If You Want To Power Up Your Study Habits Then Here Are Some Great Study Tips For You

There are many useful study tips and techniques on how to study and most of them have a use. Study involves reading books, watching videos, listening to audio recordings, researching facts in libraries or on the Web and attending lessons/lectures. The result of these activities can be enhanced if you know how to study.

The Best Way to Study

What you study will be determined by the subject but how you study is up to you. You attend your classroom lessons and lectures but if you want to do well in the exam you will study on your own in addition. Knowing how to study consists of taking notes, timing and timetable planning. You should also select the best area to study where you are surrounded by all you will need for you studies such as books, computers, pens, pencils and paper and most important it is quiet with no disturbances such as cell phones - you are not available during study time.

The Best Timing Strategy for Study Sessions

Because of the way memory works it is better to time your studying in short sharp bursts. I recommend that a study session be broken down into one hour chunks. Each chunk is carried out as follows:

• First 5 minutes revising the material studied in the last session (First hour study the last session of the last study period). This satisfies the need for Frequency.

• Main 40 Minutes intensely studying the new material. This satisfies the need for Intensity.

• Next 5 minutes revise what you have just studied. This satisfies the need for Frequency.

• Finally relax for 10 minutes. Do something different, leave the study area, make a cup of hot drink or go for a walk. This period is when the mind sorts out the material from short term memory to long term memory (Empties the glass into the tank). It is vital not to skimp on this or you will lose a lot of your studies.

Designing a Study Timetable

Designing a study timetable is as important as knowing how to study. So as to get the most out of the time available it is best to make a plan in the form of a Study Timetable. A wise man said that if you fail to plan then you plan to fail so you should plan your time according to what is available. Start by laying out a grid (You can use a spreadsheet such as Excel to do this if it helps) allowing for a week with three periods a day: Morning, Afternoon and Evening. Start by blocking of the times fully committed and therefore not available such as School/College/Lecture time. Block off time for Meals and enough social time for example if you like to go out with your friends on a Saturday night then block this off - do not fool yourself, if you want to go out then plan it and that way you will not fail in that section of your study. What is left is your available study time. Planning is one of the best study tips.

Remember to divide the time into one hour chunks and allocate you subjects so as to take up the time available. It is best to study the subject in the evening of the day you covered it in college so as to simulate the study hour above (study what you did last time, do this sessions study then revise this sessions study). If you should miss a session don't worry, just continue as planned at the next session, you should only go back if you have some spare time.

On a regular basis (weekly or monthly as suits your lifestyle) do a revision day and again go over what you have studied since the last revision day. Make this as relaxing an event as possible and if you can involve friends and fellow students and a tutor/teacher all the better.

How do I get the most out of Revision?

Exam revision starts with taking notes whilst studying. These notes will come into much use during the revision process as a representation of distillation of the knowledge needed to pass the exam. To just re-read all the books studied is counterproductive because it does not take into consideration the effort taken to study in the first place.

Exam Revision Timetable

Revision timetable is very similar to the study timetable but more detailed and even more vital to success.

Setting Priorities

The best among revision study tips is to start setting priorities for your revision. Don't lose sight of the fact that the goal is to get good exam results and that revision is just a means to an end not the end in itself. You might, for example, have a subject which you consider more important than the rest or in need of extra work to get a result. You might have some personal priorities such as a concert that you have been waiting for a year to go to and you want this to be of a very high priority.

All You Need to Know About PMP Exams

If you're an IT manager and are part of all the initiating and planning of projects that IT managers usually do then you need to take the Project Management Professional or PMP exams. The PMP certification is issued by the Project Management Institute. This is especially well suited for managers who are in the software and the network design sector. Having a PMP certificate denotes that as a manager you have proper knowledge of the fundamentals of managing projects and you can use them appropriately.

Find out about the eligibility requirement of the PMP exams first. The next thing that you need to find out is the syllabus of the exam. Find out the name of the book that is best for preparing for such an exam. You will have to become the member of PMI first. You will also get access to the various seminars. You will also know about various training courses conducted by them. You might also get discounts on course fees. In short, you will get all kinds of information required to sit for the exam.

The study plan must be carefully etched before sitting for the exams. The preparation should be planned. The lack of effective planning is the only reason why so many students fail to pass the test every year. Most people who have cracked the exam have referred to the PMBOK guide. This book mostly tries to teach to logically analyse the input and output methods including the Tools and Technique. You can also find sample questions before sitting for the exams. It is always advisable to solve them.

You will get 200 questions in the test and you need to do that in four hours. It is good to reach the examination centre at least half an hour in advance. So, what are the other things that you need to remember if you wish to sit for PMP exams. The test will try to analyse all those skills that a project manager must possess. You should be quick with your decision-making abilities. Your must be able to solve all the problems with speed and accuracy. The test also tries to evaluate your leadership qualities. The options are usually tricky and all of them seem correct. Take a moment to consider all of those carefully. Your accuracy will improve with practice.

Good communication skills are an absolute must for project managers. Your communication skills will be put to test. You should improve that area before sitting for the test. Managers should also be extremely efficient in planning. The planning should be done fast and it should be accurate as well. The project manager should be well aware of the expectations and requirements of the stake holders. The manager is in charge and should make sure all those are met. Quality control is another factor that comes under the managers duties. All these things must be considered before sitting for the PMP exams. Once you have completed the test you survey will follow it. Once that is complete the results will be displayed.

Major Pointers On After-School Lessons

Through the ages, education has been a major priority to the society. No matter which medium we use, we all have a unique way of understanding and implementing the skills achieved. Some students have a common tendency to perform well even after spending a whole day in school. We are not supposed to rush and start blame games because at the end of the day you have done nothing to solve the problem.

It might be an issue with the teachers or even the student. As you venture into finding the right solution, you have to think of a guardian that will act on your behalf and help your child learn and understand each of the subjects. A helper in tutoring can be of good help. When hiring one, look out for one that can perform the following practices.

Availability: The tutor must not only rely on material at hand, but also try to engage the student in discussions. Students always like to be associated with someone who is social. This is achieved by setting programs that involve interactions like forums.

Timekeeper: A delay in any topic can cause chaos and the students will soon become unsettled. Being punctual will send a message to the students and they will emulate you.

Have an open mind: As you teach, try to use examples they can rely on and engage them through writing and answering questionnaires.

Well organized: He/she must be able to set schedules and can explain clearly what he intends to teach.

What are the benefits of a tutor?

There is constant one-on-one attention when you deal with a tutor. Here, you can learn the weak and strong points in an easier way. It is also an environment where a student can learn how to express his or her needs. There is also a progressive aid, whereby the tutor can help the student learn about the subject they perform poorly and maximize on it.

The environment is relaxing. For those students that have a fear and cannot express themselves among a large crowd, this area creates an ideal point where they can exercise self-esteem.

However, some homes cannot accommodate a tutor. This makes you as a guardian look for a tutoring center. It is an enclosure where learning is to subsidize the schoolwork mistakes. They have qualified tutors who offer extra coaching sessions. It is also an environment where a parent and the tutor can easily share matters about the progress of the student. You can also have the opportunity to hire a specific tutor who can help solve the problem your child is facing.

Reading, Writing and Arithmetic Are Not Enough: Schoolchildren Deserve a Broader Education

I believe in the capacity of man to conquer his world, and to find out what it is made of and how it is run. I believe in the reality of progress. But the whole thing, after all, may be put very simply. I believe that it is better to tell the truth than to lie. I believe that it is better to be free than to be a slave. And I believe that it is better to know than be ignorant.

H. L. Mencken, Mencken's Creed (Excerpt cited by George Seldes in Great Thoughts.)

INTRODUCTION: WELLNESS VERSUS REAL WELLNESS

REAL wellness is a phrase I devised to describe a lifestyle designed for a high quality existence. I added REAL to the word wellness in response to the manner in which worksite health education programs have interpreted and promoted wellness for at least 30 years. Unfortunately, what companies offer in efforts to moderate employee medical costs (i.e., health insurance rates) are wellness in name only; the educational classes and activities invariably concern strategies to reduce risks, prevent disease and manage medical concerns and problems.

In the wider culture, semantics concerning wellness are even more distorted. Since the earliest books appeared describing the nature of wellness in the late seventies, the term has been twisted and gnarled, distorted and contorted, mangled and misconstrued, perverted and... well, you get the idea. The original, classic meaning of wellness introduced by Dunn and popularized by Travis, Hettler, Allen, myself and many others as a positive approach to advanced states of physical and psychological well-being has not been implemented. Instead, wellness has advanced as an empty buzzword employed for whatever product or service the (mis) user seeks to advance. I've even observed the term used to promote dog food. (Not that I object to healthy dog food.)

Fair enough, I suppose. America is said to be a free country. I can call Republicans rational and fair-minded if I choose - who can forbid such liberties with reality or proper usage? Nobody.

Still, it's not a bad idea, I think, to have words that mean more or less the same thing in a given language. I think the original meaning of the term wellness was much more useful than the way its been advanced. Wellness, I think, is and should remain an idea with specific qualities not otherwise promoted within or beyond the medical system. It's not a food, not a medical treatment, not a weigh-loss regimen and not a bazillion other things. It's a concept - a bit of a philosophy for the pursuit of positive states of being. At least in my opinion. What do you think?

The definitional confusion about wellness is the reason I started adding the modifier REAL to the word wellness. REAL serves as an acronym. In my usage, the letters R-E-A-L stand for reason, exuberance, athleticism and liberty. These are the four foundation dimensions that I like to emphasize when promoting this particular lifestyle philosophy or mindset. The acronym embraces critical thinking and respect for science (R - reason), a desire to enjoy life as much as possible (E - exuberance), a vigorous exercise regimen combined with well informed, evidence-based nutritional practices (A - athleticism) and a commitment to personal freedoms (L - liberty). They add up to a REAL wellness lifestyle - and conscious commitment to thinking about choices and ideas in disciplined ways.

EDUCATION OF THE YOUNG

Which leads me to the topic of educating our young. Sure, all children need the basics (three or more Rs) but why stop there? Why not encourage and prepare teachers at all levels to stimulate their little charges to ponder, wonder and reflect on largely unanswerable leading questions about large matters? All students, however young, are curious and open to the mysterious, to those things that transcend day-to-day demands. There are questions, existential and otherwise, that all students will have to confront in years and decades to come. Why wait? Get them started early. Raise questions that touch on or lead to wonder about such topics as noted in Mencken's Creed. Just refrain from providing scripted, correct answers. Also, please don't require that teacher reflections on such things be taken as the final word, or accepted on faith because adults know best.

Consider what fun and adventure it might be for little children to brainstorm, in their own fashion, about the extent to which humans can conquer the world - and what could possibly be meant by such a phrase. Or to share ideas about what the world is made of, how it's run and what is progress. (Maybe a few examples of good and not-so-good progress would be fun, too.). How about, Is it better to tell the truth than to lie? Why? Don't overlook, Do you believe it's better to be free than to be a slave? Think of the possibilities. Imagine the places a class might go, with a little facilitating help from a teacher, with that last question. Again, best to go where the kids take themselves without the benefit of correct adult answers or absolute truths. The children will be confronted with plenty of those, soon enough. For now (i.e., during the Wonder Years), a range of free association possibilities, both imaginative and silly, should be quite enough.

The one exception to this suggestion, to the advice to stay with unanswered, open questions rather than preferred answers, concerns the last element in Mencken's Creed. Go ahead and tell the kids that it is better to know than to be ignorant. It's also better to ask questions, to explore wild and childish hypotheses or to just wonder about something huge (or small) than to ignore it or put it out of mind because grownups don't know the answer.

Young children exposed to such an educational environment in their formative, elementary school years will have many advantages over those who only gain exposure to a quality education learning the skills of reading, writing and arithmetic. One prediction I'd venture to offer if ever children were so educated is this: they would surely be vastly more likely to find and to embrace a REAL wellness philosophy than they would the ersatz variety.

Be well, look on the bright side and have fun.

The Origin of Lanyards

In our modern world of work, the lanyard has become a way to easily carry identification. These lanyards are simple cords in a circle that lie around one's neck and have a holder for identification that ends about mid-chest. In some work places everyone has a standard issue lanyard, while in other places there are a variety of styles to choose from. Sometimes a lanyard is created to commemorate a special company event, or there may be special lanyards based on a business or geographical unit. Here are some categories of people, in addition to corporate employees, who find a lanyard for identification useful: public speakers, coaches, trade show attendees, trade show vendors, fundraiser attendees, retail clerks, school personnel, hospital personnel, police and law enforcement, church attendees, campers, airline employees, TSA employees, political meeting participants, patients in hospitals, film crews, security workers of all kinds, taxi drivers, bank employees, residential tradesman such as plumbers or electricians, skiers and snowboarders and anyone who has a need to be hands free for tasks and identification.

Modern lanyards come in many materials including cords, beads, embossed fabrics and just about anything you want. There are retractable models making it easy to scan an identification card while wearing the lanyard. There are also lanyards for our wide variety of electronic gear such as cell phones, cameras and even water bottles that attach to either your wrist or around your neck. As we routinely carry around very expensive items to enhance our lives the lanyard is a great way to make sure you don't lose valuable accessories.

Those of us who have been to summer camp or after-school programs may have made a lanyard out of plastic string or tubing. The string comes in a wide rainbow of colors and there are many patterns used to create the basic cord design. Popular plastic tape lanyard patterns include the square stitch and double knot. Key chains are a common product of the plastic lanyard craft. You may have heard to the craft of weaving lanyards as "scoubido". It is thought the first crafting of lanyards was in France in the 1950's at the time when a French recording artist had a hit entitled "Scoubido". The decorative weaving technique has also been done with leather or paracord to create a strong strap for heavier gear such as keys or knives. It is possible to purchase lanyard-making supplies and create the custom lanyard you want for the task at hand. Your custom lanyard can be of plastic tubing, fabric or leather and include the sturdy clip of your choice including breakaway clips or carabineers. You can also choose a badge holder if that is part of your plan.

Lanyards also have an important role in workplace and recreational safety. A vital type of lanyard is called a safety strap lanyard. This lanyard is used in industrial settings and attaches the worker to a switch that would stop a piece of machinery should the worker become incapacitated and fall. There are also lineman lanyards that anchor a worker in place and if they slip or fall they do not go into free fall but are stopped by the lanyard. These lanyards are made of strong material and may include a heavy-duty carbineer to help anchor the lanyard to the attachment point. Mountain climbing aficionados use similar equipment. Lanyards are also an important piece of safety gear for personal watercraft such as Jet Skis. These lanyards are usually attached to the wrist. If a rider falls off the Jet Ski the lanyard detaches and the machine slowly stops so it does not injure the rider who fell off or anyone else.

Like night vision goggles, surveillance cameras and many kinds of survival gear, the lanyard's first use was for military purposes. It may have first been used on ships to secure gear to the deck, but was generally referred to as a length of rope or cord used to anchor something important in place. In times past lanyards have been used to secure swords to soldier's wrists, keep a variety of items anchored in a soldier's shirt pocket such as a pocket knife or a whistle with the lanyard draped over the shoulder for easy access while riding a horse or running. And over time, the lanyard has been used as a colorful display of military achievement draping over the shoulder of a military uniform. Ornamental lanyards denote regimental assignment or military honor. Some dress uniforms of many military units, both International and US do include a lanyard at certain ranks and in certain circumstances.

However, in our modern day, even in the military, the lanyard is often thought of as the neck cord to secure an identification badge or keys, but the fabric is printed with the details of the military unit.

Lanyards will continue to be an important piece of personal equipment to protect our belongings and our personal safety.

School Facilities Determines Students Academic Performance

The development of any society is dependent on the general level of education attained by its population most especially the youths. It therefore means that the educational system must be flexible, functional and optional enough to have something to offer to all members of the society including the youths, adults, privileged and the less privileged. The desire to meet the educational needs in particular those members of the under privileged is now a major challenge to the educators over the past years.

Education brings about a change in the manner of conduct of an individual which makes him to present himself as a responsible, sagacious and dependable member of his society. Education is regarded as an activity which gees on in the society with its aims depending on the nature of the society in which it takes place. It is a process through which an individual is trained to become useful to himself and the society at large with the acquisition of the cultural values and norms of the society. It occurs at all stages of life and can occur anywhere, but for the purpose of this study, the focus shall be on the type of education acquired in the school academic environment otherwise known as formal education. A school is a place like home where learning activities takes place and it comprises of individual from different cultural background which live and interact together as a cohesive community with a major common objectives and purpose for learning. It is a place where a learner acquires specialized knowledge and skills needed for their survival and to promote their innate capabilities for learning.

The school prepares an individual for future adult roles, the purpose of the school is mainly to serve as a channel for acquiring knowledge and skills and to enhance the full all round development of an individual. It is therefore necessary for instructors and school administrators to ensure that the school academic environment does not deviate from its main purpose in the sense that instructors control and maintain the type of activities that occur in the school environment in terms of extracurricular activities.

The schools exist because of the students. The quality of the student's performance depends on the quality of the school in terms of availability of required and adequate infrastructural facilities in such a school. Schools with well equipped facilities and well experienced personnel tend to produce brilliant students who show the ways for others students and lead them in various stages in Life. It could therefore be said that the performance of the students depends on the school facilities, which in returns determine their future lives. Parents and guardians should be encouraged to send their wards to schools with well-equipped facilities because it will result in better future for their children.

This fact has been proven to be true as the performance of some students from well equipped facilities schools differs from other students who are in school with less equipped facilities. Availability of required learning facilities in schools enhances student's academic performance. When learning materials are provided, learning activities proceed at a very fast speed. In a situation where the learning environment is not conducive, academic activities proceed at a low rate which then result in poor academic performance of students in promotional and certificate examine. And such is the case of four students of Ifako International School, Ifako, Ifako-Ijaye, Lagos State Nigeria.

Two of the students performed excellently in the competition as Olatide Wright and Torsho Dennis of the senor secondary school came second and fifth respectively in the Gessomate art competition. Adefoluso Orimalade and Soremekun Ibrahim of the junior secondary school came third and forth respectively. This level of performance does revealed the states of Ifako international school as a school with well experienced teachers and adequate faculties suitable for teaching and learning purposes and ideal school for parents who wants the best education for their children. The students are the image of the school and the school cannot exist without the students, the students produced by each school give or show the real image of the school in the society. The school should help provide the required materials and regulates the activities of all extracurricular activities within the school environment so that effective learning activities can occur.

Academic excellence is the desired of every school owner. The quality of teaching and learning that takes place in any educational establishment determines the level of academic excellence. In other for effective teaching and learning process to occur within the school academic environment. There must be provision of required learning aids such as conducive school physical environment, well painted classroom, adequate chairs, moderate distance from an industrial area to prevent unwanted noise and well experienced teachers. Things don't just happen; they are made to happen. All concerned bodies of education should ensure that all the aforementioned criteria are seriously considered so that the desired educational goals and objectives can be achieved and thus ensuring better future for our children.

Ocean - The Body of Water That Makes Land Inhabitable

Ocean is the body of saline water that occupies the large majority of earth's hydrosphere. It is divided in to five areas, namely Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic and Antarctic. The word sea is also used in place of ocean but predominantly, the seas are inland saline bodies of water. 71% of the earth is covered with this vast body of saline water.

The average depth of this massive body of water is 12430 ft and the volume of water you find there is 1.3 billion cubic kilometers. There are 230,000 species of marine life living in the ocean. Since some of the deepest areas of the ocean are not completely explored, the number of species could go up to two million in case these areas also explored properly.

The total mass of water on earth is 1.4X10²¹Kg. This is only 0.023% of the total mass of earth. Out of all the water present on earth, only 3% is fresh water. The rest is ocean. The bluish color of sea water is due to several contributory factors but the presence of dissolved organic matter and chlorophyll are the main contributors.

Travelling on the surface of oceans dates back to prehistoric times but travel under sea was only possible after the development of modern technology. The deepest spot of the ocean is found close to Marina Islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is estimated to be 10,971 meters deep.

Ocean currents are responsible for climate changes on earth. It also regulates the carbon dioxide content in the atmospheric air. Heat from the tropics to the Polar Regions is transferred through the ocean. While the cold and warm air is transferred to coastal areas from the ocean even the precipitation is brought to coastal areas from the sea.

It is believed that life in this vast body of water started 3 billion years prior to the start of life on land. Fresh water needed for this inland life is supplied through evaporation of water from the sea. The cycle continues in order to sustain life on land.

Ocean is even important for economy. Most of the transportation of goods is done by ships with the use of sea routes. There are ports all over the world to facilitate this process. Even food is supplied by sea by way of fish, crabs, shrimps and lobsters. Catching them and processing has become an important industry for some countries in the world.

What Are The Benefits Of An Online Education

Getting an education is not for everyone, but has proved to be a great option for thousands of people. Some people enjoy being on campus, in a classroom and having direct connection with an instructor. For them, a formal education is best and that works for them. Others would rather fit an education around their convenience and take education at their pace. What's great is that both are available and both are continuing to grow in size and funding, so there are plenty of options.

If you are deciding to go the online route then you probably want to know more of the benefits. There are several benefits, many that will spark your interest and encourage you to pursue an online education further. So, what are they? Find a pace that favors you and stick to it. Most formal education is structured with one pace and everyone must follow. However, this does not work for most people. To be able to structure your own pace is one of the greatest perks of being educated online. It helps students grasp material easier and helps students obtain better results. So, if you would like to select your own pace, then select online education. How much money would you like to save? Most online programs are much cheaper than tradition education on a university campus because they don't demand the fees that tradition education does.

Also, you don't have to go anywhere and spend money on transportation. Sit down at home with your computer and save money because you didn't have to travel. What type of schedule do you have? Some people are required to work strange hours for work and they can't make it to classes. With an online education, you can complete the course work when you have time. So, whenever you finish working and are settled in at home, get started with your course work. It's easy to fit education around other things in your life. Scheduling is not an issue. If you have a family, don't miss a single second with your kids and spouse. Complete course work after you put the kids to bed or after a date with your spouse. It's easy to have a family and be educated at the same time.

So, how does it sound to you? Sounds pretty good doesn't it? Online education is one of the fasting growing ways to get educated and it's improving life across the globe. Start looking for online programs today.

How Hard Is It to Achieve the NEBOSH Diploma Qualification?

It is fair to say that the NEBOSH Diploma is one of the most prestigious qualifications for a health and safety practitioner to hold. It has long been established as an internationally recognised standard of knowledge and expertise, with more than 10,000 students now having achieved the qualification since its inception in 1988. Often it is considered a very hard health and safety qualification to achieve, but is that an accurate assessment?

The current NEBOSH Diploma syllabus broadly equates to a Bachelors Degree. The health and safety awarding body IOSH recognise this qualification as meeting the requirements for Graduate Membership, whilst IIRSM recognise it as meeting the requirements for full membership. Any qualification at this level is inevitably going to be hard to achieve, so supposedly the answer to the question is: yes. But is that the end of the story?

For a qualification to really mean something it has to be hard to achieve, whether it's in health and safety or any other industry for that matter. This shows that those who hold the qualification have really achieved something. Every person who has achieved the NEBOSH Diploma can certainly stand proud and say they have achieved a high standard of knowledge and expertise in health and safety.

So we have said the qualification is hard to achieve, but is it too hard to achieve? The answer to that question is very much down to each individual student who takes the qualification. There is no clear answer to this, as it is firmly a case of you getting out what you put in. Achieving the NEBOSH Diploma does require active involvement in the course, a significant degree of self studying, and good exam preparation. It is a different type of qualification entirely to a health and safety NVQ for instance, which involves evidence-gathering from those already in a health and safety role.

Any good health and safety training centre will also provide ongoing help and support throughout the study period to support your learning. This is a key question to ask of any potential provider you look at, as it is a crucial component in the achievement (or not) of the qualification.

So anyone considering going in for the NEBOSH Diploma will need to do some research beforehand, and before parting with any money! Look at what is involved, the support from the provider, the benefits when you achieve it etc. If you can commit to the hard work needed then go for it. There is no doubt that when it pays off, and you pass the NEBOSH Diploma, you will have achieved something to be very proud of.

Why Get An Online MBA?

First, let's understand the reason why most people are pursuing an MBA. Many don't have any education in business, but are stepping into careers or being promoted to new positions where they need to know more about the business. So, these people are pursuing higher education to continue in their field or obtain a new position. However, many of these people are not interested in stopping work to go back to school. Many want to pursue an MBA while they continue work. This is where online MBA programs come in handy.

Online MBA programs allow professionals to continue in their field and not lose great work experience or salary. Also, they keep professionals from relocating, which becomes a great hassle and added expense. Why get up and leave something good when you can pursue an MBA from the comfort of your home? Well, you don't have to because many schools are starting online MBA programs and they fit any schedule.

How does it work with your schedule? Well, it does require more discipline on your part. To commit to coming home in the evening and do some extra work for your MBA. You can take the program at the speed you prefer, which is one of the greatest advantages, and allows you to be flexible. Some people have more demanding careers and cannot handle much education, but want to pursue an MBA, and they can. Scheduling is one of the greatest advantages of an online MBA program.

Stay where you are in your career and where you live and get your MBA at the same time. That's what online MBA programs do for you. They don't require you to step foot on a campus or spend any extended time away from your career or home. This is perfect because you are trying to work hard, improve in your career, and gain more education. You don't need to move away for another year or two for education, just to move back. Stay at home, grab your computer, and get your MBA.

Many professionals are reporting that this program is extremely helpful and is increasing their ability to perform at work. Not only will it provide quality education and insight, but it could provide a promotion and increase in salary, which is always a bonus.

Get started by searching for online MBA programs. You will be surprised by how many are available. All it takes is you inquiring and signing up. Soon you will have an MBA and be on your way to greater accomplishments in your profession.

Moving Tips - A Successful Timeline For Moving

Relocating is never easy, even if your company is covering all the expenses of your move. Regardless of who is footing the bill, you can make everyone's life much easier by following a basic moving timeline. Following an organized system will prevent many potential problems and also save much of your sanity.

Eight Weeks

1. Get at least two quotes from professional movers if you choose to hire help for your move. Once you select a mover, sign the contract and make the required deposit.

2. Take things out of easy-to-forget places such as your attic, basement, and tool shed. Start determining what you will take, what you will discard, and what you will give away to family members of a charitable organization.

Six Weeks

1. Start using up anything perishable such as frozen food. Use items you would prefer not to move, especially laundry detergent and household cleaning supplies.

2. Purchase necessary moving supplies such as magic markers, packing tape, and labels. If your moving company does not provide the boxes necessary for your relocation, buy plenty of boxes.

3. Visit your child's school and request copies of all records be given to you and also shipped to your child's soon-to-be school.

Four Weeks

1. Request copies of your medical records as well as veterinary records for any pets. Get copies for yourself as well as your future medical professionals.

2. Start packing away things you want to keep but do not need until after you relocate. Label each box clearly with not only an item description, but also the room in which it should be placed. Some people use different numbers or colors for each room.

3. File a change of address card at your local post office. Personally notify all important parties such as banks, credit card lenders, and key family members and friends.

4. Call all of your utility companies and arrange for a service disconnection date. Arrange for service at your future residence.

Two Weeks

1. Get a fireproof, lockable safe box. Place any valuables such as jewelry or important papers in it. If you have a safety deposit box at a bank, visit the box and empty its contents.

2. If you are moving with your vehicle, take it to a trustworthy mechanic. Have any necessary fluid additions or tune ups made before you hit the road.

3. Call your moving company, if applicable, and re-confirm arrangements for moving day.

4. Return all videos and library books before you forget to do so.

5. Make any necessary arrangements for your pets to move safely and also get a babysitter or trusted person to take care of your kids on moving day.

One Week

1. Pick up any dry cleaning, tailored items, and the like. Make sure any debts you owe to local businesses are paid in full.

2. Transfer your prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new community.

3. Take your pets to the veterinarian for a check-up as well as any required immunizations.

4. Drain oil or other fuel out of any equipment such as a lawn mower.

5. Create detailed directions for movers and other parties helping you get to your new home. Include all emergency contact numbers, especially cell phones.

Two Days

1. Defrost your refrigerator and freezer. Unplug it and block all the doors to stay open to children and animals cannot accidentally end up in the refrigerator or freezer.

2. Put all important personal items such as a change of clothes, medications, and toiletries in a box that you will carry with you on moving day. Do the same for your spouse, children, and pets if this applies to your moving timeline.

One Day

1. Record all utility meter readings, ideally with a camera. Do the same throughout your house, especially if you have a landlord and do not want to be charged for damage you did not cause.

Moving Day

2. At the end of your move, sign a bill of inventory with the movers. Lock all windows and doors.

Technology Based Innovations Capable of Changing the Face of Education

Traditional form of classroom learning is fast giving the way to technology based learning. Different technological innovations like educational CDs, mobile devices, interactive devices, educational software systems and distant learning have proved to be beneficial. These innovations engage each and every student and establish better learning mediums.

If you own a school, you will soon feel the need of integrating these technological innovations with the existing education system. If you have a store dealing in educational products, you must know how to make profits with advanced learning products. Here is a useful discussion in this regard.

Educational CDs 

The simple concept of educational CDs is to offer information in an interesting format using audio and video capabilities. The traditional form of textbook learning has constantly failed to trigger the interest of all the students. It is better to teach and explain graphically, with the help of a number of examples. From nursery rhymes and phonics games to mathematics and science lessons, everything can be made interactive and easy to understand using these educational CDs.

Interactive Whiteboards 

The technologies like resistive touch screens, electromagnetism, infrared lasers and many others have made interactive whiteboards as great learning mediums for the students. The products can help disabled students to participate in collaboration with other students. Just like educational CDs, these boards make learning extremely interesting by integrating different components. Collaborative engagements of students and mutual discussions are possible with whiteboard presentations. Other technology based products used in conjunction with interactive whiteboards include stylus and projectors.

Laptops and Tablets 

In the past few years, the potential use of mobile devices in classroom learning has been identified. These technology products replace the traditional text materials for better performance outputs. Moreover, they are as good as educational CDs in grasping knowledge. The students can browse information related to any subject or topic instantly and prepare better notes, projects and presentations.

Cameras 

The use of different types of cameras to enhance classroom learning is in its nascent stage. One good example is that of document camera that can be used to display different documents on large screens. Digital cameras are also being suggested to help the students take pictures related to their lessons and projects.

Distant E-Learning 

Finally, the concept of distant learning has been significantly improved with the help of e-learning. These setups allow the students located in different countries to attend classrooms and lectures at distant universities and institutes using web technologies. The internet and use of conference tools and technologies make it possible for the students to ask questions and queries and indulge in group discussions. At the same time, they have the access to the online resources to search for any particular topic simultaneously. Online books, encyclopedias and research papers can be accessed that definitely contribute towards effective learning.

From the educational CDs for primary classes to laptops, cameras and whiteboards for higher class learning, the technological innovations have certainly set numerous milestones. Manufacturers all across the world are engaged in improving the features and functionality of these products.

Natural Dyes - An Age Old Process Goes Back to Eco-Friendly Roots

Around since ancient times, the process of dyeing textiles has strayed from the natural to environmentally damaging. Pigments from crushed plants rubbed into cloth evolved into use of boiled water mixed with crushed fruits, wild berries and plants to distribute color through fabric. This allowed for a broader range and a more steadfast color on the fabric. With the development of high tech fabrics (nylon and polyester) that do not readily absorb the color from dye water baths, came the creation of synthetic dyes using toxic chemical compounds and heavy metals to more readily 'wash' the color into the fabric.

The use of an exorbitant amount of water for fabric dyeing has continued in today's processes. It is estimated about 75 gallons of water are needed per pound of fabric. Dioxins and mordants (mineral salts that create a chemical link to adhere the dye to the fabric) are part of the toxic run off from synthetic dye processes that find way into ground waters causing damage to rivers, lake and oceans. Approximately 1/5 of industrial pollution stems from textile dyeing. Another key factor in the dyeing process is temperature. Large amounts of energy are used to heat the dyes. Many synthetic dyes are highly toxic to workers, and may cause adverse health effects to those who wear dyed clothes. Problems caused range from skin rashes, headaches and muscle pain to breathing difficulties and even seizures.

Dye Types 

The two major types of dyes are natural and synthetic. The natural dyes are pigments extracted from natural substances such as plants, animals, or minerals. Synthetic dyes are chemicals synthesized in a laboratory some of which contain metals.

Synthetic Dyes 

Synthetic dyes fit into different classifications as follows;

Basic - are water-soluble and are used with a mordant. They are not color fast and are generally used for treating fabrics that have already been dyed with acid dyes.

Direct - adhere without mordants. They are not very bright and have poor colorfastness.

Mordant or Chrome - are acidic in character. To get the needed bonding actions, sodium or potassium bichromate is added to the dye bath.

Vat - are insoluble in water and cannot dye fibers directly but need an alkaline solution for them to adhere to the textile fibers.

Reactive - react with fiber molecules to form a chemical compound. They are applied with an alkaline solution and sometimes heat treatment is used for creating color shades.

Disperse - are water insoluble. These dyes are ground into a paste or powder that gets dispersed in water dissolving in the fabric fibers.

Sulfur - are insoluble and made soluble by the help of caustic soda and sodium sulfide. Dyeing is done at high temperature with large quantities of salt so that the color penetrates into the fiber.

Pigment - need resins and high heat to adhere to the fabric.

The most dangerous and damaging to humans and the environment are Azo Dyes. The largest group of synthetic dyes, they are manufactured using a crude oil base. When put in contact with saliva or perspiration they can release aromatic amines that cause a health concern as they are carcinogenic and easily absorbed into the body.

The least eco damaging of the synthetic dyes are the Low-Impact Fiber-Reactive. These chemically adhere to the fibers of the fabric creating a strong bond hence less dye is wasted in water runoff. Being an expensive dye to use, it is also better to reclaim the dye from the used water rather than discard it. Lower temperatures needed to apply these dyes make them less energy intensive than azo dyes. Low-impact dyes typically do not contain heavy metals or toxins but are still synthetically made from petrochemicals. Not affected by saliva or perspiration they are safer to use than azo dyes but still should be avoided by the chemically sensitive. Because of the wide range of colors that can be created, eco aware clothing companies choose low-impact fiber-reactive dyes to remain environmentally conscience.

Natural Dyes 

Natural Dyes consist of colors extracted from plants, earth clays and insects resulting in less harm to the ecosystem. Although they still require metallic salts- aluminum, iron, chromium, and copper- to ensure the color stays on the fabric these benign salts are environmentally friendly.

Most natural dyes are Vegetable Dyes made from plant sources - roots, berries, bark, leaves and wood. The mordants required to adhere them to fabric are again benign salts. Vegetable dyes take a large quantity of dye to thoroughly color fabric and the impact to the environment is dependent on the raw materials used. If the raw materials came from areas heavily fertilized, the impact to the environment is greater. The key is to find natural sources or organically farmed sources which eliminate the negative environmental impact.

One of the most eco-friendly dye ingredients is Clay or Dirt. Clay and Dirt Dyes use minerals and irons from the earth avoiding the use of synthetic ingredients. Sources can easily be found that yield a consistent color. Beautiful colors can be achieved by blending different clays and adding pigments available in nature. Modern developments have improved the colorfastness of this form of dye. The process does not need any form of salt, only natural or biodegradable materials are used to improve the clay's natural dyeing abilities. There is no negative environmental impact including harm to waterways.

Make an Eco-friendly Dye Choice 

The purest eco-friendly choice of color textiles is to choose those made from color-grown cotton or natural color wool from sheep and alpaca. But for those of us who like pizazz to our fabrics there are healthier and more eco-friendly alternatives when it comes to dyeing textiles. To avoid environmental damage from toxic waste water runoff and possible health issues steer clear of fabrics using synthetic dyes especially those using azo dyes.

Francisco Pizarro Biography

Francisco Pizarro was born in Trujillo, Spain, the illegitimate son of Gonzalo Pizarro who is an infantry colonel and a soldier of some distinction and Francisca Gonzalez. He was wholly neglected by his parents and was never taught how to read nor write. Due to his lack of formal education, his first job is herding his father's swine. Pizarro is also a distant cousin of Hernan Cortes.

On November 10, 1509, Pizarro left Spain in quest for the New World on an expedition to Urabi. He joined Alonso de Qjeda on a disastrous expedition to Colombia. He then accompanied Vasco Nuñez de Balboa in his journey to the Pacific Ocean while he was in Hispaniola in 1510. Pizarro later on arrested the condemned Balboa from the order of the famous explorer's rival, Pedrarias de Ávila. Pizarro then settled down as a lord of Indian serfs in Panama.

Pizarro remained a conquistador having no conquest. He went into partnership with another famous explorer, Diego de Almagro and a priest Luque in quest for the tales of fabulous kingdoms in the south. They were able to fit out a small expedition, of which Pizarro took command.

In 1524, he sailed southward but went no farther than Quemada Point. The three made an agreement which was date March 10, 1526, that all lands, treasures, vassals that they will be discovered will be divided equally between them, Pizarro, Almagro and Lugue. They then organized a second expedition which consists of two ships and they set sail for the South Seas. They have discovered Peru, Pizarro returned to Panama carrying with him many ornaments of gold and silver, specimens of wooled clothes of silky texture and brilliant hues, and lamas or alpacas which they obtained from the natives. Because he was not able to find in Panama a sufficient number of volunteers, he returned to Spain in 1525 and narrated his discoveries before Charles V and his ministers. He described the wealth of the territories and showed the gold and silver ornaments as a proof.

The emperor ordered him to establish a province of New Castile and undertake the southern conquest. So he returned to the New World with his half brothers, Gonzalo, Herando and Juan Pizarro, his cousin Pedro and Martin de Alcantara. They set sail to Peru at the end of 1530 together with his 180 men, of whom 27 were cavalry. Within ten years, Pizarro made the empire of Peru his own.

In 1537, Pizarro's rivalry with Almagro led to a conflict. Cuzco was taken over by Almagro after one of Pizarro's half brother; Juan Pizarro was killed during a revolt. Pizarro wasn't able to fight because of his age, so he sent his brothers to Cuzco to fight Almagro. They killed Almagro but as retaliation, Pizarro was assassinated by one of Almagro's followers in June 1541. Pizarro lived a life of violence and he died a violent and a bloody death.

The Profile of 2013's Free Schools

The UK Government has recently announced that 102 prospective free schools have been given the go-ahead for 2013. It displays an increase in the adoption of this particular government initiative and so it is perhaps an appropriate time to look at what this means for the landscape of the English schools system.

Now in its third year, the initiative is certainly becoming more popular. The approval system had given permission to 65 schools last year, of which 50 will open this September (2012). The first batch of pioneers in September 2011, however, only consisted of 24.

Who is Setting Them Up?

Of the 102 new free schools eligible for 2013 there is a mixture as to who is/will be behind their establishment. They are all being set up by either those in the education profession already or local communities but the full break down is as follows:

59: Existing education professionals; including teachers, headteachers, educational organisations, existing schools and universities, of which: 

5 are private schools converting to free schools to access public funding

2 are backed by universities

43: Local community groups; including charities and, parent groups

What Are They?

The majority of free schools being approved will be defined as mainstream schools, however there are a number of specialist schools being set up alongside these, as would be expected due to the remit of free schools to satisfy particular local education needs. The schools can be defined as:

85 mainstream schools, of which, 

40 are primary

28 are secondary

10 are all through (primary and secondary)

5 are for 16-19 year olds

1 is for 14-19 year olds

1 is for 5-7 year olds (i.e., reception school)

12 alternative provision schools for those who are unable to attend mainstream schools 

5 special schools

2 are all through

1 is primary

1 is secondary

1 is for 14-19 year olds

Perhaps most controversially for the opponents of free schools in particular:

33 are religious schools, of which, 

20 are faith schools which will be permitted a degree of selectivity in their admissions based upon religious beliefs

The relatively high proportion of religious schools in the mix can be seen to bear out the concerns that religious groups will be more able and more likely to set up free schools. The belief is that this results from the fact that they are likely to already have access to the infrastructure as well as the organisational structure they need to get them up and running, in contrast to private individuals attempting to form organisations themselves from scratch.

Where Are They?

The largest concentration of schools will be in London (34, 1 in 3), followed by the South East and North West. Although one of their aims is to improve the education possibilities in particularly deprived areas, the North East only has 3 opening despite its higher than average levels of depravity. Interestingly there are pockets of the country where there are no new free schools opening at all such as in: the southern counties of Wilts, Dorset, Somerset & Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight); the central midlands (around Warwickshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire etc); South Yorkshire down into Derbyshire; North Yorkshire across into Cumbria.

The full breakdown by region is: 

34 (33%) - London

16 (16%) - South East

12 (12%) - North West

10 (10%) - East of England

9 (9%) - South West

7 (7%) - West Midlands

7 (7%) - Yorkshire and Humber

4 (4%) - East Midlands

3 (3%) - North East

The DfE's own research suggests that the Independence awarded to Academy schools in general is yielding dividends with their results seeming to outstrip the rest of the sector whilst the success of their US counterparts in New York also bodes well. However time will tell whether these burgeoning free schools can continue that success and fulfil their remit to plug the specific social and educational gaps in their local areas.

An Eye Opening View Of How At-Risk Children Learn

How can we understand how children of At-risk communities learn if we do not understand the child? The child is the community and the community the child, just the way their environment and parents are. This may mean a little more time, effort and plenty of dedication; but show me one child who is not worth it.

In order to understand how children of At-risk communities learn, we must define the social term: At-risk. This could be a lesson in itself. Scholars have given many definitions for the term. Some say it describes children and youth living in poverty-stricken neighborhoods. Some define At-risk as the absence of either one or both parents. Still there are those who say the term has no definition and are simply used to place labels on certain groups.

My definition of At-risk is any person, place or thing that impedes the progress, growth or development of a child. This may be the absence of a parent, the lack of wealth or simply the dedication of an educator for teaching a child.

If you hear a child use the word "ain't", do you stop and correct that child by using and teaching the words "are not" or "isn't?" Do you continue doing what you are doing? In an article by Prevette Research, two-thirds of the estimated one-hundred and thirty million children in the world have no access to primary education.

Environment and economics have considerable influence in society. Rigorous wealth and severe poverty are some of the issues society face today. I would place the lack of education high on the list of social issues.

Ninety-five percent of children of At-risk communities, including infants, toddlers and children of pre - school age are on a Government- subsidized program. There are those who suggest that there should be more teachers of color in At-risk communities. I think this is a cop-out for the lack of dedication. It does not matter if you are a person of color or not, there is no excuse for lack of dedication. Whether you are a neighbor, a relative, a school teacher, clergy or parent, we are all educators. Remember: Parents are the first educators.

The children of At-risk communities also communicate differently. They lack the benefits of social graces and etiquette. Fortunately, there are children who are privileged not to have seen this side of life.

Let's do a comparison:

Example 1: 

Children who are taught social graces and etiquette may greet you by saying, "Good morning, how are you?" A child coming up from an At-risk community might say "What's up?" and they are okay with this because this is what they hear daily.

Example 2: 

Demonstrate by placing a cup and saucer combination in front of a child who has been taught social etiquette and he or she will be able to tell you the correct names of each item and their usage. Place the same cup and saucer in front of a child from an At-risk community and he or she may ask, "What is this for?" and label the saucer as a plate. This is because they have never used nor seen it used before.

Example 3: 

The children of At-risk communities learn their alphabets and numbers around the ages of three and four, but learn to appreciate music around the age of nine months; simply because they live this daily. While they are learning to appreciate Rap and Hip Hop, the children of higher social standards are learning to appreciate Beethoven and Mozart. Social graces and etiquette should be a pre- requisite for elementary education. Social graces and etiquette empowers children to know how to behave properly in society. It demonstrates a level of respect, not only for others but for themselves. The children also learn to be considerate of others. It helps them understand that others have feelings. They learn how to greet and be gracious using words like, please, thank you and excuse me.

Social graces and etiquette enhance their desire to learn and feel better about themselves. Unless these children of At-risk communities have parents who practice social graces and etiquette or a teacher who is instilling these valuable lessons in them, they will never understand, know of, or experience this valued knowledge. This would be a major injustice to them as well as to society.

I personally know environment and economics play an enormous part in the lives of At-risk children in how they live and learn. I must say experience is the best teacher. I have lived in At-risk communities all my life and have taught children of At-risk communities for thirty-two years. There is one thing I have learned and experienced in those thirty-two years of teaching- What you give to them, they will give back.

Education is more than just the ABC's of learning or reading, writing and arithmetic, it is knowing who you are teaching and exemplifying knowledge to those you serve.

Author Sheila M. Frances founded FranJeff Publishing with the mission to educate society on child behavior by providing a platform for the awareness of impacts of communities on child growth and development.

College - Tips For Choosing a Course of Study in College

Getting accepted into college can be a very confusing time. That is if you're not certain what to pursue. With so many courses and specialties to choose from, how do you know which is best for you?

Choosing a course of study should be carefully measured to avoid wasting four years on academics that will be useless once you graduate. Numerous studies conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics point to 60% of graduates working outside their majors. What does this figure signify? It either means low employment rates in the field, or students pursuing another field of passion.

Here are tips for choosing a course of study in college:

Income - Research what's the average income in the field. Many students do not think about how lucrative a degree will be. However, the bottom line of getting a degree is to earn financial security.

The Job Market - The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides in-depth insight into job prospects for different fields of study. It usually includes a ten year forecast, and as an example, specific technology jobs like Network And Computer Systems Administrators can anticipate a median salary of $69,160, with a 28% growth between 2010-2020.

Student's Interest - What did you want to become when you were growing up? Do you still have that dream? Chances are, students will be much happier working in a field they're passionate about. Aside from financial benefits, the student's core values, interests and beliefs will translate directly into the field of work. Confucius was right when he said "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life."

Take a Personality Quiz - Experts recommend this test to determine if students are better suited working as a blue or white collar worker, based on his or her personality and interests.

The Factor of Time - Some courses require a greater timeframe for completion. Examples include degrees related to medicine and law. As a new student, it's important to figure out if an extended course length will be an issue, and whether dedication is key.

Talk to a Pro - Who will better advise all the necessary procedures to take, in order to select the best course for students' careers. Each online college should house a counselor for this purpose.

Rather than having a change of heart half-way through the online university program, students can begin by weighing these options to make the most practical choice.

How Hard Is It to Achieve the NEBOSH Diploma Qualification?

It is fair to say that the NEBOSH Diploma is one of the most prestigious qualifications for a health and safety practitioner to hold. It has long been established as an internationally recognised standard of knowledge and expertise, with more than 10,000 students now having achieved the qualification since its inception in 1988. Often it is considered a very hard health and safety qualification to achieve, but is that an accurate assessment?

The current NEBOSH Diploma syllabus broadly equates to a Bachelors Degree. The health and safety awarding body IOSH recognise this qualification as meeting the requirements for Graduate Membership, whilst IIRSM recognise it as meeting the requirements for full membership. Any qualification at this level is inevitably going to be hard to achieve, so supposedly the answer to the question is: yes. But is that the end of the story?

For a qualification to really mean something it has to be hard to achieve, whether it's in health and safety or any other industry for that matter. This shows that those who hold the qualification have really achieved something. Every person who has achieved the NEBOSH Diploma can certainly stand proud and say they have achieved a high standard of knowledge and expertise in health and safety.

So we have said the qualification is hard to achieve, but is it too hard to achieve? The answer to that question is very much down to each individual student who takes the qualification. There is no clear answer to this, as it is firmly a case of you getting out what you put in. Achieving the NEBOSH Diploma does require active involvement in the course, a significant degree of self studying, and good exam preparation. It is a different type of qualification entirely to a health and safety NVQ for instance, which involves evidence-gathering from those already in a health and safety role.

Any good health and safety training centre will also provide ongoing help and support throughout the study period to support your learning. This is a key question to ask of any potential provider you look at, as it is a crucial component in the achievement (or not) of the qualification.

So anyone considering going in for the NEBOSH Diploma will need to do some research beforehand, and before parting with any money! Look at what is involved, the support from the provider, the benefits when you achieve it etc. If you can commit to the hard work needed then go for it. There is no doubt that when it pays off, and you pass the NEBOSH Diploma, you will have achieved something to be very proud of.

Ocean - The Body of Water That Makes Land Inhabitable

Ocean is the body of saline water that occupies the large majority of earth's hydrosphere. It is divided in to five areas, namely Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic and Antarctic. The word sea is also used in place of ocean but predominantly, the seas are inland saline bodies of water. 71% of the earth is covered with this vast body of saline water.

The average depth of this massive body of water is 12430 ft and the volume of water you find there is 1.3 billion cubic kilometers. There are 230,000 species of marine life living in the ocean. Since some of the deepest areas of the ocean are not completely explored, the number of species could go up to two million in case these areas also explored properly.

The total mass of water on earth is 1.4X10²¹Kg. This is only 0.023% of the total mass of earth. Out of all the water present on earth, only 3% is fresh water. The rest is ocean. The bluish color of sea water is due to several contributory factors but the presence of dissolved organic matter and chlorophyll are the main contributors.

Travelling on the surface of oceans dates back to prehistoric times but travel under sea was only possible after the development of modern technology. The deepest spot of the ocean is found close to Marina Islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is estimated to be 10,971 meters deep.

Ocean currents are responsible for climate changes on earth. It also regulates the carbon dioxide content in the atmospheric air. Heat from the tropics to the Polar Regions is transferred through the ocean. While the cold and warm air is transferred to coastal areas from the ocean even the precipitation is brought to coastal areas from the sea.

It is believed that life in this vast body of water started 3 billion years prior to the start of life on land. Fresh water needed for this inland life is supplied through evaporation of water from the sea. The cycle continues in order to sustain life on land.

Ocean is even important for economy. Most of the transportation of goods is done by ships with the use of sea routes. There are ports all over the world to facilitate this process. Even food is supplied by sea by way of fish, crabs, shrimps and lobsters. Catching them and processing has become an important industry for some countries in the world.

Vice President Kills Former US Secretary of the Treasury

"Sir, I challenge you to a duel!" While these words today are a joke, and at most would give you the opportunity to slap someone with a glove, not so long ago these words meant serious business. Since the dawn of time, men have always had the urge to show their male dominance. And what better way to accomplish this than by a potential deadly duel? But dueling could not be over a quibbling matter, no, dueling was reserved as a way to restore honor to one's name.

I just started reading Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation, by Joseph E. Ellis, and the first chapter tells of the most famous duel in American history. In reading, I ran across a passage which informed the reader of the probability of injury. "But the inherent inaccuracy of a projectile emerging from a smoothbore barrel, plus the potent jerk required to release the cocked hammer, ignite the powder, and then send the ball toward its target, meant that in this duel, as in most duels of that time, neither party was likely to be hurt badly, if at all." (1) I also found numerous other sources that indicated the same notion. "The chance of dying in a pistol duel was relatively slim. Flintlocks often misfired. And even in the hands of an experienced shooter, accuracy was difficult." (2)

If this was such an ineffective way to duel, why even take part? I realize that the chance of dying is possible, but like all sources state, not likely. It almost amounts to dueling with billiard balls, which two Frenchmen did in 1843. (3) I am guessing that neither of these gentlemen died-well, not from billiards dueling anyway.

The Burr-Hamilton duel, which would become the most famous duel in America's history, took place on July 11, 1804. This duel, which took the life of Alexander Hamilton, would forever change the country's opinion on dueling. Dueling, just as slavery, was a nasty, customary element of the era. The custom of dueling started in medieval times and came to America, with the Pilgrims, on the Mayflower. Only one year after establishing a colony in Massachusetts, in 1621, Edward Doty and Edward Lester had a sword duel. The punishment for this "crime"?-the two men spent one hour with their ankles tied to their necks. I would say the punishment hardly fits the severity of the crime.

In researching this topic, I ran across several stories about the duel between Andrew Jackson and Charles Dickinson. This 1806 duel led to the death of Charles Dickinson and an injury resulting in a lifetime of pain for Andrew Jackson. Andrew Jackson-yes, Old Hickory himself-fought in many a duel, and was known to leave a few lifeless bodies in his wake. In the earlier referenced PBS.org source (2), there was a quote, "In the eyes of many, Jackson's behavior amounted to little more than murder." Not only had he killed a man in this duel but he also broke a rule, which by today's definition would label him as a cheater. This leads me to a question. Let's say that Republican Nominee for President, Mitt Romney, participated in a duel in his younger years. Would he be elected president? Would the press not make this issue the issue? I think so!

Interestingly enough, somehow this history of dueling turned into a political survey and not so much a history lesson. But I digress. As America became a civilized country dueling, like slavery, would be seen for what it truly was and like slavery be abolished

School Facilities Determines Students Academic Performance

The development of any society is dependent on the general level of education attained by its population most especially the youths. It therefore means that the educational system must be flexible, functional and optional enough to have something to offer to all members of the society including the youths, adults, privileged and the less privileged. The desire to meet the educational needs in particular those members of the under privileged is now a major challenge to the educators over the past years.

Education brings about a change in the manner of conduct of an individual which makes him to present himself as a responsible, sagacious and dependable member of his society. Education is regarded as an activity which gees on in the society with its aims depending on the nature of the society in which it takes place. It is a process through which an individual is trained to become useful to himself and the society at large with the acquisition of the cultural values and norms of the society. It occurs at all stages of life and can occur anywhere, but for the purpose of this study, the focus shall be on the type of education acquired in the school academic environment otherwise known as formal education. A school is a place like home where learning activities takes place and it comprises of individual from different cultural background which live and interact together as a cohesive community with a major common objectives and purpose for learning. It is a place where a learner acquires specialized knowledge and skills needed for their survival and to promote their innate capabilities for learning.

The school prepares an individual for future adult roles, the purpose of the school is mainly to serve as a channel for acquiring knowledge and skills and to enhance the full all round development of an individual. It is therefore necessary for instructors and school administrators to ensure that the school academic environment does not deviate from its main purpose in the sense that instructors control and maintain the type of activities that occur in the school environment in terms of extracurricular activities.

The schools exist because of the students. The quality of the student's performance depends on the quality of the school in terms of availability of required and adequate infrastructural facilities in such a school. Schools with well equipped facilities and well experienced personnel tend to produce brilliant students who show the ways for others students and lead them in various stages in Life. It could therefore be said that the performance of the students depends on the school facilities, which in returns determine their future lives. Parents and guardians should be encouraged to send their wards to schools with well-equipped facilities because it will result in better future for their children.

This fact has been proven to be true as the performance of some students from well equipped facilities schools differs from other students who are in school with less equipped facilities. Availability of required learning facilities in schools enhances student's academic performance. When learning materials are provided, learning activities proceed at a very fast speed. In a situation where the learning environment is not conducive, academic activities proceed at a low rate which then result in poor academic performance of students in promotional and certificate examine. And such is the case of four students of Ifako International School, Ifako, Ifako-Ijaye, Lagos State Nigeria.

Two of the students performed excellently in the competition as Olatide Wright and Torsho Dennis of the senor secondary school came second and fifth respectively in the Gessomate art competition. Adefoluso Orimalade and Soremekun Ibrahim of the junior secondary school came third and forth respectively. This level of performance does revealed the states of Ifako international school as a school with well experienced teachers and adequate faculties suitable for teaching and learning purposes and ideal school for parents who wants the best education for their children. The students are the image of the school and the school cannot exist without the students, the students produced by each school give or show the real image of the school in the society. The school should help provide the required materials and regulates the activities of all extracurricular activities within the school environment so that effective learning activities can occur.

Academic excellence is the desired of every school owner. The quality of teaching and learning that takes place in any educational establishment determines the level of academic excellence. In other for effective teaching and learning process to occur within the school academic environment. There must be provision of required learning aids such as conducive school physical environment, well painted classroom, adequate chairs, moderate distance from an industrial area to prevent unwanted noise and well experienced teachers. Things don't just happen; they are made to happen. All concerned bodies of education should ensure that all the aforementioned criteria are seriously considered so that the desired educational goals and objectives can be achieved and thus ensuring better future for our children.