A recent study shows that twenty percent fewer Americans think science is our nation’s greatest achievement (47 percent in 1999, 27 percent in 2009). For 2009, Civil Rights/Equal Rights tied with Other with 17 percent. War and Peace clocked in at 7 percent, and Economy brought up the rear with 3 percent–no real surprise there (except that anyone at all gave it a thumbs up lately). Perhaps the most telling part of the survey, though, was that 33 percent cast a vote for Nothing/Don’t Know. (more…)

It’s really happening. I’ve been tracking it for a while, but the numbers are rolling in: students are flocking to green programs. Both online and on-campus, students are seeking out greener educations. While there are a few doubters around still, it’s become apparent that the planet needs a little bit more TLC. Let’s take a look at the push to go green. (more…)

Online Education and Eye Health
When you enroll in an online program, personal health is probably one of the last things on your mind.  With classes, exams, and papers, you already have so much to worry about.  But there are hidden dangers of which you need to be aware.  This is especially true if you already spend long hours in front of a computer at your day job.  To add several more hours a week at a PC (plus regular book reading) could take a toll on your eyes.  Below are some tips to help you deal with this added strain.
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Are There Any Subjects That Are Not Well Suited for Online Education?
It’s not surprising that some subjects (computer science, Web design, and legal studies) thrive in online education.  You spend the bulk of your time in front of a computer whether you’re learning or working.  But what about subject areas that require a fair amount of field work?  Are these well-suited for online education?  Can one earn a forestry degree or oceanography diploma from the comfort of home?
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It’s Never Too Late to Go Back to School, But….
If you’re a multi-millionaire with a party streak and cutting wit, then going back to school as an adult might not seem like such a shock.  Rodney Dangerfield did it in the hilarious 1986 movie Back to School, and he was no worse for the wear.  But what about the rest of us who don’t have millions, an iron stomach, or sharp comedic timing?  They say that it’s never too late to go back, but being the only 30, 40, or 50-something in the class can seem a little uncomfortable for many.  Not going back, however, could mean not breaking that “glass ceiling” at work or switching to that career that you’ve always wanted.  Are there options?
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Higher Education Has a New Calling
In the years after Sputnik and Kennedy’s “man on the moon” challenge, there was a noticeable spike in science and math funding throughout the nation.  Elementary, secondary, college, and graduate students across the country took a keener interest in space exploration.  This push helped the United States solidify its lead in technology and innovation.  Missions to Mars have continued to fuel some of the interest, but in the face of climate change and deteriorating ecosystems, perhaps our new focus should be on green technologies.
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Once again, we’ve scooped the New York Times, but tragically, no one ever notices. The Paper of Record reports on the latest college-ranking trend: eco-friendliness.

Do they mention online colleges, which offer a 92% reduction in energy use over campus schools? Take a guess. (more…)

Well, the NY Times is finally catching up to what we’ve been saying for months! It’s no secret that online degrees are better for the environment–but it’s now abundantly clear that they’re better for your wallet too.

The Times article offers an interesting perspective from the students it interviews–primarily those who prefer a traditional on-campus experience, and are only going online to save money. These students are taking some time to get comfortable with the format, but once they get the hang of it, they may notice other benefits of online study, in addition to the gas savings. (more…)

There’s a lot of improvement in life that people attribute to higher education – higher salary, fewer unplanned pregnancies, and overall more “success” in seeking the American Dream. But who would have thought that your life could actually be prolonged by earning a college degree?

You always hear those stories about people who are 102 years old with no teeth, no education, and have smoked cigarettes and drunk bourbon every day since they were 12. Now, those of us who are completely the opposite – college-educated, fairly healthy, and don’t smoke – have a chance to brag about avoiding cancer. (more…)

Alas, as mere humans, we cannot survive on energy drinks alone – even though college students and business professionals seem to rely on sugar and caffeine to get them through the days (and nights). Naturally, there are other options that will sustain your focus and keep those brain waves pumping. (more…)