaq, a research analyst, believes the unhealthy education sector in the country has created a huge gap in the development of technological progress. He made the comments based on the fact that none of the Nigerian universities appeared in the best 85 universities among the 7,000 globally recognised universities in the survey.
Hope For Learners
However, it should be noted that in the past few years, many organisations have taken the initiative to support the development efforts of the Nigerian education system. Moreover, they are actively assisting institutions and governments to improve the academic standards in the country. Usually these supports come through adoption of schools, renovations, investing in schools, scholarship programmes, teachers training programmes etc.
To help achieve the goal of education for all, Guinness Nigeria supported the development of technological education by offering sponsorship to 10 learners for a technical training programme at the Institute of Industrial Technology (IIT). Olumide Akinjo, Director of the Institute, said “The purpose of this programme is to use technical and vocational training to close the gap in educational development and we are happy to have an able supporter such as Guinness Nigeria Plc that have supported some our students towards achieving their dreams.”
Regarding the contribution of Guinness, company spokesperson Mrs. Nkiruka Ogboruche, commented that the company is always determined to support the aspirations and dreams of the youths and encourage them to become valuable members of society. She said “At Guinness Nigeria, we are always happy to be involved with worthy projects that can add tremendous value to the lives of Nigerians. This sort of support forms a core part of our community investment agenda and we will continue to support Nigeria and Nigerians through initiatives and activities that uplift them.”
Creating A Better Scenario
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The support provided by Guinness has offered a chance to youths to achieve their goals. The fact remains that an effective and noteworthy shift, which assures support for vocational and technical institutions and the learners, has numerous benefits for the entire nation at large. This will result in the rise of a skilled generation of Nigerian youths who can eradicate the skill gap and add significant value to the economy.
What do you think? Share your views and ideas with us by commenting below.
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Business education has certainly become one of the most popular programmes for students aspiring to higher education qualifications across the globe. This is not surprising as after the recent global financial crisis, the job market has become increasingly competitive and employers have become more stringent about the recruitment process. A business degree can help graduates get an edge over others and make them eligible for a number of employment opportunities in various fields. Hence more and more students are now planning to pursue business studies from reputed universities and B-schools, whether online or on-campus.
Demand For Business Study
Recently The Guardian Postgraduate Guide for 2015 was released which offers an overview of various courses available at UK universities this year. All the courses have been categorised into a total of 52 subject areas. Overall, the guide includes courses available at around 2,000
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departments.
This year’s guide revealed 2 major trends, the growing popularity of business programmes and the rise in the number of foreign students who come to the United Kingdom to earn postgraduate degrees. Most of the full-time postgraduate students in Britain are now international learners.
Most Popular Subjects
The Guardian 2015 Postgraduate Guide assures that hard-headed are prevalent as a result of the
challenging economic scenario. The new guide uses statistics from 2012-2013, which is the most recent year from which government data is available. In the specified year, business, management and marketing, were the most popular postgraduate subjects among students, both regarding universities offering the subject and students pursuing it.
Around 121 providers offered business, management and marketing in the tables prepared by The Guardian. Moreover, over 70,000 students were registered for taught postgraduate courses in business. An additional 17,000 students were studying the related topics namely finance and accounting. Next on the list of most popular subject was Education with around 71,000 taught postgraduate students and 97 providers. Most of them were pursuing PGCE teaching qualifications instead of a full master’s degree.
Here is a list of the top 5 most popular subjects:
| Subjects | Providers | Taught postgraduates |
| Business, Management & Marketing | 121 | 70051 |
| Education | 97 | 71064 |
| Psychology | 90 | 12101 |
| Computer Science & Information Systems | 89 | 11414 |
| Accounting & Finance | 83 | 17373 |
Rise Of International Students
Source – bit.ly/1HZdIIa
There is no doubt that universities in the UK are highly popular among international students as a study destination, and this was observed more at the postgraduate level, rather than the undergraduate level. It was found that more than 140,000 students, domiciled outside the United Kingdom, were pursuing postgraduate courses in UK colleges and universities during 2012-13. This figure was over 33 per cent of all postgraduate learners.Rise Of International Students
The study patterns of these learners were pretty different from British students. Where most UK postgraduate students are usually working and studying part-time, with only 33 per cent studying full-time, students from abroad who have travelled to the United Kingdom normally go for full-time courses, with almost 85 per cent students. Hence, most of the full-time postgraduate students were international students in 2012-2013.
What do you think? Feel free to share your thoughts and views with us y commenting below.
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Online education is now considered as one of the best ways of learning as it offers affordable and effective learning solutions to students around the world, who are unable to access traditional classroom education for whatever reasons. Numerous teachers and employers are now supporting digital learning for all the benefits it offers to students. But can online education help Nigerian students to avoid various challenges and access education easily? Let’s have a look…..
An Insecure Education System
Source – 1.usa.gov/1Cb769f
Students in the northeast region of Nigeria now face a number of difficulties and threats like random kidnappings, bombings and militant attacks, which started growing since 2009. So what should the parents of students in such regions do? What actions will you take if you heard that insurgents are about to attack your local schools? No matter how horrifying it sounds, many parents north-eastern Nigerian cities like Bauchi and Damaturu are actually coping with such decisions. They are now having second thoughts about whether they should send their kids to school or not. However, I guess now parents can make the decision more easily as more than 800 schools across the region have already been closed down due to lack of security.
According to an independent assessment by the CCSG (Coalition of Civil Society Groups), more than 194,664 learners are compelled to leave their schools as a result of growing insecurity. Etuk Bassey Williams, President of CCSG, believes that closing schools in Nigeria will adversely affect the probabilities of accomplishing the benchmarks for enrolments in primary schools in 2015, with below 80 per cent enrolment of children. Many education experts believe that implementing online study tools and facilities in the school curriculum can help teach home-bound learners, particularly disturbed northeast areas of Nigeria.
Can Online Learning Be Effective In Nigeria?
Dr. Dipo Fashina, ex-president of ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities), believes that the education system in Nigeria is flawed and strongly need to be restructured. Dr. Fashina commented “Education is the major thing that promotes being at the height of development and we are not there yet.”
The truth is enrolment in online study courses has already increased significantly with growing numbers of Nigerian students keen on studying online and earning accredited degrees. This is mainly due to the corrupted and defective education system in the country that creates under-prepared graduates who are unable to find any employment. On the other hand, numerous Nigerian learners, who wish to pursue quality education and degrees from recognised universities abroad without facing any threats or difficulties, believe that online programmes offer them the best learning opportunities.
Moreover, online study courses offered in Nigeria are highly affordable as these can incorporate innumerable students by utilising the same resources, same faculty and instructors and same school buildings. In fact now you can find various African-inspired online programmes that have been specifically developed for students in African nations. Developed by entrepreneur Gossy Ukanwoke, Beni American University is considered to be the first online university in Nigeria. Moreover MTN mAcademy is also a reputed and renowned online learning app that offers online courses on various subjects for free or minimal fees to students in different African countries.
Online Education – A Better Alternative
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The fact is the possibility of online education to offer feasible learning solutions to learners in troubled regions will improve further with booming telecommunications sector and increasing internet broadband connectivity across Nigeria.
Do you think online learning is the best alternative of Nigerian students? Share your thoughts and opinions with me by commenting in the box below.
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With the advent of technology, distance learning has advanced to unprecedented heights. In its early years, distance learning was more about course material being dispatched through the mail but today, it has evolved and students can access course material online and discuss it with their tutors with the help of internet tools like webcams.
Online distance learning has brought many enthusiastic learners back to academic fold. A number of people who had quit academics early in their life because of some constraints, show faith in online education and are returning to complete their education. It is the idea of giving something back motivating people to return to education and online distance learning programme has proved to be of great help in realizing their dreams.
Source: bit.ly/1hoim7v
Online learning paves way for convenient learning environment
The most sought after distance learning online course has been found to be MBA. Professionals these days are keen to specialize in their respective area and stay abreast of others by increasing their educational qualification through online programmes.
When it comes to distance learning online, most of its features are different from the traditional classroom environment, where students and teachers can interact in real time. As opposed to traditional classroom, virtual learning lets students study according to own convenience. There are some online courses that allow recording of interactions and instructional proceedings to review it later by students.
So, you must have got a fair idea about how distance learning works. But, there are more to it. In fact, the idea of distance learning is quite vast and one needs to carefully and sincerely examine all the features and facts about it.
Nature of study material
Students have access to the online study material in the form of audio CDs and video DVDs, though most colleges and universities provide plenty of printed study material as well. While compiling the topics into course materials, it is kept in mind that they are of highest quality and may contain specially written workbooks or textbooks, online teaching materials, audio and video CDs and computer software.
After enrolment, each student is given access to the module website, where they can find out plenty of additional resources. They are also given authority to visit the online library.
You are going to need a computer
If you enrol for a distance learning online course, you will need a computer and reliable and consistent access to internet so that you can gain maximum from the universities’ online services, which include online forums and vast library, among others. On the computer with internet access, you can interact with fellow students and tutors in order to seek assistance in your studies.
Assessment and examinations
Online learning is not an easy cakewalk. You are asked to complete your assignments that contribute towards completion of your module. Furthermore, you must submit the assignments online on or before due date.
The assignment given to you covers the material from your module. It helps you strengthen the knowledge you have gained from module. Your tutors provide comments on most assignments.
At the end of the module, you are expected to appear for examination on scheduled dates. You are made aware of the specific details of the examination up to a year in advance. Examination location depends upon your country of residence and arranged individually.
In a sharp contrast to early years, online learners today are sought after in the job market. A number of online learners have gone on holding the top positions in the corporate sector. Some renowned UK universities have come to Nigeria with a hope to contribute to its education sector. Nigerian students can make the best use of their presence and achieve their dreams by receiving globally recognized online degrees from them.
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While many 23 years olds across the world are still at university, Gossy Ukanwoke had by that age started one. In late 2012, Gossy Ukanwoke founded Beni American University (BAU), which is the first private online university of Nigeria. With the help of internet-enabled devices, students enrolled in this college can access their classes at any time of the day.
Ukanwoke, who is 25 now, says, “We are providing executive programs for graduates who are looking for employment and want to build up their resumes, or managers who want to climb up the hierarchy of their companies. We also have courses targeted at people who want to start their own business.”
Mark Zuckerberg of Nigeria
Before BAU, Ukanwoke had launched an online venture called Students Circle. He had launched this educational social networking site while in university. The Students Circle is meant to help learners interact with fellow learners and make use of free resources from top-tier schools.
Ukanwoke explains, “When I created Students Circle in 2010, I found out that … many were looking for certificates, hoping that they could get something they could use to maybe find employment or get a promotion in the workplace. There was a need for a new institution to be created in Nigeria,” Forbes once described him as “Mark Zuckerberg of Nigeria.”
At present, BAU has 10 instructors and about 200 students with 26 years as an average age.
This start-up has faced some roadblocks into its journey so far. As Nigerian laws ask universities to must have a physical campus, Ukanwoke bought the land in Benue State last year with an aim to construct a private campus with capacity to accommodate over 10,000 students.
The project is likely to commence next year but, meanwhile, the BAU continues to offer web courses at the cost of $100 to $300 for 12 week online programme. BAU offers a range of courses, including corporate diplomacy, leadership and management, project management, global marketing, digital journalism and entrepreneurship and innovation.
Chinenye Madukwe, a BAU student, says, “It’s good because I have four kids. I have opportunity to work at the same time, because I have a small interior design outfit.” On the other hand, Oo Nwoye says that he enrolled in the college for gaining knowledge. “It is just helpful for my business and that is the most important thing to me,” he says.
Education is the key to success
Ukanwoke is passionate about use of technology to find out the solutions of social problems. He says, “I grew up within the framework where education was put at a very high level of importance, and entrepreneurship is something that I always wanted to do,”
He further says, “Without education I don’t think we can do any progress. It’s not just about getting a certificate — education is about teaching people how to make a living and teaching people how to live; how to interact with others, how to lead their lives and make something out of themselves,”
Ukanwoke continues, “With education comes discipline and we need a lot of discipline in Nigeria as well, so education is really important.”
He depends a lot on social media for advertisement but says that student referrals are the main reason for increase in enrolment in BAU.
Ukanwoke has a long way to go, a lot of work to do, a lot of policy bickering too, but the work is in progress and he will surely and certainly achieve his desired goals. The future of education in Nigeria is bright and people like Ukanwoke have raised the awareness in the country.
Article Source: cnn.it/1krE09Q
Can Social Media be used Effectively in Classrooms?
April 19, 2014
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Social networking sites are a lot more than a platform for staying connected with friends and family. Social media gives us the opportunity to reach out and make a difference not just to people you know but to the world. As an educator, I have used the social media platforms to reach out to students across the world. But before you decide on how you want to use it, and how effectively you should use it, here are a few points to keep in mind.
The advantages:
- You need to develop important social media skills required in today’s world
- You need to prepare students for the world of social media
- Social media gives opportunity to give feedback to individual students
- It is an easy way to communicate and connect with parents
- It is useful for gathering and sharing resources
- It helps give a shy student a voice
The last advantage is extremely important as shy students in class hardly get to voice their opinions, ask questions or state points, they do not participate in classroom discussions. They usually just sit in one corner of the class. Such students prefer written communication. Therefore, social media will be the best platform for them to communicate with the rest of the class and teachers.
A few “do’s and don’ts”
- Do not create personal accounts, stick to classroom accounts
- Provide the students with resources but make sure that this does not become the only place for resources
- Do provide students with feedback they require but don’t follow them
- Do not leave the classroom social media unsupervised but do create a class contract
- Do teach your students about digital citizenship
PLN or Personal Learning Network helps you grow. Here’s what it does:
- Connects like-minded teachers
- Helps find resources beyond the clutches of Google
- Helps in answering and asking questions
How to improve PLN?
- Share resources
- Follow and be followed by others
- Join chats related to education
- Share the resources of others
- Take part in discussions online
Sharing resources
A school’s account on social media is extremely effective and sharing resources as a school account is powerful. These accounts are also popular. These accounts can be used by teachers to share resources with students, give them information on upcoming events, holidays and various other activities. Teachers can also make things interesting by mixing learning with entertainment.
Platforms you can use
Pinterest: You can use this platform to create and share pictorial resources with your students
Twitter: You can carry out classroom discussions on Twitter by posting questions, using unique hash tags, Historicaltweets.com can be used to discuss and research about a topic or a person, etc.
Facebook: This is the most popular platform you can use. You can create groups to share resources, create assignments designed like events, etc.
I believe, that with social media, you can help your students a lot in an interactive, fun and enthusiastic manner. Social media in classrooms should be introduced for the benefit of students and teachers.
Article source: bit.ly/1ftiDBX
Leona Sharon
Distance Learning in Nigeria 