U-Blog 5

Apple Does One on One Learning Right

By many accounts, the easiest and most effective way to learn is from instructer to student in a One on One session. You would think this method is usually expensive right? With Apple it is not at all! Apple Computer provides a good example of how to affordably learn by offering up to 52 one hour lessons, at approximately $1.90 per One on One, face-to-face lesson. This is what Apple says on its website regarding the One on One teaching program:

"Sometimes it’s easier to learn with the help of a real person. With over 200 locations worldwide, Apple Retail Stores are your source for personal training, free group workshops, and expert advice."

"Learn more, and learn faster, with One to One personal training sessions."

"trainers are experts in all things Apple - will create a program customized to your interests and skill level. Learn more ... and learn it faster"

Some of the many topics taught include • Getting Started • Mac 101 • iPhone • iPod + iTunes • Digital Photos • Moviemaking • Musicmaking • Websites • Podcasts • Presentations • Productivity • Open ProjectLearn

This is a prime example of most effective teaching in the 21st century, and hopefully an example to be followed not only by industry, but especially educational institutions at all levels.

To Learn more about Apple One on One visit Apple One to One

U-Blog 4

Competing For Part of The Stimulus

Various Educational groups and school administrators, citing state budget shortfalls that are strangling local school districts, are continuing to lobby to ensure enough education funding is part of the 2009 stimulus package announced recently by President Obama .

President Obama stated that his administration would direct a portion of the federal spending bill aimed at getting the economy back on track, to school construction, and to expanding broadband access in schools. The overall legislation could cost as much as $1.2 trillion, according to published reports. But, as more states are making substantial cuts to K-12 spending, some school and state officials are lobbying lawmakers and the Obama transition team to include money for programs such as special education, teacher training, and grants to help districts educate disadvantaged students.

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, at least 20 states are cutting K-12 and early education due to budget problems. Florida, Georgia, Maine and South Carolina have each cut aid by at least $95 per student.

Obama has said repeatedly that funding for school infrastructure would be included in the stimulus package, though it is unclear how much and whether any of it would come in the form of direct aid to schools.

To where do you think each portion should go?

Do you think it is the most effective way to bolster education?