|
|
 |
|
||
| Gone are the days when a high school diploma would see us through a lifetime. With rapidly changing technology and global realities, many of us will need additional training to keep up. Certifications must be updated, and degrees may need to be supplemented to meet new challenges. Fortunately, our schools and universities recognize this reality and have made continuing education not only readily available to adults, but tailored to adult needs. According to a survey reported by the National Career Development Association (www.ncda.org), 17% of employed adults expect to voluntarily change jobs in the next three years. Maybe you’ve been thinking about mentally stretching yourself to move forward in your career or have even been forced by the slow economy to find new employment. Or perhaps it’s your leisure hours that need a new focus. It’s never too late to augment your current education and skills with additional learning relevant to your life goals. Your city—or one nearby—probably offers a number of possibilities. Look for a junior college, community college, tech school, or four-year university. If traveling to and from an educational institution is not convenient, be sure to investigate the distance learning offerings now available via Internet. The length of time required for any of the continuing education options depends upon the particular program and credentials awarded. If you are able to attend full-time, you could achieve your goal in a relatively short time. But don’t be deterred if you have only limited time to pursue additional education. Many adult students take just one class per semester or quarter, often in the evening or on the weekend. A private junior college could offer certification programs in areas such as general business or clerical services. Diplomas or associate degrees may be offered in areas that include secretarial or administrative services, general business, computer science or programming, legal assistant, medical assistant, or travel services. Flexible schedules, hands-on training, and help with career placement are some of the reasons to choose this category of continuing education. Community colleges are another good choice since they typically offer classes and programs tailored for adults. A small community college in my neighborhood offers two-year degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs. For those with at least a high school diploma, these colleges offer classes and programs focused on specific career areas: laboratory science, business administration or information technology, construction trades, computer technology, health care, manufacturing, graphic design, and transportation. For some students, classes here are a prelude to traditional degrees at a four-year college. Community or junior college programs can be a boon to employed adults who wish to expand their knowledge and skills. Many classes are scheduled on evenings and weekends to accommodate adult learners. Special weekend programs may lead to a certificate or associate degree. Additional credit and non-credit offerings can facilitate career advancement or meet specific business or professional requirements. With the ever-increasing need for health care workers, colleges offer many programs that prepare both traditional students and non-traditional students for health care careers including: dental assisting, information management, medical assisting, pharmacy technician, respiratory care, radiology technology, and medical lab technology. Besides the classroom instruction, students have opportunities for social networking with other students with similar interests; for personal and civic development; and ultimately employment at higher levels. Since I graduated from college, computer technology has added another dimension to continuing education called distance learning. Now students do not have to live in a city with a college or university in order to expand their knowledge and skills. And even if they do have a nearby college, they may opt to stay at home and attend classes via their computer. With distance learning expected to grow by 33% in the next few years, many post-secondary institutions are expanding their offerings. Internet, videos, and broadcast programs may be used, and in some cases, students interact in real time with their instructors via video conferencing. Independent study options allow students to set their own pace. An online course management system that allows students to submit assignments and exams via the Internet is a popular option. Such diverse subjects as accounting, computer applications, digital photo or video, grant writing, graphic design, languages, real estate, and writing courses are offered. What about those of us who enjoy learning for purely personal reasons? Community colleges offer a range of non-credit workshops, seminars, and classes in such diverse areas as the arts, genealogy research, personal finance, first aid, needlework, and fitness. Maybe you’ve been wanting to explore a hobby. Look for classes in scrapbooking, photography, quilting, ceramics, or knitting. Learn to make bead jewelry, silversmithing, leaded glass, or calligraphy. Larger colleges may offer fine arts classes or the opportunity to learn a musical instrument or to take vocal music. Have you wanted to learn a foreign language, home decorating, or gourmet cooking? Do an Internet search for a community college near you. When you reach the site, use such terms as “non-credit,” “community education,” or “continuing education.” Have you been waiting for the right time? The time is now! Discover the pleasure of lifelong learning. Sources for this story included: e-referencedesk.com/education/schools-2-years, ncda.org; and U.S.Dept.of Educationated.gov. |
Education for a Lifetime |
||
|
