1999-2011, Universal Class, Inc., UniversalClass, UniversalClass.com List of Instructor-led, online courses in Crafts and Hobbies . http://www.universalclass.com/i/subjects/arts-crafts.htm Have you always wanted to learn the basic decorating principles and techniques without having to attend an interior design school? Interior Decorating Made Easy will give you a quick and easy overview of the design process. You'll learn the principles of design -- color, texture, scale and balance and how to apply them to any room or a whole house. Best of all you can take the class online when and where it's most convenient for your schedule. This class was developed for those of us who can feel overwhelmed with trying to create the perfect room for our lifestyle. There is no wrong or right way of doing things when it comes to personal style just as long as it's pleasing to you so forget your fears of 'design police' evaluating you. The lesson content provides a framework in which to start redecorating or decorating and the general knowledge about the basics of interior design that you can easily learn and put into practice. Even if you're not a born decorator, this course will help you gain confidence in the development of your personal style. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32969.htm Tue, 23 Jan 2007 14:34:58 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Advanced Training for Man's Best Friend Going Beyond the Basics of Dog Training Going beyond the basics of sit, come and stay, advanced dog training includes understanding your dog in dog terms. By knowing the traits of your dog's breed and taking full advantage of the attributes of that breed, you will create a fulfilling and fun relationship with your furry friend. Throughout this course, we'll dive into the advanced world of dog training, first by starting off with a bit of dog training history and breed recognition, which will offer insight to breeds' intelligence. You'll learn the common advanced commands like stop, steady, back up, and give, and then determine whether or not you and Fido are ready for Off-Lead Training, which can be fun and tedious at the same time. We'll explore various methods of advanced training including Clicker Training and the theory of the Monks of New Skete. After covering methodology, you'll discover what it takes for a dog to develop into a working dog like a seeing eye, police, or search and rescue dog. For those with a competitive nature, we'll discuss different levels of competition including conformation (dog shows), tracking training, and agility. And why would you have a dog if you couldn't teach him some fun tricks and games so you can show him off to your friends and family! Toward the end of the course you'll learn more about some of the advanced tricks like bow, roll over, through the hoop, the four-footed fax, and wiggle, giggle, freeze! Lastly, if you're still yearning for more information about your dog's breed, where to find competitions or more training information, we'll talk about the major dog clubs and organizations that exist today. Grab a bag of treats, your leash and your pooch, it's time to have some good ol' barkin' fun! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550080.htm Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. If you are new to coaching youth basketball and not sure what to do, this course will get you up and running! In this short easy to follow course you will learn how to begin your basketball coaching career. We have comprised the basics that will not only set you on a path to coach youth basketball, but make you one of the best coaches ever. They will be calling you back every year to coach and the children will have love and respect for you. You will learn how to teach kids about the game, information about how to set up your season, how to create a positive team atmosphere, coaching tips, the basics of beginning practice, and drills and strategies for new coaches to practice. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33203.htm Sun, 17 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Arts and Crafts Candle making is a craft as old as civilization itself, yet after so many millennia and technological advances, we still love the light, warmth, and beauty of a lit candle. Whether a seasoned artisan or a budding enthusiast, this course offers something for everyone interested in learning the craft of candle making. This course will open up for you the amazing array of possibilities that exist in your pursuit to create beautiful, functional, and sweet smelling candles. From basic molded and container designs, through the wonders of ice, chunk, votive, and the all-mysterious floating candles, you'll learn the easiest and safest ways to work with wax, wicks, and molds. But this course doesn't stop with just making candles that are sure to impress your friends and family. Once you've learned how to design and craft your product using countless combinations of scent, color, and containers, you'll be given the tools and knowledge to take your journey on the final leg; candle making for profit through your own business. The basics of building a niche candle market and targeting your marketing efforts to those that are naturally inclined to buy your candles will also be covered. You'll learn how to build a business plan and get the word out about your products. The nitty gritty of starting a business will be covered and you'll end with a thorough list of potential wholesale suppliers, candle making communities, and other resources for learning and sharing your new found passion. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550476.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Gardening Arts and Crafts Art Adobe Photoshop is a complex graphics and image editing software and paint program. Chances are, you've heard of Photoshop frequently in the past even if this will be the very first time that you use the program. Adobe's Photoshop program has become a mainstay with graphics designers, professional photographers, and even hobbyists to edit graphics as well as create and manipulate images. It's fun to use, and it can turn the most amateur photographer to a professional with just a few clicks of the mouse. If you've ever used any software program to edit graphics or images before, then the Photoshop interface may seem familiar to you and some things may be quite easy to learn. The reason is because most image editing programs on the market today are based on the Photoshop program. Everyone wants to copy it because it is simply that convenient and effective. However, Photoshop is by far the most extensive program available and offers the most features and options. Over the duration of this course, you're going to learn how to use Photoshop CS4. You'll learn the basics so that you can complete the most basic of tasks, but you'll also get the chance to delve into some advanced features. Whether you're a graphics designer or photographer who wants to improve your Photoshop skills and#8211; or a hobbyist who enjoys editing and manipulating images and#8211; you'll learn everything about Photoshop that you need to know in the upcoming lessons. ** This course will focus on Adobe Photoshop CS4 but the majority of the features and tools discussed are present in other versions of Adobe Photoshop as well. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550296.htm Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Art Interior design is an exciting profession that not only requires designers to be able to think creatively, but also to problem-solve. Interior designers are responsible for creating an environment for a structure, which may include a single-family home, government office, corporate headquarters, and everything in between In order to create an interior environment, designers need to think about the form and functionality of the space. The form refers to the look and feel. The functionality refers to how they space will be practically used. In order to effectively blend form and functionality, designers need to rely upon many resources, guidelines, and professionals. Interior designers often tend to be interior decorators. After all, designers are often responsible for all aspects of a project, including the design, development, and finishing touches. However, interior decorators may not necessarily be interior designers; designers need to have more in-depth knowledge than decorators. While many interior designers are also decorators, designers do not generally take on other professional roles, such as plumber, carpenter, electrician, or otherwise. Therefore, designers must work closely with many other industry professionals. Interior designers also have the liberty to be self-employed or to work with a firm. Either way, there are some business skills and best practices that every interior designer should use in order to be successful. This course is designed to teach you how to be an interior designer by focusing on interior design from a macro level. If you decide to pursue an interior design career after reading about everything that will be required of you if you choose to pursue a career in interior design, then you will spend years learning the minute details that are essential to creating a successful design. Note: This course focuses on all aspects of interior design. While interior decorating plays a large role in interior design, it is important to remember that the two are not the same. This course will not go into great detail about interior decorating, but, rather, will provide an overview of the kind of information interior designers will need to know. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550453.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Painting Home Decorating Gardening Drawing Arts and Crafts Art One Stroke painting is the hottest form of decorative painting today. Painting on glass and ceramics is now a very popular surface, and the course gives you many to choose from. Painting with Folk Art enamels are easy. You will learn dramatic wildflowers, perky daisies, gorgeous leaves, curliques, apples, berries, bumblebees, dragonflies, beautiful roses, and rosebuds. People love receiving mugs, candle dishes, and ivy bowls. You will enjoy painting on many surfaces. In this course, Joan will take you step-by-step in learning this exciting and easy painting method. This is so convenient for in-home art study and learning is at your own pace. Each lesson will have painted stroke guides, as well as written instructions, and complete designs for you to print and use for your convenience. The lessons are designed for your enjoyment in learning painting online. Joan will be paying careful attention to your comments and questions and will help you all the way to painting independence. Joan has incorporated many websites, for you to browse in for your supply needs, as well as information and organizations to join for painting. For more course samples, click on the link below, and then click on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/9784.htm Tue, 18 Nov 2003 12:56:58 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art One Stroke decorative painting technique is sweeping the nation. In this course, you will be motivated, inspired, and enriched to learn this easy decorative painting. In this course, you will learn adorable daisies, all types of leaves, cute bees, colorful pansies, and beautiful wildroses with leaves. You will also learn completed designs that you can use for many projects. Everyone loves to receive cards and hand-painted bags. This course will give you the tools, tutorials, and guidance to execute these painting strokes. Young and old can learn One Stroke. In this course, Joan Waff, OSCI (One Stroke Certified Instructor), will take you through step-by-step all the different elements of this course. Once you learn a few simple techniques, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world through gifts, bazaars, craft shops, craft shows, home decor, and organizations. You will be able to paint on cards, stationary, bags, memory pages in your scrapbooks, photo albums covers, pots, clothing, straw hats, golf hats, walls, wood, frames, lunch bags, and many other surfaces. You will get many websites to visit for supplies, painting surfaces, and organizations to join. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. Let's start painting! Learning at in-home art at your own pace is what this course is all about. Joan is there for you everyday! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/6237.htm Fri, 24 Jan 2003 22:03:27 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Gardening Arts and Crafts Art This is an exciting course of One Stroke painting, teaching flowers from the seasons and much more. Students see still-life pictures of strokes, while Joan is painting, as well as written instuctions. Students learn Spring hyacinths, trumpets, azaleas, violets; Summer hibiscus, waterlilys, birds of paradise, and geraniums; Fall hydrangeas, dahlias, petunias, and daisies; Winter pansies, chrysanthemums, poinsettias, and carnations. Students learn parrots, dragonflies, butterflies, and bees to enhance their floral paintings. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33652.htm Tue, 28 Aug 2007 20:46:35 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Art One Stroke decorative painting technique is sweeping the nation. In this course, you will be motivated, inspired, and enriched to learn this easy decorative painting. You will learn about angle, filbert, round and flat brushes, paints, surfaces, irises, hyacinths, tulips, roses, half roses, leaves, background foliage, string bows, ribbons, vines, limbs, and twigs, as well as completed designs that you can use for many projects. Having the choice of brushes will enable you to create even more dramatic designs having varying results. You will learn how to use cardstock to construct pins that you can wear, with your unique designs. This course will give you the tools, tutorials, and guidance to execute these painting strokes. Joan Waff, OSCI (One Stroke Certified Instructor), will take you through step-by-step through all the different elements to painting independence. Once you learn a few simple techniques, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world. You will also get many websites to visit for supplies, painting surfaces, and organizations. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. You do not need to leave home for this in-home art study. You will learn in the privacy of your home and at your own pace, which can fit into any schedule. Let's start painting! You can view more course samples by clicking on the website below, and then clicking on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11271.htm Wed, 31 Mar 2004 15:19:57 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art In this easy-to-follow course discover the fun and easy way to play and win popular card games! You will understand how to play top trick-taking games, point-based and banking card games, some card games for children, classic stand-bys such as BlackJack, Rummy, Stud Poker, , and much more. Card games are excellent diversions that build numerical, analytical, and strategic skills. Since around the Tenth Century A.D., when the earliest-known cards were created in China, card games have become more and more popular. Since around 1800, the United States has been one of the world's leaders in playing card games and the popularity of games like Blackjack and Poker continue to increase to this day, even to the extent of having online equivalents with no real 'cards' whatsoever! Get the inside deal on many card games, learn the etiquette and terminology, and teach and entertain children, family and friends. Each of these games is explained with an eye on enlightening, instructing, and entertaining both veteran and potential players. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32860.htm Sat, 10 Nov 2007 12:46:17 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Arts and Crafts Face painting, simply defined, is the act of applying cosmetic paint to a person's face for entertainment, theatrical, or even symbolic reasons. We see examples of face painting at Halloween or at school carnivals and other charity functions where face painter's set up booths. However, face painting is not a trend that's come about in recent years, as you will soon learn. It's also not a craft that's limited to Halloween or to entertain small children. Once you learn the art of face painting, you will be surprised at the number of ways you can put your skill to use, either for fun or profit. This course is designed to introduce someone who's never painted a face before to this intriguing art. It also goes one step further and provides detailed instructions for getting started, application techniques that you can use, and outlines of patterns so that you can start to paint faces like you've been doing it for years. You'll learn: The history of face painting How to learn to paint nearly any design you want The tools you'll need to be a successful face painter The types of paint you can use How to use the brushes and sponges to create beautiful designs How to create tribal art, animal faces, scary faces, and more The steps to create 6 beautiful designs--you'll be a pro at creating these by the end of the course! All about cheek painting How to make money from face painting At the successful completion of this course, you'll have the knowledge you need to be able to paint almost any design that you want. Don't worry! We will walk you through every step and teach you everything you need to know so that by the time you start painting designs, you're well on your way to being a pro! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550559.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Arts and Crafts One Stroke decorative painting technique is sweeping the nation. In this course, you will be motivated, inspired, and enriched to learn this easy decorative painting. You will learn about brushes, paints, surfaces, apples, blossoms, leaves, strawberries, garlics, tomatoes, eggplants, carrots, radishes, green onions, as well as completed designs for many projects. You will learn how to use cardstock to construct pins that you can wear, with your unique designs, and construct decorations to be used on bags and boxes for gift packaging. Everyone loves to receive cards and hand-painted bags, as well as pots, mugs, stemware, and jars. You can decorate the memory pages to your scrapbook, as well as decorate an album cover or photo box. Painting surfaces are endless. This course will give you the tools, tutorials, and guidance to execute these painting strokes. Young and old can learn One Stroke. Joan Waff, OSCI (One Stroke Certified Instructor), and certified by Donna Dewberry, will take you through step-by-step through all the different elements to painting independence. Once you learn a few simple techniques, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world through gifts, bazaars, craft shops, craft shows, home decor, and organizations. Many people prefer in-home art study programs because working at their own pace is easy to fit into anyone's lifestyles and schedule. A table and chair in a corner is all you need. You will also get many websites to visit for supplies, painting surfaces, and organizations. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. Let's start painting! You can view more course samples by clicking on the website below, and then clicking on 'class samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/10992.htm Sun, 7 Mar 2004 12:58:19 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art Fern Design This One Stroke Floral Bouquet course will show you how to create many types of floral bouquet paintings. You will learn how to create vertical shaped, c-shaped, L-shaped, arc shaped, and round shaped floral compositions. You will learn how to paint daisies, roses, peonies, magnolias, dome thistles, tulips, poppies, chrysanthemums, pansies, baby's breath, ferns, dragonflies, many leaf variations, as well as complete floral designs. Joan will take you step-by-step teaching each simple stroke, using her stroke guides and written instructions. Joan's written instructions are written as if Joan is standing next to you in class. You will have many interactions with her through your assignments. This course is taking your on a floral journey, while learning to paint simple flowers, that you can share with the world. Now is the time to get started on a new painting hobby that will last the rest of your life! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33188.htm Sat, 4 Aug 2007 22:54:03 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Arts and Crafts Art Monogramming is a great personal hobby. Many people are enjoying monogrammed letter writing, either with pens or brushes. Scroll brush lettering gives you the capability to personalize many items and give many gifts. The Calligraphy-Brush Lettering course teaches you brush lettering, one stroke at a time. This course will give you the tools, tutorials, and guidance to execute these brush lettering strokes. Each letter is broken down into easy-to-learn parts, and then the complete letter is done. You do not need painting experience to do brush lettering. Young and old can learn brush lettering. Once you learn beautiful brush letters, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world through gifts, bazaars, craft shops, craft shows, home decor, and organizations. You will be able to paint letters on cards, stationary, bags, memory pages in your scrapbooks, photo albums covers, clothing, walls, wood, frames, lunch bags, and many other surfaces. You will also get many websites to visit for supplies and painting surfaces. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. Learning at home and at your own pace is what this course is all about. Joan is there for you everyday! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31588.htm Sat, 25 Nov 2006 12:01:50 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating Drawing Arts and Crafts Art Treat family and friends to a precious childhood memory by serving a mouth watering just-out-of-the-oven baked homemade pie. The step-by-step instructions presented in this course are easy to follow and understand. Beginning with a brief history of the pie world, methods to prepare the pie crust- the base of the pie- are illustrated. The Pie crust recipe is followed by easy and delicious pie recipes that are categorized under Main dish pie, Sweet pie, Fruit pie, Holiday pie, Nut pie, Ice-cream pie, and Custard pie. This course will also include website resources that provide additional and exceptional varieties of pie recipe. Topics covered include: Making meat and fish pies with recipes for Shepherds pie, Turkey Pot Pie, Beef Cottage Cheese Pie, and Salmon Pie. Making delicious vegetarian main dish pies such as Pizza Quiche, Vegetarian Pot Pie, Italian Sausage Pie, and Spinach Pie. Making Chocolate Mousse Pie, Cheesecake Pie, Sweet Potato Pie, Coconut Cream Pie, Coffee Cream Pie, and other sweet pies. Making Boston Cream Pie, Mud Pie, Wine Pie, Snicker Pie, and Yogurt Pie. Making fruit pie recipes that are perfect treat with light sugar and fat. Making Apple Pie, Strawberry Pie, Lemon Meringue Pie, Watermelon Pie, and Banana Pie. Making pies with mixed fruits such as Apple Cranberry Pie, Dense Berries Pie, etc. Making holiday pie that increases the fun of holiday celebration- such as Holiday Honey Pie, Holiday Pumpkin Cream Pie, Holiday Eggnog Pie, etc. Making nut pies Making ice-cream pies Making custard pies such as Chocolate Coconut Custard Pie, Butter Squash Custard Pie, Rhubarb custard Pie, Egg Custard Pie. By the end of this course, you will be able to prepare delightful pies with your own favorite items fruits, meat, or ice creams--and you will no longer present tasteless store-bought pie imitations to family and friends. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550026.htm Tue, 25 Mar 2008 20:17:43 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Art Have you ever had a greasy puddle of icing on your cake plate? By the end of Cake Decorating 101, you'll be assured this will never happen to one of your cakes. Cake decorating is not just buttercream anymore. It is the final packaging everyone sees first and should entice people to imagine the texture and flavor of what lies beneath the icing. Why do you want to learn to make great cakes? An upcoming wedding ( you've seen what a purchased wedding cake can cost ) Did you agree to be a 'classroom mother' and want to make special cakes for the holidays or specific units? Is there a baker in the family you're dying to out-do? Are you looking for the appeal offered by more traditional domestic skills? Are you hoping to enter a local or regional baking competition? Are you thinking of baking to earn some extra dough? Is your organization looking for new fundraising opportunities like an upper scale cake walk, perhaps? These are only a few of the reasons that may have attracted you to this course. However, whatever your motives may be, here are the skills you can look forward to gaining in the following lessons: Equipment, utensils, tools and preparations The basics of cake-baking: decorating techniques, planning and designing your cake, lining your tines, and more Working with Marzipan, Icing, Glaze and Filling Choices Decorating your cake with butter cream icing Decorating your cake with royal icing How to make and use a piping bag Decorating with Sugar Flowers (and Other Gum Paste Creations) Making and Decorating Wedding Cakes Creating decorative children's cakes Holiday and celebration cakes Theme Cakes Beloved Cupcakes And More Cake and frosting recipes to express your creativity With practice and patience, cake decorating can be learned. This exclusive course starts you out with the basics from designing your work space, cake baking, decorating tools, prepping a cake for decorating and many tips of the trade to help you create delectable cakes, icings and fillings. You'll learn the importance of texture and the temperament of icings, how to avoid cake catastrophes, ways to fix them and still keep your cake looking perfect. Whether you're looking to start a cake decorating business or just make cakes for family and friends, Cake Decorating 101 will teach you all you need to know to turn out professionally decorated cakes. You'll develop techniques practiced by professional cake decorators such as applying buttercream icing, how to make a rose, level a cake, pour ganache and master a piping bag. From breath taking designs to whimsy, all the latest cake decorating trends are disclosed, with instructions and ideas about how to bake and decorate the darlings of the cake world, finger licking cupcakes. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550275.htm Sun, 10 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Food Preparation Arts and Crafts One Stroke painting is the hottest form of decorative painting today. Millions are enjoying this fast and easy way to create many unique designs, one stroke at a time. In this course, Joan will take you step-by-step in learning this exciting and easy painting method. This is so convenient for in-home art study and learning at your own pace. Joan is a 'Certified One Stroke Instructor' (OSCI). What better way to give happiness to others, than painting birthday flowers for all your friends, family, and peers? Birthday flowers are a great way to share your talent with the world. You will learn the flowers for each month: January Carnation, February Violet, March Jonquil (or Daffodil), April Sweet Pea, May Lily of the Valley, June Rose, July Larkspur, August Gladiolus, September Aster, October Marigold, November Chrysanthemum, and December Narcissus, as well as the leaves for each flower. Each lesson will have painted stroke guides, as well as written instructions, and complete designs for you to print and use for your convenience. The lessons are designed for your enjoyment in learning painting online. Joan will be paying careful attention to your comments and questions and will help you all the way to painting independence. Joan has incorporated many websites, for you to browse in for your supply needs, as well as information and organizations to join for painting. A new world awaits you. It is just a click away. Many people, who have never painted before, are amazed at their results. These people are now enriching their lives with their new hobby. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain, by taking this fun course. This class is an exciting class on color, design, creativity, imagination, relaxation, and fun . For more course samples, click on the link below, and then click on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8545.htm Mon, 21 Jul 2003 18:27:41 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art Learn how to make your own soap in our self-paced online course. If you've always wanted to try different soap-making recipes, create your own signature items for personal use, for gifts or for profit, or just learn about what goes into making a soap, this class is for you! With or without any experience you will learn the foundations of soap making: the history behind the craft; basic melt and pour techniques, popular cold-process methods; how to create your own recipes (using a simple set formula); how to create signature soaps, basic aromatherapy, special soaps and what to do when your recipes need a little fine tuning. Best of all the course has video demonstrations of the soap-making techniques as well as photos, step-by-step instructions and your instructor will not only be grading quizzes and assignments but is available through our class email to answer questions. 'Handmade' things are springing up everywhere -- in stores, boutiques, as take out food and in health care items. People are returning to the retro feeling of 'home made' from home decor to high end, custom embellished clothing to homey foods. Soap can be a big part of this retro trend. Take advantage of this marketing trend and profit from your tiny investment in this class. Soap making is actually easy. The lessons provide recipes for soaps in several lessons. They have been tested. You can use them 'as is' or, at completion of the course, feel confident about personalizing the recipes to make them your own. Included are marketing ideas to get you thinking about how to name, how to make them special with your package and styling and how to price them for both wholesale and retail applications. Learn a new creative 'art'! Try Soap Making today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33022.htm Tue, 29 May 2007 22:06:29 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Anyone interested in beginning a profession as a travel agent should first determine the type of skills, training and certification necessary to provide travel services for clients--whether you work at an established travel agency, as an independent contractor, or as a home-based travel agent. This course offers both the history and future prospects of the travel industry as well as discusses different types of travel enjoyed by individuals, including domestic and international travel and travel by land, air, and sea. Popular travel services will also be explored, including escorted and self-directed tours and cruises. We'll also talk about travel technology that helps not only travel agents but also clients to get the most for their money regardless of their chosen type of travel. This travel agent course also introduces students to the office and business needs of a home-based travel agent. It will show you how to make use of computer reservations systems, and how to bank your business, develop small business know-how and will provide tips and strategies that will enhance the success of your new business while at the same time offering clients well-planned vacations. Students of this course will also learn the basics about passports and visas and various regulations and restrictions determined by embassies around the world--offering customers and clients up-to-date travel warnings and alerts that ensure ultimate safety and security. Additionally, students completing this course will understand how a travel agent is able to match travel and personalities to a multitude of travel options and opportunities that take into consideration budgets, needs, and desires of the traveler. Avoiding problems or conflicts with clients and helping clients deal with unforeseeable situations are also covered, as is the importance of consistently researching new technologies in the travel industry that will help build and enhance your career as a successful travel agent. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550206.htm Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel The 'One Stroke' painting technique is sweeping the nation. This is now the most popular form of decorative painting for all who want to learn to paint. Donna Dewberry created the 'One Stroke' technique. The 'One Stroke' technique has millions of people painting, the fun and easy way. They are getting projects done for gifts, charities, peers, family, and marketing. In this course, Joan will take you step-by-step in learning this exciting and easy painting method. This is so convenient for in-home art study. Joan is a 'Certified One Stroke Instructor' (OSCI), being certified by Donna Dewberry. You will be learning the cabbage rose, rosebuds, small flowers, wisteria, all kinds of leaves, watermelons, vines, as well as original designs by Joan, such as the cat and dog sitting on a fence. Each lesson will have painted stroke guides, as well as written instructions, and complete designs, which can be printed for your use. The lessons are designed for your convenience in learning painting online. Joan will be paying careful attention to your comments and questions and will help you all the way to painting independence. After learning the elements, you will be able to paint gorgeous designs on bags, cards, scrapbook pages, photo boxes and albums, clothing, wood, walls, and furniture. Many people, who have never painted before, are amazed at their results. These people are now enriching their lives with their new hobby. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by taking this fun course. This class is an exciting class on color, design, creativity, imagination, relaxation, and fun . http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/6242.htm Mon, 6 Jan 2003 00:25:31 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Gardening Arts and Crafts Art One Stroke decorative painting technique is sweeping the nation. You will learn about brushes, paints, surfaces, bluebirds, hummingbirds, nests, vines, feathers, leaves, moss, curliques, sheep, baby chicks and plaid designs as well as mice, sunflowers, ladybugs, turtles, wildflowers, fancy butterflies, frogs, festive happy flowers and big bees, and complete designs. This course will give you the tools, tutorials, and guidance to execute these painting strokes. Joan Waff, OSCI (One Stroke Certified Instructor), will take you through step-by-step all the different elements of this course. Once you learn a few simple techniques, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world. You will get many websites to visit for supplies, painting surfaces, and organizations. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. Learning in-home art is a great way to learn to paint in the privacy of your home. You do not need lots of space, only a small table and chair will do. Let's start painting! For more course samples, click on the link below, and then click on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7246.htm Thu, 13 Mar 2003 11:23:52 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Arts and Crafts Art The One Stroke painting technique is the hottest form of decorative painting. Everyone can learn this easy and relaxing painting style. Joan Waff, OSCI, (One Stroke Certified Instructor), will be there every step of the way. Let's get started! You will be having fun in this course. You will be learning bunnies, heart leaves, grass, patriotic designs, cornucopia with grapes, plums, apples, pears, and fruit leaves, as well as pumpkins, pumpkin bears, snowmen, santa, bears, trees, wreaths, poinsettias, berries, bows, holiday dogs and cats as well as completed designs. You will spread happiness to everyone through your painting creativity. Everyone loves to receive painted items. You can give sets of cards, bags, or boxes for gifts. People love having their own painted cards, bags, and boxes to use for their gift packaging. Giving cookies in a hand painted cardboard box is rewarding and personal. You will enjoy adding decorations to your memory pages from your scrapbook, as well as painting on a photo box or album cover. Painting surfaces are endless. Painting is self-expression that can spread joy and happiness to everyone that receives it. What is so nice about this in-home art study, is that you don't need lots of room to paint and there are endless surfaces that you can use. All you need is a small table and a chair. Painting in apartments or condos is no problem at all. Added in this course are many websites for you to browse for your painting surfaces. You can use one or two elements learned for simple designs too. The creative possibilities are endless. The Folk Art paint is easily attainable and economical to use. Let's get ready for the upcoming holidays ! For more course samples, click on the link below, and then click on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/6688.htm Thu, 13 Feb 2003 21:43:04 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art Make the wedding day an even more memorable occasion for the bride, the groom and guests by handcrafting all or parts of the bridal event. Wedding crafts are such a fun, creative and unique way to personalize a wedding and also to involve friends and loved ones in the preparations. This wedding crafts course presents interesting and entertaining wedding history to help you plan and organize wedding accessories. Course lessons will include inspiration plus designs for paper crafts, floral crafts, favors, bridal party gifts, scrapbooking and more. Wording and layout instructions are given along with sample finished projects to further inspire the wedding crafter. You can invite family and friends to help with the work, adding to the fun and excitement of the big day or do it all yourself. Wedding planners will also benefit from our creative ideas. We're certain this crafting course will be a fun and exciting addition to your wedding planning. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550019.htm Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:09:28 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Home Decorating Gardening Drawing Arts and Crafts Art GET STARTED WITH THE BASICS! This course is the best course to get you started in the One Stroke technique, whether you are right-handed or left-handed. Simple, basic strokes are taught in this course, including many tips and hints of using these basic strokes to paint many designs as seen in the One Stroke books, by Donna Dewberry. The One Stroke technique uses only a few basic strokes for all the designs and this course is geared to getting you started using the foundation strokes. You will learn about brushes, paints, daisies, one stroke leaves, heart leaves, rosebuds, calyxes, wisteria, foliage, five-petal flowers, butterflies, bees, vines, bird nests, eggs, and curlicues as well as completed designs that you can use for many projects. You will learn how to use cardstock to construct pins that you can wear, with your unique designs. Painting surfaces are endless. This course will give you the pictures, stroke guides, written instructions and feedback from Joan to learn the basic strokes. Joan Waff, OSCI (One Stroke Certified Instructor), will take you step-by-step through all the basic strokes to painting independence. Once you learn a few basic strokes, you will be ready to share your creativity with the world. You will get many websites to visit for supplies, painting surfaces, and organizations to join. Today is the day for you to jump in and learn a new hobby that will enrich your life and others for the rest of your life. You can view more course samples by clicking on the website below, and then clicking on 'course samples'. http://www.joanwaffcreativedesigns.com http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11626.htm Mon, 3 May 2004 18:13:21 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Drawing Arts and Crafts Art There has been a sharp increase in vacation destinations over the past 50 years. With that increase, the concept of timeshares has blossomed. Owning a timeshare allows travelers to occupy accommodations for a period of time each year. This long-term strategy has become a travel industry standard and has provided vacationers with an option to hotel stays. This 11-lesson course takes you from the history of the vacation timeshare industry through the process of buying and selling a timeshare. We begin by briefly examining where and how the concept developed. Then we'll discuss properties and characteristics of timeshare ownership. Lesson II provides guidance about where to find timeshares and preparing for a purchase. Next, we go through the process of buying a package. Lessons IV, V and VI cover legal rights and responsibilities, the various types of ownership, and financial considerations. We move on to industry organizations you should know about. In Lesson VIII, you will learn about the scheduling aspects of timeshare ownership. We cover a variation of ownership called fractionals in Lesson IX. Lesson X deals with exchanging and renting a timeshare unit. The series concludes with Lesson XI discussing important information about selling a timeshare. We include a glossary of common industry terms for reference. This course will give you a broad understanding of timeshare ownership, but does not contain every detail pertaining to this subject. Once you complete the course, we encourage you to discover as much as you can about this appealing concept of 'owning your vacation.' http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550049.htm Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Sports and Activities How to Build Your Own Business Etiquette 101 is an overview of today's etiquette rules, updated for today's fast-paced lifestyles and ever-changing codes of conduct for work and leisure. The role of etiquette has changed over the years. At one time, it served as an indicator of each person's proper station in life. Today, etiquette helps smooth the path of our daily activities, whether it's meeting others in our daily interactions, talking to someone on the phone, offering condolences properly or understanding how to talk to colleagues at a business conference. In Etiquette 101, you'll learn the rules of good behavior for today's most common social and business situations, including the common courtesies of life that many of us have forgotten or may not have learned, from when to offer your seat on a bus to a stranger to how to share a cab. It will also go over telephone etiquette, with the updated rules for cell phone use and the new rules for office calls. Correspondence, including emails, entertaining and being a polite guest, giving and receiving gifts and life's big events are all covered, with examples and#8211; both good and bad! There is also a section on life situations that are never easy, such as death and divorce, with etiquette suggestions that will help you navigate the minefield of emotions surrounding these situations. Finally, a section on workplace etiquette covers the details of everything from how to relate to your boss and subordinates to keeping your social life and work separate. Etiquette 101 will teach you everything you need to know to move graciously through today's world. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550110.htm Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:28:57 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Music shapes and is shaped by our lives. Learn and appreciate the history of music. A well-rounded study of music appreciation begins with basic elements of music. Knowing the basic elements of music will aid any music listener in developing a working vocabulary for discussing music, determining different qualities of music, and evaluating a composer or performer's choices with a composition. These elements can then be applied when presented with a new piece or even genre of music. Jazz, for example, is a genre of music started in the United States within the African-American culture, using syncopated rhythms of African music, call-and-response forms used in slave songs and spirituals, and European musical influences. This unique blend of music origins still accounts for new developments and experiments in jazz music today. We will also study how Classical music has changed since the days of Beethoven and Brahms. The twentieth century contained a rich tradition of new styles and brilliant new composers from Europe and the United States . Visionaries such as Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel set the stage for the early twentieth century with new ideas, and Arnold Schoenberg ushered in the Modern era in 1945 with his revolutionary sound. Finally, we will review the myriad contributions to the musical repertoire from non-Western regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, India , and Japan . Both European and American music have been greatly influenced by these regions and the history of these musical styles are both diverse and enlightening. Students in this course will have the opportunity to sample many kinds of music, from the Gregorian Chants of the Middle Ages to the song that currently occupies the #1 spot on Billboard' s Hot 100 Chart. You will learn such things as: and#183; Who wrote the heart-stopping movie music that accompanies the teenage girl going into the dark basement at midnight? and#183; Who thought of the call-and-response cadences that keep the infantry marching? and#183; Who developed the Big Band beat that makes us want to get up and dance? and#183; How did the sailors on tall ships use music to work together as they hauled the long lines? and#183; What songs helped escaping slaves find their way north? and#183; How did 16 th century music find its way to the top of the popularity charts in the 1980s? and#183; How did a fire bring about the first Broadway musical? and#183; How did singing together change people's hearts and minds during the Civil Rights movement? Learn about the composers and performers whose music has provided the soundtrack for our lives. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550543.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Art Yoga is accessible to everybody. A history of 5000 years is proof of how lasting and magical this exercise art really is. How many other exercises can boast worldwide acceptance? The fact is, over the past twenty years, yoga popularity has increased from minimal interest to one of the most popular exercise regimes around. With so many different yoga schools, instructors and styles, the choices can be daunting. This course is designed to give you the information you need to decide on the perfect combination that will make your practice the most enjoyable and satisfying. You will be guided through the steps for beginner yoga poses and meditation, with emphasis on concentrated deep breathing. If you're a yoga beginner and looking for a tool to help jump-start your program, this yoga course features in-depth instructions and inspiring information to introduce you to yoga. If you're interested in building a home practice area, if you're seeking the right class for seniors, if you're an over forty baby boomer looking for an exercise regimen for the rest of your life, if you're physically challenged, or if you're just interested in finding out more about yoga, take this class! You'll learn how regular practice helps to build the muscle strength required to hold yoga postures. More than that, you'll develop increased lung capacity and provide the regular stimulation to the internal organs that help to balance chemical and hormone levels. Regular assignments and instructions point the way to the correct position for balancing postures, to the extent that it becomes second nature - like riding a bicycle. Emphasis is on the latest methods to slow and calm your mind, release stress and purge your thoughts of the worries and stresses of the day. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550364.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:41:03 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities Fitness Arts and Crafts Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art that is designed to help you improve your life personally and professionally. The Chinese believe that your environment has a large effect on you mentally and your physical well-being. When you are unbalanced in your life, you open yourself up to negative emotions and illness. However, when you are balanced in your life, you open yourself up to greater wealth and health. Much of what is utilized in feng shui is interior decorating designed to align your home or office with the various elements of the universe and create harmony in your life based upon your specific personal requirements. Throughout this course, you will learn how to use feng shui in your personal life step by step. Each lesson will guide you through the next step in the process of feng shui. From determining whether you are yin or yang, what type of occupation you have, to the type of personality you have based upon your birth stars, you will learn how all of these elements combine and how to harmonize them in your home. Additionally, you will be able to assess other members of your family living in your home and harmonize your birth stars and element with the others in your home. This harmony is created by learning how to determine which elements in your home work for you or against you, as well as the various colors and types of surfaces that should be used within your home. Finally, you will learn how to cleanse your home of not only clutter, but also ill spirits and memories that may be inhibiting you. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550355.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:40:26 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities Home Decorating Gardening Arts and Crafts Art Learn the fundamentals of brushstroke techniques in this basic painting course for beginners. You can do this in your home and at your own pace. Hundreds of people are learning to paint right now. You will have one-on-one interaction with Joan. This course focuses on learning brush stroke techniques for flat, round, filbert, angle, liners, scripts, and deer foot brushes. Students will learn how to use each brush and then paint designs using these brushes with step by step written instructions as well as painted strokes. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/10659.htm Wed, 7 Sep 2011 08:23:55 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Arts and Crafts Art Event planning is one of the hottest new fields available to people from all walks of life today. Although some event planners may possess a college degree in business or a related field of study, a college degree is not required to be an event planner, nor is a certificate or any other formal training--although any training and/or education you can receive would certainly be very beneficial and give you an edge over others just starting out. Those who are brand new to the field of event planning can earn excellent money in this career path, and the benefits and salary only increase with the event planner's contacts, networking and skill level. Those at the top of their game can earn in excess of millions per year. Event planning is an exciting, lucrative and interesting career choice; however, it is not for everyone. Those who have a lot of energy, are comfortable with self-promotion, enjoy talking to and socializing with strangers, who are well organized, can handle multi-tasking and have an eye for detail will enjoy this career. If you are laid back, shy and prefer to be 'behind the scenes,' you may want to choose another profession. This course will give you a great basic understanding of event planning. It will also explain some of the details of how the business works and what an event planner does exactly. Lastly, it will give you the basics to help get you started in this exciting, rewarding and often fun filled career. There are ten comprehensive lessons written in an easy to follow, informative manner. The end of each lesson will provide you with multiple summary review questions so that you may effectively test your new found knowledge. We encourage you to use these self-test questions to determine whether you are ready to move on to the next lesson or if you should review portions of the preceding lesson before taking the next step. Don't rush yourself. Take the time to read all portions of the lessons and complete the exercises and self-tests. Making full use of this course, in its entirety, is the first step in getting more of what you want in life and business. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550035.htm Tue, 8 Apr 2008 17:49:50 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Art Writers are a unique breed. They spend their lives creating things that were, or never have been, and they hope to make enough money so that they can live comfortably while others read their work. To be a successful writer, one needs to do many things. According to Stephen King, it comes down to reading a lot and writing a lot. However, there is something else that a writer must do to be successful and that is to edit as well. Too many writers choose not to edit, believing that it is something someone else will do for them; but how can you know your book if you do not go through and edit it as well? When you edit a book, you learn more about your characters, your plot and how they all mesh together. While you edit you may think of a new plot device that will work better for the book, or you may discover that the book would be better suited in a different genre. Editing turns a good book into a great book, and all the great writers know the power of editing. In this course you will learn everything you need to know about editing a book. From how much of an edit you need to do, the things that need to be edited and even the tools you should employ to make your edits successful. In addition, you will learn about what you should do before sending your manuscript away for review to raise the chances of successful publication. Throughout the lessons, tips and quotes from the immortals of literature will show you that editing and even rejection are all part of the journey when you are a successful writer . http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550306.htm Thu, 1 Apr 2010 11:20:58 GMT Universal Class, Inc. More than 5,000 years ago, the ancient Chinese measured the preparedness of their soldiers by how much weight they could lift, and the ancient Greeks, perhaps more than any other culture at any time in history, celebrated the achievement of great strength and muscular development. Much has certainly changed in the last five millennia. Weight training has replaced 'weight lifting' as the principal goal of many people who are interested in developing their bodies and increasing their success both on and off the playing field. Lifting weights is a sport, but weight training is a lifestyle. As we will learn in this course, the difference is not merely semantics. Weight training is indeed a profession for some people, from physical therapists to professional coaches who advise people on how to use weights to repair and build muscle. Strength training is an all-encompassing term used to describe all endeavors aimed at increasing one's strength and pushing the body's potential to further heights. Weight training is a specific type of strength training that specifically uses weights to achieve its goals. Proper weight training incorporates many cardiovascular benefits, but its chief goal is to build muscle in a healthy, educated, and safe manner. This course will provide a comprehensive view of muscular function and#8211; how muscles work, how they grow, the nutrition they need to propel growth, how their development can facilitate fat loss, and how to safely exercise using the proper form and technique. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550362.htm Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Flower essences are extremely diluted extracts from flowers that are used to improve the emotional, spiritual, and physical health of people and animals. This type of treatment falls under the umbrella of vibrational medicine and is related to the use of acupuncture, aromatherapy, and crystals. Rather than using the herbal properties of flowers for healing purposes, the process actually imbues a tincture with the energetic signature of the plant life. This course teaches the aspiring practitioner about the history, use, and effects of flower essences. Students will learn about Dr. Bach, the modern pioneer of flower essences. More importantly, this course goes in-depth to describe each of the standard flower essences, and includes Dr. Bach's own words when teaching how to utilize the energies of each flower. Finally, this course also offers practical advice on a variety of problems that are often treated with flower essences. Depression and stress relief are both covered thoroughly, and there is also an overview of how to use flower essences in hospice care, during labor and childbirth, and to treat animals. While individual flower essences can be used to treat numerous ailments, combinations of essences can be created to treat problems in a holistic manner. This course encourages practitioners to thoroughly investigate the causes and histories of ailments in order to treat them most effectively. Focus is placed on the idea that many physical ailments are the result of emotional and energetic problems, and treating the cause will lead to improved physical health as well. There is also an introduction to additional activities that can be used to make the treatment more effective http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550165.htm Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Health is defined as an optimal state of physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual well being. The same explanation applies to wellness. It's like that old saying 'You don't have anything if you don't have your health.' Our birth certificates don't have an expiration date. We're entitled to a lifetime of wellness. But we have to earn it. This Lifetime Wellness course will give you a blueprint to help you feel alive, vital, confident and experience a state of well-being. Treatment of disease may save lives, but it rarely results in wellness behavior and a feeling of well-being. Medical treatments rarely result in the ability to make healthier choices and deal with stress in a positive way. Can you actually exercise your mind back to wellness? Why not? Tune in to the messages your body is sending you; learn to take charge of your body composition and ways to nourish your body with fitness. Get the jump on nutrition by making good choices. New is only new for a day but personal growth never quits. Whether you're contemplating a second career or getting fit inside and out, this Lifetime Wellness course will help you design an entire existence worth of living. Learn a new prospective on weight and diet, and the importance of exercise to maintain good health. You'll explore new ways to define yourself, not only by past accomplishments but by the possibilities you create for the future. Lifetime Wellness gives you all the tools to create a lifetime of fulfillment at any age. So join us today. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550356.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:39:53 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Food Preparation Fitness Whether performing a minor repair, such as your phone or DVD player, or applying for a new and technology focused career, an understanding of the principles directing basic electronics will prove helpful throughout life. This course in basic electronics will lay a foundation for understanding how things work in our modern world. In the process of this course, you will become increasingly aware of how your telephone, television, radio, music and recording equipment work. In beginning this course, keep in mind that many of the components discussed in the lessons exist both in an electrical or gadget context and in the context of being a part of an integrated circuit. That is, the components exist in the larger application of everyday things you encounter such as an electrical switch, and in they exist as micro-components which are microscopic in size and within the manufactured structure of an IC chip, only 2-5 mm in size. We will explore the basic elements of electronics, the components of an integrated circuit, and we will cover the fundamental how-to of how things work. You will be prepared to competently converse at an entry level with any human resources person, or quiz your local Radio Shack employee with intelligence and confidence. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550329.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. This course teaches you how to paint two scenes. The Tropical Beach scene teaches you how to create a pretty sky, water, sandy beach, grasses, palm tree, distant islands, and a cute sail boat. The Countryside scene teaches you how to paint an autumn sky, barns, meadows, winding path, and pretty flower clusters. Taking this course will have you painting your own creative landscapes or seascapes in no time.You do not need painting experience to take this course. The instructor teaches you the components, one stroke at a time. Learning from home is a safe and private environment, and the instructor is with you all the way! You learn at your own pace! What are you waiting for? Learn a fun new hobby today and give this class a try! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31614.htm Wed, 29 Nov 2006 19:53:56 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Drawing Art Fashion Design 101 explains the qualities and skills necessary to become a fashion designer. You'll learn about the many related career opportunities available besides that of fashion design and gain an inside look into today's fashion business. A fashion career is two-thirds artist and one-third business. Color, pattern making and illustration are all skills a fashion designer must learn in order to put a collection together. You'll learn how becoming a fashion designer involves many core related principles to completely understand the many facets of the fashion business. This course is ideal for students, seamstresses and anyone interested in the fashion business and design quality. Since a fashion designer wears many hats, you will gain knowledge about everything from haut couture to budget clothing and that design is about performing research, applying knowledge of fabric, coordinating color and texture, and monitoring quality and fit. People who strive to become fashion stylists have a profound knowledge of fashion, a fierce personal style and a knack for putting together complete outfits for themselves and others. This course provides lots of different information about the fashion world to help you better understand why it is important to learn about fabrics, prints and other technical aspects of fashion in order to jump-start your fashion career. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550471.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities Photography Drawing Arts and Crafts Art Congratulations on considering opening your own craft business! This course offers an introduction to business and guidelines that will help you create a successful and sustainable crafting business. In this course, you'll learn what to expect, how to create a business name that people will remember and determine what type of crafts you want to sell. Targeting your market is essential for the success of any business, and we'll give you the basics on how to determine who will buy your crafts, how much to charge for them, and how to market your business to reach the widest audience range. You'll also learn some important marketing skills that will help you run your business. We'll discuss different ways to sell your crafts, including online venues and craft shows. Creating a sustainable business means keeping your overhead low. Lessons in this course will offer tips on wholesale and retail purchasing of supplies, developing attractive packaging, and how to determine how much to charge for your crafts, as well as a number of pricing strategies that will help you set prices that generate profits. No business, and that goes for home-based craft business, can succeed without customers. Good customer service is essential. We'll explain some of the do's and don'ts when dealing with customers, as well as how to deal with difficult customers. Finally, we'll discuss (briefly!) your financial obligations regarding income taxes and the importance of keeping good records. Balancing your craft business with family responsibilities will be discussed, as will reaching the masses to help you develop the best ways to reach audiences both locally, domestically and abroad. This course will provide you with enough information to feel confident when starting your own business, and provide pointers that will help to ensure that your business endeavor is successful. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550456.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 12:15:45 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts How to Build Your Own Business Home Decorating Drawing Arts and Crafts This comprehensive, illustrated course is designed to instruct people on the sport of freshwater fishing; including an introduction to the sport, discussions on various bait fishing, lure fishing, and casting techniques. Additionally, there are discussions on fishing tips in general, and information on how factors such as weather and solar/lunar forces can affect a fishing trip. Also included here, is a listing of the best species of fish for the table, along with information on the best ways to cook freshly-caught fish, and an overview of fishing safety and regulations. We'll cover these topics: Useful angling tips, detailed Instructions on angling methods Different types of fishing rods and their compositions The various species of freshwater species Nature's affects on fresh water fishing. How the sun and moon affect fishing Casting and choosing bait. How weather, location and water clarity impact your fishing. The different places to fish and fishing safety and safely. The correct way to handle fresh fish, how to freeze them, and the amount and limitations allowed in fishing. So join us today, and let's learn how to fish ! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550016.htm Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:42:32 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Sports and Activities Fitness Have you ever wanted to be a landlord? This multi-faceted career can be challenging and rewarding both personally and financially. Our course provides a broad yet detailed examination of the many areas that a property manager must blend together to be successful. Lesson 1 asks the question: are you ready to be a landlord? It focuses on the disciplines involved in property management and discusses planning and goal setting. In Lesson 2, you'll discover the benefits of commercial and residential properties, and what types of tenants will be renting from you. We explain what to do before purchasing a property and how to make an offer in Lesson 3. Ownership rights and responsibilities are discussed in Lesson 4, including laws and regulations you must abide by. Lesson 5 examines the financial factors to consider and how to set rental prices. You'll learn how to choose the best tenants and how to attract them to your property in Lesson 6. Dealing with tenants (and how to avoid bad ones) makes up Lesson 7. Lesson 8 covers handling tenant issues and explains the eviction process. We focus on the lease in Lesson 9 by explaining how to create a lease and the lease dispute resolution options are available to you. Lesson 10 will help you understand the five types of property maintenance and describes common trouble spots. In Lesson 11 we discuss financing options for purchasing your property. The course concludes with Lesson 12, which explains how to sell your property. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550158.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel How to Build Your Own Business Home Decorating Hair styling and hair braiding is not a recent trend. The word Braid means a complex pattern created by intertwining three or more strands. A braid can be formed by any flexible material such as fibers, wire, thread, or hair. This course will cover all aspects and types of hair braiding. With a little work and practice, you will become an expert as this self-paced course is designed to help individuals who would like to do hair braiding on their own and for the aspiring hair braiders who would like to start a hair braiding salon. This course includes instructional photos making the learning process easy. Course topics include: Lesson 1: History of Hair Braiding Lesson 2: Hair Braiding Accessories Lesson 3: Preparations for Hair Braiding Lesson 4: Simple Hair Braiding Styles I Lesson 5: Simple Hair Braiding Styles II Lesson 6: French Braids and 5 Strands Braiding Lesson 7: Different Types of Hair Buns Lesson 8: English, Dutch, Cornrows, and Pig Tail Braiding Styles Lesson 9: Updo Hair Styles Lesson 10: Basic Fishtail Braids Lesson 11: Licensing, Regulations, and Tips for Hair Braiding http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550115.htm Sun, 25 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities The practice of manicuring is a worldwide fashion statement. If you're putting a chunk of your paycheck into beauty products, manicures and pedicures, you may want to save precious dollars by learning to do your own mani-pedi. How to Manicure gives comprehensive information about keeping natural nails healthy and beautiful, and all the essentials about the chemistry, application and care of artificial nails After learning about the risks and rewards of a professional nail salon, you'll know what to look for when selecting a salon and nail technician. Your personal manicure kit will become your best ally, whether you manicure at a salon or decide to fatten your wallet by doing the manicures yourself. Nail products are at a whole new level, and you'll discover the latest manicure products and tools to get the job done on a professional scale. Feet need love too. Last years sandals will look brand new after you complete the steps to a perfect pedicure. Foot problems can cast a cloud on a perfect day. How to Manicure helps you deal with common foot problems and practical home remedies and cures for relief. Take the anxiety out of manicuring the 'other hand' when you learn the tips to professionally apply that perfect shade of polish. How to Manicure takes the mystery out of hand and nail care, pedicures, artificial nails, problem nails and, nail diseases and infections, with emphases on self-maintenance. Take a good look at your nails. Do you need to home manicure? Find all you need to know about home manicuring in this How to Manicure course. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550123.htm Thu, 5 Feb 2009 14:20:43 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Arts and Crafts Dream Interpretation 'A dream that is not interpreted is like a letter that has not been opened. ' ( The Talmud) Across cultures and over the ages -- since the beginning of history -- dreams and their interpretation have both intrigued and bewildered people. From the ancient Greeks and Egyptians (and the peoples before them), to the Sigmund Freud's and Carl Jung's of this world and beyond. That mysterious world we drift into and through, when we sleep, is bound by neither time nor space. It is a land where the impossible becomes possible, and the nonsensical appears completely plausible and practical. IT IS THE LAND OF DREAMS that has neither boundaries nor limitations -- a land where you can, and do, achieve whatever you aim for. BUT as with any other land you need to be able to understand, to be able to speak the language' and that is what this course is all about. We do not claim to cover everything you will want or need to know -- that would be impossible to do and misleading to claim. But after completing the course you will most certainly have the knowledge to make basic sense of your dreams and the ability to begin interpreting them correctly. Fluency will come to you with time, experience and a broadening of your skills. There is so much more we would have liked to include but the contents will most certainly ignite the torches within that will illuminate the way for you. You will learn how to become your own dream interpreter! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550125.htm Mon, 4 May 2009 15:05:24 GMT Universal Class, Inc. You won't find a more comprehensive of a wedding course online that isn't offered by a bridal association! This eleven-lesson course teaches you all that you need to know to become a well paid, successful wedding planner and#8211; starting the day after you finish this course. It doesn't matter if you don't know anything about weddings right now. This detailed course gives you all the information and knowledge you need. You'll learn: How to put together your portfolio even if you don't have any experience. What's more, we'll help you put one together during the course. Your responsibilities and duties as a wedding planner. The wedding industry including all you need to know about vendors. How to plan a wedding no matter what the budget. This easy formula will have you planning everything from small, intimate weddings to elaborate ceremonies and receptions. What you need to do and when you need to do it. Don't know when to order invitations? We'll tell you. Everything about planning and coordinating the wedding ceremony About the rehearsal dinner How to plan and coordinate a reception All about destination weddings How to plan honeymoons Wedding etiquette and protocol About weddings of different faiths And everything you need to know to start your business right away! Did you know that the average wedding planner is paid a minimum of 10% of the total cost of the wedding? With today's average wedding costing $19,000, that means you'll make at least $1,900 dollars for each wedding you plan! Just working part time would equal an excellent new income for you. Best yet, you can start making that money the day after you finish this course. Sign up now. You're just eleven lessons away from becoming the fairy godmother that has the power to convert the simplest weddings into the most beautiful affairs. And that is what you want, isn't it? You want to make wedding dreams come true for all your clients. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550040.htm Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities Photography How to Build Your Own Business Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Art What do you enjoy about clothing? The colors? The design? The fit? What is the most difficult part about finding clothing that falls into all three of these categories? Right, the fit. Every human being has a body shape that is just a little bit different from the person next to you. Ready-to-wear clothing manufacturers use standards or 'averages' to design and produce clothing that fits the 'average' person. What happens when you aren't an 'average' size? Your clothing might be well designed and sport the latest in color and fabric, but it just doesn't look good on you. How do you get around that? By learning how to sew! Sewing your own garments is really not as difficult as it may sound. This course will take you through the very basic elements of fabric choice, how to decipher the pattern envelope and instructions inside, getting to know your sewing machine and how to begin expanding your wardrobe by sewing your own clothing, or clothing for your family. Your first project will be to stitch together a set of pajamas where you will learn most of the basic elements of how you put a garment together. After that you will learn how to sew a jacket and a basic fitted skirt with a centered zipper. Then you will complete your wardrobe by learning the ins and outs of shirt/blouse construction that includes cuffs, collars, buttons, and buttonholes, ending with the creation of a pair of pants. Once you finish this course, you will be able to fit patterns to your body, choose the correct size, and stitch together garments that you like and that fit you well. So what are you waiting for? Let's get started now, because once you begin, you won't be able to stop. A pattern is just where you begin. Once you understand the basics of putting a garment together, you can change and embellish it to your heart's content. Did you see a ready-to-wear garment you like, but doesn't look good on you? Find a pattern that is similar, and create a one-of-a-kind design that fits you and only you. We'll teach you how! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550477.htm Sun, 31 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Arts and Crafts Art This course is designed to provide beginning babysitters with advice and tips for caring for kids of all ages. Parents want their children to have the best babysitter they could find. This course is written to allow a first time babysitting to know how to prepare and market themselves, how to interview and get the job and finally how to function safely and effectively after getting a babysitting position. The course also teaches how knowledge and good planning can make you a successful babysitter and discusses all aspects of safety not only for the children but also for yourself. Babysitters need a lot of knowledge on caring for babies and children before they jump into babysitting. Use this course as a stepping stone into your career and then enhance your knowledge by taking a First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) course offered by the Red Cross. Good Luck! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550246.htm Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Finding a peaceful recreational space in nature can be a difficult task in our modern world. The choices of recreational outdoor activities are many; water sports like boating and jet skiing are fun for those directly engaged, but can be distracting and even annoying to those seeking quieter surroundings. In a world where everything seems to be moving at break-neck speed and super techno-logy, there's nothing like paddling down a slow-moving, sunlit, picturesque river to ease one's mind. The fresh air, exercise, and relaxation are added benefits. This comprehensive, illustrated guide is designed to instruct people on the sport of canoeing; including a brief history of the canoe, a discussion on safety, instruction on basic beginner/intermediate paddling techniques, and proper portaging techniques. Topics will also include: Basic dimensions of a canoe The cost and different construction materials of a canoe The basic paddling strokes and maneuvers Portaging How to take beginning canoe lessons Preparation for poor weather conditions The different water movements and the dangers of tackling the wrong course The River Ratings System Dangers of hypothermia Basic equipment needed on a canoe So join us today, and let's learn how to canoe ! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550017.htm Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:13:39 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Sports and Activities Fitness Arts and Crafts Does spring weather make you wish to get your hands dirty in the garden? Is your neighbor's garden the envy of your eye? Have you always wanted to start a garden but just were not sure how to start? The easiest way make this decision is to take a class that will guide you step by easy step through the process of deciding what kind of garden you wish to start, where to place it, how to be certain that the soil is ready and good for growing, how to know what to plant and where to plant it. Basic Gardening will take you from the basic plant parts, and why they are important all the way to the production of fruit. You will discover the importance of having good soil, and what that means, and how to correct it in your yard. The gardener's best friend is the composter, and the beginning gardener needs to understand just what composting is and why that is such an important skill. Becoming more aware of the ecology of our world and how we can work with it rather than against it is a very important lesson. You will also learn about plant hardiness and planting zones; about the most important date in a gardener's life: the date of the last spring frost. You will learn about plant propagation, the proper care of seedlings, and how to care for newly transplanted additions to your garden. You will even learn how to repel pests and attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard. Basic Gardening is a class to give the novice gardener all the basic information necessary to begin the most popular U.S. hobby to date: gardening. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550054.htm Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:02:35 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Gardening Food Preparation Fitness Arts and Crafts Floral arranging is much more than simply putting a bunch of flowers into a vase and filling it with water. Learning the basics of floral arranging will help you put together a simple vase of flowers so that it looks elegant, professional and classy. In this course you are going to learn the fundamentals of floral arranging, from the basic tools you will need, to how to prepare for a big event and be able to pull it off with confidence. In this course you will learn the elements and principles of design, how to use the flowers and foliage available to you in your area, and the mechanics of arranging flowers in vases, in floral foam arrangements, and as hand-held bouquets. You will learn how to create the classic flat bouquet and hand-tied posies, as well as bouquets that are arranged in a variety of containers, such as baskets, boxes, and bags. Stop thinking that there are difficult rules about creating beautiful floral arrangements. Learn to trust your own vision while you are creating a floral work of art. Flowers are meant to be enjoyed--by you and by people who love to receive them. Once you complete this course you will have the ability and confidence to create floral arrangements for all types of events, from a Mother's Day tea party to a simple and elegant wedding. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550464.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Painting Home Decorating Gardening Arts and Crafts How to Buy and Sell Antiques and Collectibles offers a highly successful approach to acquiring and selling antiques and collectibles for both fun and profit. This course incorporates many strategies of acquiring and selling desirable objects and pieces, with the goal of personal enjoyment and fulfillment. All collectors start somewhere. It begins somehow, usually with an interest developed early on as a child. Almost mystically, the collection begins. Eventually, there comes a time when the collector desires to sell an antique or collectible, perhaps because it is a duplicate or to make room for another object. Successful collectors learn what sells, and what to buy in order to sell later. Many of the most profitable collectors and dealers learn the principals necessary to trade, barter, acquire and sell both antiques and collectibles. They avoid expensive mistakes and missteps. They use knowledge as their best tool to acquire items for their collections or resale. This course will present many strategies and concepts to prepare you for the path of becoming a successful buyer and seller of antiques and collectibles. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550536.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Travel Sports and Activities How to Build Your Own Business Arts and Crafts This course is designed for beginner artists who have an interest in learning how to draw or sketch -- or simply want to improve their skills. It covers the tools you'll need to draw and also provide plenty of exercises to practice drawing using different techniques and styles. It will cover drawing people, places, things, and even abstract concepts. For best results, we highly recommended that you take your time going through this course. It's easy to get excited and flip through the pages, just to see what we'll teach you to draw next. However, you'll miss out on the overall purpose of this course if you do. Learning to draw is a process, even if it is a fun one. In this course, you're going to learn the processes and techniques that gave rise to some of the most talented artists in the world. What you're going to learn over the fifteen lessons will be in-depth, professional information. It can be comparable to signing up for an art class at a large university. You're going to learn about: and#183; The tools artists use to draw and#183; Values and#183; Shading and#183; Textures and how to create them and#183; Drawing flowers and trees and#183; Drawing a still life and#183; Drawing animals and#183; Drawing people and#183; And much, much more! That said, don't expect to be a master artist after you finish this course. Instead, expect to have the knowledge and training you need to continue to draw and learn to bring the scenes you see in your daily life to paper. You'll be able to draw whatever you see, and you'll have the knowledge to perfect the image. So, sit back and relax. You're not going to be judged or graded on your skill. The only grade you'll receive will be based upon your comprehension of the techniques and information we present. Your skill is something that will improve over time, and you'll be able to refer to this course whenever you want in the future. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550455.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 12:15:45 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Painting Drawing Arts and Crafts Art Have you always wanted to learn how to read the Tarot cards? Why not try our online class? The only requirement is a Tarot deck (and the principles are the same no matter what type of Tarot deck you use). This self-paced course will teach you the basics of the Tarot (78 picture cards used to reveal hidden truths). Learn how to do readings for yourself, friends and relatives. Developed for the beginner, the class provides structural meanings and interpretations of each suit and spread and shows you how to perform readings. Along with the basics, you'll also learn about different types of decks, the history and the tips and tricks to help you become a and#8216;master reader'. Reading Tarot Cards gives you access to spiritual knowledge revealing new insights and options. Readings can provide hope in re-envisioning life's journey, plus support and reaffirmation of what is already known. Readings can help us to answer some of life's biggest questions, and so much more. You do not need to have a well developed spiritual connection or and#8216;psychic power' in order to get valuable information from the Tarot. This course is divided into the following nine comprehensive lessons covering the entire aspects of Tarot cards: Tarot Cards: An Introduction Tarot Cards for Beginners Structure of the Tarot Deck Court Cards Major Arcana Cards Minor Arcana cards Reading Tarot Cards Classic Example Spreads Additional Reading and Resources If you are intrigued by this method of reading the future, you'll find that Tarot cards are not difficult to learn. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550386.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Throughout this course, we'll dive into the world of dog training, first by starting off with a bit of dog training history and breed recognition, which will offer insight to breeds' intelligence. You'll not only learn basic dog training guides, but also learn the common advanced commands like stop, steady, back up, and give, and then determine whether or not you and Fido are ready for Off-Lead Training, which can be fun and tedious at the same time. We'll explore various methods of advanced training including Clicker Training and the theory of the Monks of New Skete. This course will train you above and beyond the basics of sit, come and stay, to show you dog training that includes understanding your dog in dog terms. By knowing the traits of your dog's breed and taking full advantage of the attributes of that breed, you will create a fulfilling and fun relationship with your furry friend. Topics Include: The Importance of Dog Training History Of Dog Training Dog Intelligence Setting the Stage for Training Becoming a Master Sit, Shake and Play Dead Simple Solutions to Problematic Behaviors Advanced Commands In Detail Off-Lead Training Clicker Training Monks Of New Skete Training Theory Working Dog Training Dog Sports Fun Tricks And Games Training Programs and Approaches You Can Put Into Practice Organizations And Clubs Where to Turn: Additional Dog Training Resources Toward the end of the course you'll learn more about some of the advanced tricks like bow, roll over, through the hoop, the four-footed fax, and wiggle, giggle, freeze! Lastly, if you're still yearning for more information about your dog's breed, where to find competitions or more training information, we'll talk about the major dog clubs and organizations that exist today. Grab a bag of treats, your leash and your pooch, it's time to have some good ol' barkin' fun! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550117.htm Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Who do you think benefits the most from feeding and observing wild birds - the birds or us? People of all ages, from all walks of life, study birds with interests that range from occasional pleasure viewing to an outright passion resulting in lengthy trips and major investments. But one thing all bird watchers share is the excitement generated when a particular bird of interest or rarity is spotted -- similar to the thrill of the hunt, it satisfies our need to discover. Unlike traditional hunting, however, bird watching is about admiring the beauty of the birds in their natural habitats . Bird watching is such an exciting world to explore . Amazing birds can even be found in your own backyard! There is a great deal of joy derived from an afternoon spent watching these beautiful creatures. Many families participate in bird watching across generations, with grandparents and grandchildren often finding a shared interest when they are bird watching together. This self-paced online course covers bird identification and location, feeding, types of birdhouses, equipment, emergency care and behavior and habitats. Whether you are a casual backyard bird watcher or a serious enthusiast, you'll soon discover that the more you watch birds the more you will want to learn about them . http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33496.htm Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:58:39 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Gardening This self-paced Homeopathy course clearly explains the use of homeopathic remedies in the treatment of various diseases. Our online class will cover the basic concepts of homeopathy plus its application when treating illnesses particularly common to women, children, athletes, etc. In addition, the course will highlight the effective homeopathic medication for psychological disorders, infections, allergies, and viral conditions. By providing an interactive learning platform for Homeopathy students and practitioners, the class equips them with accurate knowledge on common disorders and their homeopathic remedies. The course is divided into the following nine comprehensive modules (Lessons), covering the entire aspects of Homeopathy in depth: Homeopathy Introduction Practicing Homeopathy Homeopathic Practices and Medicines in Women's Heath Homeopathic Practices and Medicines in Children Homeopathic Practices and Medicines Used in Treating Allergies Homeopathic Practices and Medicines Used in Sports Medicine Homeopathic Practices and Medicines Used in Treating Psychological Problems Homeopathic Practices and Medicines Used in Treating Homeopathy Resources To enhance the learning experience of the students, the course material illustrates important points with appropriate visuals and tabular representations. Each chapter has a Question and Answer section that helps the students to review the lessons they learned. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550022.htm Thu, 21 Feb 2008 09:34:17 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness The enjoyment of a beautiful landscape is one of the great pleasures of home ownership. However, actually realizing your landscaping visions can be stressful Frequently you have a bare dirt and poor grass yard or an all grass yard and you just don't know where to start. This online course can help. Landscaping 101 will not only teach you the basics of the science of landscaping, it will show you how to apply your own creativity to transform your yard into a work of art. In this course you will: Learn the basics of landscaping including harmony, balance, color, natural transitions, proportion and line. Learn how to assess your present landscape needs. Learn how to assess the purpose of your landscape. Learn how to gather ideas and whether to use professional help or not. Learn how to plan your landscape, and schedule the work. Learn how to avoid common landscaping mistakes. Learn how to make the most of what you have. This starter course is ideal for anyone -- whether you just want to improve one corner of the yard, or you want to add some flowerbeds or a tree or shrub here and there, or you're starting from scratch with a bare lot and need to learn how to start, plan, and finish an entire landscape. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550027.htm Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:59:39 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Arts and Crafts Art For many of us, our dogs are considered beloved members of our family. They are constantly by our side and we know we can count on them even when it seems as though everyone else has abandoned us. It is not surprising then that when it comes to caring for our dogs, nothing but the best will do. We care for them as we care for our own children by feeding them, loving them and giving them plenty of attention. We also need to care for them in one other important way: by grooming them on a regular basis. In this course, we will show you how you can meet all of your dog's grooming needs. From bathing and brushing to nail clipping and even taking care of those nasty anal sacs, we will provide step by step instructions for making sure you do the job right. Despite what you may think, grooming a dog isn't that difficult to do; all that you need are a few basic supplies, some patience and a handful of treats! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550107.htm Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. It doesn't matter if you're a famous politician, suburban homemaker or someone in between, the fact of the matter is that everyone has a personal story worth telling. Whether you want to honor someone who's made a difference in your life, heal old wounds, document unique experiences or travels, record your family history, or leave a legacy to future generations, 'Journaling and Memoir Writing' is a comprehensive step-by-step guide that will demystify the process of finally putting your story on paper. No matter if you're a novice or a professional writer interested in the memoir form, 'Journaling and Memoir Writing' is designed to help you decide what story to tell and the best way in which to tell it. Whether you are interested in writing a memoir exploring your personal struggles such as addiction, abuse or divorce or a travelogue based on your experience backpacking through Europe, this course will help you narrow the focus of your life story and define the underlying theme that will connect you with an audience. You will also learn how to find your true voice that will make your story unique and authentic. Through varied and comprehensive writing exercises you will learn how to sharpen your instincts and hone your storytelling craft. 'Journaling and Memoir Writing' will also teach you how to dig deeper into your life and mine important memories that will enable you add incredible depth and richness to your story. In addition to the extensive writing lessons, you will learn what to do with your memoir once it is finished. Whether your goal is pass on your memoir as a family heirloom or to become a New York Times best seller, 'Journaling and Memoir Writing' will address the various publishing options available to you. Everyone has a story to tell. Let this online class help you write yours today. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550285.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:46:59 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel This is a guide to the ins and outs of starting and maintaining a successful pet sitting and pet walking service. Pet sitting and pet walking businesses were almost unheard of a generation ago, but today they are in every major city and most towns. Today's pet owners treat their pets like members of the family and want them to be comfortable, happy and well-exercised. Unfortunately, our busy lifestyles make it difficult for many of us to be able to give our pets everything they need, particularly with demanding work schedules keeping us from being available during the day like we would like. Pet walkers and pet sitters give pet owners the ideal solution by providing professional care and companionship for their pets during the hours they can't be there. If you're an animal lover, you may have considered this rewarding career path, but it isn't for everyone. You'll also have to have a good head for business, organization skills, dedication and the ability to handle crisis situations with calm and professionalism. There is a great deal to know about running your own business as well and#8211; it's not just about your interaction with the animals. It's about working with your human clients, managing a budget and understanding marketing and a business plan. This course will give you the bones of what to expect and point you in the direction of the resources you'll need to set up your fledgling pet sitting and/or pet walking business. If you read this and know that it's the right job for you, you'll soon be on the way to a career you love! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550131.htm Sun, 25 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Sports and Activities This course is designed to teach beginners the basics of knitting but it is also useful to those knitters that might need a refresher class. Whether you have just a little or no knowledge of knitting and#8211; this course is for you. Seven lessons provide history, discussion of the tools and how to read and understand patterns and color charts. There are four projects in all and#8211; including three designed just for the beginner! The fourth project carries you through three lessons adding to your abilities with each new chapter. This allows you to build your skills and to learn more than just the basics. After the basics are addressed and you feel comfortable with knit and purl, the final three lessons teach the knitter how to add color and texture through varied yarn and stitch instructions. The course is arranged to use simple tasks to improve your newly acquired or refreshed skill set. They are easy to understand and easy to replicate. Pictures are provided along with step by step written explanations. Consistent knitting lingo is used to throughout, so there is no need to re-learn your lessons each time. This makes it easier and more fun for you to learn to knit. Learn from the best in just a few days you will be ready to tackle all kinds of new knitting adventures. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550182.htm Sun, 5 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Cooking and baking are the kinds of activities that most people assume are second nature. After all, we're humans, and our most basic need is to supply ourselves with nutrition. Logically, we should just be able to get in the kitchen and make something to eat. Many people grow up watching their mothers or fathers cook; they may see them read recipes, combine ingredients, and use sautand#233; pans. These same people often take for granted the ability to get into the kitchen and know what to do. Having an inborn ability to cook isn't guaranteed. Studies show that having a good role model in the kitchen is one of the best ways to learn how to cook and bake. However, maybe you never had the opportunity to watch someone cook. Perhaps you never had enough time to really apply yourself to the task. Maybe you're just scared of not knowing what to do. The good news is, it's never too late to start, no matter what your background may be. The most important thing to take with you into the kitchen is a basic understanding of what to do and how to do it. This course is designed to give you just that. You will learn everything from what supplies you need for getting started to reading recipes and planning meals. You will be provided with a basic understanding of what it means to be in the kitchen and sources for additional information to foster a lifetime of culinary growth! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550068.htm Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Reading Body Language, Using it to Your Advantage H aving the ability to read body language can go a long way in helping you throughout your life. You can learn to understand the cues, or signs, that people show when they tell a lie, or when they are unsure of themselves. Knowing what to look for and how to use this information can be helpful in your personal life, as well as in your career. Being able to read body language can help you ace a job interview. It can make a date go smoother and it can help you excel at reaching your goals. In this course you will learn what body language is, about different emotions, how to read body language and how to use the information to your personal and career advantage. You'll learn about cultural differences as it pertains to body language, the power of first impressions and intuition and how to ask the questions and be an active listener when you get responses. Don't shake another hand until you have learned all you can from the information in this course! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550242.htm Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Welcome to this course on eBay: How to Buy and How to Sell on eBay. Whether you're looking for an antique or the latest in electronic gadgets, eBay is one of the most likely online resources for you to find what you're looking for. eBay can also be a lucrative home-based business for men or women looking to generate more income, whether you're struggling in a tough economy or you want to make extra money selling your crafts, collectables or even your car. We hope you'll enjoy this basic how-to course regarding buying and selling on eBay. In this course, students will learn how eBay got started and grew from just an idea to a multi-billion dollar business in less than a decade. We'll give you a brief background and tips on deciding what to sell on eBay, how to set up an eBay and PayPal account, and how you can bid for everything from a skein of yarn to rare jade and autographed collectibles to sports equipment to a new engine for your car. Selling on eBay, the importance of creating good item descriptions and taking good photos of your items is covered in this course, as is encouraging loyalty and positive feedback that enhances your moneymaking efforts. The importance of customer service is also discussed in this course, as is a discussion of how best to resolve customer complaints or disputes. We'll also share ideas with you on what to do (and not do) when listing an item for sale or auction. We'll show you how to make and send payments or items for your eBay purchases or sales, and how to make the best use of eBay's seller's tools. We'll wrap up the course with a brief mention of tips for success on eBay, setting up your own eBay store, and how to register your eBay business online. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550548.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Geology is the study of the world around us and the way it was formed. The study expands beyond the earth and includes the building blocks of the whole universe. Without the study of geology, it would have been very difficult to build the modern world around us. For one thing, it would have been impossible to locate building materials for our roads, houses, and office buildings. Without ready access to metals like gold, we would never have been able to make the wide range of electrical devices like cell phones and digital cameras that we all depend on. The study of geology is about more than just identifying rocks or finding mineral deposits. It is the study of how all Earth's systems work together so that we can work with nature instead of against it, and we can have a better grasp of the future implications of our actions on the world around us. An understanding of geology and the Earth's systems has become critical in a wide range of fields. It's not just miners, oil riggers and college professors who study the story of the rocks: it is also civil engineers, architects, urban planners, government officials, and investors. In this course, you will learn about: Geology History; Fossils and Earth History--Geologic Time; Fossils and Earth History--The Eons and Eras; Rock types; Geomagnetism; Plate Tectonics; Recycling and Renewal; Erosion; The Rock Cycle; Rocks and Minerals; Gemstones and Mining. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550430.htm Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:52:38 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Have you always wanted to learn the secrets of how to blend ingredients and make your own bath and massage oils, or hand and face lotions, or room refreshers and potpourri? Then this is the class for you! This is a self-paced beginner's course demystifying aromatherapy and showing you many ways to add fragrance to your life. You'll gain enough knowledge to start trying some simple blends and the courage to experiment with creating your own unique blends. You'll learn ways to add fragrance to your life, you'll learn a little about the plants and the history; you'll learn what exactly are these things called essential oils and carrier oils; you'll learn how to dilute and blend; you'll learn where to buy the oils and supplies; and you'll learn the correct way to measure and blend. Plus, we'll go into safety and storage issues and you'll be given many recipes for beginning concoctions. If you're interested in alternative medicine, cooking (sensory recipes), gardening, cosmetics, your home environment, starting down the road to becoming an aromatherapist, or adding to your salon or spa business, you'll find a treasure load of information in this course. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30409.htm Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating Arts and Crafts Therapeutic Bathing Turn your hygiene rituals into a therapeutic health treatment with a variety of products and techniques No curriculum in natural or alternative healthcare, herbal medicine, homeopathy or holistic healing is complete without an introduction to the surprisingly broad subject of Therapeutic Bathing. When you think of a therapeutic bath, it's likely that you envision some steaming hot water and your favorite scented bath oil or bubblesand that's about it. Next time to you hop in the tub, benefit from the experience of centuries of therapeutic bathers. That's right--therapeutic bathing has its place in just about every ancient culture: the Romans, the Greeks, the Chinese, the Egyptians and the Middle East have all made contributions to the practice of bathing for improved health and well-being. And now, by taking a cue from these innovators, you'll be surprised at just how many ways there are to increase your enjoyment and reap greater benefits from your bath. In this course, you'll learn about the benefits of minerals and heat and how to bring the advantages of mineral waters and hot springs home to enjoy in the privacy of your home. You'll get an introduction not just to the joys of aromatherapy, but several recipes for aromatherapy soaps and a bath fizz to enjoy in your next soak. Do you know that there's an ideal temperature range for soaking achy muscles--and that it's different than the ideal temperature for absorbing the healing power of herbs? That's just a glimpse of what awaits you when you enroll in this in-depth course. Go ahead and dip your toe into the healthful, relaxing world of therapeutic bathing! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550135.htm Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness Arts and Crafts Looking for a way to throw a children's birthday party on a budget? Easy crafting and good old creativity can balance the budget and still bring joy to all the little party guests. In the party planning business, there is no right or wrong, only a desire to make your client happy. This Party Planning course is a helpful tool for you to learn what you need to know to get started in one of today's most popular and lucrative businesses. For those who enjoy creating the life of the party, this course takes you through setting up and running a business, finding clients and planning everything from social events to major corporate events. Using easy to follow language, the Party Planning course takes you through developing a theme, arranging entertainment, estimating start-up costs and completing a marketing analysis for your business. You'll learn to work with and search out the best photographers, entertainers and performers, caterers, and other vendors who can make or break a party planner's career. You'll understand how to think out of the box and how to gain knowledge of the latest trends in party dand#233;cor, cocktails and food. The field of party and event planning has blossomed into one of the nation's top jobs, rating number 39, with a future prediction of double digit growth. Put your people and organizational skills to good use, and become actively involved in the exciting world of party planning. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550334.htm Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities How to Build Your Own Business Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Perceptions about aging are changing. Today, people are living longer, happier, and healthier lives. Medical technology and care has increased lifespan by years and sometimes even decades. A growing number of individuals are taking an active part in following antiaging techniques and maintaining lifestyles that keep our bodies in prime physical condition, increases the capacity and function of our brains, and benefits our emotional stability and wellbeing. Who doesn't want to be as fit, healthy, and vigorous at 75 as we were at 30? In 1900, few individuals lived past 65 years of age. Today, the 'new middle-age' is considered to be the mid to late 50s, and individuals are actively living well into their 80s and 90s. Medical advancements, preventative care, information and education have played an enormous role in the prevalence of individuals learning about antiaging techniques that add years to our personal life expectancy. Attitude plays a huge part in how each of us ages, and this antiaging course explores myths and perceptions about aging and how people today are breaking down those barriers and exposing the truth behind it. When it comes to slowing or stopping the aging clock and maintaining a younger, more youthful appearance, this course also explains the benefits of exercise, the importance of maintaining and increasing brain activity and the vital needs of the body for water, vitamins and minerals. Exploring ancient antiaging remedies as well as understanding the importance of hormones, antioxidants, and the truth about many cosmetic ingredients provides a fascinating and often humorous look into mankind's desperate attempt to find the ever-elusive Fountain of Youth. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550136.htm Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Food Preparation Fitness Scrapbooks have been part of the American way of life for generations. Most of us were raised with scrapbooks and probably even helped make them as children next to our mother's or grandmother's sides. However, with the advent of the home computer and easy access to the internet, the world of scrapbooks has changed forever. Digital scrapbooks have blossomed and the trend is growing fast. No longer do you need to store and stash boxes, trays, and files of odds and ends to build your pages. Now, you have an entire craft store right at your finger tips. This course guides you along in the process of learning to use these tools. You will learn the wonders of digital scrapbook making with the free 30 Day trial of Creative Memories Storybook Creator 4.0 scrapbook making software. Lessons cover how to upload, crop, and color your favorite family photographs. How to incorporate the magic of text and font, and how to outline and present your story in an exciting and natural flow. Plus much more. If creating scrapbooks with your computer is what you're looking for, then this course is for you. Easy to follow lessons will take you from ground zero to the finished product in your hands. The best thing is, it's fun and easy. Get started now! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550545.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Home Decorating Drawing Arts and Crafts Art The universe is comprised of infinite space both on Earth and beyond. It is quite illuminating to discover the expansiveness that can be found by studying the night skies and not only learning about the array of celestial objects that exist but also understanding the reasons behind certain formations and intergalactic activities. In this course we're going to explore our night sky, constellations, our solar system, our galaxy, and what lies beyond the far reaches of space. In addition, we'll learn about past and current projects for space exploration, as well as future ideas for space travel. Our journey will also take us to black holes, quasars, supernovaes, brown dwarfs, and the string theory. And Lastly, we'll explore in depth on how we make observations from earth, and touch on the mechanics of optical telescopes that aid us in exploring the night sky. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550424.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 10:25:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. If you are the kind of person who... thrives on cooking for your friends, wants everyone to come to your house for dinner, feels like you have more party food ideas than you could ever possibly execute in your own home ...then you might want to start your own catering business. Caterers cook and transport food for other people's parties. Unlike restaurants where all the cooking and serving happens at the same location, caterers have the added logistical challenge of transporting food from their kitchen to the party venue. Caterers work closely with their clients to develop a menu and a party plan that meets their clients' desires and budget. To be a successful caterer, you must have business savvy, be great at dealing with people, and able to handle stress. Additionally, you'll need be an excellent cook as well as be creative, organized and efficient. Some caterers have several of these qualities when they start out, but they have to develop the others as they go along. This course discusses in detail the critical aspects of management involved in running a catering business like how to get the appropriate licenses and permits, what kind of kitchen you need, basic food safety practices, party planning, cooking for a crowd, planning meals, dealing with customers, understanding how to price your services, and moving the food safely from one location to another. If you are passionate about food and you feel like you have what it takes to start your own catering business, this course can help you understand the critical steps involved in starting off on the right foot. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550523.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Do you find yourself intimidated by computer jargon? Would you like to have a clearer understanding (in non-jargon language) of how your computer works? Computer Basics 101 will both demonstrate and explain how your computer works in an easy-to-follow, self-paced format. This class is designed for the first time computer user, but it's also intended for those whose familiarity with computers is limited and who want a better understanding of the basics. It's also geared towards anyone who has not grown up with a personal computer and now needs to acquire the same assuredness of the younger 'internet-surfing' generation. When you complete this course, you will be able to navigate your computer system, be familiar with some of the most popular software, know how and where to find difficult information quickly, and navigate the internet with the utmost confidence. Whether you're a novice or simply someone facing a daunting basic computer skill challenge, this course will give you a greater understanding and confidence in your technical skills--whether on your home or office computer. So why not join today and let's take the stress out of using your computer! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550331.htm Sun, 5 Jun 2011 08:52:39 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Welcome to a study of the unusual, the eerie and the unexplained. It's widely believed that there are forces acting upon us every day from the spirit world--forces we could learn to use to our advantage, if only we knew how to interact effectively with the spirit world. That's quite a challenge, when we have yet to even prove it exists! Whether or not you believe in the paranormal, you can still enjoy the ghost stories that send a chill down your spine sitting around the campfire. Our love of scary stories has inspired horror movies and scary television shows, creepy novels and ghostly folk tales. We visit haunted houses and take flashlight tours of spooky cemeteries, all in the hopes of catching a glimpse of a ghost or catching a supernatural thrill. Harmless fun. Whatever your reasons for delving further, there is fuel for learning more about the spirit world. After all, there was a time we thought the world was flatand#8230; so how can we be sure our sixth sense can't be trusted? Who's to say whether or not ghosts are real? To make a final decision, it seems we should at least take a close look at the evidence that surrounds us. This course on hauntings is an overview of 15 locations around the world that are popularly described as haunted. Students of the paranormal can use these stories as an introduction to the subject and a foundation for further study. The lessons are specifically designed for beginners, and the locations were carefully chosen to represent a variety of different types of hauntings and their accounts. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550483.htm Sun, 21 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Astrology is the study of the relationship between the relative positions of certain celestial bodies and life here on earth. Because the word astrology comes from the Greek words astron, meaning and#8216;star' and logos, meaning and#8216;word', we can literally translate astrology to mean the language of the stars. A language and practice that has developed over thousands of years by numerous cultures around the world since its earliest recorded beginnings in the third millennium BC. In this self-paced, online course we will explore the wonderful world of astrology, and how it can impact your daily life. We'll discuss the basics, terminology, symbols, natal charts, the twelve signs of the Zodiac, the planets, the houses, elements and modalities, angles, quadrants, aspects, orbs, and so much more. And by the end of this class, we'll put together all of the knowledge gained so that we can determine a person's astrological chart! So what are you waiting for? Join us today, and let's learn the fundamentals of astrology! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550039.htm Sun, 25 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Have you ever seen those old black and white (or brown and white) pictures of pioneers? No one smiled, the women always wore gloves, and the children's faces were smudgy. In those days, the cameras required a longer period of time to capture the image than today. That explains why the children were always blurry, and possibly why no one smiled! If your pictures are turning out that way, or if you simply want to take better pictures, this course will help! After all, it doesn't matter what kind of camera you own, you don't own it for the sake of owning a camera--you own a camera so you can get nice pictures. This course will help you discover how to use the camera you have--no matter how fancy or simple it is--so that you can take great pictures. Here's what you will learn: - You will discover the differences in modern cameras, and find a recommendation for which one you should buy, if you are in the market for one. - You will learn what the pro's do, and how you can do the same thing for less. - You will find step-by-step instructions on how to make great photos that are worthy of submission to any local photography contest. - You will read about real life photography experiences from amateur photographers 'just like you' who have something interesting to share. - You will discover more than just how to press your camera's button - You will follow several examples through the course to show you the range of photography options available to you. - You will read about camera lenses, exposure, and lighting in a way that actually helps you understand rather than confuses you more with technical jargon. - You will actually see photographs that compare different types of techniques to help you learn how different settings produce different results. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550459.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Arts and Crafts Art More people every year are discovering the joy of scrapbooking to capture memories and create unique family and friend albums to keep and share. In this comprehensive course, the beginner scrapbooker will learn how to start his/her scrapbooking hobby without being overwhelmed. Everything from choosing the right supplies to get started to tips for journaling effectively is included in easy to follow lessons that reflect the wide variety of scrapbooking styles and themes popular today. Traditional Scrapbooking 101 also includes a reference section with helpful advice on designing interesting layouts, developing an artistic eye and the story-telling aspects of scrapbooking. Original project suggestions are included as well as advice on how to make the time to enjoy your hobby properly. A resource guide with links to online scrapbooking sites that offer support, supplies and networking opportunities gives everyone from the beginner to the most advanced scrapbooker the opportunity to learn more. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550460.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Home Decorating Drawing Art Do you long to write but feel like you're too busy? Writing for children can be the answer. Children's stories are generally far shorter and simpler than stories for adults. You can draft an 800 word children's story during a couple of lunch hours or during your child's nap times. Many noted children's authors started writing in short bursts when their own young children were sleeping or playing nearby. Writing for children is by no means easy, however. Children's book and magazine editors expect well developed characters, engaging plots, and vivid description, all in a very small package. Good children's writers learn to make every word count. Communicating effectively with kids means using language they can understand but not talking down to them, and this is easier said than done. In this course, we will look at the elements that go into an effective children's story, from initial idea to finished manuscript. If you've always wanted to write but don't know where to start, we'll cover that too. And once you have a few good stories under your belt, you'll want to find publishing outlets for them. We'll go over the basics of submitting to publishers and even of publishing books yourself. Writing stories for children can be a fascinating hobby or a challenging career. You can write for your own kids, or publish stories and books that will reach thousands of eager readers. Either way, you will gain the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of children who hear or read your words. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550284.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Just what is a chakra? You may have heard the term in a yoga class or seen a chakra massage on your local spa's menu of services, but where did the idea of chakras originate and what associations can be found between chakras and our feelings of health and well-being? What is the connection between chakras and spirituality? How can understanding chakras help to illuminate alternative ways of remedying stress and ailments, and how are chakras integrated into other fields of study? In Chakras For Beginners , you will learn the answers to all of the questions above, as well as information on a variety of related topics including: Color and Light Therapy Crystal Therapy Meditation Auras Hinduism Tantric Sex Serpent Power Foods To Nurture Your Energy Centers Homeopathy A romatherapy and Essential Oils This course will address all of the questions above in 11 easy to follow lessons, and also provide additional resources for continued study. The lessons will be designed for anyone interested in health and vitality, meditation or religious study. All of these aspects will be incorporated into the class, and review questions will be provided to ensure comprehension of the most important points. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550377.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. This course is filled with everything you need to know to get started in canning and preserving your own foods. By the time you finish this course you will be well on your way to making and storing foods like you have thought about for so long! In this course you will learn about the tradition of canning and preserving, how to get started, deciding what to can and preserve, the various methods of canning and preserving (such as freezing, canning, drying, smoking, etc.), water bath and pressure canning, tools of the trade, as well as how to make jams and jellies, condiments, and even your own beverages. You will learn how to can your own juices, water and more! In addition to all this, you will learn how to preserve herbs, meats, seafood, and can and preserve for special diets, such as those following low salt, low or no sugar, and sulfite-free. You will also learn all about the importance of reducing safety risks, making baby food, and about all the benefits of taking part in this age-old tradition! Once you finish this course you will be well on your way to getting started in canning and preserving. The information has all been laid out in an easy to follow manner that will inform you, excite you, and inspire you to succeed at canning and preserving! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550465.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Fitness Arts and Crafts People decide to lose weight for a multitude of different reasons. For many, improved health is one of the best motivators for lifestyle change, and that is what this online class will focus on: the improved health benefits of weight loss, exercise, improved nutrition, and long-term weight management. Making a commitment to a healthy lifestyle won't just help you get back into those skinny jeans: It will allow you to set a good example for your children that they can follow into adulthood. It will help you feel better as you go about your normal daily activities. It will improve your endurance so you can do the things you love for longer, without getting tired. It will improve your mood and self-image. It can even save you money. Long-term weight loss involves a complete lifestyle change. It will be uncomfortable at several points in time, and some days it will seem easier to give up. It is important to understand all the obstacles in the way of weight loss so that you can deal with all of them effectively. This course will look at common weight loss roadblocks and propose suggestions for overcoming them. It will discuss the health risks of being overweight, the real economic costs of weight, assessing your current weight level, and establishing a goal weight. It will also provide extensive information about nutrition and exercise for weight management. This study will also provide you with all the information you need to balance your weight over the long term. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550347.htm Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Fitness Do you dream of writing poetry, short stories, or novels? Have you ever watched a movie or a play and felt the desire to write a script of your own? Or have you already done some writing but want to find ways to bring more creativity, more originality, to your writing? Have you ever read a so-so novel or seen a lousy movie and told yourself, 'I bet I could do better?' Do you find yourself excited and intrigued by words, and by their sounds and meanings? If you said yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you. A creative writer makes art just as a painter or sculptor does, but with different tools. Instead of brushes, canvas, and pigments, the writer uses words. While the painter produces a painting we can see in front of us, the writer makes magic of a different sort. With a simple palette of letters and punctuation - just lines and symbols scratched on paper or scattered on a computer screen - the writer can create pictures and even entire worlds within a reader's mind. There are many forms of creative writing, from fiction, to poetry, to stage play and screenplay. Within each form there are countless genres and flavors. As a writer, you can (and should) try your hand at as many forms as you like, or you can specialize in one. There are techniques and practices that are common to all forms of creative writing, and we will discuss those here. We will also touch on the challenges and techniques that make writing in the different forms unique. Throughout this course, you will find numerous exercises designed to get your brain - and your hand - moving. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550286.htm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:54:54 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Art You just bought your first digital camera and don't know the ins and outs of all those buttons. If that isn't daunting enough, the user's manual is pages thick and intimidating. Well, you've come to the right place. Owning a great digital camera is no guarantee you will take great pictures. Over the years digital SLRs, and other digital cameras, have become affordable, more powerful and much more complicated. This Digital Photography course is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of digital camera designs and capabilities, and the series of steps to take great photographs. You'll learn about lenses, when to use them and how to select the right lens for your pictures. We take the mystery out of pixels, megapixels, filters, flashes, exposure meters and much more. You know how important communication is. That's why we'll show you how to shoot photos that will enable others to feel what you do. And we'll show you how to tell a story through your pictures. Good composition is the hallmark of any outstanding photograph. We'll teach you the rules of good composition, the Rule of Thirds, style and background settings, and the S Rule. Learn the tricks of professional photographers, and how you can photograph and compose stand out black and white photos. This Digital Photography course also teaches you ways to house your special memories forever. Should it be a family reunion, wedding, new baby or that special vacation, you'll learn how to incorporate camera tools to photograph stunning water reflections and mesmerizing sky images. Imagine creating professional looking imagery using your digital camera, the help of your PC and this online class. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550187.htm Tue, 19 May 2009 13:02:41 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Sports and Activities Photography Arts and Crafts Art The Photoshop Elements software package is a condensed version of the popular Adobe Photoshop. Lesser priced, it contains all the features of Photoshop, but contains fewer options that are much easier to understand. Elements was designed with the consumer in mind and is ideal for any budding photography enthusiast, home user with photos they want to organize or edit, or for anyone wishing to do basic photo manipulation or graphic arts. Unlike Photoshop, navigating through Elements and completing tasks is simple. Whether you want to share, organize, or edit photos, you can do it quickly and easily using Elements. In this course, you'll learn your way around Elements to make navigating it a breeze. You'll also learn all the features and how to utilize the options so that editing, organizing, and sharing your photos is quick and fun. You'll learn how to: and#216; Upload your photos into Elements. and#216; Organize your photos in albums and catalogs. and#216; Adjust the colors in your photos to make them crisp and clear. and#216; Change the mood of your photos. and#216; Crop and resize photos and images. and#216; Add layers. and#216; Print images. and#216; Create albums, calendars, and other projects. and#216; Save your projects. and#216; Share your photo projects with others. This includes online albums, slideshows, photo emails, and more! It doesn't matter if you already use Elements or you're completely new to the software. All lessons are comprehensive and easy-to-understand. Using step-by-step directions, you'll master even the most complex tasks. By the end of this course, you'll know everything about Elements that you need to know to easily organize, edit, print, and share your photos and images http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550186.htm Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:53:57 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Arts and Crafts These days, everyone can benefit from an online presence, and that means developing a website. This course covers a basic introduction of how to create your own website page-by-page using HTML, a common website coding process. From basic HTML definitions to different types of websites, this course offers novice website builders information regarding the foundation of HTML basics and the difference between using HTML to design your website and using popular forms of webpage building software. The course also explains the difference between different graphics and images, and when to use each. Learn how to lay out and format your webpage, as well as some common mistakes to avoid when designing a website. From the five most important tags necessary for web page creation to search engine optimization, this course gives new webpage builders enough information to get started. When you're finished building, you're going to need to know how to enhance your website as well as launch it. The course offers students information regarding registration of websites to finding the right web host. From internal links to outbound links and from organizing your webpage structure to choosing the right heading and font sizes, this course will help any student get started creating webpages and offers enough HTML to help you on your way to developing a well thought out, organized and attractive website that will suit almost any need. We'll teach you the difference between HTML and WYSIWYG and provide you with the tools to know which is best for you. Have some fun and design your own website starting with the basics offered in this course. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550192.htm Tue, 19 May 2009 13:01:20 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography How to Build Your Own Business Genealogy is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States. According to some experts, nearly 75% of Americans are interested in discovering their family history. There are many reasons for this: some people are interested in learning more about their heritage, others want to preserve their family's history for future generations, while still others become involved as a means of spending time with older relatives. Whatever the reason, based on the number of books, web sites, and software programs devoted to this topic, there is widespread interest that continues to grow. While taking on the task of researching your family tree can appear and#8211; and in many cases actually be and#8211; a daunting task, it is far from impossible. Thanks to the increasing availability of information online, many people can easily conduct a great deal of their research from the comforts of their own home. In this course, we will present tips and strategies for beginning the process of constructing your family tree. In addition to describing the various records and sources available for finding information, we will help you to understand some basic genealogy terms and tools. We will also discuss the steps that you can take to permanently preserve your family's records and history. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550451.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 01:01:11 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Travel Sports and Activities Drawing Arts and Crafts Art This poetry course is created for the lover of poetry who wants to learn how to appreciate the art even more. It is also for student poets who want to improve their craft. This course is thorough in teaching all students everything they need to know about reading, interpreting, and writing poetry. This course is a must-take for any budding poet out there who wants to hone their skills and learn to write high quality, great poetry that others will appreciate. Through various assignments and essays, each student will learn to do the following: Determine and understand the meanings of poems. Recognize and utilize the devices used in writing poetry. Understand the theory and history of poetry to strengthen their skills and appreciation. Write different types of poetry. Become a skilled, knowledgeable poet or lover of the art. Identify different types of poetry. Create a chapbook suitable for publication. And much more. Poetry is a verbal art form that requires both understanding and appreciation to master. Simply reading a few poems and having their meanings explained to you is not nearly enough to fully appreciate poetry and#8211; or to become a great poet. That is why this course will provide each student with a great deal of lessons, explanations, essays and assignments to deepen understanding and apply what has been learned. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550295.htm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:06:24 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Art The famous Ayn Rand once wrote, 'Like every human activity, writing requires practice and knowledge. But there is nothing mystical about it. Any person who can speak English grammatically can learn to write nonfiction.' This is as true today as when Ms. Rand first penned it, and you will find it true for you as well as you begin to venture into the world of writing. Nonfiction writing is the most common and broadly dispersed form of writing known to mankind. Nonfiction is based in truth, experience, events or in all of them. It is what the reporter reports; what the biographer writes; what the course writer explains. Everything that is not imagination and invented by the creative mind is nonfiction. This course is designed to take you beyond the basics and to guide you through the writing process to the finish line. In the course, you will learn how to think like an editor, how to choose your subject matter and examine your competition. You will learn how to structure your writing and what to do when you inevitably hit the infamous 'writer's block.' If you have basic writing skills and if you follow the course content, you should be ready to submit your writing by the end of the course material. You will know what to do with your article or book when you are finished and how to polish it for presentation to a publisher. Remember, 'Writers Write' and#8211; so get to writing! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550291.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How often have you eaten out at an Italian restaurant and wished you could re-create those same fantastic meals at home? Most people have had this experience. This course will teach you just that--how to cook great Italian appetizers, entrand#233;es and desserts in your own kitchen. With Cooking Italian 101 you will learn the basic techniques, but you will also learn how to prepare some of the most popular and delicious recipes you enjoy when eating out. Dishes like mozzarella sticks, pasta fagioli, clams oreganata, chicken marsala, shrimp scampi, panna cotta, and ricotta cheesecake are easy to make at home, once you know how. In addition to teaching you how to properly prepare some of your favorite Italian recipes, we will also unveil those Italian cooking 'mysteries' that baffle most people, like what 'al dente' means, why there are so many different pasta shapes, why Italians eat their salad with their meal and exactly what Grappa is. Since this is a 101 course, the recipes are intentionally uncomplicated. The simplest preparation method has been presented for the benefit of the novice home chef. As you become more adept, you can try more difficult approaches to these recipes. Don't be fooled by the simplicity however, while it is a beginner's course, it has a lot to recommend it to a more accomplished cook as well. The goal of Italian Cooking 101 is to teach you how to prepare delicious, economical Italian meals at home, with confidence. To get the most out of the course you should cook along with the recipes as often as you can. It is much easier to learn by doing. Don't fret if the meal you've prepared along with the lesson isn't perfect the first time around. As you learn new techniques and experiment with ingredients, your cooking will get better and even more delicious with time. You will soon discover that your Italian food tastes just as good as your favorite restaurant's, minus the extra expense of eating out! There are eleven comprehensive lessons written in an easy to follow manner. The end of each lesson will provide you with summary review questions so that you may effectively test your new found knowledge. We encourage you to use these self-test questions to determine whether you are ready to move on to the next lesson or if you should review portions of the preceding lesson before taking the next step. Don't rush yourself. Take the time to read all portions of the lessons and complete the exercises and self-tests. Making full use of this course, in its entirety, is the first step in becoming a top notch Italian chef. So, get your apron on and get ready to mangia! (That's Italian for 'EAT!') http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550214.htm Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Writing a romance novel is the dream of many people all over the world. It's no wonder: as the most popular fiction genre in the United States for the past three decades, there are more opportunities in romantic fiction than ever before. What's unique about the romance genre is that it is a very specialized industry. There are standards for plot, characterization, novel length, and even formatting that are required before most literary agents or publishers will even consider turning your manuscript into a published novel. Most readers know exactly what they expect from a romance novel, and you have to meet these expectations in order to succeed. This course will take you through everything you need to know to write the kind of romance novel that gets noticed. From creating a hero and heroine that sizzle to understanding point-of-view and knowing where to go for more resources, you'll get access to insider information on making the most out of your manuscript. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550290.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel writing is a fun, interesting and fulfilling career. If your goal is to become a full-time travel writer who is able to live off your income from writing alone, it is important to understand that travel writing, like any other career, requires you to develop specific skills and to have perseverance in order to succeed. There is a lot of competition in the field of travel writing. Some highly successful writers in this genre have compared their climb to success with those who aspire to become actors, songwriters or musicians. In other words, most aspiring writers work at other jobs while they build a reputation strong enough to financially support themselves on payment for their writing alone. How long it takes you to achieve that goal is dependent upon how ambitious you are and how well you write, but the average is between three and six years. Alternatively, you may only wish to earn extra money as a travel writer and continue working in the field you are already in; perhaps you travel frequently for your current job and feel you have a lot to share with others about the places you visit. You can create a great additional source of income as a travel writer this way. Whether it is a full or part-time profession you desire, this course will help you get started, provide you with the necessary information you need to build a strong portfolio, as well as improve your overall skill set required to succeed in the travel writing industry. So join us today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550222.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Sports and Activities Photography Arts and Crafts This course will provide you with a great amount of information about our world, our universe, and beyond our Milky Way. With our guidance, you will be able to investigate many fascinating theories and explore many exciting concepts regarding the history, origin, and evolution of our universe. In Cosmology 101, you will enjoy learning about a fascinating array of topics, including: 1. Discovering The Early Universe A Definition and#8211; what is Cosmology? Contemplating the early beginnings, The Human Element, Searching both early religion and science for their explanations, The Historical Explanation, The Modern Definition 2. The Origins And Early Days Of Exploration Seeing our World through the eyes of the Ancients, The Greeks, The Copernican Rebellion, Early Scientific Views, Pythagoras and#8211; not only theorems! Wandering stars , Aristotle, Sky Gods, Where was the Sun? 3. Size, Shape and Age Of Our Universe Observing the heavens, Orbits and Ellipses , The Laws of Motion, Speculating on the Laws of Gravity, The Impact of Newton's theories, Defining our Universe, Bending our Universe and#8211; space and time, Colors, The Milky Way, Relativity, Classifying and Contradictions 4. Cosmology Isn't Theology Or Science Fiction Or Even Just Science Cruising through the alternative theories and#8211; various beliefs, Life on earth and beyond, Where, when and how did life begin, Why is our Universe so suited to our Life?, How can we best calculate Life on Earth? 5. Off With A Bang and#8211; Possibly Down With A Crunch? An explanation: Exactly where do Galaxies come from, Is there such a thing as Ancient Radiation?, Radiation Types, What are the Ingredients for an expanding Universe, Big Bang, Big Crunch, Can gravity be reversed? 6. Building Our Own Universe Creating It Bit By Bit, The Basic Ingredients of our Universe, The Electron, The Atom, Quantum Mechanics, Max Planck, Karl Heisenberg, Antimatter, Particle Accelerators, Quarks 7. Natural Forces And The Role They Play The Natural Forces, The Weak Force, The Strong Force, Holding it all together , You could and#8216;see' the force everywhere , Particles, Quantum Gravity 8. In The Dark Dark Matter, WIMPs, MACHOs , Dark Energy, Constants , Gauging the piece of string 9. Is The Universe Really Just A Big Chemistry Set? The chemicals elements that make up our entire Universe , After the Big Bang, The formation of heavier elements , Chemical barriers 10. Making Stars, Solar Systems and Galaxies - and That's Only A Start! Stars are born, The Origins of stars and their galaxies, The Star Nurseries, Classifying our stars by their chemical make-up , Supernovae and their types, The Milky Way, The Stories some stars can tell, Black Holes and#8211; creating, categorizing, looking inside and breaking through 11. Time Travel The Past, The Present and The Future , Einstein's work on time, The Speed of Light and can it possibly and#8216;slow down'?, Turning Time Back, Before the Big Bang Is the Universe Infinite? 12. The Greats and What They Have Done For Our World, Our The Universe Pythagoras, Galileo, Newton, Einstein, Stephen Hawkings 13. The Greatest Cosmological Advances COBE CERN, Hubble Telescope, WMAP, Keck Telescopes, Others 14. The End What happens if our Sun burns out? The Big Chill, The Big Crunch, The Big Rip. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550428.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 10:25:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. This course is perfect for those who have an interest in either Creative Writing or the Mystery Genre . If you love to write and want to move into this popular genre, or you love to read a great mystery and have often thought you could do it, this course is for you. Taking you through the processes of creating your Mystery Novel, this course begins by looking at the mystery genre itself and examining this type of writing attribute. We'll then move on to helping you become inspired and motivated as you get started. We'll also focus on some of the important elements of a good mystery--the setting, the characters, the plot, etc.--and help you to become familiar with all the tools the mystery writer uses to create multi-layered, addictive mystery fiction that a reader just cannot put down. Our innovative writing exercises will get your creative juices flowing by bringing out the writer in you and sparking new ideas. Additionally, there are questions after each lesson which will allow you to recap what you have learned and test your knowledge. The entire course is designed to offer you great information in a way that will get you thinking about your own mystery and personal writing practices. Whatever your age, experience or level of ability, this course constantly challenges and informs you so that your writing can't fail to improve and you will learn how to stay motivated and inspired through the entire writing process. For new, aspiring writers--become the mystery writer you have always wanted to be! And for seasoned writers looking to expand their horizons--we'll help strengthen your writing abilities with this very informative course. So join us today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550292.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Think back to the last time you went to a convention, a wedding, or an off-site business meeting. Everything you saw--from the sign-up posts, to the table decorations, to the folders you've been handed--had to be created by someone. That someone would be an event planner. This is someone who plans events--large or small, corporate or social. Any event you have ever attended had someone at the helm who shouldered the responsibility of looking after every minute detail, from the key-note speaker all the way down to how many knives, forks, and spoons were needed for the meal you ate. This course will take you into the world of special event planning, giving you a very accurate behind-the-scenes look at a career that is almost invisible, but so very important. Whether you are looking to plan a family reunion, a wedding, an off-site meeting, or a giant product launch, this course will give you the necessary information and insight into what you need to know to pull off a successful event. Perhaps you are looking for a change of career. If so, this course will illustrate in great detail the qualities you must possess to be a successful special event planner and exactly what the job entails. This is one of the most versatile jobs in the hospitality field, and people with drastically different backgrounds will find that they have the perfect experience to step into their new role as a Special Event Planner . This course is designed to assist both the seasoned and novice Event Planner become better organized, save both time and money, and enjoy the entire process. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550226.htm Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities How to Build Your Own Business Food Preparation Tex Mex Cuisine 101 is a course for those who want to learn more about the Tex Mex phenomenon. Often when we consider Mexican food, it is actually Tex Mex we are thinking of. Tex Mex is a blend of cuisine from Mexico and the Southern States, especially Texas. It is inspired by the melting pot fuelled by increasing immigration from Mexico into the Southern States of America; Mexican ingredients found their way into Texan dishes while Texan cooks left their own stamp on Mexican recipes, culminating in a culinary revolution of sorts that has taken the world by storm. Tex Mex restaurants have sprung up all over the world and if you want to know why, then this course is perfect for you. The course begins with a look at the history of Tex Mex cuisine, where it came from and how it is influenced by cultural and geographical factors. From Lesson 2, the real fun begins with a range of recipes that will in turn challenge and surprise you with their unique combinations of ingredients. While many of the recipes make great use of chillies and spices, many of them can be made milder to suit every taste so there really is something for everyone here, from those who love things hot, hot, hot... to children and those who can't quite handle the heat! Each lesson has around 3 recipes to try, ranging from side dishes and snacks to more involving recipes for whole meals. Throughout the course, suggestions are made for those who want to be adventurous and alter the recipes to suit the preferences of their family or dinner guests; allowing you to have the freedom to be original and continue the Tex Mex legacy by perhaps introducing some of your own locality into the recipes. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550276.htm Tue, 2 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Gardening Food Preparation Fitness Arts and Crafts Spanish cookery reflects the Spanish lifestyle; laid back, relaxed cooking that uses fresh beautiful ingredients that are available seasonally and prepared by cooks that are intuitive and resourceful. This course comprises 12 lessons that take you through the wide spectrum of Spanish cuisine, sampling the delights of the Mediterranean and bringing some of the Spanish atmosphere to your dinner table. Perfect for the amateur or the experienced cook, each lesson takes you through a number of recipes step by step with pictures of each stage. The course begins with a brief introduction to the history and geography of Spanish cuisine and finishes with a lesson in how to recognize the wines of the country and match them with meal types. In between, there is a little of everything, from vegetarian dishes and salads to steaks and seafood... If you have ever enjoyed tapas or whipped up an omelet for lunch then you will have some idea of how versatile and delicious Spanish style food can be, if not, then you have lots of fun recipes to try! No prior knowledge is assumed, if you can chop up a few vegetables then you have the know-how you need to get started and enjoy an adventure into all things Spanish and delicious. The key to success in this course is throwing yourself into the cooking process and really letting yourself get creative with the recipes. The pride you will feel when you serve up these dishes will make the whole process of preparing and cooking them so worthwhile that they will become firm favorites for family dinners or serving to guests. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550277.htm Tue, 2 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Gardening Food Preparation Fitness This is a One Stroke 'Adaptation' class that takes you beyond what was in the Basics class. This class teaches more basics of one stroke painting which includes contemporary designs. Students will be learning different round brush strokes, new flat brush designs, fun filbert brush designs, easy angles brush designs, as well as painting with cotton swabs and sponges. Students learn round brush bell flowers, daisies, violets, leaves, and bees, as well as complete designs. Students learn flat brush mini flowers, orchids, geraniums, leaves, and complete designs. Students learn filbert brush hyacinths, irises and a gorgeous daisy bouquet, along with complete designs. Students learn beautiful angle brush roses that will surprise and delight you! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33872.htm Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:31:07 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting Arts and Crafts Art 'Film Appreciation for Modern Audiences' is intended as a journey through the world of film. It is a sampling of the thought and accumulated critical opinion that forms the basis of the modern stature of 100 years of film-making--as art or culturally important dramatic work. If you love film, then this course will help you learn more about film analysis, film reviews and discussions, period genres and movements in film style, and more. It will provide you an informed opinion that will hopefully make your enjoyment of the film medium deeper. This course may be useful for professionals who need to be informed and conversant about the film-industry; for the layman who wants to know as much as he/she can about the world of film for personal enjoyment; or for the student, hoping to become familiar with the 'lay-of-the-land' for film-criticism. Lessons include discussions on the following: How you can get real enjoyment from the films you watch, and why you should care Early film-history The process of film-making and how it relates to understanding the films you watch A look at 100 years of film-styles, genres and movements A discussion of film-psychology, and some fascinating aspects of the perception of films A review of 'films to watch', taken in 20-year periods starting in 1900, and moving through 2007, featuring all the classics from each era General ideas about film and art-theory as a consumer habit Film composers to know Film directors to know How to get your twenty-dollar's worth at the movie-theater New ways to enjoy film and new audience technologies And much more http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550484.htm Sun, 21 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Photography Arts and Crafts Art Do you feel totally clueless when it comes to Greek Mythology? Do you often say to yourself: 'It's all Greek to me'? You were supposed to learn this stuff in school but classical mythology isn't really taught anymore in elementary or secondary schools. This basic self-paced course can help. Greek Mythology will give you an overview of the huge collection of stories explaining the creation of the world and the lives of the gods, goddesses, heroes and heroines. The scope of the Greek myths is astounding. Starting with the birth of the world, through bloody wars like Troy and Thebes , heroic acts of Hercules and childish pranks by Hermes, and the touching stories of mother love in Demeter and Persephone. Greek myths have passionate love stories, adventure stories, superhuman tales, fairy tales, magical stories, tales of gods and monsters and beasts and stories of witchcraft and sorcery. We've inherited these myths in the form of art and literature. It's really entertaining to discover them. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550449.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 01:01:11 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Art Adobe Flash CS4 can be a complex program to use and understand, even if you already have basic knowledge. It's very easy to get lost in the interface and confused by the many features it offers. This course was designed to solve the mysteries of Adobe Flash CS4, no matter if you're a beginner or more advanced user. Each lesson is extremely comprehensive, but written in easy-to-understand terms so that, by the time you finish the course, you can use the Flash software as easily as you can tie your shoe. The course starts out with an introduction to the software, followed by a tour of the interface. Once you know your way around the numerous panels and menus, you'll start to learn the drawing modes and tools that allow you to create vector and raster images to animate. Each lesson gives you plenty of instruction to learn, then plenty of time to practice. All students are encouraged to take their time and become comfortable with each aspect of Flash that is taught before moving on to frame-by-frame animations and tweens. By the time you finish this course, you'll easily be able to create: Animations Slideshows Banner ads Movies Graphics presentations And all sorts of other animation projects using Adobe Flash CS4 It's a fact that once you learn everything you need to know about vector and raster images, as well as movie clips and graphics, creating animations becomes a breeze. You'll spend the rest of the course learning to bring graphics and other images to life, and delving into ActionScript to learn to create even more complex Flash presentations. If you've spent time trying to learn more about Flash without much luck, then this course is exactly the solution that you need. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550218.htm Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Photography Arts and Crafts Art The spirit of a person is reflected in his/her true personality. Participants will learn to identify and analyze the features of the face and gestures that characterize personality traits. Excellent for Team Building, Sales,Jury Selection,Job Placement, Consulting/ Counseling,and just having fun. This class is self-paced and it is designed to provide you with observable information about yourself and others that reflect the human spirit. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/2200.htm Sat, 12 Jan 2002 18:31:18 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Handwriting Analysis, or Graphology, is a fascinating and fun method to reveal a person's inner personality. By using a few simple techniques, you will be able to accurately determine a person's emotional responses. You will also be able to determine the maturity level, truthfulness and even physical and sex drives of a person. For the most part, however, you will HAVE FUN! This Basic course will teach you the basics of Handwriting Analysis. You will learn how to determine a person's Emotional Outlay, Emotional Intensity, Thought Patterns, Personal Goals, Self-Image (or 'Self-Esteem') and Reaction to Critisicm. Subsequent classes will teach the skills necessary to determine attitude, physical and sex drives, relationship roles and communication traits. As you continue, you will have the opportunity to learn how several traits can be taken together and interpreted (Cluster Traits). http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7309.htm Wed, 19 Mar 2003 22:00:09 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Arts and Crafts Nearly every few weeks, a new story seems to hit the headlines about foodborne illnesses. Salmonella in peanuts. E. coli in fruit juice. Mad cow in hamburgers. Every year, thousands of people become seriously ill from foodborne illnesses, and some even die. A single outbreak of salmonella in peanut butter in 2008-09 forced the largest food recall in U.S. history, sickened more than 600 people, killed 9, and caused parents everywhere to question the safety of a childhood staple, the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Add to this the stories of sick cattle being processed for food in meat packing plants, and it is easy to see how fragile our food supply system can be. This online course will explain why and how bacteria transfers from one place to another, multiplies, and makes people sick. We'll also explain the best ways to prevent foodborne illness, including hand washing techniques, dishwashing practices, facility cleaning, best practices for storage, food handling, temperature monitoring, pest prevention, and managing relationships with the health department. Also, if you ever plan on designing or managing your own restaurant, this training module offers some helpful suggestions about kitchen design and planning. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550208.htm Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Bartending and bartending skills are always in demand. If you're planning on hosting a cocktail party at your home, or thinking of starting a new career, or just want to learn how to make a certain drink, Bartending 101 is a must for all do-it-yourself bartenders . This self-paced online course can help you be an impressive bartender by showing you everything you need to know about tending a bar; such as the difference between Highball and Lowball drinks; how to shake, stir, strain and pour; the most effective remedy for hangovers; how to set up a bar; plus recipes and useful tips. Take the mystery out of mixology and learn to put together a perfect martini or create the coolest cosmopolitan. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30004.htm Sat, 15 Apr 2006 12:09:36 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Arts and Crafts Stress is one of the most common words used in society today and a phenomenon that each one of us will experience at some point in our life. Stress affects people of all ages, professions and life situations. While we have an innate understanding of stress and what it feels like to be stressed, defining stress can be tricky because we all react to it in different ways. However, stress can be defined as a physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension caused by our exposure to different incidence or occurrences in our lives. When we respond positively to these incidence or occurrences we do not feel stress. However, the minute we are faced with an incidence or occurrences that we feel we cannot handle, we may feel our stress mounting. Stress is subjective to each individual; what can be considered a stressful event by one person may be less stressful to another. Therefore, stress is not caused by the event itself, but how an individual interprets the situation and deals with it. When an individual cannot cope with the demands placed on them and begins to feel negatively, this is considered a stress response. Even though stress has become part of our everyday life; excessive stress can affect a person's health and emotional stability. It can also affect our overall quality of life by reducing productivity, creating, or exacerbat ing , existing health problems, and contributing to premature aging. So what do we do about stress in our lives? How do we deal with it? Prevent it? This course comes in. Working through the lessons in this course will help you understand the origins of your stress and provide you with a practical approach for reducing stress in your life and thus, improving your health and emotional well being. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550250.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:39:21 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Coaching has long been an accepted method of improving performance, specifically in sports. The excellent results shown in the sports arena have been expanded to those in executive positions in business. For the last fifteen to twenty years, many more people have been exposed to the idea of coaching in all aspects of their lives. Coaches must have the necessary life experiences and communication skills to be totally present to their clients, to really listen to them, and provide a safe arena to express ideas. This course will focus on how to be a Life Coach. Life Coaching is an occupation where you work with individuals who wish to make a change in their lives. By working with clients to evaluate their lives on a personal, professional, and spiritual level, you help them to make realistic goals and establish the necessary steps required to reach those goals. As a life coach, you will join the client in focusing on his or her goals. Together, you will formulate ways to approach those goals, and in a nonthreatening way help your client be held accountable to those goals. As a life coach, you must be constantly observant and flexible, when one approach to a perceived problem is not working, then you must be able to formulate another approach. Similarly, if something worked well for a client, your job will be to help your client incorporate that successful approach in other areas of their lives. Additionally, as a life coach, you will work with your client to identify and name areas of strength and talent and help your client to strengthen those. Understanding the mechanism of motivation will be the key to your success. 'If we go down into ourselves, we find that we possess exactly what we desire.' ~Simone Weil http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550342.htm Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness This course will provide you with information on how to quit smoking without smoking cessation aids, also known as Nicotine Replacement Therapies (nicotine gum, the patch, etc.) This course does not provide any miracles, and cannot guarantee your success. That is solely up to you, but I hope this course will educate you so you can be successful! We will discuss nicotine addiction, health risks of smoking, reasons for quitting, where to find support, what you need to do to quit, and how to avoid relapses. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/12798.htm Fri, 29 Oct 2004 21:36:10 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness This medical terminology course covers the medical language and terminology used by health care professionals everywhere. If you're interested in pursuing a health and science career requiring the ability to communicate with physicians, dentists, or other medical professionals, this class will meet all your needs. In easy to review lessons , you'll find our user-friendly format will not only give you a solid foundation in medical language, but can be completed in less than 25 days! You will analyze individual word parts such as prefixes, suffixes and word roots, along with learning body system dynamics, basic medical language, body orientation, health, wellness, and disease terms. You will learn the basic components of medical terminology as it relates to each body system plus the instruments used in assessment will also be reviewed. So if you're planning on pursuing a career in medical transcription, medical billing or medical coding, physician's secretary or medical support staff, or you just need a review or extra tutoring for your anatomy and physiology classes, or maybe you want a jump start in the medical field before starting college; or perhaps you're just interested in learning the latest in medical language--you can begin today--enroll right now! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550368.htm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:53:17 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness Improve your health and your life through nutrition and exercise. Create nutrition and health goals to motivate you to become a healthier you. Make meaningful, lasting changes to your diet that last. Review the digestion process and how our body would digest some pizza. Learn some real benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Review some tips on including more fruits and vegetables in your schedule. Discover the difference between good carbohydrates and bad carbohydrates. Understand how to include more fiber in your eating habits, and the benefits of doing so. Review the importance of eating healthy choices of protein. Learn how to make healthy protein choices. Read about cholesterol and the difference between 'LDL' and 'HDL'. Uncover some benefits of including enough calcium in your diet, and how to prevent osteoporosis. Learn what vitamins are. Read some tips on how to choose a vitamin supplement. Find out some health hazards of being underweight or overweight. Discover some healthy ways to change your weight. Check out some real health benefits of including exercise in your schedule. Read and choose some ways to motivate you to exercise. Become a more energetic you with some tips on how to increase your energy through nutrition and exercise. Review some tips on how to decrease stress with nutrition and exercise. Distinguish the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance, and see how the body responds to a food allergy. Assess when to seek medical attention for a food allergy. Read some tips on how to avoid a food allergy or food intolerance. Incorporate healthy nutrition and exercise habits in your routine so that you can be healthier, have more energy, and feel great! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550360.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:38:14 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Fitness Wellness coaching is a relatively new field, intriguing anyone who desires to get all areas of their life into balance. This Wellness Coaching course is a general survey course designed to give you a well-rounded introduction to this exciting discipline. This self-paced class is designed to appeal to both potential clients of wellness coaching, as well as anyone interested in pursuing this career opportunity. Explore the main concentrations of wellness coaching--physical wellness, mind wellness, spiritual wellness, and financial wellness. While it's not necessary for every person to work on all of these areas, it is a wonderful and comprehensive profession for anyone with a wide variety of interests and the desire to be in charge of their own career. Wellness coaches can set their own schedule, pay rates, choose their clientele, work from nearly any location, and enjoy unlimited creativity and flexibility in their coaching approach. For potential wellness coaching clients, it's important to know what wellness coaching can and cannot offer. This course can also teach you enough basics that you may be able to apply the lessons to yourself and get the help you need without further expense or consultation. Wellness coaching can help you identify and set realistic, measurable goals, remember and act on the joys and positive memories of childhood through exploration of the five senses, and unlock the creative energy that lies in each of us. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550363.htm Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities How to Build Your Own Business Fitness Are you one of those parents who constantly worry about your child's weight? Are you unsure about the kind of help and support an overweight child needs? Or are you looking for ways to prevent your child from gaining excess weight? Whichever the case, this course will provide the information and support you need. This course uses a two-sided approach. First, we want to offer help to any parents out there who already have overweight children and want to help them get healthy and slim down safely. We also want this course to serve as a resource for all parents concerned with healthy eating habits, exercise, and everyday issues to prevent childhood obesity. For that reason, the first half of this course is geared to those parents currently battling the weight problem with their children (or any child for that matter). The second half goes through the stages of a child's life, from infancy through adolescence, and gives you information, tips, and instruction to help keep your child healthy and within a normal weight range. If your child is currently overweight, this part will provide you with ideas for healthy eating habits and activities. This course will also help you identify what you need to do now and down the road to help your child lose weight and stay healthy. We'll go over the checkpoints you'll pass along the way, and every twist and turn that you may face up ahead. Not only will this course explain childhood obesity to you, it will help you conquer it with your child. Just remember, however, that this course should never replace the expert of advice of a doctor, dietician, or otherwise qualified healthcare professional. The purpose of this course is education and awareness. It's the first step in understanding and conquering the childhood obesity epidemic. With that said, welcome to the course. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550480.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 11:45:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness How to coach little league baseball is an ideal guide for any coach or parent of young players. Whether you are new to coaching youth baseball or looking for ways to improve your techniques, this course will help move you and your young team towards a great season! For over sixty years, the non-profit organization known as Little League Baseball, Incorporated, has become the de facto starting point for children interested in the game of baseball in the United States. In order to accomplish the goal of promoting skill development and good sportsmanship essential to baseball, it becomes important to have coaches that understand how to impart knowledge to their players regarding how the game should be properly played. This course will provide this information. This course focuses on the skills, drills, and attitudes that are core to establishing a good Little League Baseball team. Each of the lessons in this course will cover a certain aspect that is integral to Little League Baseball. We will examine how to get involved; how to form a team; how to get the equipment needed; and ways to coach various game-related and character-building skills, such as batting, pitching, base-running, conditioning, catching, and running practices. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33315.htm Mon, 29 Oct 2007 11:31:36 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Meditation is a practice by which a person achieves a greater sense of awareness, wisdom, introspection, and a deeper sense of relaxation. Practiced for millennia, it is the discipline of concentrating on a single object, thought, sound, movement, or on attention itself. Many people meditate to achieve a greater sense of spiritual awareness and understanding of their professed religion, but it can be practiced by anyone regardless of their religious beliefs and background. In this course, we will explore the various techniques of meditation, such as sitting, standing, and yoga. Becoming aware of your thoughts, surroundings, sounds, smells, bodily movements, and especially your breath are fundamental techniques of meditation. The basic objective is to be present and#8211; here and now. It is the act of being precisely in the moment, neither controlling your mind rigidly nor letting it go completely, but being aware of who you are and where you are. Meditation is, fist and foremost, about being comfortable and at peace. As we explore the several techniques of practicing meditation, you can pick and choose those practices that make you comfortable. It is important to leave your preconceived notions of meditation behind you, keep an open mind, and be willing to learn the art of meditation. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550359.htm Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Did you know that up to 75% of all health problems are linked to stress? Would you be interested in learning to solve many health problems in a natural way? Reflexology is a therapy using gentle pressure and manipulation of feet or hands in the belief that pressure applied to specific points can benefit other body systems. How would you like to easily build Reflexology into your life and reduce stress? In this self-paced online course you will discover the art of reflexology and learn to apply the techniques. Through 8 relaxation techniques, you will be taught how to perform reflexology treatments like a professional plus learn the art of working with your hands, the different patterns used in a full foot reflexology session and working reflex areas in the hand to target specific body systems. Perhaps you would like to learn how to perform reflexology on family or friends? Perhaps you are thinking of pursuing a career in reflexology or another medically related field that requires an understanding of anatomy and physiology? You have found the right place! Let your fingers do the walking. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550361.htm Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness This self-paced anatomy and physiology course will cover all the bodily systems playing a major role in human anatomy. The material is presented in a practical and comprehensive manner. The focus of the course is on the need-to-know facts that must be understood in order to pursue any healthcare career or related education in the field of science. These easy to follow lessons are ideal for anyone requiring a solid understanding of how the human body works. Lessons include the following topics: The Skeletal System The Integumentary System The Muscular System The Nervous System The Sensory System The Endocrine System The Cardiovascular System The Lymphatic System The Respiratory System The Digestive System The Urinary System The Reproductive System http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550365.htm Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness This Personal Protective Equipment Course is designed to help those working in the various industries that utilize PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as a means to protect the worker from the natural harm that comes into their work area. This online class discusses the various hazards that personal protective equipment is designed to protect the worker from and outlines the various pieces of personal protective equipment, such as hand wear, footwear, face protection, eye protection, garments, partial garments and other equipment used to protect the physical body, eyesight and hearing for workers who work in various capacities. The types of personal protective equipment vary with job descriptions and are described in detail, according to body parts protected. Each item is defined in terms of its use, its common function, and the materials utilized to make the various parts of personal protective equipment. This course also includes separate modules for different job descriptions--such as firefighters, construction workers, beekeepers, the military and even the police department. Those working in firefighting, as is shown in the course, wear completely different personal protective equipment as do workers working in a chemistry laboratory or in a beekeeping facility. The equipment is explained, the materials they are made of is discussed and the standards to which they must adhere to is explained. Personal protective equipment must be tested for its ability to maintain its integrity and properly do its job. Standards are discussed in this course and vary depending upon which type of equipment a person is dealing with. We'll identify the standards and their varying degrees of protectability for various uses. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550185.htm Tue, 19 May 2009 13:01:44 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Fitness Managing Depression is an engaging course that offers an abundance of ideas for taking personal control over the nasty symptoms of depression. Focusing on self-help for mild to moderate depression, this online class identifies the various symptoms of depression, and takes a meaningful and sincere approach, primarily to alternative and self-help therapies. While not excluding traditional and more conventional therapies--such as counseling and medical support--this course also encourages students to take steps to empower themselves to feel better as well as reviews holistic approaches toward the mind and body. Taking responsibility for as much of the healing process as possible and#8211; even if it simply means making an appointment with a doctor and#8211; is the first step toward more confidence and self-esteem. This class provides an uplifting, upbeat and realistic approach to depression which is intended to energize and encourage learners to face their problems head-on. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550224.htm Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:55:58 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness Welcome to advocacy for the elderly patient. With growing numbers of seniors in our aging population, families and extended family members are finding themselves in a position where they're providing for some or all of the care for their senior loved ones. Understanding basic rights of patients and how such rights apply to the elderly will help you become an advocate for not only elderly patients, but for other family members and friends. In this course, you'll learn what an advocate is, what one does, and why it's important to be an advocate for patient care today. You'll also learn not only how to be a well educated advocate, but to do your part to preserve the dignity of seniors, prevent elder abuse, and understand the basics of elderly patient care at home, in assisted living facilities and in nursing homes or other care scenarios. You'll learn the importance of nutrition and providing senior-friendly living spaces. You'll learn how to effectively evaluate nursing homes and understand the legal rights of seniors and how to protect them from scams. As an educated advocate, you'll also learn how to identify and report red flags when it comes to senior care, including elderly abuse and more personal aspects of care, including hygiene. You'll also learn the importance of documents such as advance directives and powers of attorney in order to provide the best in secure, comforting and effective senior care that maintains their independence and dignity in all areas of their life. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550468.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Fitness Are you curious about vegetarianism or thinking about becoming a vegetarian? You are not alone! Millions of people have made the switch to vegetarianism. Why? Because there are so many benefits, including for your health, the planet, and the animals! This course is jam-packed with information, tips and advice on making the switch. You will learn about the different types of vegetarians, the history of vegetarianism, get an in-depth look at the various reasons why people choose vegetarianism, some famous vegetarians, as well as vegetarian myths and frequently asked questions. You will also learn about animal rights, vegetarian nutritional needs, and how to raise vegetarian kids. In addition to all this, the course will teach you about how to eat as a vegetarian, including dining out and being a guest at someone's house. This course wraps up with providing information on how to make the transition successfully and where to find more information and support. This course is perfect for those interested in becoming vegetarian, as well as parents who have a child who has become vegetarian, educators, teachers, and many others! Get started today and learn all about vegetarianism and why it has become so popular around the world. The more you know about vegetarianism, the more successful you will be at making the transition or supporting someone who has! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550541.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Food Preparation Fitness Whether you are looking for a part-time job, a summer job, work to help you through college, to supplement your family income, or a possible career, working in the restaurant industry as a waiter or waitress can be your answer. This course will discuss all the necessary information for you to learn what the job is about, how to prepare for it, what you need to know, and whether or not you have the personality to do the job well. Waiting tables is a time-honored tradition that started long ago in England and Europe, and came over to America and continues to this day. At one time, serving others for money used to be viewed as a lower-class line of work. Today there are people who make an excellent living waiting tables, pulling in nearly two thousand dollars a week. Interviews with waiters, waitresses, hiring managers, and restaurant owners provide the information that you need to supply what they are looking for in a good waitress. Whether you wish to work in a family-style restaurant, or you want to work in a fine dining establishment, this course will guide you through the information you need to have in order to make a good decision about your work, and possibly whether or not you can improve your situation by waiting tables. In this course you will learn who you work with and why, what your job is in different restaurant settings, the various serving methods that have their origin in other countries, etc. You will also get some insight into serving alcohol, learning the requirements of your patrons and how best to serve them and their desires. Lastly, the course will reveal the very great need for safety and proper sanitation in order to avoid contaminating food that you will be serving to your customers. Waiting tables will turn you into a student of human nature. By the end of this course you will be prepared to apply at even the highest end restaurant. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550098.htm Thu, 5 Feb 2009 14:22:21 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Qualified restaurant managers are always in demand. They earn salaries far above the national average ($45K-$60K and higher), receive generous benefit packages and bonuses, rapid promotions and opportunities for travel. But that's really just the 'icing on the cake'. Restaurant managers learn, apply and continually improve myriad business skills adaptable to scores of other industries. Sales, marketing, human resources, customer service, shipping and receiving, maintenance, food and beverage preparation and accounting are all in a day's work...you'll truly 'have a finger in every pie'. In addition, you'll meet, interact with and satisfy every conceivable restaurant guest, and have the opportunity to be a true leader, a role model and a positive force in the lives of hundreds of your associates. And let's not forget those autographed photos of you with Jack Nicholson or Tiger Woods, thanking you for one of their best nights on the town in a long time. Ready to Dig In? http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550157.htm Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Food Preparation Meteorology is a fascinating subject. Because of its very nature, it is never constant or boring. Studies and observations of weather and climate and its impact on humans and the environment offer everything from gorgeous sunsets to terrifying hurricanes and tornadoes. The study of land, atmospheric pressure, cloud formation and storms offers students of meteorology a never-ending and fascinating look into the forces of nature and our surrounding environment. From how rainbows form to the impact of pollution on the environment, this basic meteorology course explores such topics as: how geography affects weather, cloud formation, wind forces, weather forecasting methods, and global weather patterns (such as El Niand#241;o). From weather forecasting to water conservation, we'll introduce you to the vagaries of weather watching and prediction. We'll study the effects of pressure fronts that create hurricanes, tornadoes, and cyclones. We'll offer students clues on how to watch the sky for signs of change, as well as provide a greater understanding of the development and formation of some of the most awesome powers on earth. While many of us watch the local television station for news, our decisions of what to wear, when to plant seeds, or when to travel is often affected by unexpected changes in weather. From ancient times to the present, mankind's efforts to predict and forecast weather patterns have displayed mixed results. This course offers students a look at the history of meteorology as well as the impact humanity has on our own local climate and weather. So join us today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550433.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 10:25:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Herbs are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes--and sometimes even spiritual purposes. All About Herbs will cover all the basics so that you are ready to explore all of Herbs' many uses. Not only will you learn the history and definitions, but you will also be able to: - List several benefits of cooking with herbs and have a basic understanding of how to prepare herbs and incorporate them into your favorite foods. - Grasp the main traditions in herbal medicine. - Understand the benefits of growing herbs at home and how to plan your first herb garden. - Know how to select the right herbs, the best containers, the ideal fertilizer and the best amount of water to help your container herb garden thrive. - Know when to harvest your herbs and how to dry them for storage so you can enjoy home-grown herbs all year long. -How to start a heart-healthy, cold and flu prevention garden using basil, cayenne and garlic. - How aloe vera and peppermint make wonderful additions to both your herb garden and your medicine cabinet. - Know the beauty of rosemary, fennel and lavender and how to grow them yourself. - Understand how these ingredients can add a lovely scent to your garden and delicate ingredients to make your own cosmetic treatments. -Know about another facet of herbal medicine, aromatherapy, which is based on the power of herbs' fragrances and helps treat both mood and health issues. -Know how to prepare herbs in a variety of forms to best treat any of a number of conditions. These methods range from a simple tea, or infusion, to a good old-fashioned poultice. We'll also share some advice on being very careful with herbs to avoid negative results. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550090.htm Sun, 6 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Gardening Tired of dealing with those piles of papers, clothes, or other objects that take up so much of your time figuring out what to do with? Or are you fed-up with your family complaining that you're a pack-rat? A clutter-bug? Or perhaps even something harsher? Put an end to your misery once and for all! This is the best time and place to start dealing with your clutter. This self-paced course will motivate you to organize your home, desk and/or home office. This course will provide lots of helpful tips, resources and practices that will have you remaining on the anti-clutter wagon forever. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30331.htm Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating If you have a talent for organizing and want to find out how to set up your own Professional Organizing business, then this course is where you need to begin. Not only will answers be provided on what a professional organizer is, potential earnings and possible clientele, and various organizing tips; this course will also provide information about available resources and how to begin the nuts and bolts of writing up your business goals. Provided Marketing strategies and tips will wrap up this informative course and get you ready to begin! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30140.htm Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating The home inspection field is one that has been rapidly growing since its inception in the mid-1970s. Not only are they an important part of every home buying purchase, but the industry also relies upon people that are knowledgeable in the field. This course covers all aspects of home inspections and is a great educational tool for anyone considering hiring a home inspector, and more importantly, someone looking to become one. Lessons in this course cover everything from the basics of what is included in an inspection, and in-depth information as to what inspectors look for when it to comes to plumbing, electrical, and all other areas of the home, both inside and out. Students taking this course can expect to learn home inspection 101, the basic tools of the trade, the role ethics play in home inspections, and how to conduct an inspection. Students will also learn about red flag issues such as mold, radon, and carbon monoxide, as well as how routine maintenance can extend the life of a home. The course rounds out with everything one needs to know in order to start their home inspection business and keep it successfully running. This course features helpful checklists, examples, links to sites of interest and videos, and an introduction to everything one needs to know about the home inspection field. Whether you are someone interested in knowing more about what it takes to be a home inspector, how it can help you in the home purchasing process, or are ready to start your own home inspection business, this course has you covered! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550108.htm Sun, 4 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating For most of us, our home represents the largest portion of our assets. Trying to sell a house or apartment or condo in today's fast paced market, quickly and profitably, has the potential for turning anyone's world upside down. Knowing what is important so you can meet your buyer's expectations is a necessity. As a seller, you will want to get the most value out of your home in the shortest time possible. This course will help the seller create an individualized house preparation timeline, outline simple steps to eliminate potential problems, give ideas about decluttering, cleaning, repairing, and show you how to stage your house for a successful Open House . The instructor will also offer personal assistance with student's unique selling problems. Whether you plan on putting your house up for sale in 30 days or 60 days, or whether you are just beginning to think about the selling process for a future date, this course can help you maximize your profit and reduce your stress! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30408.htm Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Home Decorating Marketing for the 21 st century small business is more dynamic and more challenging than ever before in the course of history. The world has simultaneously opened up and yet niched closed in many ways. Today's businesses are challenged by a couple of dynamics that did not previously exist in the business world: 1) choosing between traditional brick-and-mortar and web-based business or one that combines both features; and 2) deciding whether to focus locally, nationally or to spread into the international waters of business. Both of these dynamics add concern and a new focus on strategy for most businesses. Starting a new small business is both more challenging and more interesting. This course offers fresh insights to many marketing issues that you may otherwise dismiss as 'not me', but which will help you to create your marketing plan. Your new company's ability to withstand the tests of time and the challenges of our fluctuating economic world will prove this course to be a well spent investment. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550395.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 08:15:30 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business This Microsoft Word 2007 course is not only designed to give the experienced MS Word user a tour of the new version of Word, but to also introduce new MS Word users to a comprehensive look at the features and utilities that this word processing software offers. It doesn't matter if you're new to MS Word or an experienced user, this comprehensive course teaches the most basic features as well as focuses on the more advanced tools that all students will find useful. Additionally, this course introduces new features exclusive to MS Word 2007, as well as includes detailed instructions on how to use them. You'll learn: Your way around the toolbars and menus. Basic editing features. Comprehensive editing features. How to insert items into a document. How to create and edit tables. Macros. And much, much more! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550336.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Managing time effectively is fundamental to success. It also factors into achieving balance in our lives. Today, we're busier than ever--at work and at home. Having enough time for things that are important, things we want or need to do, or even to have enough time to devote to a special project, there just isn't enough time to go around. This course is a practical 'how to' that will guide you through the maze of conflicting priorities, self-doubts, disorganization, over-commitments, and limitations that in the past have kept you from successfully managing time. It offers a step-by-step format for achieving balance between your personal and professional lives. As this course shows, managing time isn't just about making lists. It's about everything that encompasses your daily routine. Discover how beliefs and values factor into success. Find out what part sleep and nutrition play. Learn how including yourself in your 'to do's' helps create time for 'special' projects you've put on the back burner. See how to stop wasting time on annoying situations. Learn to carve out more time for friends and family. If life is in the details, then manage them well. This eleven-session course encompasses a variety of tools that, if used, will help you achieve what we all want--more time for things that matter and a better ability to manage it all. Making the time for this course could just be the key to creating enough time for you. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550056.htm Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Owning a home business can be one of the most rewarding career moves you will ever make. Not only do you get the freedom of answering only to yourself, but our increasingly Internet-savvy society makes reaching out to worldwide consumers easier than ever. Whether you are tired of a nine-to-five work schedule or you are bursting with ideas for ways to make money, there are countless reasons to consider working from home and being your own boss. However, small businesses are not always successful. Oftentimes, a lack of poor financial planning is at fault. Sometimes it's not having the right permits or licenses. Other times, it's simply that you don't know how to manage your time or where to look for help. These should never be a reason for failure. This course is designed to provide you with everything you need to know to start on your path toward home business success. From determining whether or not you're suited to become a business owner to providing information on the tax implications of hiring employees, this Home Business e-Course is a comprehensive source of tips, tools, and tricks of the trade. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550094.htm Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Have you ever purchased something or agreed with someone and wondered later what made you give in so easily? Do you want to learn how to give a persuasive presentation by yourself? This course offers a blend of the science and the art of persuasion in a friendly format with thought-provoking information to help raise our awareness of the tools of influence. Based on Dr. Robert Cialdini's six principles of persuasion, this course is an enlightening way to learn how to wield more influence, as well as to learn what techniques are being used by others who are good salespeople. Learn about 'reciprocation,' and how this age-old technique of mutual giving works in influence. Commitment and Consistency and Social Proof are tools that are absolutely necessary in the art of persuasion, both to use and to recognize. Additionally, Liking , Authority and Scarcity are all fascinating concepts that are used in our daily lives. Become skilled at identifying and employing these tools so that you can become a master of the art of persuasion. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550520.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Credit governs everyone's lives. It is what allows people to buy a house, get a car, have a credit card and generally live a life they cannot really afford. Sadly, many people get into a debt spiral that soon goes out of control. They have trouble keeping their head above water, and soon they fall under as the weight of debt drags them down. Thankfully, credit can be managed and all it takes is having the ability to change how one lives their life. By implementing the lessons explained in this course, an individual will be able to take their credit and repair it. This is not to say that it will be easy. If anything, it will be very difficult to do. They will be struggling to keep their head above water, but as they persevere, they will be able to slowly fix their credit and get credit relief. The statistics are staggering with how many people suffer from credit problems. Millions, with that number growing because of the economy, are actually using credit to keep their heads above water. This is a losing strategy that only results in them losing nearly everything they have as the water quickly pulls them under and the debt rock shows no signs of letting go. There are many ways that a person can get rid of debt, and they are covered in this course. These include: Understanding Credit Understanding a credit score Understanding how credit is affected Understanding Credit Cards Understanding Foreclosure Understanding Bankruptcy Understanding the Debt to Income Ratio Understanding the Debt Spiral Finding Debt Counseling Finding Debt Consolidation Learning to live within one's means Learning how to budget Knowing how to stay on track Understanding Credit Reports Fixing Credit Errors These must be done right, and cannot be rushed. To get out of debt and realize credit relief, one has to work hard to do so. This course will explain how to repair credit using the tips that have helped millions of other people raise their credit score hundreds of points through know-how and determination. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550109.htm Sun, 4 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Have you ever been involved in a complex project that just did not go the way you wanted? Often failure is pre-ordained due to the approach to the project. The concept of project management exists because it helps assure completion of a project successfully. This course covers the basics of project management where you will learn what project management involves and how to approach it successfully. While project management can be a very complicated and dry subject, we have attempted to make the subject easy to comprehend and identify the necessary skills and learned behaviors a project manager needs to succeed. We cover the major subject areas of the topic and provide valuable information and insight in to the how's and why's of dozens of important subjects such as: why a plan is so important to the success of a project. the importance of good teamwork and how to select the right members of a team for a project. what tools are available to help you be a better project manager. and much more. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33432.htm Fri, 5 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Most CPAs will tell you that the number one mistake people make in starting a new business is that they fail to write a business plan. Without a written set of plans and directions, a new business will struggle on many levels. You may start out doing well only to find yourself shipwrecked a year into your work. On the other hand, you may sit and struggle to ever get your business off of the ground and productive. You may find yourself struggling with small things that have simple solutions and for which the answers are easy to implement. But if your plan is not written, then you don't have a clear vision in a very literal sense of the word. A well written business plan takes time, patience, detail, research, and a right approach to presentation. This course will walk you through the process of writing your business plan. You will learn why certain details are vitally important, which parts of your business plan can make or break your finance query with investors, and how to sharpen your public presentation of your company and its business. You will also learn some writing tricks to help you create a polished written plan without necessarily having to hire someone to write it for you. At the end of this course, you should have enough information to make a well informed effort in writing your business plan. Happy planning! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550132.htm Sun, 8 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Do you have strong business skills? Can you analyze information and construct a recommendation on a course of action? Do you have good communication, observation and character analysis abilities? Then you could be a good candidate to provide business consulting services. Organizations of all types and#8211; commercial, nonprofit and government and#8211; seek outside assistance to enhance their performances. A business consultant can uncover issues, solve problems and determine new opportunities on behalf of your clients. In this course you can learn if this fast-paced, exciting and financially rewarding industry is for you. We discuss specialized consulting and comprehensive management consulting. You'll learn who the major firms are and how you can become a part of those companies. This course will provide guidance on qualifications and certifications that are required to become a consultant with an existing firm. And we'll show you what you need to start a consulting business. We'll give you insight into the six phases of problem solving and introduce you to Root Cause Analysis. Included in the course are a discussion of data analysis and an examination of qualitative and quantitative strategies. You will also learn how to conduct a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis. Finally, we'll cover some important steps to consider when opening a consulting business, and how to attract and retain good paying accounts. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550346.htm Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Many professionals who enter into the world of human resources quickly believe that they will succeed in their new found field simply because they have a knack for relating with people from all walks of life. While having 'good people skills' is certainly a positive attribute for working in the human resources field, being in tune with the ever-changing policies and procedures that successfully make a team or company tick, is just as important as being the boss that everyone loves. Managing your rules and guidelines works in tandem with managing 'your humans.' Today, many managers enter the world of human resources simply because they are exceptional managers. They have climbed the rank and file of the corporate ladder, succeeding at each rung, to the point where they are now managing a team, which may include 'kids' fresh out of college or professionals who have been in the workforce for some time, sometimes even longer than the manager himself. Having the ability to create synergy on his team, to drive productivity and provide opportunities for employee growth while developing policies and procedures that apply to all are just a few of the trademarks that make a great manager. Others enter the human resource field by choice. They are the 'people' people who want to work in the actual Human Resources department of a company to become 'the people that staff and operate an organization as contrasted with the financial and material resources of an organization. The organizational function that deals with the people ...' Whether its entering the world of human resources by choice or by being thrown in because of your professional successes, the basic principles remain the same: you not only want to get the job done, but also you want to get it done with good people who work collectively and cooperatively toward a common goal successfully. Hiring the right people, training them, affording them opportunities for growth, all while setting parameters and guidelines, is the key to great human resource management. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550050.htm Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Communication influences all factors of your life. From daily interactions with strangers on the street to the way you present yourself in the board room, the way you communicate is a reflection of who you are and the way you establish relationships with those around you. Although there are many sides to communication (including verbal interactions, nonverbal cues, and even using technology to maximize impact), there are a few basic fundamentals that span across the nation and around the globe. By understanding the way you communicate and increasing your knowledge of conflict resolution and negotiation, you can increase your probability for success with others. Whether you are working in the business community, strengthening your personal relationships, or simply seeking to increase your comfort in reaching out to others as a whole, effective communication is your bridge from potentially hazardous misunderstandings to personal--and professional--success. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550121.htm Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:00:11 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business The purpose of this course is to help you understand what PowerPoint 2007 can do for you, whether you are familiar with PowerPoint 2003 or new to the application altogether. One of the most noticeable changes is the new user interface called the Microsoft Office Fluent which allows for the creation of dynamic, professional presentations in a much shorter period of time than earlier versions of PowerPoint. The Fluent interface has all commands, toolbars and task panes categorized into tabs and related groups. For the purpose of this course, we will call the Fluent user interface the 'ribbon.' In general, the Ribbon tabs are separated into three levels (see corresponding numbers in Figure 0.1): The general type of task (i.e., Home) Categories of sub-tasks (i.e., Slides) Specific commands (i.e., New Slide) Figure 0.2 shows the Insert Tab, which displays PowerPoint 2007's larger, easier to read icons along with an overall view of the application's new look. Among the many new options offered by PowerPoint 2007 are new themes and quick styles, custom slide layouts, Smart Art graphics, more advanced graphic effects for text, pictures, objects, charts, graphs and tables, more effective proofing tools, user-friendly collaboration and permission features, and much more. This course will walk you through PowerPoint 2007, beginning with the basics and lead you through to some of the most advanced features available, offering additional helpful tips and hints along the way. Course Goals After completing this course, students will be able to: Demonstrate understanding of the terminology and elements of presentations Distinguish between the different options available for creating a presentation Utilize the basics of a slide show including goals and effectiveness of a presentation Create and manipulate text and text boxes using available tools and features Employ the use of themes, styles and backgrounds Create, format and make use of charts, graphs and tables Insert, format and edit Smart Art, pictures and clipart Incorporate sound, video and animation into a presentation Create macro enabled presentations Utilize the quick access toolbar and the slide master Troubleshoot error messages and utilize both online and offline help files Package and publish a presentation on the web and in other Office 2007 applications Course Structure This course is broken down into twelve lessons to take you through each of the tools that PowerPoint 2007 offers the user. Each lesson will cover learning goals and each goal is associated with one aspect of PowerPoint 2007. You will be able to confirm your knowledge and understanding through a series of mini quizzes at the end of each Lesson. Answers to the quiz are at the back of this course. We recommend that you practice with PowerPoint 2007 to gain the best understanding of each lesson. Each lesson will also include hyperlinks for you to find further information online along with hot tips. As with all software, not everything runs smoothly all the time in PowerPoint 2007 and in each lesson we will also alert you to common errors or 'pitfalls' to watch out for. Before you begin: If you are a current user of Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2003 or an earlier version, before you download 2007 we recommend you uninstall these programs. PowerPoint 2007 may not download properly if you are operating a previous version. While this course is aimed at both beginners and advanced users, we take for granted that you already know how to turn your computer on, use your mouse and can understand in basic terms how to operate your computer. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550338.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Microsoft Project 2007 is a project management software that helps project managers better structure, organize, and plan for all their projects. This includes budgets, tasks, resources, assignments, and everything in between. It can create critical path schedules, generate budgets, and create detailed reports on whatever aspect of your project you want to view. If it relates to managing your project, Project 2007 can help you do it. The purpose of this course is to introduce Project to users and to teach them the features they need to learn in order to successfully be able to use this software for small or large projects and#8211; or any size between. Microsoft Project 2007 is a large software program and can seem complex to someone who has never used it before or has limited experience. However, the basics of the program are easy to learn and, once you've learned the basics, mastering the advanced techniques becomes quick and simple. It's safe to say that this program can easily become a project manager's best friend because it makes the hard work and headaches of managing a large project a lot easier. Whether or not you've used a version of Project before, this course starts out with the basics so you're never left stumbling and confused. In the beginning, you'll learn how to navigate through so the look and feel becomes familiar. Then, we'll move on to the features and teach you how to apply each feature to your projects. When you're finished with this course, you will have the skills to use Microsoft Project 2007 to assist you in managing all your projects. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550333.htm Thu, 1 Apr 2010 10:59:16 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Starting and operating a business is a minefield of rules and regulations. The regulations set in the moment you decide to start your own business. You need to get licenses and permits from the authorities. There are restrictions on the type of business you can operate in a neighborhood. Tax and employee regulations are perhaps the most strictly enforced regulations. Non-compliance can even lead to cancellation of the business license and at times, imprisonment. This course will guide you on the main requirements of the regulations so that a business can develop a strategy for compliance. This course will also provide guides on how to protect the intellectual property of the business , the types of insurance a business must generally have in place, and sources of funding. Every business has its own assets. You must know how to protect the assets of your business, such as: registering the intellectual property right of the business with the appropriate authorities; insuring the business against losses; growing your business with funding. Find out what you need to know so that you can focus on making your business successful. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550083.htm Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:25:11 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business 'It's surprising how much of a memory is built around things unnoticed at the time.' - Barbara Kingsolver, novelist Memory is one of the most basic and important functions of the human brain. In fact, without memory we can't learn. Most people think of memory as how we recall past events, but it is also the building blocks for almost everything we do in the present and future. Our memories provide us with a sense of our own personality and give us the information we need to function properly in the everyday world. Communication, problem solving and relationships all rely to some extent on memories that we use to inform us as we take action. Of course, our brains can't remember everything. Brains simply don't have the capacity; if they tried to remember everything we experienced, there wouldn't be room for anything else. Involuntary muscle function, thought processes, the senses and numerous other activities would be crowded out. There are dozens of variables that affect how much we remember, how long we retain it and whether we can recall it. Fortunately, we can learn ways to improve how much we remember and enhance how long we remember it. This course will explain how memory works, and will also cover these topics: - Strategies to improve Memory - Peg Memory Systems - The Loci Method - Memorizing Numbers - Mnemonics - SCAD: Learning to Become an 'Expert Witness' - Faces and Names - Powerful Public Speaking - Everyday Memory Aids The class is self-paced and you can take it when it fits your schedule. So why not join and learn how to maintain a healthy memory and learn some memory improvement strategies! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550096.htm Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Dealing with a difficult or toxic personality can be damaging both emotionally and physically, particularly if the person is your boss or sitting in the cubicle right next to you. Confronting those who compromise your comfort and job security can be very difficult for many people, but standing up for yourself is essential in the workplace. If you can't stop thinking about a problem with someone at work- be it a bullying boss, a subversive coworker, or a sexist client- it's important to know that you can take control of the situation. This class will allow students to explore what feeds these kinds of behaviors, ways to address these situations, and when to call for outside assistance. In 11 easy to follow lessons, students will learn to identify various types of difficult personalities and address conflict before it begins to chip away at their well-being and job satisfaction. Course material includes: An overview of your rights in the workplace Simple tips for reducing stress on the job Establishing boundaries Effective collaboration Conflict resolution Interpreting body language Coping with aggressive behavior Dealing with critics and power freaks Working with slackers and energy vampires Avoiding the gossip mill Gender differences in the workplace What to do when prejudice rears its ugly head Standing up to a bullying boss http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550249.htm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:57:40 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Preparing for your job interview could very well be one of the most important moments of your career. Landing the perfect job can be a challenge, but with the determination and passion you will need to begin a successful career, you can easily overcome this challenge, and bring a lot of valuable experience with you to the next interview if you don't get the job. Just a little preparation and thought ahead of time can have wondrous effects on your interviewing skills. This course will go over the issues and provide an in-depth analysis of the interviewing process. With some independent practice, this course can help you prepare successfully for any job interview! Topics will include: Common Interview Questions What Employers Want Attitude and Effort Body Language Research The Mock Interview Phone Interviews Behavioral Interviews Closing the Interview Thank You Notes http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550092.htm Mon, 5 Jan 2009 13:42:09 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Whether you are seeking to raise funds for your non-profit group, a worthy charity, political or religious organization, your local school or to provide community specific aid, this detailed course will provide you with everything you need to know about the basics of fundraising. Although Fundraising 101 is geared towards the novice, even those with past fundraising experience will find useful ideas and the latest information. Fundraising is a fulfilling and worthwhile endeavor, it can also be overwhelming and confusing if you are not sure where to start or how to stay on track. With the magnitude of charities out there soliciting funds from givers it also becomes a difficult task to make your own group stand out from the others. Convincing potential contributors to rally to your cause requires the efforts of several dedicated individuals and substantial organization long before you ever ask that defining question--'Would you please help with your donation?' Making full use of this course in its entirety is the first step in turning the dreaded response ' I gave at the office,' into the much desired 'Sure, I can donate!' http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32862.htm Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Finding quality daycare these days is not always easy. Working parents are constantly seeking educated and experienced childcare providers to meet the needs of their children. There has been and always will be a need for home daycare settings for children, and for those willing to start a home daycare business, there is already an existing market waiting for your services. Creating a safe, stimulating, and caring environment for children is one of the most important aspects of starting a home daycare business. Becoming a childcare professional requires a little bit of research, the ability to obtain adequate licensing, and the capability of learning how to run and operate a business from your home. This course provides individuals with the basics necessary to start a home daycare business - from defining your aptitudes, motivations, and capabilities to the necessary legal requirements involved in starting a home daycare business. This course will help interested individuals learn about training, insurance, startup needs and costs as well as the need to assess what age groups might be best suited to your personality. From setting ground rules to dealing with parents and providing nutritious meals and stimulating activities for children of all ages, this home daycare business course will take you through every step of the process to ensure your success. From learning about first aid training to dealing with behavior problems and difficult parents, students of this home daycare business course will learn how to start, maintain and grow their business step by step. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550140.htm Sun, 25 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Today's businesses, both new and established, are desperately in need of administrative type assistance at an affordable rate. They need versatility in the services performed and flexibility in the way the services are performed. If you have a career as an administrative assistant or executive assistant and would like to break out into your own business, there has never been a better time to do so. This Virtual Assistant course is designed to walk you through the process of preparing for a business of your own, upstarting your own business and transitioning into a successful VA business. You will learn how to research, what to research, how to target your market, how to make your VA business a boutique shop that caters to a particular industry or a general office that caters to all, how to grow you business and so much more. This course and some planning will position you to upstart your new business as quickly as possible. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550341.htm Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Whether a full-time mom, a young business person or simply someone looking to build a growing and viable business, an errand service is ideal for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Small upstart dollars, flexibility and a growing industry are just some of the benefits to this business. This course will help you to get the upstart information under your belt necessary for starting your own personal concierge service. You will gain practical business knowledge, insights into what is driving this new industry, information on how to best position yourself within it, how to market yourself and much more. You will learn what to do to make yourself stand out in the crowd and how to grow your new business. The business is ideal for stay at home mothers, part-time artists and others who want a different pace to their livelihood. A personal errand service can be started with relatively small capital and can be expanded to your personal comfort level and in your timing. And remember, if you run your service as a business, then you will eventually expand it, eventually hire others to do the daily errands that you begin doing, and eventually become truly an executive of your own business. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550099.htm Mon, 8 Sep 2008 10:19:51 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Legal questions come up regularly in our daily lives and the language of law is everywhere. Legal Terminology 101 is a comprehensive guide to the language of the legal system. If you're planning on purchasing a house, involved in a landlord-tenant dispute, making a will, buying a car, getting health insurance, applying for a credit card or hiring a lawyer then understanding the terminology of the contracts, forms and systems is vital for a successful outcome. This course is ideal for anyone wanting to quickly and easily learn common legal terms. Each of the self-paced lessons includes sound files so you can hear the pronunciation immediately. Whether you're a homemaker or a student or looking for work in the legal or business world this course will help you learn a new language the 'legal language' . http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32170.htm Thu, 15 Feb 2007 16:55:54 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Diversity training is not a new concept, but one that many organizations have been implementing into their training programs. The idea is that when employees are exposed to a variety of different cultures, individuals with different sexual preferences and people with various personalities, conflict may occur. Diversity training is designed to assist people in dealing with these various situations so that civil rights violations do not occur. Diversity training has been utilized in the workplace for quite some time, but often under different names such as: Race Relations Training Cross-Cultural Training Multicultural Education Diversity extends far beyond race relations in the workplace. It is not only the acceptance of people of color that upper management and CEOs are worried about, it's the acceptance of women, homosexuals and even aging individuals in the workplace. Although there are often several complaints that exist due to the diversification in employees who are hired, such as older employees don't feel as though things work as smoothly as they used to; white males complain about being overlooked for promotions; work isn't as much fun with all of the sexual harassment laws and the many other complaints that people can come up with when presented with a diverse workplace. However, diversification ensures that with properly managed employees and managers in leadership positions, the business can do nothing but grow when they expand the personalities, the racial backgrounds and the genders in the workplace. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550245.htm Tue, 29 Jun 2010 19:41:44 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Good customer service is not about satisfying the cu stomer, it is about 'wowing' the customer! It's about making the customer walk in, do business, and walk out again absolutely stunned that their transaction was so enjoyable. Customer service is a crucial buzzword in the corporate world today. Just about every company seems to understand just how important customer service is and many have started to find ways to improve and measure customer service. In this course we are going to look at what customer service is and isn't and identify how you can understand and provide good customer service. Many businesses want to achieve 'good customer service'. Right now that's the brass ring of business training and vision-casting and many companies are analyzing their current mission and realigning it to be increasingly customer-focused. Do you give return business to a company that provides poor customer service support? Probably not! You and everyone else want better customer service, and it's one of the driving forces of why consumers shop at one place and not another. This course will show you and your employees how to give not just 'good' or 'average' service but great customer service. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31686.htm Wed, 24 Oct 2007 17:12:53 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Speaking in front of a group of people is one of the most common fears people experience. In fact, it may be more feared than death...or even spiders . Yet being able to present ourselves, our companies, our ideas and products to others is one of the most essential skills to have in life. The ability to communicate our ideas effectively helps other people catch our enthusiasm--and without that enthusiasm and support of others, many great projects would never get off the ground. During the course of this training, we will discuss exactly what a presentation is and how improving your public speaking skills can positively influence many different aspects of your life. We will talk about understanding the situation at hand, knowing your audience, and believing in your subject matter. Then, we will present strategies for researching, organizing, and developing your presentation. We'll also discuss some techniques to help you deliver a confident presentation and review what you can do in the future to improve your presentations skills for the long-term, making each future presentation you do, easier on you and more rewarding for those attending. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550101.htm Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts How to Build Your Own Business Introduction to Business Management The world of business management offers an array of career opportunities unparalleled among income earning possibilities. Industries from mining to waste disposal have management-level positions in many companies. Business management requires a combination of skills and knowledge, coupled with good judgment and leadership qualities. There are several fundamental aspects of operating a business and#8211; whether you run your own small business or hold a management position in a national corporation and#8211; that a manager should be aware of. Our course takes you through some of the various requirements you may encounter while managing a business. We begin by examining the various disciplines and levels in business management and give you hints on how to get a management job in your company. In lesson 2 we cover areas of financial management such as types of capital, debt and equity financing alternatives, a business plan and a budget. Lesson 3 deals with legal and regulatory compliance issues. Human resources and personnel issues are discussed in Lesson 4. Sales management fundamentals and#8211; the sales cycle, customer relationships and pricing and#8211; make up lesson 5. We examine the marketing functions (lesson 6) right after sales functions because the two disciplines work hand-in-hand to drive business. Lesson 7 covers some key accounting principles and practices. Inventory control techniques make up Lesson 8, focusing on the role of inventory control, the processes involved and control mechanisms used. Lesson 9 'Taxes and Your Business Organization' delves into types of organization and some key business tax requirements. Order fulfillment follows the purchase from sales inquiry to delivery in Lesson 10, and explains how fulfillment is important to customer relationships. We finish with lesson 11 explaining the importance and function of information technology. Once completed, you will have a basic understanding of how to manage a business. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550322.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Every time you trade an item, attend a sporting event or buy a soda, you enter the world of contracting. When an exchange is made willingly a contract exists. But do you know how US law interprets and enforces contracts? We've designed an introductory course to help you understand the components, processes, and legal impacts of contracts. This 11-lesson course will take a broad, yet detailed view of contract law in the United States. In this course we will begin by examining contract basics by explaining what a contract is and the various contract types. Key elements to most contracts are covered , along with an explanation of how US law governs contractual activity. We'll discuss enforcement and dispute resolution options, and the three critical requirements of a contract and#8211; offer, consideration and acceptance. We will explain who can enter a contract, how to approach negotiation and designing a written contract. This course will also examine unfair and improper contracts that could be challenged; focus on contract termination, covering breach, voiding and rescission claims; and provide details on special contract situations, including real estate, financing and social contracts. We conclude with an examination of contract law governing Internet use. When completed, each student will gain an edge when buying a car or home, getting a job, and handling everyday agreements. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550180.htm Sun, 5 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business The idea of running one's own business is the dream of hundreds of thousands of Americans. The reasons for opening your own business are myriad; to be your own boss, to set your own hours, to do what you want to do, to provide a product or service where you perceive a need, to follow your passion. Any one of these reasons are good ones for opening your own business. There are really only a few real reasons for not just jumping into the process and opening your doors to new customers and your heart to an entirely new and wonderful way of life. The biggest reason is fear; fear based on lack of information. When you do not know how to do something, there is underlying fear that it will likely be done wrong. In order to tackle your fear, you need knowledge and that is what this course on Retail Business will give you. By going through Retail Business you will discover whether or not you have the true entrepreneurial spirit to leave the corporate world and all that goes with it, and enter into your new world of Business Owner. The beauty of being a business owner is that you will never be bored, you will spend time doing the things that you love, and perhaps even with the people you love if you decide to join forces. This course will take you through the lists of things that you need to do or consider before you open your doors. Once you have completed the course, you will have enough information to decide whether or not business ownership is for you. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550124.htm Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:07:23 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Learn the basics of Employment Law , the potential pitfalls, and ways to keep yourself out of court so that you can grow your business by hiring, evaluating, and managing employees. This course will discuss all the necessary information you need to know about employees and independent consultants, what benefits you are responsible for, taxes, discrimination issues, unionization, and workplace safety. You will learn the ins and outs of how to advertise a job position, and how to effectively interview so that your hiring process goes smoothly. Learn good evaluation techniques and how to resolve problems before they become really big issues. However, not everyone is in the right place, and you may have to terminate someone from your employment, and this class will help you to do it the right way. Employment laws are both at the federal and state levels and every business owner is responsible for them. While this course is NOT a replacement for knowing and understanding the employment laws that affect your business, this course will reveal the most common employment laws and how they can affect the way you do business. This course is a must for anyone who wishes to learn how to be an effective employer, supervisor, or manager and will be of benefit to any small business owner or a corporate executive, manager, supervisor, or human resource specialist. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550199.htm Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Business ethics is an important part of any industry. Students or managers, unfamiliar with many ethical challenges, behaviors, or regulations will find themselves struggling in business industries that include finance, accounting or human resource management, marketing and retail. Today's managers must necessarily concern themselves with ethical issues, because unethical behavior creates legal risks and damage to businesses as well as employees and consumers. Business ethics have become an integral part of business education in general. A student or manager who is well-versed in ethical behavior in practices, not only in the domestic market but internationally, will find him or herself better prepared to deal with issues or situations that may arise that don't always involve easy answers or decisions. Each one of us, from the individual consumer to the CEO of an international corporation, is affected in some way by business ethics during the course of his or her life. Therefore, everyone has a stake in the ramifications resulting from unethical business decisions. This business ethics course offers an introduction into the concept of values, morality, as well as cultural beliefs and upbringing in all areas of business, from consumer rights to corporate social responsibility. Decisions made by shift managers or corporate presidents may affect thousands of individuals or entire communities. Consumers today expect and demand integrity, honesty, and transparency in all levels of their environment. Understanding those expectations is the key to communicating core values and behavior not only to employees, but society in general. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550323.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Conflict Resolution: In the Workplace and Beyond Did you know that a little conflict in your office today can shut down your entire operation tomorrow? That is no exaggeration! Workplace conflict costs. It starts by reducing productivity and employee health. It will finish your business by reducing customer loyalty and profitability. In this self-paced course you will learn how you can avoid conflict from developing, and methods you can use to resolve conflicts that are occurring and affecting your workplace. Animosity. Dissent. Anger. Frustration. Rage. Disagreements. Differences of opinion. Yelling. Personal attack. Vindictiveness. Conflict. They make great TV but a terrible work environment. Enroll today and learn how to put a stop to it now. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550238.htm Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business We live in world where communication is paramount to survival. In a work environment where communication is equated with the professionalism and efficiency of an individual, would you jeopardize your career because of bad writing? Do you want the embarrassment of sending out a poorly written email to your peers? Can you risk sending out badly written communications to customers and putting your company's reputation on the line? Of course not, no one aspires to be a bad writer. No one wants to communicate badly. This crash course in business communication may help remedy your writing woes. From the basic do's and don'ts of business communication to the nitty-gritty of formatting, punctuation, tone and language--this course covers all the fundamentals. As a one stop guide to a professional's writing career, the class is ideal for assistants, secretaries, executives, managers, and senior managers of any company or organization. Learn about the common mistakes we make when writing a business letter. Learn how often people mistake 'affect' for 'effect', and 'except' for 'accept'. Learn about how to write business emails. This course will also give you insights into your reader's mind. Who are they? What do they want? How can you effectively reach out to them? So join us today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550413.htm Thu, 15 Jan 2009 05:15:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business The idea of leadership is one that seems to constantly change. What was once valued in a leader in past centuries, is no longer valued in our modern era. So then, how do we define leadership? And is leadership the same as supervision ? In this Leadership and Supervision course, you will learn not only what makes a great leader, but how a person's attributes and skills can affect their leadership abilities. We will also address the roles of problem solving and planning in the scope of leadership, as well as define the role supervision plays in leadership (and vice versa). This course features several historical examples of real-life leaders and how their skills were able to cement their place in history as some of history's greatest leaders. All the leaders are addressed in-depth to give those taking this course a practical example to base their own leadership traits. For anyone who thinks they may be a leader, and for all of those who want to be one, this course will give you a practical guide to becoming a powerful and respected leader. At the end of this course, you'll be able to apply what you have learned in a final exam that can show you if you have what it takes to be a leader that history will remember. So...what kind of leader are you? And what can you do to improve upon your leadership skills? Join us today, and let's find out. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550075.htm Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business 'Accounting and Bookkeeping 101 for Everyone' is a course that covers the fundamentals of accounting with the newcomer in mind. Accounting is more than just memorizing terms and procedures; it's a whole new way of thinking about finances. This course assumes students have no prior knowledge about accounting or finance, and delivers lessons and examples to build accounting skills. Specifically, this class addresses accounting terminology, revenue, expenses, net income, the accounting equation, debits, credits, and balancing the accounting formula, the accounting structure, the accounting cycle, journals, ledgers, the trial balance and more. It also guides students to learn how to read financial statements properly, and how to grab meaningful information from the balance sheet, income statements and cash flow statements. After completing this course, you will have a solid understanding of accounting in today's world. By applying the concepts learned in this course, you will understand the processes behind Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, you will understand how and why financial transactions are documented, you will know what cash flow is and how to improve it, you will know what profit is, how it's interpreted, and what influences its growth. Moreover, you will know where the money in the company you work for, or own, goes. Learn accounting now and achieve a skill that is an invaluable (if not required) asset to your professional development. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550309.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Wedding Planning/Consulting and Directing is a fun and fast growing industry. Every day people are in need of assistance in planning their special day. This course will cover every aspect of wedding planning from the definition of a wedding planner all the way to directing the Wedding Day Events. If you are serious about starting a new career as a Wedding Planner/Consultant then this class is a must. I am the owner of a successful Wedding/Event Company and author of The Little Wedding Handbook for Brides and Grooms. Don't fall for other classes written by someone just getting into the industry or spend money uselessly on a seminar when you can get everything you need right here. I will tell you the ins and outs of wedding planning and what it takes to be a successful wedding business owner. You will learn the secrets of trade shows, how to deal with hostile and diverse clients, creating a budget for every wedding, how to get your client to sign on with your company, getting your business up and running successfully and legally, and so much more. You will get experience in creating your business forms to making your company successful, choosing what works for you in dealing with clients in your locale, dressing for different types of weddings, working with wedding/event vendors in your area, growing your business, and becoming a well known Wedding Consultant in your area. You will even get the opportunity to plan an event!!!! We will even cover where Bridal Consultants go to continue their education in this ever growing industry. The associations that you definitely need to be in and what to do to insure your clientele will continue to grow and prosper. Start today and be on your way to a new career in the Wedding/Bridal Industry! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/6950.htm Thu, 20 Feb 2003 18:19:21 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Retirement for many of us can already be a fact of life. For others, it is looming on the horizon and the closer we get the more uneasy we feel about that next step. We are filled with questions about just how we will pay for our retirement. What will it cost? How much will you get from Social Security? What if you do not wish to quit working entirely, but are being forced into retirement by your company? Are you ready for retirement emotionally? There are many questions about retirement, mainly because retirement is now considered a phase of our lives rather than a couple years spent marking time after we stop working. The latest statistics indicate that most people who retire today can look forward to decades of time spent in retirement, and with that much time on our hands, it is imperative that we plan carefully. We need to develop a financial plan. We need to develop a health and exercise plan. We need to develop and emotional and social support plan. This online class will address a number of these issues and give you a place to start. Financial concerns regarding IRA's, insurance, and what you should do with your house will be addressed. Specific health recommendations will be made to maximize your physical condition during retirement. And what about your social and family relationships? Most of us have allowed these very important relationships to lapse when our happiness during retirement is actually based on them. Finally, we will talk about how to prepare for retirement and what you will do with your time. There are many of us who really wanted to do something else with our lives. Once you retire from your 'real' job, you may be very pleasantly surprised to realize that you can now finally pursue the life of your dreams. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550163.htm Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Marketing a company's products and services to potential and existing customers is not only necessary, but a key ingredient to growing sales. Outreach marketing is the facet of marketing in which a company representative actively seeks out potential leads by meeting with local businesses or the public, speaking at local events, or getting involved with the local chamber of commerce. By networking and creating a lead base you are opening doors for your business and others. You need not spend an immense amount of money all the time to market your products and services, but by working smarter, and connecting with the right people you can generate business and that is priceless. Marketing in a sense is building relationships, and through those relationships you can gain viable resources that will contribute to your success. In this course you will learn how to increase business sales. Topics covered include: Outreach Marketing for Your Business Type, How Outreach Marketing Can Drive Sales, Approaching Outreach Marketing Contacts for the First Time, Follow Up and Maintaining a Rapport, Marketing and Advertising Working Together, Incorporating a Referral Program into Your Marketing Plan, Outreach Marketing Via Online Sources, Tracking Outreach Marketing Success, and Other Marketing Successes. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550171.htm Mon, 5 Jan 2009 13:44:20 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Team Management Is -- Designing and Developing a Team Committed to a Common Purpose 'No man will ever make a great leader who wants to do it all by himself or to get all the credit for doing it.' (Andrew Carnegie) 'Managing' used to be just telling people what to do and getting merchandise out the door. But as time marched on, workplace conditions changed again and again -- and workplace complications paralleled the pace of these changes. Today's working world requires much more of the average supervisor or manager than simply setting goals backed up by ultimatums. Managers need to be team leaders. They need to understand and accommodate their employees' different working styles and personalities. In a team oriented atmosphere, individuals contribute to the overall success of an organization while working with other team members to attain the objectives of the team and organization as a whole. A team is not just a collection of individuals. It is so much more. The total 'team' being far greater than the sum of its parts. A properly developed and managed team synergistically harnesses its individual members' talents, experience and energies. It really is the together part that makes a great team. For example: R Teams intensify focus on the task at hand R Teams do work that ordinary workgroups can't do. R Teams make better use of resources. They are a way for an organization to focus its most important resource, its brainpower, directly on its problems. R Teams mean improved production. As they straddle all the functions contributing to a process, teams naturally understand all steps needed to improve production. Join our insightful Team Management in Business course today! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550168.htm Sat, 7 Mar 2009 10:20:26 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Public relations can contribute immensely to the success of a business large or small. In short, it is a message, an image, a story or a brand, that is vital to communicate and can grow a business. A solid and well thought out public relations plan can bring awareness to a company's products and services. But can also provide a wealth of exposure that is necessary to keep a business alive. Not only can public relations be your number one fan, it can provide low cost or no cost advertising that is easy on a budget. The role that public relations will play for your particular business, or organization will depend on your goals and what you intend to accomplish. In a marketing plan there are four major components a. public relations b. marketing, c. advertising and d. selling. These are four distinct areas that are interrelated but play unique roles. While we will briefly touch on the relationships of each and how they affect one another, this course will primarily focus on the Public Relations actions your business can take that can contribute to business success. Topics will include: Tools for Public Relations, Your Message, Your Story and What You are Trying to Accomplish Using the Internet, Putting Together a PR Plan, Sample Press Releases, and the Importance of a Media List and Media Relationships, Reaching Your Audience, Events that Draw Press, and Media Attention, Avoiding Bad Customer Service Can Mean Avoiding Bad Press, The Role That Marketing Plays in Your Business http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550174.htm Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business ~Part Lender, Part Real Estate Aficionado~ In this course we will discover the workings of mortgage bankers/broker specialists and the unique role they play in partnering with individuals when they make one of the most important purchases of their entire lives--that of buying property. While somewhat technical, the training to become a mortgage banker/broker entails a good amount of knowledge in such areas of lending as: mortgage types, interest rate structures, and matching loan instruments to individuals based upon the nature of their personal financial situations. To assess whether an individual would make a good mortgage loan candidate, mortgage bankers/brokers spend a great deal of time evaluating clients' credit backgrounds, income statements and additional financial factors. Further, with new onuses in place whereby bankers/brokers are being required to critically analyze an individual's credit background prior to granting him/her a mortgage loan, it is more important than ever, that there be well-qualified mortgage bankers/brokers helping consumers navigate through the home finance lending process. And with the help of this Mortgage Banker/Broker course, we have gone to great lengths to familiarize you with the major tenets with which a mortgage banker needs to be well acquainted from credit applications and pre mortgage loan approvals to interest rate fluctuations and subprime markets. And in light of the current US economic crisis, it is very important for mortgage bankers/brokers to be fully up not only on the regulations and legislations affecting the mortgage industry but also on the steps clients can take to avoid negative pitfalls and reduce unnecessary costs. Hence, as you explore the career options that exist within the mortgage lending field, we believe you will find this cross-section of mortgage-related tools, steps, and activities to be both helpful and applicable to the daily work performed by bankers/brokers. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550183.htm Sun, 5 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Estate planning was once a buzz phrase reserved only for the wealthy. However, today many people are beginning to realize that estate planning is important for everyone. Anyone who has assets, no matter how small or wants their medical wishes carried out should have an estate plan. If you have no easily identifiable heirs, the lack of a proper estate plan and/or will could result in all your property ending up in the hands of the government rather than in the hands of those you designate. Your life insurance policy may clearly assign the beneficiaries of that money, but it does not account for the other assets you may have, including cash, your home, real estate, car, bank accounts, valuable collections and other belongings. Without a proper estate plan you could be kept on life support indefinitely, or be forced to endure painful life saving procedures that would only serve to prolong a debilitating terminal illness. Some find the idea of estate planning morbid or negative and prefer to ignore it rather than think about it, but this is simply avoidance of the facts of life. Others take a 'lets just get it over with' approach to estate planning; this is also not recommended because errors could be made when creating a 'rushed' plan. It is wise to put a well thought out estate plan in place that you feel confident about, put it aside, and get about the business of living and enjoying your life. It will give you peace of mind to know that when the time comes your assets will be distributed as you desire and your medical wishes will be carried out in accordance with your beliefs. Creating a simple estate plan is much easier than you think and can be done in a relatively short period of time, if you know how. This course will teach you how. You will be given information on particulars of estate planning such as how-to properly plan for the future distribution of your assets, how-to establish a power of attorney, create a Will in Testament and prepare a Living Will. This course will also cover trust funds, how best to incorporate charitable giving into your plan and how-to take proper inventory of the assets you have now. Lastly, there is a lesson for singles and their special requirements. Making full use of this course, in its entirety, is the first step in setting your future affairs in place so that you may fully focus on enjoying your life to the fullest. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550178.htm Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business There are many aspects that need to be covered when running a successful business. One of the most important aspects in any business is of course, payroll management. The members of the business involved in payroll management have unique responsibilities to ensure that the business operations can maintain momentum. In essence, the payroll management team is at the heart of any business. While managing the payroll may seem easy enough, it is actually a complicated process involving finance and record keeping. Payroll Management 101 provides you with the information and guidance to become a key member of the payroll management team. The curriculum is designed to give an overview of all the core skills you will be required to attain in an easy to read manner. Most importantly, Payroll Management 101 provides you with the tools to quickly start using your new vocational skills in an operational environment. By covering the topics contained in Payroll Management 101, you can be assured that you will have the necessary skills and abilities to tackle just about any payroll projects you are assigned. The course has been designed to assist not only people involved solely in payroll management, but also for small business owners, and business people looking to get the edge over their competitors. Written for both seasoned professionals and business newcomers Payroll Management 101 is sure to provide you with all you need to know. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550184.htm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:05:26 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Today's business marketing efforts require an internet presence, an active campaign and a steady attention to the details of your company's internet marketing efforts. Don't let your company get left behind in the marketplace of ideas and sales. UniversalClassand#8482; offers this terrific introductory course to internet marketing to help you get up to speed on this important and detailed topic. You don't have to be a computer genius to make internet marketing work for your company, and you don't have to spend a boat load of marketing dollars to have a decent online presence. This course will help you to easily understand the importance of such things as your company's email marketing list, search engine advertising and blogs. You will gain an understanding of how to make your B2B relationships help you to build an increased internet presence and how such relationships help to build your online marketing efforts. You will walk away from this course with a working knowledge of how to plug your company into social networks, e-books and Adwords. You will know how to implement full SEO for your company's site; what to pay for and where to find good help with it. You will learn how to carve out an internet niche for your company and why that is important to your online success. This course covers these basics along with link exchanges, expanding business relationships, using your personal network to expand your internet marketing, details and#8211; important details, and so much more. So, relax, learn and know that at the end of the course you will no longer be intimidated by the technicalities of the web and its marketing avenues; indeed, you will be ready to plunge your company forward into this important marketplace of 21 st century capitalism. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550188.htm Mon, 1 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business This course focuses on workplace safety, health, and inspection. Throughout this course you will learn what workplace safety is, why it is important and how it affects a business. Common areas of workplace safety are discussed, including office safety, workplace hazards, and other areas. Additionally, you will learn preventative measures to help create a safer work environment which will benefit everyone. We will also deal with mental health issues, workplace violence, health and wellness initiatives, and drug free workplaces. You will also learn the ins and outs of conducting a routine inspection, filing reports, and the importance of creating a workplace safety committee. Tips, lists, suggestions, and helpful tools will be provided so by the time you finish this course you will have a thorough understanding of what is involved in workplace safety and how to create a safer and healthier work environment. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550195.htm Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Whether you are already running a business, have yet to start one or have been hired to support a business owner, it is important to know the basics of the business administrative process. This course will trace a path through the inception, setup and growth of a typical business. It is separated into three sections: Getting Started, Setup/Administrative and Growing Your Business. Each section has valuable information including: creating a business name, whether or not to write a business plan, office supply lists, checklists and much more. So, no matter what part you play, by the end, you should have a firm grasp of what it takes to start, run and grow a business. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550321.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business How can you make a significant difference in your organization? One way is to be part of a project that improves the company's performance or launches it in a new direction. The business analyst (BA) plays a key role in the development and execution of company projects. Maybe it's a new product launch or a change to a more efficient software package. The BA is responsible for gathering input, analyzing the needs of the project, documenting the criteria to be met, sharing information among project team members and presenting findings to company executives. This course will provide a solid foundation for a career in business analysis. We explore the strategy, phases, components and process a BA uses to develop a project. From conducting an enterprise analysis to assessing the solution's implementation, you will learn the basics of how to manage the process and determine the appropriate parties to be involved. We look at project requirements (the needs that must be fulfilled to complete the initiative), how to develop a communications plan, distributing work responsibilities, creating a business model and more. The course finishes with a discussion about tasks that the BA encounters when the solution is put into place. When you are finished, you'll have a broad understanding that can launch your career in business analysis. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550320.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Managerial accounting is not as widely used as other forms of accounting, nor is it as known. While companies concern themselves with financial accounting methods like audits, budgets and financial statements, they often completely ignore the forward-thinking methods of managerial accounting. Managerial accounting is a form of accounting that deals not only with financial information, but information that is not always easy to quantify into numbers and reports. Things like employee performance, efficiency, product rates and customer satisfaction stats are all things that managerial accountants deal with. They take that information and put it into reports that are easy for managers to understand. By doing this, managerial accountants help managers make the important decisions to turn the company in a new direction, or help it continue on as a profitable and respected organization. Financial accounting looks at the company as a whole. The net profit of the company, the revenue and expenses of the company and more. It does not look at the parts that make up the whole. This is what managerial accounting does. It takes the company and breaks it into parts that can be studied and analyzed. Maybe one department is bringing down the rest like a lead weight attached to a strong chain. If this is happening, the methods of managerial accounting will find it and that will help managers take the information and use it to make the company better and more efficient as a result. Managerial accounting is not new, but it is revolutionary and despite originating over 100 years ago, companies are only now realizing the true power of this amazing form of company management. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550324.htm Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Business Credit 101 provides potential and current business owners with the necessary knowledge to successfully use credit within their business. There are many reasons why business operators rely on credit to maximize their business potential, but it is necessary to have an insight into the business credit arena to ensure that business credit is used effectively. This course takes you through the basics of business credit giving you an opportunity to understand what business credit is, how to obtain business credit, the best type of business credit and even explores the taxation aspects of business credit. Business Credit 101 will provide aspiring and current business owners the necessary knowledge to effectively manage their business credit and financial needs. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550203.htm Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:52:38 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business If you have ever dreamed of being a freelance writer this course is for you. Get started today learning about this exciting field and in no time you can be on your way to earning a living, extra income, and more, by doing something that you love and#8211; writing! Chock-full of all the inside information you need to understand the career field and be successful in it, this course can teach you what freelancing writing is, how much you can expect to make, how to find markets, creating successful queries, what to do once you get an assignment, and how to market your skills. You will also learn some of the tools of the trade that will help you be successful, such as how to build a portfolio, where to get ideas and topics from, common writing rules that are outdated, and various ways you can increase your earnings as a writer. This course will not only give you a look at everything you need to know to become a freelance writer, but when you finish, you will be ready to put what you learn into action to build a freelance writing career. Whether you would like to freelance on a full time basis, do it to supplement your current income, or learn freelance writing skills to get your product or service noticed, this is the place to start! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550289.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business There you are, cold-calling yet another sales prospect. Your verbal pitch is pure gold; your prospect is attentive--interested--and seems ready to buy. But just as you're about to close the deal, you hear that eternal refrain: ' Send me something in writing!' And the line goes dead. What do you do now? Oh, we're so glad you askedand#8230; This SALES, MARKETING and ADVERTISING WRITING course will demonstrate that virtually every sale depends on the written wordand#8230;ranging from a three-word caption in a movie poster, to a multi-page booklet that covers every conceivable aspect of a product. It will also demonstrate that when used properly, the written word can be your least expensive yet hardest-working employee, willing to work in any number of formats to bring in millions in revenue. When used improperlyand#8230; or not used at alland#8230;the written word can cost you millions. The ability to write all three subjects effectively is crucial to success in any businessand#8230;and, in fact, life itselfand#8230;for what is a resume if not an and#8216;advertisement' for oneself? While Sales, Marketing, and Advertising are often considered separate entities within the business world, they do in fact influence each other, and are dependent on each other. Without properly written Marketing materials, crucial time and resources are lost as a product or service is presented to the wrong consumersand#8230;.or the right consumers in the wrong manner. Without effective Advertising copy, consumers are oblivious to the product or service's existenceand#8230;or, worse, notice it in a negative light. A savvy sales professional may be able to initiate a sale through mere spoken words, but without well-written sales materials to back them up, such sales will be few, and the company and#8216;dies on the vine' for lack of income. Proper business writing can, and should, combine these three elements. But since these three crucial business elements tend to flow sequentially--a product or service is marketed, then advertised, then sold--the course will duplicate this and#8216;flow', with examples of marketing writing, advertising copy, and sales materials. We will define each element and its influence and dependence on the others, then demonstrate its place in the business cycle. We will show you the words to use, and as many formats as possible. Mastery of these three elements of business writing will ensure you're a creative employee that your company can't afford to lose, or will ensure that your own business soars to the top. It can also enhance your life in other ways--the properly written and#8216;personal ad' might just catch the attention of and#8216;Mr. or Ms. Right'! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550287.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Can you predict which direction corn prices will go? Are you the type of person who enjoys taking risks? Do you want to be a part of an often fast-paced, emotional environment? A career in futures trading can lead to a great income and a large bank account. You can trade with your own account or manage a portfolio for a group of clients. When trades go the right way, it can be one of the most exciting industries to be a part of. But it's not for everyone. There are significant financial risks, and trading without a firm knowledge of the marketplace can lead to a rapid loss of money. Not sure how it works? Well, if you're looking for a general understanding of the commodity and futures market, this course is for you. This course on Investing 201: Commodity Markets and Futures Trading is a comprehensive class that takes you through the history and regulations of the marketplace, how trading works, exchanges and trading participants, and trading strategies and systems. You'll learn the lingo and how to read a chart. When you complete the course, you'll have the knowledge to take the next steps in becoming a futures trader. If you think you have the patience to hold on while the market moves against you; if you can stomach a disappointing loss and move ahead with your trading strategy; if you have money to risk while you learn the ropes, then you may have the qualities to become a futures trader. Start by learning the basics with this informative course. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550212.htm Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Do you hear stirring speeches that inspire to go out and take to heart what the speaker was talking about? Do you wonder how some people can sell nearly anything simply by how they talk? If you do, then chances are you are wondering about being persuasive. Being persuasive is one of the greatest skills you can have, because a true master of persuasion can convince people to do nearly anything. Every great politician, army general, business leader and community organizer have been experts at persuasion because they have to inspire you to follow them. You too can be an expert at persuasion. In fact, you can learn to be an expert in the most difficult type of persuasion: written persuasion . Being an expert at written persuasion means you have the ability to convince people not with your verbal skills, but with your written skills. Whether it is a business proposal, letter to the editor, advertisement, or even an essay, you will have the ability thanks to this comprehensive online course on how to persuade people with your written words. By utilizing the tools within this Persuasive Writing Techniques class, you will find everything in your life increases, from your potential pay as you begin impressing bosses with your persuasive writing, to purchasing cars because you will know the persuasion tricks before they happen to you. Learning persuasion techniques can be one of the best skills you ever develop for yourself. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550210.htm Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Every small business owner or new entrepreneur knows that the success of their company will depend largely on the effectiveness of their sales team. After all, if you are not selling something, then you can hardly call yourself 'in business' since business is by definition an exchange of goods or services for money. The key to increasing your company's exchange with the buying world rests with your salespeople. Creating an effective sales team, however, is more than just wanting a good team or hiring strong personalities. In many ways it is an ongoing process and simultaneously a work of art in progress. A team that flows well together, serves the public and the company and is highly motivated for their own purposes is one that will perform and exceed your goals. But there is even more to it. In this course, you will learn how to conduct a staff search, how to screen your applicants for top selling personality traits, how to avoid character traps by looking for right attitudes and right thinking patterns, how to retain a top seller and much more. This course addresses generational and cultural concerns along with issues of sex in the workplace. We will cover issues of motivation which vary depending on personality and age as well as how to find the best and the brightest for your company. At the end of this course, you will know what to look for in top salespeople, how to recruit them and how to retain them. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550216.htm Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Today's consumers have a variety of options for shopping, obtaining services and getting the help they need. They can use catalogs, the mail, the Internet and face-to-face contact, yet telephone customer service is still the first choice for most customers when they have questions or a problem that needs to be resolved. In order to ensure your customers or clients are happy with the customer service they receive, it's even more important for you to provide exceptional customer service, including outstanding telephone service. Consumers expect better service than ever before, and the limitations of telephone communications don't exempt you from offering them the satisfaction and resolution they demand. This course focuses on honing outstanding telephone customer service skills in order to meet customer needs and presenting a professional, knowledgeable image that reflects well on your company. When you have finished this course, you will know everything you need to make your customers feel valued and satisfied even under the most difficult circumstances. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550225.htm Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:53:35 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Quality in a service or product is not what you put into it. It is what the client or customer gets out of it. (Peter Drucker) We are exposed to customer service (of one kind or another) at least once a day, every day of the week, fifty-two weeks of the year. There are times when individuals, organizations and companies take the provision of good service, and the people who deliver it, for granted. We should not and#8211; giving top quality Customer Service is an art form. Customers love and cherish companies that treat them the way they (the customer) want to be treated. People are now prepared to pay more for good service. So the providers of the good service and#8211; YOU and#8211; are gems beyond price these days. Whatever your reasons for considering this course, we can promise you that you will get even more than you might have thought from its contents. You will most likely pick up things you might not have considered before, or even been aware of and#8211; CRM for example! This course will focus on these topics: 1. A Customer Centered/Focused Organization How important is good customer service really? The evolution of Customer Service, TQM, Perceptions, The and#8216;Hot Button' of the and#8216;90s 2. Taking an honest look at your own customer service Your current customer service profile, Self-evaluation and#8211; honestly! How does your company rate? Protocols, How do you and your company deal with Feelings? 3. Your company's Customer Service focus In-focused, Customer-Focused, The 3 Basic Elements of Excellent Service, Are you friendly to customers? Customer Friendly Reflections, Expanding your understand of your Company's Definition of Service 4. Developing a Winning Customer Service Strategy What are your current Customer Service Strategies? Key Strategies , Top Down Approach, Actually using the Feedback you ask for, Know thyself and it shall be true! The creation of client centric practices, The sheer economic necessity of Top Customer Service 5. The 'Plus's' of exceptional Customer Service Critical success factors , Consistency, Criteria, Recognizing Excellence/Reward and Recognition Factors, Awareness, Education 6. The WOW Customer Service Training and Service Excellence The wisdom of choosing appropriate training, Brainstorming and Problem Solving Customer Service Enhancers, TIPS - The Coaching Approach, The Listen and Learn Approach 7. Which is the way to go: Surveys/Questionnaires, Interviews or Focus groups? Surveys, Questionnaires, Interviews, Focus Groups, Who should conduct or run them? Which one should you use? HOW TO prepare a Top Customer Service Survey 8. Acquiring Customers and Keeping Them Put yourself in the customers shoes, What does my customer actually want? Standards and#8211; making, measuring and managing, What you can measure you can manage, Reinventing your processes to suit the customer, Quality Groups What NOT to Do if you want to keep your customers 9. Those and#8216;Extras' and Miscellaneous Factors Body Language, It's How You Say It that really counts, Your computer isn't always your best friend, The differences between data and information, The 2 'E's' and#8211; Ethics and Espionage 10. When the Going Becomes Rough -- What to Do! When you need to say NO and how to say it! Seeing Red and Dealing with It! Take the Initiative and Bounce Back 11. Working in the World of the WEB! The Internet has changed the rules and HOW! Automating the personal touch? Clicking with your Customers, Developing Trust and Loyalty and#8211; online, Customer Acquisition, Some rules for staying on the road to Success with E-Commerce 12. CRM and#8211; It's not just an Option and#8211; It's here to STAY! Exactly what is CRM? Is it the Latest and Greatest? How do we use it? Automating the personal touch, Defining the technical requirements, Choosing the right CRM tools, The amazing power of CRM, The correct CRM program for you, What defines success with CRM? 13. Customer Service Management Options of the Future! People Orientated? Technology Orientated? Strategies, How to best organize Customer Service for the future http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550271.htm Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Imagine you're going on a tripand#8230;It sounds odd, but your journey to understanding, growing and maintaining personal finance starts with your imagination. That's not all it takes, but, by imagining, dreaming and believing, these intangibles will begin to take shape. Of course, you'll need tangible actions to achieve your results. After all, you can believe you want to go on a cruise, but until you step on the boat, you'll never get there. During this course, you'll learn the ins and outs of your individual financial journey in a fun and unique way--as a travel itinerary. You'll be provided with everything you need to understand your spending habits, chart your progress, grow your current savings and achieve your dreams. This course is broken up into three parts: Plan, Execute and Travel. Plan --maintain checking and savings accounts, create assessments in order to understand your financial standing and create a foundation for your financial standing, Execute -- manage debt, build and manage your credit score as well as balance accounts for future financial security--and finally, Travel --live your dream by generating wealth and controlling spending, making sound investments in stocks and bonds, and even begin starting and growing retirement accounts. These are your steps to financial freedom and you can achieve them all from within the comfort of your home. No matter where you are in your journey, by end of this course, you'll have a clear map to where you want to go and helpful hints to guide you along the way. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550469.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Six Sigma is a methodology of implementing a highly successful project, or producing a high quality product or service, using techniques and principles that ensure excellence. The Six Sigma methodology incorporates many years of studying best practices in business and its goal is ultimately the creation of a nearly error-free business environment. The name of the methodology takes its name from a letter in the Greek alphabet, sigma , which is used by mathematicians to measure variability. In business, the principle of variability is used to measure the number of errors in a process. The goal of a Six Sigma implementation is to produce a product or service with fewer than 3.4 problems per million transactions. A transaction may be defined as a product produced or a service performed. Six Sigma has been so successful because it dispenses with some of the more cumbersome aspects of older business implementation methodologies and, as such, it has risen to become one of the most respected and followed project management systems. Many of the world's most successful companies utilize the principles of Six Sigma because customers in today's business environment expect excellence and companies must be willing to deliver it if they want to survive in today's highly competitive marketplace. This course will give a complete overview of the Six Sigma process and prepare you for the path of a 'Black Belt,' or a Six Sigma team member. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550470.htm Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business 'How to Start and Run an Online Business' is an online course that is organized into 16 different sections to help you understand how to create an online business, even if you don't have any online business experience. From the basics of learning how to choose your market to designing a website and building an online marketing strategy, you will learn what you need to do in order to create an online business that's built to succeed. You will begin with equipping your office for online success, and then move on to website building, payment processing, online marketing, writing great copy, spreading the word, utilizing online marketing tools, understanding search engine optimization, promoting an online brand, employing affiliates, planning beyond your website, and even handling legal issues before they become issues. This an essential course for those who have a business idea, but want to move it online instead of into a traditional store. Billions of people around the world now have access to the Internet, making online businesses primed for success. Each section also includes review assignments and exams to ensure you have learned and mastered the most important concepts. This approach allows you to instantly have the information you need at your fingertips, while also helping you learn learn what you need to understand as your online business grows. Using the high quality information and resources provided in this course, at class completion you will know how to start a business online, how to grow your online business, and how to secure the future of your online business. So why not join us today? http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550535.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. How to Build Your Own Business Scenic Scenes is a new exciting course for learning simple scenes, one step at a time! This course has 10 easy scenes that will have you painting fun designs, including landscapes, seascapes, seasonal scapes, beachscapes, and more! You will be learning how to create forests, stone bridges, vases of flowers, a girl at a beach, a whimsical farm, and much more. Besides learning scenes, you will be learning simple color mixing as well. This gives you much more options for your paints! Each scene has many different elements that you learn, like grass, water, sea oats, trees, riverbanks, bridges, floral shapes, spattering with a toothbrush, backgrounds, shadows, mountains, snow, sand dunes, distant sailboats, carrot people, and so much more. Small canvas art is now the rage, and you can use any subject you learn and create your own canvases to market for profits, gifts, and sharing. You can earn a potential income! You can market your paintings in online sites, gift shops, craft shows, and word-of-mouth! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550137.htm Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:10:08 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Painting During the past five years, digital photography has grown by leaps and bounds. It is now considered so sophisticated that traditional film photography is fast becoming an artifact by many professional photographers. In fact, 90% of wedding photographers are shooting digitally. This course on Digital Wedding Photography will give you advice from experts, provide startegies for interviewing potential clients, review lighting techniques, help you make purchasing equipment decisions and suggest ways to manage and edit your images. Additional topics of discussion include: - Photojournalism. Photojournalism has, for a number of years, been the popular choice and has dominated the industry. And yet, today's photographers have no problem with posing an image, as long as the results look unposed and emotion filled. Today's photography is moving more toward fine-art imagery and like any artist, photographers throw the traditional rules aside and push their creativity. - Old Trends. The popular saying 'History repeats itself' is true as a recent development of formal posing techniques proves with the popularity and resurgence in group portraits. Traditionalists still stand by the tried and true because they evoke a period of elegance. - Current Trends. Bridal magazines display the latest trends and poses that are as diverse as the wedding gowns worn by today's brides. Digital wedding photography is a passion revered by many, and while this course is intended to be a guide to the many aspects of wedding photography, individuality and self-expression is the key to the skilled professional. - Other topics. Other topics will include the process of photo editing, popular shots, the wedding photographers checklist, marketing strategies, and much more. Digital photography is here to stay and improving at record pace. Professional photographers are reaping the advantages, and with the choice of both digital and traditional photography, the best of both worlds can be experienced. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550549.htm Sat, 1 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Photography Are you tired of the pictures that have been coming out of your camera? Maybe everyone's eyes are half closed or perhaps there is always a shadow that makes everyone in the picture look like they have a beard. Maybe you want to take better pictures but just can't seem to click at the right time, in the right place to get what you want. You are not alone. So many people want to take good, memorable pictures to capture their experiences but so few feel comfortable enough with their cameras to actually make it happen on a consistent basis. What's great about Photography Basics is that its full of the stuff you've always wanted to know and there's nothing that you don't need to know. What that means is that you can have the assurance that you can go into this course with little or no knowledge of how your camera works and you'll come away with two things: Some knowledge on the actual function of your camera A lot of skills in the area of creating great photographs So if you want technical jargon thats difficult to understand, this is not the course for you. If you want quality content that shows you step by step how you can make great pictures again and again and again, this is the course you want to take. After all, why do you own your camera? Is it so you can say that you own a good camera? Or is it because you want to take great pictures? If you are ready to start clicking your way to unforgettable pictures, c lick here to begin! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30276.htm Mon, 29 May 2006 13:09:54 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Photography Good parenting skills are something we learn, not something we are born with. Being a more effective parent or caretaker is possible for everyone! This course can help you get your parenting skills to where you want them to be. It covers a broad range of topics, including what parenting skills are, child development, understanding temperament, intellectual development, communicating with your kids, the dynamics of discipline, instilling self-esteem, teaching children values, meeting their needs, being a good role model, and more! This course will help you understand your child's personality, challenges, and how to go about being the most effective parent you can be! You will learn about those things that are crucial in the first years of life, how to use positive discipline, avoid power struggles, and how to determine a need from a want. This course is ideal for all parents, but can also be a very useful tool for caretakers, grandparents, teachers, and anyone who spends a lot of time helping to shape the minds of the next generation. This course provides an overview of all the parenting skills that are necessary to raise a healthy and well adjusted adult. It will also help you learn where and why some challenges may arise and how to best go about overcoming them. If you are about to become a parent, would like to become a more effective parent, or you want to learn more about how to effectively guide children, this course is for you! After taking this course you will never look at parenting in quite the same way again! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550458.htm Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Sports and Activities Studying ancient civilizations is one of the most fascinating areas of all human history for the precise reason that it is human history. As we learn more about those who have come before us, we understand more about ourselves in this modern age and how we have come to be. From empires to city-states, the historical civilizations from around the world have each made a contribution to the development of mankind. When we think of the major innovations that have propelled society forward: writing, the wheel, fire, brass, bronze, iron, electricity, indoor plumbing, and so forth, it is important to remember that each of these was a significant technological innovation, discovered hundreds or even thousands of years ago. Likewise, the indelible influence of certain ancient civilizations on modern aesthetics, ethics, religion, politics, and conventions can also be felt today. This course will provide a general introduction to several of the most prominent ancient civilizations from across the globe, introducing the student to the most salient features of each and examining its major influences on those who came later on. To paraphrase the late philosopher, George Santayana, 'Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it'. So as it is with any historical study--what we can learn from earlier men and women can benefit us today. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550487.htm Mon, 6 Jun 2011 16:31:52 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel There have been few environmental issues that have polarized a nation as much as Global Warming. From those who predict that the Earth will eventually get so hot that it will self-incinerate to those who believe that the entire notion of a warming planet is something manufactured by political operatives anxious to please their constituents, Global Warming is an issue that has been and will continue to be hotly contested in both public and private arenas. Unlike many other hot-button issues, however, Global Warming is widely misunderstood by the general public. Confusion surrounding Global Warming comes at many levels: there are some who steadfastly believe that it is entirely a man-made issue while others equate Global Warming with the expanding hole in the atmosphere's ozone layer (a condition widely believed to be caused by widespread use of aerosols). In this course, we will learn exactly what Global Warming is, why supporters believe it is a real problem and the ways in which it is thought to affect the world in which we live. Along the way, we will learn a little bit about the climatic history of the Earth and take a look at some of the ways in which we can help to reduce the warming effects of some of our activities . To be sure, the issues surrounding Global Warming are complex and there is still a great deal that we don't know about how the Earth will respond to changing conditions. This course is not intended to teach you everything you need to know about Global Warming -- such a course probably doesn't exist. What this course will provide, however, it an overview of the issues as they are currently known which should help to provide a basic understanding of the topic. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550431.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 10:25:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel Are you mystified by maps? Would you like to know how mountains are made? You can find out the answers to these questions by taking our Geography Course. In eleven easy lessons, you'll learn all about the different geographical features that make up our planet. You'll learn to distinguish islands from atolls and peninsulas. You'll learn how the huge tectonic plates interact to create mountains and valleys and how wind and water shape our world. You'll also learn about the way people, plants, and animals have changed the world. This course covers the way humans create order by drawing maps and creating areas that we can recognize. You'll learn how mapmakers divided the oceans and why. The lessons will touch on how culture and experience influence the way people map the world. In addition you will learn the natural processes that create specific landforms. The various spheres of the planet, the lithosphere, the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, and the biosphere are defined and examined in detail. You'll learn how these different layers of Earth interact to shape the patterns of the planet. Once you have finished this course, you'll find yourself looking at the world with a whole new perspective! http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550429.htm Thu, 1 Jan 2009 10:25:15 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Travel This is a basic, nuts-and-bolts course, for people who wish to write screenplays, but don't know much about it. Because screenwriting is demanding both technically and in the market for jobs and sales, 'Getting Into The Screenwriting Game to Win' attempts to go through each essential aspect needed for a beginner to get started, stick with it, and yes, make a sale or get a job. In this course you will learn basic rules and skills. There's no excuse for a poorly formatted script, you're really only wasting your time. Traditional three-act structure for film-stores can be debated endlessly, but it works, it's very functional, it's fairly easy to understand, and you can't neglect at least a passing familiarity with this mode of expression for your stories. Get in touch with the industry, the markets, what's selling, where to find opportunities, how to deal with people. Approach your work standards and work environment seriously, because you'll be spending a lot of time there. If you get a deal, don't get screwed for careless anticipation of the money involved, and if you get screwed, don't be surprised. And remember that if you can't make it to the top and win an Oscar for some super-big film you wrote, it's still a wonderful way to make a buck at your computer doing smaller gigs and 'for-hire' work. Screenwriting is also therapy. It's good for you, and your imagination and thoughts will develop wonderfully as you work through each visualization---but be sensitive to the audience, don't exploit our world with endless images of violence and gore (at least not without a reason), and don't hop in bed with unethical projects or money-sources just because you can. It's a wild world for films and film-makers---stay on the bright side and keep it safe and legal. The hope is that for the beginner, this course presents a working knowledge of what is needed to get started writing screenplays in a realistic and informed way. Beyond this, you're now free to roam where no screenwriter has gone before---and what a wonder it is to wonder. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550280.htm Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts Whether this is your first time using Dreamweaver or you've used it in the past, this course will walk you through the program step-by-step and teach you how to use its many features and options to create professional web pages with little more than a click of the mouse. You'll learn how to: Design basic HTML websites, even if you don't know HTML Design with tables Build websites using frames Learn about and#8211; and even understand and#8211; CSS Learn basic HTML. You won't believe how easy it is! And much, much more. Like most Adobe programs, Dreamweaver can seem more complicated than it really is because of all the additional options and features that it offers. For that reason, if you're new to Dreamweaver, trying to figure out how to accomplish even the simplest of tasks can seem overwhelming and impossible. But take heart, it's not. With just a very little bit of time and study, anyone can master Dreamweaver and be on their way to designing professional web pages quickly and easily. This course was designed to teach the amateur how to effectively use the program and take advanced users from building basic web pages to stunning masterpieces. http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550274.htm Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Universal Class, Inc. Visual Arts