Blended Learning Program | Distance Learning Systems (DLSI)

Can Online Education Be The Solution To Addressing The Nursing Shortage?

The nursing shortage is a significant challenge facing the healthcare industry today. According to the National Library of Medicine, this problem has complex roots, including a need for more potential educators, high turnover rates, and an uneven distribution of nurses.

However, the issue is not new and has been a concern for years. The demand for registered nurses has consistently outpaced the supply, as reported by U.S. News, and this gap has only grown wider due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a staggering 203,200 job openings for registered nurses through 2031. We urgently need a solution to train and prepare new nurses to meet this demand.

The Role of Online Education

One promising solution to address the nursing shortage is using an online education platform that is more innovative than traditional solutions. This innovative approach offers an accelerated and accredited nursing degree program that provides flexibility and addresses the issues of cost and time constraints.

Revolutionizing Nursing Education

Online EdTech companies are revolutionizing how we approach college education. Their cutting-edge platform allows students to start courses at their convenience and complete them in weeks, all at a fraction of the cost compared to the national average tuition fees.

Overcoming Traditional Barriers

Traditional four-year bachelor’s degree programs at colleges or universities often present formidable obstacles to aspiring registered nurses. Many students face rejection from nursing programs, prolonged on-campus commitments, high tuition fees, inflexible schedules, curriculum challenges, and a sense of isolation. The right online education program overcomes these barriers.

Affordable and Accessible Education

One of the primary obstacles to becoming a registered nurse is the high cost of education. However, the more innovative online education programs and platforms offer 100% online courses, allowing students to maintain a flexible lifestyle while reducing costs to half the national tuition average. Moreover, these courses are taught by experienced Master’s and PhD instructors, ensuring the quality of education.

Endorsement and Accreditation

The recommendation of its courses, such as the American Council on Education, sets the right online education program apart. Furthermore, they facilitate the transfer of students to partner universities, which then confer accredited university degrees upon qualifying students. The right online program will also work with several university partners, giving students various options to earn a respected and accredited nursing degree.

Bridging the Gender Gap

According to Forbes, women in nursing roles often earn higher salaries than their male counterparts. For example, women make 3% more than men as vocational nurses. Therefore, online education programs that use a more advanced platform particularly benefit young people and women.

The Solution Summarized

The shortage of nurses is a long-standing challenge exacerbated by various factors. The solution is not just an online nursing education program but an online nursing education program that uses an innovative platform that differentiates itself from others in accessibility, affordability, and flexibility. By embracing such a solution, we can work towards resolving this critical issue and ensuring a steady supply of qualified nurses in the healthcare industry.

Written By: Justin Hart

Busting The Top 10 Myths About Taking Online Courses for College Credit and Earning a Degree Online

Today’s online education has completely revolutionized how people pursue earning college credits and getting a college degree. With the rise of online college courses, students can learn at their own pace, from the comfort of their homes or anywhere with an internet connection. Despite its growing popularity, some things surrounding online education still need to be clarified. Let’s debunk the top 10 myths about taking online college courses for college credit and earning a degree online.

Myth #1: Online degrees are less credible than traditional degrees.

Fact: Accredited online degree programs hold the same value as their traditional counterparts. Many reputable universities offer online programs that meet the same rigorous academic standards. Employers now recognize the legitimacy and quality of online degrees, making them equally valuable for career advancement.

Myth #2: Online courses lack interaction and engagement.

Fact: Online courses often incorporate various interactive elements to promote engagement. Discussion boards, video conferences, and collaborative projects facilitate meaningful interactions with professors and fellow students. Additionally, technological advancements enable real-time feedback and personalized attention, ensuring a rich learning experience.

Myth #3: Online degrees are easier to obtain than traditional degrees.

Fact: Online courses are designed to be just as challenging and academically rigorous as traditional courses. The curriculum, assignments, and exams are carefully structured to meet the same educational standards. The flexibility of online learning may require self-discipline and time management skills, but the difficulty level remains the same as with traditional programs.

Myth#4: Employers do not value online degrees.

Fact: Employers today value skills, knowledge, and experience over the format in which they were acquired. Many employers recognize that online degree holders possess valuable qualities such as self-motivation, time management, and tech-savviness. As long as the online program is accredited, employers will likely view the degree the same way as obtaining a degree the traditional way from an on-campus college or university.

Myth #5: Online courses need more practical experience.

Fact: Online programs have adapted to include practical components through virtual simulations, internships, and field experiences. Students can gain hands-on skills and expertise in their chosen fields by participating in online labs, completing virtual projects, or engaging with professionals in their local communities.

Myth #6: Online degrees are not suitable for socially inclined individuals.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, online learning can foster a strong sense of community. Virtual classrooms provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and discussion. Online students often connect through social media groups, online forums, and virtual study groups, creating a supportive network of like-minded individuals.

Myth #7: Online degrees are only available in limited fields.

Fact: The amount of online degree programs continues to expand rapidly. Today, you can pursue online degrees in various fields, including business, healthcare, technology, humanities, esports, game development, homeland security, criminal justice, and marketing, and the list continues. Whether you want to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctoral degree, online programs are available to suit your interests and career goals.

Myth #8: Online education lacks personalized attention from instructors.

Fact: Online instructors are committed to providing personalized attention to their students. Students can interact with professors individually through email, discussion boards, and virtual office hours and seek guidance when needed. Some online courses also offer one-on-one mentoring, ensuring a supportive learning environment.

Myth #9: Online degrees are not recognized by professional organizations.

Fact: Professional organizations recognize and accept online degrees, career skills certificates, and continued education completed online. These organizations understand the changing landscape of education and the value of online education and degrees. Always research and ensure that your chosen online program is recognized by the relevant professional associations in your field of interest.

Myth #10: Online learning is lonely and isolating.

Fact: While online learning requires self-motivation and independence, it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Online students can engage in virtual study groups, participate in online forums, and attend virtual events and conferences related to their field. Building connections with peers and instructors can help combat any feelings of isolation.

As online education continues its rapid growth, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to dispel the myths surrounding earning college credits online and getting an online college degree. Taking 100% online courses for college credit and earning a degree online can provide a flexible and rewarding educational experience. The credibility of online degrees, the level of engagement, and the practical experiences available are now on par with traditional education. By breaking down these misconceptions, aspiring learners are encouraged to embrace the possibilities offered by online education and take charge of their academic journey.

Written By: Justin Hart

The Advantages of Taking General Education Courses Online

Online college General Education courses offer several advantages for students. One of the main benefits is flexibility. Online courses allow students to attend class at their convenience rather than having to be in a physical classroom at a specific time. This is particularly beneficial for students who work or have other obligations that make it difficult to attend traditional in-person classes. Online courses also allow students to take classes from anywhere, so they can continue their education even if they move or travel.

Another advantage of online General Education courses is the ability to learn at your own pace. In traditional in-person classes, students may feel pressure to keep up with the pace of the class, which can be difficult for some students. With online courses, students can take the time they need to fully understand the material and complete assignments at their own pace. This can be especially beneficial for students with learning disabilities or other special needs.

Online college General Education courses offer a more comprehensive range of courses. Online classes are not limited by the number of students who can physically fit in a classroom, and they can be offered to a more significant number of students. This means that students have a more comprehensive range of courses to choose from and are more likely to find a class that fits their interests and career goals.

Online General Education courses also offer a cost-effective option for students. Online courses are generally less expensive than traditional in-person courses, as they do not require the same infrastructure or resources. In addition, students can save money on transportation and other expenses associated with attending in-person classes.

Online General Education courses also offer a variety of tools and resources to support student learning. For example, many online courses use interactive discussion boards, virtual collaboration tools, and online quizzes to engage students and help them learn. Online courses also often provide access to a wide range of digital resources, such as videos, podcasts, and articles that can be used to supplement the course material.

Finally, online General Education courses can help students develop valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. Online courses require students to be self-motivated, organized, and able to manage their time effectively. They also need students to be able to communicate effectively and collaborate with others in a virtual environment. These skills are highly valued by employers and can be beneficial for students in any field.

In conclusion, online college General Education courses offer a number of advantages for students, including flexibility, the ability to learn at your own pace, a more comprehensive range of course options, cost-effectiveness, access to tools and resources to support student learning, and the development of valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. These advantages make online General Education courses an attractive option for students looking to further their education while balancing other responsibilities.

Written By: Justin Hart

How to Choose the Best College Major

Choosing a college major can be complicated, as it will likely impact and shape your career and future opportunities. To make this even more challenging, these decisions are made while the individual is still very young with little if any, real-world experience to base that decision. As a very young man, I knew I was not prepared to make a decision as impactful as that, so I elected to enlist in the military like many others. I completed my enlistment, returned home, and started taking general education classes, still waiting for a clear direction on what I wanted to do for the next 40 years.

I landed on engineering, and while that is undoubtedly a great option, I have made multiple career changes since my days in the college classroom. Here are a few tips that may help you make the best choice for you:

Consider your interests and passions. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What hobbies or activities do you enjoy doing? These are often good indicators of what you may be interested in pursuing as a career.
Research career prospects, job outlooks, and earning potential for various majors. This will give you an idea of career opportunities after graduation.
Talk to people in the field if possible. Ask them about their experiences and what they enjoy about their job. This will give you valuable insights regarding what it’s like to work in the field.
Take advantage of your school’s resources and those provided by many colleges. Many schools have career days sponsored by professionals and college staff. This may help you make an informed decision.
Keep your options open; you don’t have to choose a major immediately. It’s not uncommon for a student to explore different subjects before committing to a major.
Consider your long-term goal and what you want to achieve in your career and personal life. This may help you land a major that aligns with your goals.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a major you’re passionate about that will lead to a career you enjoy. Remember, your major doesn’t have to dictate your entire career. Switching careers or even going back to school to pursue a different field is not uncommon. While choosing a major that aligns with your interests and goals, it is also essential to remain open to new opportunities and changes throughout your life.

Distance Learning Systems provide many options for those contemplating a career change or starting out. With over 35 major universities to choose from and over 450 online and campus-based degree programs, this is a great place to start. You can quickly and affordably complete up to 2 years of an accredited bachelor’s degree 100% online.

Written By: Dave Christy

You Can’t Do That

No, I’m not referring to the B side of the Beatles album “Can’t Buy Me Love.” Many of you may have minimal knowledge of the Beatles, let alone their music. For the record, I’m in the group that lived through the British Invasion in the mid-1960s; no, that was not a military operation. I’m referring to a far too common phrase that many of us have heard in our lifetime, and worse yet, may have said to a friend or even our children. This is a psychological seed that should never be planted. While it’s true that there certainly are things we should not do in life, let’s focus for a moment on those fantastic things that we could do.

Let me share an example of what I mean. My youngest was born profoundly deaf, so we decided to allow her to attend a residential school out of state that was very progressive. Because most of the children, including my own, had cochlear implants, this school helped these children perfect (as best they could) their listening and speaking skills. The results were astounding. As we were doing our exit interview near the end of the elementary school years, we met with the school psychologist, and I’ll never forget what she told our daughter and us. She said we should have realistic expectations regarding what to expect from our child as she grows up. The example she gave was in the field of nursing. She said, “If your daughter decides she wants to be a nurse, she will most likely become an LPN rather than an RN.”

When I left that meeting and that school, I was somewhat bewildered. For five years, my daughter was taught that she could do anything, and we also believed that. We had never told our child that there was anything she could not do. Time passed, and we forgot that advice. High school ended, then on to her bachelor’s degree, followed by her master’s, and today, she is completing her thesis for her EdD at a major university. She holds a very responsible position in state government, is married, and is a homeowner. Contrary to conventional wisdom, she learned, and we supported the belief that we can accomplish almost anything of value we set our minds to and are willing to work for.

Unfortunately, some children have minimal confidence and belief in their abilities. It’s not unusual for a child to say, “I can’t do it!” Physical limitations may exist, but we should be our kiddo’s biggest cheerleaders. When they say this, we might try encouraging them by offering one of the following responses:

“I know this is hard for you.” Above all, listen to your children, and let them open up and discuss the issue.
“Have I ever told you about…” Please talk about your struggles or those of others close to them and encourage them to do their best. I know my daughter has a story to tell.
“You can’t do this yet.” The word “yet” allows you to talk about what can happen.

There is no end to studies written on this topic, and I do not profess to have all the answers, but I do remember the limiting belief we could have fallen victim to years ago. We chose not to, and I hope if you are ever faced with a similar situation regarding your future, your hopes, and dreams, or those of your child, you will overcome them as well.

Written By: Dave Christy

Why Are Gen Eds Required for My Degree and How Can I Save Time and Money Completing Them?

If you’ve never been to college, you may ask yourself that question. Most people would much rather focus on courses that relate specifically to their chosen field of study and their career choice. The reality is that colleges and universities require from 30% to 50% of coursework to be general electives (gen eds). I know when I was younger and began my degree in engineering, I was anxious to start my core classes, but I soon learned that those courses would begin in the fourth or fifth semester. Many students may question whether gen eds are a waste of time, but is that true? First of all, all university programs require gen ed courses, so you are working your way toward your final goal. Secondly, you will learn new subjects, and you may develop a new passion. Elective courses also allow you to explore topics that interest you.

Colleges and universities want “well-rounded” graduates, and gen eds provide a comprehensive education. They promote critical thinking across multiple subjects. General education is more than what it is often perceived to be. Fundamentally, the purpose of education is not to train a student for a specific job but equips them with the skills they need to live life (Walters & Bockorn, 2018).

Once I started my gen ed curriculum, it began to make sense. I was experiencing high-level learning and then saw the value of these courses. For those of you who may not have any experience with post-secondary education, and those with limited knowledge of this subject, here are some examples of general education courses by category:

English Language and Literature:

College Composition, Oral Communication

Arts and Humanities:

Arts, Music, Philosophy, Religion, Ethics, History

Social Sciences:

Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Economics

Natural Science:

Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology

Mathematics:

Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Statistics

So, we understand that gen eds are required and why, but how can we expedite the completion of these courses and save money? I’ve found that most colleges and universities nationwide provide access to and accept virtually the same courses to satisfy this requirement. One very good and very affordable option for completing these courses in the shortest time possible and for the lowest cost is through Distance Learning Systems.

Here are some of the benefits of utilizing Distance Learning Systems to satisfy this requirement.

Distance Learning Systems provide a wide assortment of general education courses that satisfy most, if not all, general education requirements.
All courses provided by Distance Learning Systems are ACE (American Council on Education) recommended.
Distance Learning Systems has partnership agreements with over 30 of the nation’s finest universities. This guarantees the transferability of all courses completed with Distance Learning Systems into the degree-granting institution.
All courses are delivered 100% online 24/7.
Distance Learning Systems provide an accelerated path to over 450 online degree programs.
The cost of these courses is about 56% less expensive than the average cost of university tuition.
You have options when beginning a new program or returning to complete your degree. I absolutely see and appreciate the value of these general education courses, but my position has always been and will always be to maximize value and minimize time. Good luck!

Written By: Dave Christy

Still Waiting for the Right Time to Start College?

Procrastination is the killer of dreams! As a national education company owner, I witness this sad reality every day. For a year, we are contacted by as many as 20,000 adults who have unrealized dreams. This is because they, like many others, have put off the most critical tool for personal, professional, and financial growth…education.

There are as many reasons people delay education as there are people, but many tell us they are simply afraid. Perhaps it could be fear of failure, the ever-increasing cost of education, or simply going back and competing in the classroom with students half their age. But you must remember that it’s okay, it’s normal to feel that way, you’ll be fine.

Any student at any age contemplating going back to school should start by focusing on why they want to return to school. What is your WHY? I’m guessing it’s more important than your fear. Maintain that focus, establish short- and long-term goals, and remember, the secret to success is getting started. For a moment, overcoming that fear is often more difficult than completing the task. It’s important to note that over 20% of today’s college enrollments are students over 25 (Education Data Initiative); hundreds of thousands of people just like you are doing this, and so can you!

Distance Learning Systems has worked with adult students for over 22 years. During that time, it has structured an accelerated and affordable path to earning up to 2 years of college credit, entirely at home and 100% online. That means you can finish the first two years of college at half the cost of traditional education and in about half the time. After saving time and money in the Distance Learning Systems proven program, they will assist you in transferring your credits into one of their 32 accredited universities, where you’ll have over 450 fully online programs.

Here are just a few of the available degree programs:

Registered Nursing

Aviation-Professional Pilot

Homeland Security

Crime Scene Investigation

Investigative Forensics

Software Development

Sports Management

Cyber Security

Biotechnology

Counter Terrorism

Business Psychology

Your degree will be awarded by one of the top universities in the nation, and as a student of Distance Learning Systems, you may be awarded scholarships and/or reduced tuition through graduation.

I want to encourage you not to fear your exciting journey to personal and professional success. Please don’t look back 20, 30, or 40 years from now and realize what could have been. You’ve got this!

Written By: Dave Christy

The Fastest and Most Affordable Path to a College Degree — Regardless of Your Major

It’s no secret that the cost of education continues to increase year after year. Education Data Initiative reported in January 2022,” The average price of college tuition & fees at public 4-year institutions has risen 179.2% over the last 20 years for an average annual increase of 9.0%.” In most cases, wages haven’t kept pace with the cost of higher ed, so what can a prospective college student do to offset some of this cost? I want to share what I’ve learned that may help you save $10,000 to $40,000 or more!

Years ago, I found similarities in university degree programs, on-campus or online; most programs require several general education courses. These courses may account for up to 2 years of a 4-year degree. While that number may be smaller in programs such as medicine and engineering, tuition for these courses costs no less than those in the major area of study.

General education courses are required for most undergraduate degree programs. They do not change based on the major. While there are literally hundreds of college majors, most need the same general education courses. You should consult your school to determine what they require.

I’ve taken advantage of programs offering a cost-effective solution to this coursework for my children and grandchildren. They did not need to sacrifice the quality or transferability of these courses as they navigated their program, and we’ve saved thousands of dollars literally in the process.

Here are some examples of general education courses:

Music
Art
Philosophy
English Composition
English Literature
Foreign Language
Western Civilization
US History
Math
Statistics
Sciences
Sociology
Public Speaking
Psychology
World Religions
Anthropology

Distance Learning System offers a program you may want to consider. They provide 100% online courses that are recognized by the American Council on Education and accepted by over 30 of their top-tier university partners. These online courses cost less than half the national average and are completed online in about half the time of traditional college courses. My position has always been, why pay more for the same thing? My answer has always been that I shouldn’t.

If you can save 60% to 80% on the first two years of your 4-year degree and receive the same quality education, why not take advantage of the opportunity? These programs are open to high school students preparing for college or working adults interested in fast-tracking their career and income potential. Good luck in your quest for higher education.

Written By: Dave Christy

Professional Certificates – An Employers Perspective

Years ago, when I first started flying, my flight instructor gave me advice appropriate for anyone involved in aviation. His advice was, “never stop learning.” Indeed, that was true for a new pilot, but even in an environment where life and death are not the issues, that advice always rings true. Many years have passed since my instructor challenged me to keep learning, and in all these years, I can honestly say that I’ve never once felt like I didn’t need to know more. There are always new technologies and challenges in business, and even our personal lives present new challenges almost daily.

Dating back to 1597, Francis Bacon coined the phrase “Knowledge is Power,” which Thomas Jefferson used when discussing the establishment of a state university in Virginia. In 1817 he also related knowledge with power, safety, and happiness. I think it’s widely accepted that there is a quantifiable benefit to knowledge.

Most everyone would agree that a university education lays the groundwork for a successful professional life, but today there are options that many employers value and support. These are professional certificates. We all know that a degree may prepare the holder for almost any type of degree, but professional certification does even more. A professional certificate provides focused training for a specific career. These could be in marketing, data science & analytics, environmental, social, leadership, business, finance, or hundreds more. Certificates are earned more quickly and at a significantly lower cost than a degree and may prepare you for that dream job!

As an employer, I view the holder of professional certification as:

A team member or applicant is someone committed to excellence
A team member who is committed to growing with the organization
An asset that helps build trust with clients
An individual interested in a long-term relationship with our organization

A professional certificate holder demonstrates:

Validation of Knowledge
Increased marketability
Increased earning power
Enhanced credibility

“Never stop learning” has served me well over the years, and this fundamental truth will work for anyone interested in growth. Several institutions provide this exciting growth opportunity, but you might explore certificates from Distance Learning Systems by visiting https://catalog.mindedge.com/dlsii. They also offer an accelerated and affordable path to over 450 online degree programs sponsored by major universities throughout the US.

Written By: Dave Christy

5 Reasons You Must Go to College

Much has been written about college versus the trades, work versus school, and other similar comparisons. I’ve heard so many young people say they want their own place, a new car, toys; you name it. Very seldom do you hear a young person these days say, “I can’t wait to go to college!” And yet, that remains the primary source for acquiring all those other things they want out of life.

Is college important? Absolutely! What about going into the trades; is that a good option for young people? Absolutely! But, regardless of a young person’s path, the college experience provides a solid foundation in life and business. There are so many options available to post-secondary education students; the real dilemma might be where to attend and what to study rather than whether I should get a college degree. Of course, you should. Education has no downside, and it is important to remember that knowledge is power.

So, what are some of the advantages of earning a college degree?

You’ll earn more over your lifetime. The BLS confirms that workers with a bachelor’s degree earn a median income of $524 per week more than workers with only a high school diploma. That’s an increase of more than $27,000 a year. That translates to a lifestyle change for the college graduate.
Reduced chance of unemployment. Even though not required for some positions, a college degree is NOT ignored by future employers. As an employer myself, I understand and appreciate the discipline and hard work needed to complete a college education, and I absolutely factor that in when evaluating prospective employees.
According to a 2016 Pew Research Center report, workers with a bachelor’s degree or more advanced education were 70% more likely to view their job as a career than just 39% of workers without college. The bottom line, college-educated workers experience greater job satisfaction.
While the other reasons for earning a college degree are statistically impactful, there are other more personal reasons to earn a college degree. The Lumina Foundation determined that college graduates may demonstrate healthier habits than those without a degree. It may be hard to believe, but your education can directly impact your health.
According to findings by the Lumina Foundation, 94% of adults with a bachelor’s degree or higher reported being very happy with life, compared to 89% with no college education.

There isn’t a downside to acquiring post-secondary education. Time spent earning that degree will give the young person an opportunity to mature, learn, make more, and secure their future. A college degree may translate to achieving a lifelong dream with countless personal and financial rewards for the mature adult.

At Distance Learning Systems, we speak to incoming adult students every day. Some may require retraining for a new career, others may need a degree to upgrade within their chosen profession, and others may wish to achieve personal goals. Our 30+ university partners offer over 450 fully online degrees, and we can help you save significant time and money. Whatever your reason for considering college, we wish you the very best and want to encourage you to take advantage of some of the world’s finest institutions of higher learning.

Written By: Dave Christy