Sales Training International is a sales, sales management, and customer service training and publishing company providing custom and off-the-shelf courses, resources, and support.

With thousands of online courses completed each year by participants from around the world, Sales Training International is a leading provider of online sales, sales management, and customer service training.

Free coaching materials are included for qualified supervisors, managers, and trainers for the sales training and customer service training courses. Our courses are available around the world 24/7/365. Learn online today!

Lifetime unlimited use licenses are available to qualified organizations. Go to the online learning site of your interest and select the Lifetime License button at the bottom of the home page for more information about that specific license.

Out-skill the competition! Selling is not an unskilled occupation. Sales competency models identify over 200 observable skilled competencies in 31 areas of selling such as prospecting, building value, negotiating, and closing. Sales Training International provides32 objectives-driven, diagnostically-identified, skills-based sales courses to support these competencies.

There are two separate curriculums in the site, one for call center and inside sales, and one for consultative outside sales. Successful completion of either curriculum leads to the Master Sales Specialist certificate.

An individual 12 month subscription tuition is only $150, which provides 24/7/365 unlimited access to all courses and resources.

To review the course descriptions, take a free preview course, and buy online to access the courses, select the button below to go to Learn Selling Online.

Create a sales force second to none! Productive sales teams don't just happen. They take leadership, skill development, coaching, and accountability. This curriculum of nine core courses is augmented by extensive resources, support materials, and tools.

Successful completion of the curriculum leads to the Sales Management Specialist certificate.

An individual 12 month subscription tuition is only $150, which provides 24/7/365 unlimited access to all courses and resources.

To review the course descriptions, take a free preview course, and buy online to access the courses, select the button below to go to Learn Sales Management Online."

Provide legendary customer service! Observable and measurable mission-critical skill sets are organized into 10 highly interactive courses. Each course includes downloadable job aids and other learning tools. Coaching materials are free for qualified supervisors, managers, and trainers.

Successful completion of the curriculum leads to the Customer Service Specialist certificate.

An individual 12 month subscription tuition is only $150, which provides 24/7/365 unlimited access to all courses and resources.

To review the course descriptions, take a free preview course, and buy online to access the courses, select the button below to go to Learn Customer Service Online.

Reinforce your skills with ebooks! Now you can purchase individual e-books for most of the sales, sales management, and customer service online training courses. These books are quick reads and focus on key knowledge, skills, and strategies. They are a perfect way to learn about or brush up on a few skill sets at a time. They are available from Amazon.com and Barnes and Nobel.

To review the available books and choose the titles that a would most benefit you, select the button below.

For clients utilizing instructors and coaches as a part of their learning solutions, Sales Training International can provide needs assessment, custom course development, train-the-trainer, workbooks and other materials in our three primary areas of expertise.

Select the links below in your areas of interest.

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Sales Training International, Houston Texas, sales training ...

Most companies follow a standard model - they have existing sales platforms and methodologies, their sales representatives are trained on territory management or armed with basic sales skills, and the pipeline generation process may be reasonably successful at performing client follow-ups and creating a steady influx of new prospects. That model equips company salespeople with the "What To Do" part of the process; however, what is often missing is the "How To Do It." In most cases the sales people are missing the habits, tools, and job aids that allow them to close more deals, faster, and at higher margins.

SNI's Corporate Sales Training program takes our client's existing sales platform and then incorporates our tools, habits, skills, behaviors, and systematic process. This creates an arena where companies are able to enhance the ROI on the existing sales methodology and where salespeople are able to continue utilizing a process with which they are comfortable. The true definition of Win-win.

Sample Course Outline

Program participants become part of an interactive experience that challenges their current mode of thinking and gives them the opportunity to practice the SNI process in the actual program. Through our sales training they learn to more proactively prepare in an effort to save time and obtain better information, which includes a deeper understanding of customers true needs and interests. Common objections are raised and responded to through a series of strategic questions and company-specific job aids. Finally, participants are given the tools and confidence to make them propose and logically close the deal in a way that creates more deals for the long-term.

Benefits of SNIs Sales Training:

Testimonials

I went out on a great sales call with one of my reps today. Before going in we did some pre-call planning using SNIs PAID model and it really helped us put together our strategy. We also were able to negotiate our way through various issues effectively and with confidence. I think this was one of the best sales training's we've ever had. Not to use a clich, but this training was truly a WIN-WIN for your company and ours. Sales Director, ADP TotalSource

The seminar put on by the SNI has already paid big dividends in my sales careerthe seminar taught me many valuable techniques for improving my skills in sales as well as helping my confidence and motivation. One month after the seminar, I am close to reaching 50% of my sales goals for the entire yearthe SNI session certainly gave me many good ideas and techniques for my sales career. Director of Sales, Professional Baseball Team

Contact Us

Give us a call to find out more about our corporate sales training at 1-800-665-4764. Or, take a look at ournegotiation trainingandinfluence trainingprograms to find out how they could have an impact on your organization.

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Corporate Sales Training & Consulting By SNI

Welcome to the Apple Sales Training Online program (Asia). You will find a program overview about this program and how to register below or you can go direct to register now.

(Note: Apple Employee with no AppleConnect ID, please check with your local HR)

The Apple Sales Training Online program is a self-paced learning program specifically designed for individuals who sell, support, and recommend Apple solutions.

Any individual in the Asia who is currently employed by an Apple-authorized channel can participate in the Asia Apple Sales Training Online (ASTO) program. This includes, but is not limited to, Apple Authorized Resellers & Distributors, Value Added Resellers (VAR), Apple PR or Ad Agencies. Membership period is for a calendar year, beginning in January and ending in mid-December.

Countries in Asia include: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, Christmas Island, Cook Islands, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, East Timor, Fiji, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Micronesia, Mynamar,Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Vietnam.

The Apple Sales Training Online program offers you a flexible system with many benefits and opportunities to learn about Apple solutions and how to identify your customer needs. You are awarded points for completion of specified learning activities. By accumulating points, you will attain levels of achievement and demonstrating your product knowledge to potential customers.

For more information about the program, refer to the FAQ and Terms & Conditions for your geographic area.

The following sections address some of the most common issues that you may have when registering for the Apple Sales Training Online program. We recommend that you print the instructions that you need below:

If you are new to the Apple Sales Training Online program, you will need to register for an account. To set up an account and register, follow these steps:

Note: If you already have an account with the Reseller/Education Store, GDV, Apple Sales Web, Apple Developer Connection or GSX, please log in at http://salestraining.apple.com using your existing ID/Password information when creating your new Apple Sales Training Online account.

If you do not have a login ID and Password, go to Global Registration.

Choose your Preferred Language, Country and select Non-Apple Employee.

On your registration, please complete all required fields (in bold). Note: Do not use @mac.com as your account login ID.

RESELLERS ID: No ID is required for Apple channels in Asia.

RESELLERS: If you are an Apple Authorised Reseller in Asia Pacific, you MUST provide:

- the physical address for the store location at which you work

- your email with your company domain name

This information will be verified in our channel database. Your registration will not be processed without this information.

Once all of the information above is provided, click Register Now. The "Thank You" page will appear.

Please allow up to five business days for your registration to be processed. Also, please do not try to log in to the Apple Sales Training Online program until you receive your registration approval via email.

Once you have received your registration approval email, return to http://www.apple.com/salestraining and type your Apple ID account name and password in the fields provided. Click Continue.

The first time you log in to the program, you will receive the Terms & Conditions page. Once you agree to them, the Apple Sales Training Online home page appears and you can begin taking courses.

To access the Apple Sales Training Online website, all new Apple employees must have an AppleConnect account. To activate your account name and password, please follow the instructions for AppleConnect Account setup at IS&T Web at below link.

http://istweb.apple.com/accounts/appleconnect/create_ac_account.shtml

Social Security Number/ID (Singapore: last 4 digits & alphabet of your ID, other countries: check with HR)

Mailstop (contact HR for other Apple office Mailstop) China Beijing = 863-RE China Guangzhou = 874-RE China Shanghai = 864-RE Hong Kong = 844-RE India Bangalore = 868-RE Korea Seoul = 817-RE Malaysia KL = 803-AA Singapore = 704-RE Taiwan Taipei = 707-RE Thailand Bangkok = 838-RE

Please contact your manager to have your AppleConnect account created for you. Once you have this login information, return to the Apple Sales Training Online login page and complete the registration process.

If you are new to the Apple Sales Training Online program, you will need your AppleConnect account name and password in order to register. To register, please follow the steps below:

Go to http://www.apple.com/salestraining.

Type your AppleConnect account name (also known as Apple ID) and Password in the fields provided. Click Continue.

If your login is successful, you will receive a prepopulated registration form reflecting your information in Apple Directory. Please complete all required fields (in bold) and click Register Now. You will receive a Thank You - Registration Submitted page confirming your submission.

Please allow five business days for your registration to be processed. Do not try to log in to the Apple Sales Training Online program until you receive your registration approval via email.

If the five-day turn-around has passed, please send a request to your program Administrator for your follow-up. Please do not submit additional registrations.

Once you have received your registration approval email, return to http://www.apple.com/salestraining and type your AppleConnect account name and password in the fields provided. Click Continue.

The first time you log in to the program, you will receive the Terms & Conditions page. Once you agree to them, the Apple Sales Training Online home page appears and you can begin taking courses. You will receive an email welcoming you to the Apple Sales Training Online program.

Note: If you have any problems registering or logging in, please send an email describing the problem to the Administrator for your location:

Asia - asto.asia@asia.apple.com

If you change your employer, work location, or email address, please contact the Admin with the following information/updates.

Your complete name

Your old email address

Your old company name

Your valid new email address

Your new company name

Your new job title

New Business address (complete address with city, postal code, and country name)

New Business phone number

New Business fax number

If your new employer does not qualify you to participate in the Apple Sales Training Online program, your participation in the program is suspended until you are once again employed by a company that qualifies you for participation in the program.

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Apple Sales Training Online Program Overview (Asia)

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Florida has been seeing considerable economic improvements since the economy crashed and the housing bubble burst. In fact, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis recently reported Florida's economic output increased 2.2 percent in the last year, higher than the national average.

Just as the top occupations in Florida are diverse, the most popular degrees also span a wide range of interests Here's a breakdown of some of the top programs in Florida based on National Center for Education Services (NCES) numbers on total degrees granted in the 2012-2013 academic year:

No matter what students want to study, chances are there are several schools for them to choose from. That's because there are over 400 colleges and universities around the state, including about 350 private colleges and universities.

Florida also boasts a robust public college system:

Floridians have their pick of a number of schools in the area, especially for those who live in the larger cities. Among the largest cities in Florida are Jacksonville, which has a population of 821,784, and Miami, which has the population of 399,457. Other large cities in the state include Tampa, Saint Petersburg, Orlando and Hialeah.

Although people in large cities may have easy access to a local college campus, via online schools in Florida, people who outside of these metropolitan areas can still take advantage of the state's best schools by earning their degrees online.

There are several popular careers among Florida's professionals. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' (BLS) Occupational Employment Statistics, there are 162,530 registered nurses around Florida, and these professionals earn a median annual salary of $60,420. Here are five highlight careers in the state based on May 2013 BLS data for median annual salaries and total in-state employment:

According to data compiled by The College Board, the annual cost of tuition for Florida schools is as follows:

The price of tuition may vary from school to school, and may be higher in major cities with a higher cost of living. However, Florida schools are still affordable compared to those in many other areas of the country.

Students also have access to tuition assistance to help with the cost of attending a Florida college or university. For example, the Florida Student Assistance Grant Program and the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program are awarded to students based on financial needs. There are also scholarships students can receive based on their background and the field they plan to study.

Students may also be eligible to receive federal financial aid, which they can obtain by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Accreditation of colleges and universities is a form of quality control, which seeks to ensure students are getting the best education that Florida institutions have to offer. Accrediting organizations hold schools up to high standards, so students can be confident that when they earn their degrees, they are prepared to enter the workforce. Some schools in the state are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Sources:

"Trends in Higher Education," The College Board, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://trends.collegeboard.org/college-pricing/figures-tables/tuition-and-fees-sector-and-state-over-time

"The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System," National Center for Education Statistics, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

"Occupational Employment Statistics," U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://data.bls.gov/oes/

"FAFSA Federal Student Aid," Federal Student Aid, Accessed November 28, 2014, https://fafsa.ed.gov/

"FAQs About Accreditation," New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Accessed November 28, 2014, https://cihe.neasc.org/information-public/faqs-about-accreditation#what_is_accreditation

"Important Questions About Accreditation," Council for Higher Education Accreditation, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.chea.org/degreemills/

"Florida's economic growth in 2013 better than most of the country," Tampa Bay Times, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/floridas-economic-growth-in-2013-better-than-most-of-the-country/2183852

"College Navigator FL," National Center for Education Statistics, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=FL

"State University System of Florida," State University System of Florida Board of Governors, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.flbog.edu/aboutsus/universities/

"About Us," The Florida College System, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.floridacollegesystem.com/about.aspx

"Florida - Largest Cities," GeoNames, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.geonames.org/US/FL/largest-cities-in-florida.html

"(FL) Cities - ranked by Population," TogetherWeTeach, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.togetherweteach.com/TWTIC/uscityinfo/09fl/flpopr/09flpr.htm

"Florida Scholarships," Scholarships.com, Accessed November 28, 2014, https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarships-by-state/florida-scholarships/

"Florida Scholarships & Grants, Florida Department of Education," Office of Student Financial Assistance, Accessed November 28, 2014, https://www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org/pdf/nm4c_brochure.pdf

"Accreditation and Memberships," College of Central Florida, Accessed November 28, 2014, http://www.cf.edu/smartcatalog/accreditation.htm

Excerpt from:
Florida (FL) Online Schools and olleges - Online-Education.net

About OnlineEducation.com

Choosing and designing effective online degree programs can be a challenge. OnlineEducation.com, the definitive resource for students and academics researching online learning, provides a platform for making informed decisions about online education by thoroughly researching degree programs; tracking and covering online learning studies and trends; and keeping resources up-to-date. We compile this information using proprietary data and other qualified sources, and then translate it into clear, practical insights readers can use.

Online degree programs significantly improve access to higher education, and recent reports indicate enrollment is at an all-time high. Currently more than 7 million U.S. college students participate in some form of online learning. However, online education may not be right for everyone. Students must be committed and disciplined enough to complete courses without a campus-based structure. In addition, online programs vary in areas that impact learning, including when, how, and how often students access materials and lectures. Students who understand these differences and the technology behind them are better positioned to choose online programs that reflect their career goals and learning styles, giving them the best chance of success.

This information is just as valuable for the colleges that deliver online degree programs as the students who enroll in them. Research from the Babson Survey Research Group (BSRG) in collaboration with the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) shows that while the vast majority of college leaders consider online degree programs critical for long-term institutional development, actually designing them is challenging. Through careful research, professors and administrators can find, interpret, and apply key online learning data within their institutions. They also benefit from studying online learning technology and how it drives course design, instructional methods, and outcomes.

This guide is designed to give students and educators a thorough understanding of how online degree programs work, and how to use them effectively. It examines online learning and teaching tools, success factors, and other important themes. We will continue to update this information as new trends and technologies emerge.

Recent data suggests more students and colleges than ever engage in online education. According to the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES), online programs now add students four times faster than their traditional counterparts and account for more than 75 percent of all new enrollment growth. Colleges continue to add new online learning options and technology to keep pace with demand. As these investments grow, so does the field of online courses and degrees. OLC Chief Knowledge Officer Karen Pedersen addressed this shift in a recent interview with OnlineEducation.com.

What were seeing in the trends is that a record number of higher education leaders, such as chief academic officers, are seeing online learning as critical to their institutional long-term strategy70.8% in 2014 compared to 48.8% in 2002, said Dr. Pedersen. With this movement, more and more institutions are offering an array of learning opportunities, from fully online programs at all levels associates, bachelors, masters and doctoral degreesas well as blended programs where both online and classroom based learning are combined for a rich and engaging learning experience.

Online education is also becoming more mainstream. For-profit schools once lead the fields growth, but the latest numbers indicate public and not-for-profit colleges now drive online enrollments. Larger universities are especially invested in online learning. According to the NCES, more than 95 percent of institutions with at least 5,000 annual enrollments offer online programs. For large colleges serving 20,000 or more students a year, this share exceeds 99 percent. Many of these universities see online education as a means of serving more students, including a higher percentage of full-time professionals, stay-at-home parents, military service-members, and other non-traditional groups. Dr. Jeff Seaman, co-director of the BSRG and Quahog Research Group, mentioned the following in an interview with OnlineEducation.com.

From (our) very first survey, it was clear that academic leaders believed that the most important aspect of online education was that it could expand access to education to many more potential students, said Dr. Seaman. There was, and still is, wide agreement that many individuals who desire an education are unable to attend traditional on-campus programs. Whether because of job constraints, family responsibilities, limited mobility, remote location, or any of number of other reasons, these potential students found regular class attendance on campus was not possible.

As online education becomes more diverse, so does its range of learning options. Innovative new technology and instructional methods allow even traditionally hands-on disciplines like engineering and nursing to be taught online, though some programs require internships and other practical learning experiences. Students can also now pursue many different types of credentials mostly or completely online. The following certificates and degrees are among them.

A report from the New America Foundation suggests associate degree programs are statistically much more likely than bachelors programs to enroll full-time workers, parents, and military families. According to the Foundation, online associate degrees can be an ideal learning solution for these busy students who often find campus attendance difficult. The majority of community colleges, a number of for-profit colleges, and even a few public four-year universities offer associate degrees online.

The NCES reports that bachelors degrees are by far the most common credential students earn online. While many of these programs are in disciplines that adapt easily to web-based learning, like business and criminal justice, several colleges now offer online bachelors degrees in areas like teaching and engineering. These programs may require students to complete some face-to-face training. For example, the University of Virginia offers a special engineering program that allows students to complete all of their coursework in a live online format while serving internships with approved employers across the state. Online bachelors degree programs can also use virtual simulations, video conferencing, and other technical solutions to assess and reinforce students practical knowledge.

Online graduate certificates help bachelors and masters degree holders enhance certain skills. Not to be confused with professional certifications, graduate certificates are academic credentials unaffiliated with specific vendors and organizations. Teachers might earn online graduate certificates in family literacy and educational technology integration while MBA graduates pursue them in data analytics, project management, and other relevant specialties. While many students invest in voluntary certificates to improve resumes and advancement potential, some employers require graduate certificates to confirm formal specializations. For example, masters-trained nurses frequently earn post-masters certificates to add new patient and medical specialties, or to change specialties within the field of advanced practice registered nursing. It is not unusual for schools to offer fully online graduate certificates to accommodate full-time professionals, but certain programs supplement online coursework with internships, clinical placements, or other on-site learning experiences. The nature, frequency, and extent of this work varies.

Undergraduate students may be more likely than graduate students to participate in some form of online learning, but NCES research shows graduate students are more than twice as likely to enroll in 100 percent online degree programs. This trend reflects graduate programs tendency to enroll more working professionals balancing school with career and family responsibilities. It is not unusual for four-year graduates to enter the workforce before deciding to return to school to become more specialized, improve their advancement potential, or transition to new fields. Online masters degrees are also popular among experienced professionals in fields that address steeper practical training requirements at the undergraduate level, like teaching and nursing. Online learning offers these working students a degree of flexibility difficult to achieve in a campus setting.

While they remain less common than other online degree programs, many universities now offer online doctorates in fields like nursing, education, and criminal justice, among others. On-site learning requirements vary by school and program. For example, universities may deliver coursework online, but require online doctoral candidates to report to campus to serve residencies, conduct research, and defend their theses. Online doctoral degree programs frequently leverage live video conferencing and other interactive tools that help faculty mentor and support students from a distance.

Despite its quick adoption, online learning is a relatively new medium. Institutions continue to experiment with new formats, then use specific terms to differentiate them. Students should become acquainted with these classifications early so that they can decipher which programs align with their learning preferences, career goals, and current levels of education. Here are some of the most common online options offered today.

The NCES and BSRG report that the majority of colleges and universities now offer online courses. Some, but not all of these classes are linked to full online degrees and certificates. Universities, community colleges, and college extension programs design standalone online classes specifically for students seeking personal enrichment, focused workplace skills, and professional certifications. According to Dr. Pedersen, many colleges also offer programs that combine online and traditional coursework to provide campus-based students with a richer, more interactive learning experience.

Not all colleges and universities define online degree programs the same way: some let students complete their studies 100 percent online while others require some face-to-face work as well. The nature, number, and location of these visits can vary. Colleges might require online students to report to campus or approved partner institutions for practical labs, on-campus intensives, orientations, and/or exams. They might also require fieldwork or internships, depending on the subject. For example, Masters of Science in Nursing programs typically require clinical placements while Master of Social Work programs require field education. Unless otherwise noted, OnlineEducation.com uses the term online degree program to define programs that require no more than two campus visits per year.

There is no standard definition for blended and hybrid programs. Many schools use the terms interchangeably; others use them each in very specific ways. Nonetheless, most blended or hybrid programs and courses combine varying degrees of online and classroom-based instruction. These can include:

Unless otherwise noted, OnlineEducation.com defines any program that requires three or more campus visits each year as a hybrid program.

MOOCs are online courses available in an open format, which means students need not apply to an institution to enroll. This makes MOOCs accessible to learners from a wide spectrum of age groups and circumstances, including international students. Although a limited number of MOOCs allow students to earn some type of verified certificate at a cost, most are free and award no college credit. Course content is usually delivered through provider organizations like Coursera, edX, and Udacity.

The MOOC movement was launched by prestigious universities like Stanford and MIT. Other colleges were quick to follow suit, but the BSRG suggests interest is waning: only a small number of schools now have MOOCs and few intend to add them. The same is not necessarily true for professional training programs using this format. Udacity now emphasizes corporate MOOCs over academically-aligned courses as other career-focused providers enter the market.

Competency-based education is a relatively new trend in online education. Unlike online degree programs that deliver most instruction online, competency-based programs offer credit for knowledge gained through life experience and other forms of self-directed learning. Students usually demonstrate key competencies through tests or portfolios. This unique format supports military service-members, trade professionals, and other students with verifiable skills mastered outside of formal education. The majority of todays competency-based programs offer associate degrees and certificates, but a small number of online bachelors programs are beginning to emerge.

Online colleges, programs, and courses tend to use a number of different instructional methods to teach students. These methods define how an online program is structured; how and when lectures are delivered; and how students interact with classmates and instructors. The following is a list of terms online colleges use to describe instructional methods and program formats. Knowing these phrases will help students determine which online programs best meet their learning styles and objectives.

It is crucial for students to consider accreditation and state regulations when evaluating online degree programs. Unlike features that determine whether programs meet students learning styles and objectives, accreditation and state requirements tell students whether programs are credible, and if they are allowed to enroll in them at all. The following information clarifies what these concepts mean and how they impact online students.

It is important for students to consider accreditation when researching any college program, no matter how courses are delivered. Before online degree programs can be accredited, independent organizations must carefully evaluate their curricula, faculty, technology, and other practices to ensure they meet strict quality standards. The process is voluntary, but its impact is significant. Students must attend accredited programs to be eligible for federal, state, and some private financial aid. Most colleges also verify accreditation before accepting transfer credits or admitting applicants to post-graduate programs. The benefits of attending accredited online degree programs can extend into the workforce where employers and licensing agencies frequently establish minimum education standards.

The agency that accredits an online degree program is just as important as the process itself. The U.S. Education Department (USED) advises students to verify accreditors credibility before they enroll in any program, but especially online degree programs where practices and criteria are less established. The USED and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) evaluate accreditors and recognize only those that meet certain quality standards. CHEA maintains a list of higher education accreditors that are recognized by both organizations.

While online degree programs improve college access, state regulations can limit it for some students. The Western Commission of Higher Education (WCHE) reports colleges and universities must obtain state approval before enrolling or marketing to its residents. Authorization requirements, procedures, and costs vary. Some states only authorize colleges with a physical presence inside its borders; others only approve online programs offered within regional consortia or partnerships. Universities may also be required to seek authorization at the program level, which means students living in certain states may be eligible to enroll in some, but not all of an institutions listed online degree programs.

Students should review these regulations before applying to online programs based in different states. They can visit the State Higher Education Executive Officers Organization (SHEEO) online to review a list of each states regulatory agencies. Students should also contact prospective schools admissions offices directly to request an up-to-date list of state approvals as they can change at any time. Some states review approvals on a regular basis while others may only review them at specific times during the year.

The decision to attend college online is only the first of many that students must make before they begin their studies. Online degree programs use many formats, instructional methods, services, and technologies; online students have varying learning styles, preferences, and educational needs. The goal of OnlineEducation.com, this guide, and future reports is to help students access information they can use to balance these factors and identify programs offering the best chance of success. Dr. Pederson told OnlineEducation.com that it is important for students to ask questions, and colleges to have answers.

[It] is still about knowing yourself, researching your options, and asking lots of questions to find the right learning solution. This is where institutions need to have personnel available to answer questions and ensure best fit, said Dr. Pedersen. From an institutional perspective, I am a believer in a strong onboarding experience for new learners. It is important that new students know how the institution works and they understand the resources they can tap to ensure their success.

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Guide to Online Degree Programs - OnlineEducation.com

Buddhist Temples and Centers in the Los Angeles Area Wilshire Center Interfaith Council

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Rev. Kusala on "VOA" ...American Buddhism Keeps Asian Influence, Adapts to West...

This week's visit of the Dalai Lama to the United States is focusing attention on American Buddhism, which is growing because of the influx of Asian immigrants and conversion of Westerners to the faith. American Buddhism retains its Asian flavor, but is adapting to Western ways.

Rev. Kusala on "PRI" ...Rev. Kusala on 'Public Radio International'...

Vietnamese immigrants in California have a white American monk Kusala Bhikshu teach Buddhism to their kids because they think they will relate to the teacher and to his English. Lisa Napoli reports for PRI from Long Beach.

Against the Stream ...Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society was founded by Noah Levine...

Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society was founded by Noah Levine, author of Dharma Punx and Against the Stream, to make the teachings of the Buddha available to all who are interested. We wish to create and sustain communities of healthy, accountable, wise and compassionate people from every walk of life. We welcome people from all racial, economic, sexual, social, political and religious backgrounds and preferences and believe that the path of awakening is attainable by all and should be available to all.

Insight LA ...Under the direction of dharma teacher Trudy Goodman, InsightLA offers mindfulness meditation...

Under the direction of dharma teacher Trudy Goodman, InsightLA offers mindfulness meditation for the curious beginner, as well as intensive training for more experienced students. We are a community of caring and friendly practitioners come join us! We welcome people of all colors, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. Our programs are made available to all individuals, independent of economic means.

The L.A. Dharma Web Site ...A focal point for insight meditation in Los Angeles...

L.A.Dharma is a non-sectarian Buddhist organization. Our mission is to create a focal point for insight meditation and to help develop community. Buddhist ethics, traditions, and practices inspire our activities. We host retreats, offer meditation groups, workshops and classes.

The Asian Classics Institute, Los Angeles ...Offers formal study courses in Buddhism...

The Asian Classics Institute of Los Angeles, a Worldview Center (ACI-LA*) regularly offers Formal Study Courses, Dharma Essentials Courses, Guided Meditations, and informal and introductory Drop-in Events for those dedicated to the serious study and personal practice of the original teachings of the Buddha. All classes and events are offered free of charge. While the teachings always remain grounded in the authentic tradition of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism as it was preserved by the Tibetan lineages, they are designed to help you live a better and happier life right here in Los Angeles.

Urban Dharma - Meditation with Rev. Kusala ...Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays...

UrbanDharma.org - hosts a Buddhist discussion group led by Rev. Kusala at the International Buddhist Meditation Center on Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. The focus is on understanding Buddhism in the context of our everyday lives through study of the sutras, sharing personal stories, and discussion.

...News and Media...

Zen, USA ...Mary Rourke, LA Times...

In the Student Union Building of Cal Poly Pomona, over a lunch of Gummi Bears and sodapop, the members of the Buddhist Assn. are gathered to learn about the religious traditions of their parents and grandparents. They say it is one part of the family heritage their relatives all but left behind in China, Vietnam or other countries where Buddhism has thrived.

Soul Searching ...Janet Kinosian, LA Times...

It's a shocking image--even to the accustomed eye. Fourteen children, the oldest of whom is 11, are lined up, marching with hands clasped tight behind their backs at Central Juvenile Hall in East Los Angeles. The youngest child, 8 years old, is outfitted in bright orange prison garb, signifying he is a high-risk violent offender, a category that includes murder, assault and armed robbery.

Frenzy Without, Peace Within ...Sorina Diaconescu...

When Lynn Noto, a 36-year-old from Los Angeles now completing her doctoral studies in psychotherapy, was traveling around India in 1997, she was seeking not enlightenment, mind you, but 10 minutes of clarity in her life. That, and a cup of hot chocolate, which she found at a restaurant in Dharamsala.

UCLA Students Resurrect Campus Buddhism ...by Peijean Tsai...

Raised by a Vietnamese Buddhist mother, Amie McCampbell never felt alienated from Buddhism. An altar with the Buddha's likeness permanently sat in her parents' home, she attended pagodas and wore a necklace with a tiny gold Buddha for years during high school.

Zen Abbot Gives a U.S. look to an Asian faith; ...Teresa Watanabe, LA Times...

New head of L.A. Buddhist center is dropping some of her Soto sect's Japanese traditions and emphasizing a more American combination of social action, interfaith work and egalitarian exchange.; She has led "street retreats" on skid row, injected feminism into a patriarchal liturgy and sponsored interfaith gatherings with a Jewish rabbi and a Catholic priest.

...Articles and Prose from Los Angeles...

Nothing Special ...Tom (Ksanti) O'Connor...

In about six weeks four of us are to receive our brown robes. It marks a significant milestone in our practice. And this summer, during our monks training, I feel that Rev. Karuna has been setting traps to help us on our journey.

Lessons from Buddhism ...Jennie Sykes Knight...

When I studied Zen Buddhism briefly in college, one of our text books was called Zen mind, Beginners mind. The idea is that the goal is to cultivate the mind of a beginner, or, as my karate teacher used to say, come with an empty cup.

Living in Community with Others ...Rev. Kusala...

West Covina Buddhist Temple's well-attended Spring Ohigan Service on March 19, 2000 was, in one sense at least, an historic event. It was the first time our Ohigan speaker was not also from the Shin tradition.

Settling into the Heart of Buddha ...Sensei Egyoku...

This month, I want to introduce you to the Sixteen Observances of the Zen Peacemaker Order and to share briefly some perspectives on precept practice.

What kind of person is drawn to Buddhism? ...Curt Darling...

Just about anyone - as regulars at the Khandakapala Buddhist Center (KBC) will testify. Our community is aged anywhere between 22 to 62 and includes attorneys, actors and teachers. In the first of a new series, we will meet the people who make up the KBC as we get up close and personal with someone new each month.

Mudras In Buddhism Rev. Lynn "Jnana" Sipe

Mudras are one of six principle iconographic themes in Buddhism, particularly in esoteric Buddhism. Briefly noted, these other principle thematic elements are mandalas, asanas, thrones, aureoles, and implements and accessories of the deities.

Buddhism In the Numbers Rev. Lynn "Jnana" Sipe

The rather inelegant title of todays talk, Buddhism in the Numbers, does an injustice to the elegance of the subject itself, the role of numbers in communicating the dharma.

The European Discovery of Indian Buddhism ...Rev. Lynn "Jnana" Sipe...

It is only with the arrival of the British that the destruction of Indias past was reversed and its recovery was begun, thanks to the persistent efforts of a handful of brilliant and inspired individuals.

An Irreverent Look at Zen in America ...Rev. Jana...

Zen has had a significant religious impact in America for at least half a century. For most of that time its influence has been limited to literature and the arts in addition to a small, but growing, sangha of ordained teachers and practitioners. In recent years, however, popularized notions of Zen have entered the cultural mainstream of American society so that Zen has become a trendy buzzword.

...by Kusala Bhikshu...

Rev. Kusala's Calendar / Talks and Times

--- --- ---

The Five Precepts ...Kusala Bhikshu...

The five precepts are the foundation of Buddhist practice. Some of the five precepts are found in the Noble Eightfold Path under the category of personal discipline. In that category we find, right speech, right action and right livelihood.

How I Became a Buddhist ...Kusala...

At the age of twenty-eight, I went through what you might call an early mid-life crisis. I quit my job of seven years and went on a forty-five day road trip. I drove cross-country, sleeping at rest stops, in cheap motels, and campgrounds. The road trip offered me a chance to see how other people lived, and time to reflect on what my life was all about.

Do Buddhists go to Heaven? ...Kusala...

I've had the good fortune of speaking about Buddhist afterlife to a number of Christians. One of the things that prompted me to investigate Buddhist afterlife was giving a talk at Central Juvenile Hall. A Catholic girl said I was going to hell, because I didn't believe in God and Jesus Christ.

Do Buddhists believe in God? ...Kusala...

Why is it... The Buddha never talked about the One God of the desert, the Judeo-Christian God? Does this mean that all Buddhists are atheists and dont believe in God? Did the Buddha believe in God?

The Problem With Sex in Buddhism ...Kusala...

It seems these days in Los Angeles, it's OK to do or be anything you want sexually... And if you're lucky enough to find your true sexual identity, you will be happy and fulfilled the rest of your life.

Buddhist Enlightenment vs Nirvana ...Kusala...

When I first started reading books on Buddhism back in the late 1970s, I had trouble understanding *Nirvana and Enlightenment. These two words were often used interchangeably by authors writing on the *Theravada and *Mahayana traditions. Sometimes though, the meaning seemed to change depending on who was doing the writing.

The Blues Harmonica and Buddhism ...Kusala...

The first time I heard someone play the blues on a harmonica, it moved me so much, I just had to learn how to play. I found myself in McCabes Guitar Shop back in the 1980's and there on the shelf was a booklet and audio cassette, 'Blues Harmonica for the Musical Idiot' by David Harp.

An Overview of Buddhist Meditation ...Kusala Bhikshu...

Meditation is the second category of the Eight-Fold Path. The three category's are; Personal Discipline, Mental Perfection, and Wisdom.

Buddhist Centers in North America

BuddhaNet.net North American Directory

Buddhist Web-Sites of Special Interest

Special Thanks to the Buddha Project @ http://www.BuddhaProject.blogspot.com

...Ven. Dr. Havanpola Ratanasara...

Ven. Dr. Havanpola Ratanasara ...Home-page...

The Venerable Havanpola Ratanasara, a monk who strove to build an American style of Buddhism and led Buddhists, Catholics and other denominations in interfaith dialogues, has died. At 80, Ratanasara was believed to be the oldest Buddhist monk in Southern California. He suffered from diabetes and heart problems and died in his sleep last Friday surrounded by monks in his apartment at the International Buddhist Meditation Center in Los Angeles.

For the Welfare of Gods and Men ...Buddhism's Mission in the Modern World...

Some twenty-five centuries ago at Buddhagaya in India, a lone ascetic, Siddhartha Gautama, attained the state of supreme Enlightenment and became known to the world as the Buddha. Beholden neither to gods nor to men for his achievement, yet desiring to show humankind how it might lift from itself the yoke of suffering and ignorance, he exhorted his disciples to "Go forth... for the welfare of the many, for the happiness of the many,

Interfaith Dialogue a Buddhist Perspective ...A talk given at Gethsemani Monastery...

Interfaith Dialogue a Buddhist Perspective an Examination of Pope John Paul II's Crossing the Threshold of Hope a talk given at the Intermonastic Dialogue Gethsemani Monastery, Louisville, Kentucky July, 1996 by Ven. Havanpola Ratanasara, Ph.D.

Ven. Dr. Havanpola Ratanasara Dies ...The LA Times, June 2, 2000...

Ratanasara was a native of Sri Lanka who immigrated to the United States in 1980 and became a U.S. citizen. After undergraduate work in Sri Lanka, he earned a master's degree at Columbia University and a PhD in education at the University of London. In addition to holding university positions in Sri Lanka, he was a United Nations delegate for that country in 1957.

Birthday Pictures ...80th Birthday, February 2000...

Viewing of the body ...5/31/00...

Funeral and Cremation ...6/3/00 and 6/5/00...

Ven. Dr. Ratanasara's One Year Memorial ...Photos taken May 26, 2001...

Ven. Dr. Ratanasara's Burial Stupa ...Photos taken Dec. 2001, in Sri Lanka...

UrbanDharma 2013

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In Los Angeles - Urban Dharma

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Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 9:30 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 9:30 am

Toddler - 2 to 3 years old with adult

Engage your toddler through stories, rhymes, songs and movement activities, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 9:30 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

All Ages (Children under 8 with adult)

Interact with your child by enjoying stories, songs and activities together.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Interact with your preschooler by enjoying stories, songs and activities together.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

This event has been canceled. Join Ms. Pat for stories, songs and activities based on a special theme.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:00 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Interact with your preschooler by enjoying stories, songs and activities together.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:30 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:30 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Mr. Bob tells stories, sings songs and does various activities based on a special theme.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:30 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Interact with your preschooler by enjoying stories, songs and activities together.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 10:45 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 11:00 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 11:00 am

Baby - Birth to 23 months with adult

Connect with your baby through stories, rhymes, bounces and songs, followed by a play time. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 11:00 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Interact with your preschooler by enjoying stories, songs and activities together.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 11:00 am

Preschool - 2 to 5 years old with adult

Interact with your preschooler by enjoying stories, songs and activities in Spanish and English, followed by a play time./Relacionese con su nino al disfrutar juntos historias, canciones y actividades en espanol e ingles, seguidos de un tiempo de juego.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 1:30 pm

Teen

Join us after school for games, crafts, movies and more.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 2:00 pm

13 years old and up

Learn basic computer skills. Registration required.

Tuesday - October 13, 2015 - 2:00 pm

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Baltimore County Public Library Online Catalog.

Meditation Tampa offers crystal-clear meditation instruction and guidance at all levels, from beginners with no experience to those interested in advanced retreats and practices. The center strives to provide high-quality meditation instruction and both weekend and long-term retreats with opportunity for earnest and joyful practice of the core liberation teachings of the Buddha.

All of the teachers at the center are accomplished Western practitioners with substantial experience in deep meditation retreat. These teachers provide both group instruction opportunities and individual guidance, and focus on the core practices of Buddhism: mindfulness, awakening and methods leading directly to realization.

The principal meditation focus is mindfulness of breathing, of feeling tones and of mind. These are in concert with loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity practices. As you focus on the heart of the Buddhas teaching, you may find your practice becomes more deep, more rich and that you have a greater understanding of the practice..

Weekly classes, held in Sarasota, Tampa, St Pete, Venice, Ft Myers and elsewhere, are on-going, and each has a purposeful & intentional focus which shifts each month. Classes usually also include a guided meditation. Every meditation session begins with development of Shamata the practice of calm abiding. The second part of the meditation session uses the calm mind as a base for vipasanna or insight and the development of wisdom.

Class focuses include mindfulness of body, mindfulness of feeling tones or vedana, and mindfulness of mind. Teachings are given on both the calming aspects of meditation practice and the investigative elements involved with each of these bases of mindfulness. People may enter the classes at any time, with any level of experience, or from any meditation background as the teachings are non-sectarian all are welcome.

Please feel free to contact us with any question you may have, or simply drop in for an evening class to get a firsthand experience. There is no obligation.

For more informationemail info@Meditation-Tampa.com or call 941.323.3372.

We look forward to seeing you in class.

Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. Buddha

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Meditation Tampa