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Lending a Strimmer She was a friend of a friend of a friend. She was a sole parent, living in a tidy looking suburban house in a rural town. I'd been introduced to her at a gathering of friends a week before and we discovered we lived only a mile from each other, and for some reason the conversation turned to gardening. Her front lawn was manageable I remember her saying, but the back was overgrown and the tool she'd bought just wasn't up to the job. So I offered to lend her mine. Safety considerations when installing ceiling insulation When it comes to energy conservation, ceiling insulation is one of the most logical steps to take in order to ensure that you home is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer - and to help you use less energy in the process. However, as forest fires continue to rage across Australia and increasing reports are made concerning the instances of fires being started due to wrongly installed insulation; it is becoming more important to understand the safety considerations when installing ceiling insulation. Incentives to consider solar power for your home Solar power is fast becoming an increasingly viable method for generating energy for your home, or heating water for your household. Consequently, Australia has a number of incentives available on a national and territorial level as part a continuing attempt to get the public to embrace solar energy. What follows is a quick guide to these incentives. Energy Australia: Why cutting carbon emissions and saving money on our energy bills calls for ‘hard actions' Energy usage is a big issue in Australia currently, and in order for the country to meet its carbon reduction targets, i.e the abatement of 138 million tonnes of green gases every year by 2020, energy prices have risen with the hope of spurring the public to be more conscious of the energy it is using. The call for ‘hard actions' by Keith Orchison in the Business Spectator comes at a time when a recent survey by a leading Australian comparison website found that 92 percent of those asked were more concerned about the price of energy than they had been a year earlier. 5 unknown attractions of Orlando, Florida When we consider the attractions on offer in Orlando and the surrounding area, one can't help but immediately be drawn to the household names such as Walt Disney World, Universal and SeaWorld. Yet, the area boasts far more than those out of the country realise, and in response to the increasing number of cheap flights to Orlando I decided to write about 5 of the lesser-known attractions in the area. Top European city breaks? Consider Amsterdam Autumn is one of the best times of the year to get away for a weekend, and Amsterdam is great for city breaks. Yet, although the city is not known for being especially cheap - particularly during recessionary times - it certainly benefits from its close location and from offering such a number of things to do and see that it really is quite easy to tailor your trip to your budget with a little planning. Romance in the Seychelles: A short guide to the top honeymoon destination Top ten lists that rank honeymoon destinations frequently place the Republic of Seychelles in the uppermost positions alongside such romantic staples as Paris, France and the islands of the Caribbean. It is not hard to understand why. A majority of the nation's 155 islands are completely unpopulated and unspoiled, so if it is peace and privacy you are after, Seychelles has it in the form of long golden beaches and crystal clear waters Romance in Bulgaria: A short guide to an unlikely honeymoon hotspot Tourism has long been a staple part of Bulgaria's economy, yet citing the country as a honeymoon destination maybe a little more unexpected. However, in a recent poll by holiday specialists sunshine.co.uk, Bulgaria came in at number five just behind The Seychelles and Morocco, and beating New York and Egypt - whilst traditional romantic cities such as Venice and Paris did not even make the cut. So why is Bulgaria so popular? And what kind of couples are attracted to the country? Autumn breaks on the coasts of Loch Lomond With a disappointing summer behind us many are looking to the half term week for the opportunity to get away for a well-earned break. Loch Lomond just north west of Glasgow is a destination that never goes out of fashion for those eager to get away from the bustle of the city for a week or two, but with cheap flights now more frequent from further locations such as Ireland and the south of England, the area looks to benefit from more popularity over the next couple of months. Great American holidays - Lake Placid and the Adirondack Peaks When thinking about embarking on an autumn or winter break it is often most sensible to choose a destination hat will not be hindered by unpredictable weather. The Adirondack Mountains in New York State are one such place. Rain, shine or snow the peaks stand majestic and the views are awe-inspiring - and the area is popular with visitors all year round. So with cheap flights to New York, and the area set to become more accessible to European holidaymakers, here's a quick guide to Lake Placid and the surrounding areas. The sights of Berlin - Always new, never boring Germany is one of the most visited countries in Europe, and for 30 percent of Germans it is also their destination of choice for their own holidays. The most frequent reason for visiting is its culture, according to the many that flock there - and the city of Berlin is very much the cultural hub for the country. So for those looking for deals on city breaks this winter, Berlin is an excellent destination to sample one of the richest cultures available in Europe. How to shop for work clothes Clothes shopping is usually a nightmare unless you take a series of important steps in your planning. Because the key to clothes shopping is the planning. Make sure you know when the shop or shops you want to visit are going to be as quiet as possible. Wales: A first address for last minute breaks this autumn For those located outside of England and Scotland, Wales is still a relatively forgotten destination when it comes to the summer. Yet, when it comes to considering last minute holidays in places that benefit from wet and windy weather, the Welsh landscape is arguably at its most romantic and dramatic during the autumn months. Here is a quick guide to finding those windswept Welsh gems. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt: Choice for a holiday this autumn Egypt has long been a country heavily dependent on tourism - a fact that is as much due to its great weather as the astounding and wondrous architecture of The Pyramids. Yet, over the past year the country has seen something of a resurgence on an international scale as the recession has caused many holidaymakers to avoid the Eurozone to get the most from their foreign exchange. Autumn holiday destination? Visit Oman If you have spent the summer holidays hoping that the northern European weather would pick up enough for a satisfying ‘staycation', chances are you have either given up and shipped abroad already - or you are now considering the prospect of sunny autumn trip. The good news is that the Middle East is at its best at this time of year, with the sun pitched comfortably between warm and scorching - and many good deals to be had. An Autumn Holiday: A 21st Century travel trend? The recession has had some adverse effects on the travel industry. Predictably, during the springtime UK holidaymakers had to be very decisive about where they wanted to spend the summer in order to save money. Subsequently, many opted to stay at home for a ‘staycation' but unfortunately July and August have come and gone with little in terms of ‘holiday weather', leaving many disappointed and in search of last minute holidays abroad. 5 Architectural Sites of Washington, D.C. For the capital of a nation, Washington, D.C. has some tough competition when it comes to appealing to tourists from outside of the United States - especially when one considers the reputation of New York City, the theme parks of Florida, and the golden sands of California. Yet, with Washington's social, political and cultural importance, the city has many significant architectural attractions - aside from the White House and the Washington Monument - and remains a key destination for American holidays. A short guide to the Tunisian coast Tunisia is located in central northern Africa in between Libya to the east and Algeria to the west. The country has long been a popular destination for European holidaymakers, and in the post-credit-crunch climate considers to be a formidable choice for those searching for cheap sun holidays. What follows is a short guide to some of the most significant holiday destinations on its 1,148 km coast. American Holidays: Following the San Antonio River When it comes to American holidays, Texas is not often the first place most European travellers think of - especially in comparison to New York City, Florida and Las Vegas. However, the River Walk in San Antonio is one of the most visited attractions in the united states, with over five million visits in 2008 alone (for reference, Niagra Falls had 12 million visitors) and there is even more to see in the area. Here is a quick guide to San Antonio and its surroundings. Ibiza: Better than it's image Ibiza is located just of the Spanish coast in the warm Mediterranean Sea. Over the past 20 years or so, the island has become most well-known for its nightlife - catering primarily for northern European clubbers who seek free and wild party time in the sun. However, in recent years the Spanish tourist board have strived to rid the island of its reputation for sex and alcohol, and has instead aimed to promote an improving family-friendly destination of good clean sun holidays. How to bust the dust I can't stand dust around the home. And I dislike dusting. Or at least the idea of it. What makes it easier to cope with is the idea that you can use technology. Perhaps it's the distraction of the technology. That there is a fun element to it. Or maybe it's just me. I don't usually trust appliances to use for every household job. But dusting is one of those things that for me at least, a hand-held vacuum cleaner makes the job more appealing to do. Christmas in Cornwall: Where to go and what to see Despite Cornwall's reputation as a summertime destination, year on year the county has become a prime destination for those eager to get away on a short break this Christmas. In terms of accommodation visitors are spoilt for choice as the region is well known for its self-catering cottages and the diversity of Cornwall hotels. Of course, when the festive season does roll around, there are also a great number of events seek out too. Short Breaks in Cornwall, for Cyclists As the leaves begin to turn and the mist clings to the highest points on Bodmin Moor, autumn can be the best time to explore the Cornish countryside by bike. Over the last few years the region has seen the development of 180 miles worth of bike trails collectively known as The Cornish Way stretching from Land's End to Bude. So, for those looking for short breaks in Cornwall and eager to go by two wheels, here is a quick guide to The Cornish Way. The best food in Cornwall Traditionally the autumn time is not usually associated with festivals, but Cornwall has never been one to follow trends. The Falmouth Oyster Festival is testament to that, and over the last 13 years the foodie fest has become one of Cornwall's most significant calendar dates - and one of the region's best celebrations of all things seafood. What the recession has meant for companies, their sales managers and the teams beneath them It is no secret that the recession has caused many more people to reconsider how employable they are, and whether they would benefit from taking another college or degree course. 2009 has seen university classes fill up, with business and sales management courses proving extremely popular among those eager to make the most of when the job market and economic climate picks up again. So how has the recession changed how sales is managed in today's businesses? What is a Career Development Loan? And how to get one. Recent graduates are in a uniquely tough position when it comes to further study. On the one hand, for many students who have just received a degree it is an entirely good idea to consider a postgraduate course to avoid the competitive recession-hit job market and to use the opportunity to make themselves even more employable. Yet on the other hand, it is unsurprising that many young people are anxious when it comes to the financial implications of further study - especially in a climate that is treating savers more kindly than borrowers. Business Today: The importance of learning project management The recession and subsequent competitive job market has caused many individuals to question the skills and subjects they learned at university, and to consider whether it would be worth embarking on another course of study to make themselves more employable. Many are looking at the prospect of business or management courses as a means to better prepare themselves for tomorrow's career opportunities. So what exactly is project management? And why is it such an important skill to learn? The difference between sales management and marketing Thinking about studying business? Enrolling on a business course at foundation or degree level is a logical idea for anyone with dreams to set up their own company or organisation, and both sales management and marketing skills will certainly be important to learn. However, despite there being a certain amount of overlap between the two, there are some significant differences between sales management and marketing - and this article gives an overview of these differences. The run-up to London 2012: How now could be the best time to study business The planning and development of the London Olympic Games in 2012 have been ongoing for some time now, but it may be surprising to some that there is still nearly three years to go until the opening ceremony. Plenty of time, then, for any budding business men and women to seize the opportunity - but what opportunity exactly? So what are the business benefits to being the host nation? Higher Education in 2009: What is a degree course actually worth? As thousands of prospective students embark on a three year career of higher education, much has been written about the lack of suitable jobs currently available for graduates, and the amount of debt students enrolling now will incur by the time they have finished their studies. Education 2009: The importance of integrating business with higher education. The recession has had a significant impact on higher education in the UK, and has subsequently caused many to speak out about how degree courses are funded, and how much they are worth to both students and the economy as a whole. Specifically, the reason many are looking at the higher education system with a more critical eye is because of the sudden hike in enrolment numbers as many older people are applying for university courses to improve their employability, at the same time as many institutions suffer cutbacks in order to save on funds. Doing it for the Adults: Adult education and lifelong learning in 2009 The general importance and specific merits of adult education have been increasingly discussed in the press over the last year. Of course, there are numerous reasons for this growing interest - the most obvious being the many sudden recession-fuelled enrolments to universities by adults over the last six months - as older learners seek to spruce up their CVs and to make themselves more employable. Carbon Storage and the UK In the UK, debates surrounding renewable energy and the increasing importance of cutting our carbon emissions have mostly centred around the planning and development of wind farms and other sources - which take a significant amount of time to establish and implement. However, in the meantime there is the no less important matter of how best we manage the existing carbon we are producing. Energy Management: A guide to four of the UK's most inefficient public buildings Research by the Department of Communities and Local Government detailing the energy efficiency of the UK's public buildings was made available to the BBC at the end of August. Until recently, such data would never have been made public, but with energy management becoming an increasingly discussed and important aspect of the upkeep of public buildings, the largest must now show Display Energy Certificates so every visitor is aware of their efficiency (or inefficiency). What follows is a short guide to four surprising energy inefficient public buildings. Summer Positivity in the UK Housing Market As unsurprising reports surface of the Bank of England announcing that the Base Rate will stay at 0.5 percent for the foreseeable future (and, no doubt, into 2010), there has been more data released about the general state of the UK housing market over the summer - and the news is fairly positive. Unsure about university? Consider a distance learning course If you didn't get the A-Levels you needed for your university choices, or even if you did and just can't bear the thought of being in £23,000 worth of debt in three years time, then it doesn't mean that further education is out of your reach. In fact, you are probably of the generation with the biggest choice of non-uni further education opportunities to date. So what choices do you have? Lifelong Learning in the UK: The next logical step UK education standards are frequently subject to debate, especially during the later summer months. Of course, in the UK, August is the time that many students receive their A-Level results - and despite the likelihood that even the most hardened critic would hope that as many would receive the grades they want, it seems that when the percentage of A grades increases year on year (and 2009 is no exception), the entire education system comes under renewed scrutiny. So are the changing education standards good or bad? Lifelong Learning in the UK: The next logical step UK education standards are frequently subject to debate, especially during the later summer months. Of course, in the UK, August is the time that many students receive their A-Level results - and despite the likelihood that even the most hardened critic would hope that as many would receive the grades they want, it seems that when the percentage of A grades increases year on year (and 2009 is no exception), the entire education system comes under renewed scrutiny. So are the changing education standards good or bad? As swine flu worsens in the UK, do schools really need to have a distance learning plan in place? The risk of swine flu is certainly proving unpredictable, but the latest statistics regarding the number of those infected are nothing short of shocking. In England, by July 100,000 people have been diagnosed according to The Times - with certain parts of the country, such as London and the West Midlands, having reached epidemic levels. So even as the term comes to an end, should we get a distance learning plan in place just in case our schools are unsafe in September? £23,500: A Guide to Today's Degree Debt August 2009 saw some of the best UK-wide A level results in history, with more than one in four students (26.7 percent) receiving A grades, and an impressive 97.5 percent passing, according to the BBC. However, as the continued increase in students receiving good grades pushes up the number of applicants for degree courses, they are also being faced by the prospect of building up the biggest debts of any generation before them, when it comes to graduation. The new phrase in further and adult education: "Debt Free Degree" After August's A-Level results led to the - not unexpected - reports of a higher percentage of students receiving A and A* grades, headlines such as the following from The Daily Telegraph: ‘Bright A-Level Students shun university,' were not entirely unexpected. However, although many are put off by the competition and the cost of traditional ‘bricks and mortar' institutions, this does not mean that they are eager to shun further education altogether. Welcome, then, to the era of the "Debt Free Degree". Issues of Equality: Mature Students at UK Universities In the UK August is always a month that the education system particularly focuses upon. Yet, in 2009 the A-Level grades received by students up and down the country have not only served to dr4um up the frankly accusations by those claiming such courses get easier year on year, but has also solidified the notion that our universities are going to receive the biggest influx of students ever. Putting a shed together with a Cordless drill My stepson knows he doesn't know everything but he acts like he knows a lot about what he does know. Which can come across as fairly controlling and patronising when I consider it. But maybe I'm wrong. Maybe he's just very helpful. At least that's what I believe now after we worked together recently putting up a 6 foot by 4 foot shiplap garden shed at my house, thanks in part to the use of his very versatile cordless drill. The UK Wind Power Backlash Recent developments in the tidal power sector are causing many to speak out against the UK government's reliance on wind power to ensure we meet our renewable energy goals. According to The Times, if the government wants to hit its target, the UK needs to build around 7,000 more wind-turbines - a high number if one considers the amount of not-in-my-back-yard-ism and anti-wind petitioning that meets nearly every planned wind farm. Top 4 Things to Remember when Installing Solar Panels on your Home As energy bills continue to rise and the renewable energy market gets more competitive, many more of us are eager consider installing solar panels. Of course, such an endeavour will work best with at least some assistance from a professional who can advise you on whether your home is suitable and how best to make use of you situation. What follows are five key points to remember at the very start of your solar powered adventure. Solar Energy: Why all eyes are on Israel In the UK, solar energy is still something of a confusing answer to the problems posed by our ever-dwindling fossil fuel resources. This confusion is unsurprising, our northern European climate is rarely associated with scorching heat - and a quick look at our landscape and coast shows ample area for wind and tidal power. Yet, in recent times the increasing affordability of solar hot water and proof of the benefits that come with it is causing more of us to consider installing solar collectors. But to really keep abreast of the developments in solar technology, we can learn the most from Israel. Night storage memories and Energy Management We had a large storage heater in our rustic country kitchen. In the cold months it was a seat of sorts. The coal fire in the living room rarely gave off enough heat to filter through to the rest of the house. Even first time guests would find themselves perched against the large metal frame of the night storage heater in our kitchen. It stayed hot all day, but towards the evening the intensity of the heat eased off. My new home had storage heaters, and these childhood memories were fond, but I knew it meant I needed to do some energy management and find a more efficient way of heating our house. How motorcycling turned me on to efficient energy management Always when riding my motorcycle the concept of energy management returns to my thoughts. It's the trip meter that does it. I can work out distance divided by fuel used. Compared with a car, the fuel economy is great. It was last summer on weekend on a run up the coast, under a clear blue sky, and with a mild tailwind, that I realised I could be doing the same thing at home - working out a new energy management schedule. I've used some helpful and not so helpful online energy management resources, and eventually actually saved some real money! Green Loans: Why does it cost money to save money? This weather is dictating my domestic aspirations. It's too wet to cut the grass, too cold to wash the car, and too dark to fix the shed. The heaters are on full but the house is still so cold I'm wearing two jumpers and a woolly hat and gloves just to feel comparatively warm. I'm wondering if the climate now is just varying degrees of unbearable cold. Energy Management: Sound proof and expense proof I've lived by busy highways with cars and lorries thundering by, by the ocean with the sound of waves breaking on a distant reef, and in a town bustling with the chatter and to and thro of shoppers and deliveries. But if there's one sound I cannot tolerate it's sound of barking dogs, day in and day out. I needed double-glazing and I needed the money to pay for it. Energy management only for wealthy people? We've known for a long time that saving energy means less hassle and less waste. So why is it, with all our technology, that we still end up paying for than we have to for the energy we use? I guess it's to do with profit. Our land mass is huge - yet Australian energy companies have taken years to get round to the idea of using alternative technologies. Confused about energy efficient products? Sometimes it's easier to pay someone else to do a job that you might have done yourself. Like repairing the garden shed, or carrying out an energy management assessment. To find out about saving money on fuel bills, which essentially is what energy management is all about - or at least what I view it as, you can put in hours of research, and still be confused. It's better, in my case in hindsight, to go to someone who knows how to do it, whose job is to do it, and who'll give you all the information you need on energy efficiency for free. Hawaii - Soon to Be Known For More Than Just Sun, Sea and Sand During May and June, the term: 'staycation' was set to be the buzzword that defined the 2009 summer for UK holidaymakers. However, with the recent spell of wet weather and the arrival of the school holidays, the demand for last-minute or cheap sun holidays has returned - and the popular holiday destination that are the Hawaiian Islands is climbing the popularity rankings fast. But the area may soon be considered a top destination for very different reasons. Last Minute Holiday: Consider Dubrovnik According to The Times, most of us have given up hope on the prospect of a hot summer. Consequently, travel specialists Expedia have witnessed a sudden increase in searches for holiday options abroad. Dubrovnik, located on the southern Croatian coast, saw the biggest increase compared to last year, with 129 percent more searches, with such usual suspects as Hawaii and Spain being popular among those looking for last minute holidays also. Developing Dubai: How the no. 1 UAE destination is continuing to grow in business and leisure Over the past ten years Dubai has become famed for its rapid growth, big money and ambitious development. Although the continuing recession is set to have some effects on many of the area's building projects, many of its developments continue to amaze and astound. With such growth, and airlines worldwide offering cheap flights to Dubai, the area has become a prime destination for businesses and those seeking leisure. What follows is an introduction to four of the areas major developments. Why a family holiday in Nevada? Nevada is the seventh biggest state in the US and is located in the Midwest of the country between California to the west and Utah to the east. Its tourism history has long been connected to the popularity of Gambling which originated in the city of Reno to the north but has since become more synonymous with Las Vegas. However, aside from the adult appeal of Gambling, Nevada has a lot to offer to the entire family - and with many airlines currently offering cheap flights to Las Vegas, 2009 could be the best time to explore The Silver State. Visiting Gauteng: Tourist attractions near Johannesburg Without the coastline and Table Mountain, Johannesburg has always been less popular with European tourists than its western cousin Cape Town. However, for all its failings, developments over recent years have seen people flock back to Jo'burg, and the surrounding area of Gauteng as also seen heightened interest. So with interest surrounding the 2010 World Cup hosts mounting and European airlines already offering cheap flights to Johannesburg, let's have a closer look at Gauteng. Take a Pop Culture Tour to Tokyo As the summer arrives and the sun leaves, many UK holidaymakers are now reconsidering their plans for the holidays. As the recession-hit travel industry becomes increasingly competitive, Tokyo in Japan has never been more accessible to the curious holidaymaker - and offers an unforgettable holiday experience. What follows are some great places to visit in the capital of J-Pop and monster movies. The Natural Side of New York State If you are considering a holiday across the pond, the US is probably one of the most diverse countries in terms of natural attractions. From the Beaches of California, to the Colorado Rockies there are a large number of landscapes and environments to explore for families and the more adventurous alike. Malta: Last minute holiday destination for summer? At a time of continued speculation about the affect of the recession on a number of European holiday destinations, the Mediterranean archipelago of Malta is the latest country to receive negative predictions in the press. According to predictions made by yourmalta.com, whilst the country has seen an increase in visitor numbers over the last few years - stimulated by low cost flights and cheap deals - bookings could fall by as much as 20 percent in 2009 unless we see a rush of bookings of last minute holidays. Hawaii: Soon to be known for more than just sun, sea and sand During May and June, the term: ‘staycation' was set to be the buzzword that defined the 2009 summer for UK holidaymakers. However, with the recent spell of wet weather and the arrival of the school holidays, the demand for last-minute or cheap sun holidays has returned - and the popular holiday destination that are the Hawaiian Islands is climbing the popularity rankings fast. But the area may soon be considered a top destination for very different reasons. Vermont: A destination for summer? When it comes to American holidays, the modest northern state of Vermont is usually associated with the winter season instead of the summer. But whilst the state is an excellent ski destination when the snow arrives, during its continental summers, Vermont becomes the land of summer camps, swimming holes and country hikes. So what does The Green Mountain State have to offer? Sun Holidays and Sunshine Breaks: Demand your money back if it rains According to timesonline.co.uk, the recent barrage of wet weather in the UK is causing an increasing number of families to book last minute breaks in famously hot areas. But what happens if you take the risk and opt for sunny holiday at a sunny destination and the sun fails to rear its head? Well, now some companies are offering money-back guarantees. Spain and Portugal still popular for cheap holidays and property abroad Despite the projected decline in demand for trips to European destinations this summer, Spain and Portugal are still proving popular among UK tourists. The combination of increased competitiveness amongst travel providers and holiday home companies during the recession, as well as a sudden period of bad weather at home, has seen an increase in searches for properties and last minute cheap holidays. South Africa: A Destination for Wine Lovers Whether it is the tourist region around Cape Town, with its diverse faunae and impressive geology, or the prospect of the country being host to the FIFA World Cup - South Africa is set to garner more and more attention from international visitors over the next two years. Yet, when one thinks of famed wine regions that are ripe for some grape-fuelled exploration, it seems that SA is unlikely to be discussed before the regions of California or South West France. So, as more and more the world's eyes become focused on this diverse country, and airlines compete to offer cheap flights to Cape Town, let's have a look at the region in more detail. UK's New Universities Top Poll A recent survey by the alternative online prospectus, Whatuni.com, has uncovered some intriguing results in regards to the best courses and lecturers in the UK. The website compiled the research after asking over 7,000 students about their university experience (covering topics from facilities to ‘eye candy'), and found that of the top 10, four of the institutions listed could be considered ‘new' universities - i.e. established after 1960. The End of Business as Usual: ICT-driven Learning Seen as the Answer to Our Education Problems As the UK sees record numbers of applicants applying for university places, and the prospect of as many as 50,000 being turned away, it is perhaps unsurprising that the latest UNESCO World Conference in Higher Education discussed the challenge of demand as well as equity, affordability and relevance. So how important is the incorporation of ICT-driven learning to the future of higher education? Digital Inclusion: How the accessibility of online courses might help A recent BBC report entitled ‘Your country needs you connected' sheds fresh light on the number of people in the UK who are digitally excluded. According to Jane Wakefield, whilst the popularity of Twitter and Facebook are growing, '17 million Britons have never been online'. Digital Champion, Martha Lane Fox, is at the forefront of getting the outsiders online - so how can online certificate degree courses help her cause. Unsure About A Gap Year Abroad? You Don't Even Need An Entire Year Thinking of a gap year adventure this summer? Here's a short guide for those wanting to volunteer abroad. ICT and e-Learning: The Growing Knowledge Economy and How To Staff It When discussing the term, ‘knowledge economy', it is worth discerning exactly what this phrase means and why it is worth understanding its importance today. Primarily, knowledge within a knowledge economy is a product that can be sold, which contrasts - somewhat confusingly - with a knowledge-based economy, in which knowledge is a tool. Distance Learning to Play a Major Part in President Obama's Adult Education Plans In a speech at Macombe Community College in Michigan, President Barack Obama has made some major new announcements regarding funding and plans for adult education and community colleges. The announcements come as many adults return to education in light of the recession, with recent reports from the state of Utah (at sltrib.com) claiming that the number of enrolments have increased by 19 percent in the past school year. Applications for degree courses at a record high - but will the UK be able to cope with the demand? The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), the body responsible for processing applications to almost all universities in the UK has published data showing a record amount of demand for degree courses this year. According to telegraph.co.uk, numbers of applications have increased by over 57,000 during the recession - and is said to have been primarily due to an increased number of recently unemployed workers eager to make themselves more employable. Adult Education and e-Learning: Why 2009 should result in fewer prefixes and more knowledge At a time when UK university places are seeing record demand and applications submitted by older students are increasing, it seems likely that over the next few years a typical campus will be made up of an even more diverse mix of ages than it has seen in the past. Recent UCAS data highlights just how many older people are applying, with an 18 percent rise of applicants aged 25 and over - this has bumped the overall number of extra students competing to get into UK institutions by another 50,000 compared to last year. A Children's University - Accessibility to Higher Education in the 21st Century The past few months have seen record numbers of applications to UK universities. According to the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), an extra 57,000 students have applied for degree courses compared to the same time last year, leading to speculation from many corners of the media that around 50,000 people will be denied a place. Yet, as higher education funding is cut, and university places become more in demand - it may surprise some that university has never really been anymore accessible. Where do distance learners live? A recent news story in The Shetland Times details the prolific educational career of a distance learner who has been studying with the same home study course provider for almost 30 years. The report is intriguing and very positive for the promotion of distance learning and how it can help people. Yet, the fact that the gentleman in question is one of just over 17,000 people who live on Mainland Shetland led me to the idea for this article - exactly where do most distance learners live? Question: Does my office need a vending machine? Is a vending machine the ideal solution for my small business? About Today's Vending Machines: Consider the Choice Which office vending machine? Vending Machine Sizes explained what vending machine you should buy for your small business Soup - the big 3 Getting under the skin of our favourite soups The best dessert soups in the world Dessert soup is really delicious and an underrated food - find out how to rejuvenate your dinenrs and lunch parties Top coffee producers by region The world's best producers of coffee British Universities Must Adapt to Survive - But how? A new report by the Joint Information Systems Committee is warning that UK universities are set to lose their world-class status if they fail to embrace e-learning and online technologies. The research highlights that despite the top four British Universities (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London and University College London) being included in the Top 10 learning institutions globally - they will not retain their reputation in a more competitive, more open and connected global environment unless they do more to adapt. Change for Women and the UK Criminal Justice System A recently published report suggests that the criminal justice system is due for some changes regarding the role of, and attitude to, women in the sector. The findings by The Fawcett Society, a registered charity for equality between women and men, highlight widespread discrimination in practices and attitudes, and purports to an industry that is rife with sexism. So will the report (free to view at fawcettsociety.org.uk) be enough to herald a significant change within the criminal justice system? Office at Home: How to Build Your Own DIY Desk The dream of working from home is becoming more of a reality for many of us. Whilst the recession is inspiring many to realize their independent entrepreneurial desires, an increasing number of people who have been made redundant are being forced to work as freelancers. Yet, other factors stimulated by the economic climate are also causing companies and businesses to incorporate staff who work from home as a logical space and money saver. PPC for Small Businesses Knowing which keywords/phrases to target for your PPC campaign is likely to be the most important aspect to get right. Being a small business with a tight advertising budget means that the more comprehensive your research and the more compromising you are with your terms, then the more successful you shall be. Taking DIY to the next professional level. Am I a semi professional decorator? I was wondering the other day about how much I had learnt myself in order to make our house more comfortable and pleasant to live in, but without professional training or qualifications. Getting things done yourself is always a good idea in many instances, but now I am trying to work out the time spent learning all these building, decorating and repairing skills is worth it given I could have been doing something else instead then paying a professional to do the decorating. Power Tools will save your day. One day. Our village is small. We're fortunate to have a pub and a post office given there are just around 300 residents. The post office is there because it also serves people from the surrounding villages and outlying hamlets and farms. The pub is just plain good, and people come from miles around for a drink and something to eat; the food is very good and the staff are friendly. The post office is also the village shop. So really we've got enough to go on, and with the village hall, there are also a range of community groups and events, and we're now holding a car boot sale. Cleaning and Restoring: Methods for giving your old, dirty and dented furniture a new life Old wooden furniture such as chairs, tables and chests can often go for years in the same place collecting dust and getting knocked and dented. How to start your own allotment or vegetable garden. Perhaps surprisingly, the global economic climate is not the only reason for the recent increase in our collective desire to start growing our own fruit or vegetables. Allotments (small private gardens) are also seen as great ways to escape and increasingly digital world, and an excellent to regain a connection with the natural order of the earth. Consequently, they are often cited to have a very positive impact on an individual's well-being, and an excellent means to a healthier lifestyle. What follow are some key points to help you start an allotment? Protect Your Home While You're Away Empty homes provide summer burglars with easy pickings. In the excitement of preparing for your holiday, double checking your home cover is up-to-date might not seem very appealing. But when you leave your home empty you leave it at risk, so it is absolutely essential that you make sure it is secure and protected. So what should you do to protect your home? 8 Top Tips to Protecting Your Property in Shared Accommodation An article that features 8 top tips to ensure your contents are safe when you live with others. How Home Insurance Complacency Can Easily Cost You £££s As the recession continues to take its toll, it's more important than ever to ensure you're not paying over the odds for cover. Recent findings show that British householders are overpaying on their home insurance by £1.3 billion per year*, and that almost 58 per cent of UK homeowners have not reviewed their policies in the last three years. Home Insurance Fraud: Don't Be Lured to the Darkside When the going gets tough, the tough sometimes get fraudulent. Recent figures released by the ABI (Association of British Insurers) have shown a record level of fraudulent insurance claims, proving people are willing to use their insurance policies as a way of bringing in extra cash. Swine Flu - An Unexpected Friend to the e-Learning Industry Despite the somewhat controversial idea that an epidemic can be good for something, it is not difficult to see that the consequences of the recent swine flu may have been very good for certain sectors, particularly during such economically unstable times. The media and the pharmaceutical industry have no doubt been able to reap something from HINI, and not to mention new communication methods and social networks such as Twitter, who have found themselves at the forefront of breaking news (and are said to have been ‘infected also', see neteffect.foreignpolicy.com). Something I Tweeted Today: How microblogging can be used as a tool for distance learning For those of you who are unfamiliar with microblogging, I would be utterly surprised if you have not at least heard of Twitter. Twitter has established itself as the leading microblog platform - a means for users to post 140 character "tweets" (thoughts, opinions, links to websites/pages, etc) for the benefit of their followers. There are numerous microblogging platforms, but they are essentially doing the same thing - pushing content/information to those who want to read it. So how can it be used in traditional, blended and distance learning? Good News for UK Higher Education: Could 2009 be the perfect time to consider a degree? Despite fears earlier in the year that UK university enrolment numbers might be on the first decline in years, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) has recently published figures that show they are on the rise again. As reported at aap.co.uk: "According to new statistics from UCAS…university application figures have noticeably risen this year, up 8.8 per cent in March compared to the same month in 2008. Does the increase in availability and accessibility of college courses really make them worthless? The UK and USA are currently going through something of a higher education boom during the current economic crisis. Despite a poor start to the year, in March the UK Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) reported an 8.8 percent increase in applications due to the countrywide need for individuals to consider a career change and smarten up their CVs. This trend is reflected across the pond also, with online degree courses and e-Learning study on the rise for the same reasons. However, the accessibility of higher education in 2009 has provoked some interesting responses from some commentators. Distance Learning in Florida: Why the Sunshine State is the pioneer in the field The USA is often viewed as an inspirational country for distance learning, online education and home study. Here in the UK we may have the eternally popular institution, the Open University, but across the pond the recession has not only seen the number of online degree courses soar, to the point of being advertised on prime time television, but home schooling has long been accepted as a normal alternative means to an education from any age, especially in certain areas. Consequently, when children get older the idea of distance learning is nowhere near as strange as it might seem to those over here - and Florida is the state that leads the way. Criminal Justice: Why study Anti-Social Behaviour? In the UK, "anti-social behaviour" and "ASBOs" (Anti-Social Behaviour Orders) have increasingly become crime-related buzzwords over the last ten years. This has been a consequence of the Labour government's introduction of a civil order as punishment for those who are disorderly (i.e. ranging from being a noisy neighbour to being verbally abusive), this prevents the individual from going to certain places and talking to certain people after it is issued. Charles Jennings: Why a former Reuters head is now an e-Learning guru With the amount of times I have seen the name Charles Jennings pop up in recent news regarding e-Learning and business online, I was surprised to discover that there was not a comprehensive and up-to-date profile that was easy to find (yet, rather confusingly, there was a Wikipedia for another Charles Jennings - journalist and vice-president of CBC). Consequently, I was spurred on to do some research and to write this - in order to try and understand why Charles Jennings has so much to say about e-Learning.
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