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<title>UniversalClass - Computers and Technology  Online Courses</title>
<copyright>1999-2007, UniversalClass, UniversalClass.com</copyright>
<description>List of Instructor-led, online courses in Computers and Technology .</description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/subjects/computers.htm</link>
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<title>Adobe Flash Introduction </title><description> Flash is a very popular authoring software for creating interactive animation for the web - from simple animated logos to full scale Flash web sites. Anyone can create a movie, this class shows you how to do everything in Flash the right way! Great ideas deserve great tools - Flash plays an integral part in bringing your websites and video to life online. Flash provides full design control to maximize creativity, resulting in a consistent end-user experience across a variety of platforms. Flash is complex web development standard for delivering rich, interactive content in a bandwidth-friendly way. This Introductory class will ease you into learning the program with interactive step-by-step instructions, sample files, and guidance from the instructor. Focus is on learning the interface, tools, and basic features of Flash while creating different types of animation and publishing content for the Web. You will create animated logos, buttons, and simple movies to brighten up your web site. This course is designed for: Students who wish to create engaging interactive experiences online. Web designers, educators, or entry-level programmers who need a solid foundation in Web design, programming, or marketing via the Web. Personal or professional interests in web development. The only limits you have with Flash are those of your imagination. The following examples give you an idea of where you can take Flash: Web sites - www.2advanced.com Interactive learning - www.techsmith.com Photo Album and Gallery Slideshow Slideshow Presentations Game development - www.flasharcade.com Marketing - www.volkswagen.com Online advertising - such as Amazon.com , Yahoo! , and MSN The benefits of taking this online course includes immediate cost reduction of having to send someone for training or hiring a Flash designer. Don't know what Flash is? Visit www.adobe.com/software/flash/ and rush back here to get into what is considered to be the most important revolution in web design! Adobe provides a 30-day free trial: www.adobe.com/go/tryflash Flash MX2004, Flash 8, or Flash CS3 software is required. Registered students may be eligible for discounted software....contact the instructor for details. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31763.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Feb 2007 12:58:58 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Clark</author>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Right Production, Wrong Budget: Intro to Film </title><description> An introduction to film and video production as well as a step by step guide to making a short film. An Internet Film Course taught by a pro with experience on projects ranging from multi-million dollar budgets to absolutely no budget! The instructor, Nate Starck, is currently a producer for the highly acclaimed documentary television series Intervention. The lessons are loaded with tips and tricks from the instructor's real world production experience. Learn the theory and technique to making film and video content from conception to distribution. Use the 'Right Production, Wrong Budget' guide, to complete a 2-4 minute short video in as little as 7 days. This guide will help you make it through your first shoestring production while utilizing the theory and techniques from the lessons (over 12 interactive lessons, 10-30 lesson hours) on filmmaking. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31392.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Nov 2006 14:20:22 GMT</pubDate>
<author>N. Starck</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Adobe Photoshop 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550296.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Outlook 2007 </title><description>The purpose of this course is to help you understand what Outlook 2007 can do for you, whether you are familiar with Outlook 2003 or new to the application altogether. This course has been developed to be of benefit to new users of Outlook, individuals migrating from previous versions of Outlook and individuals wanting to learn to use the advanced functionality of Outlook 2007. Course Goals After completing this course, learners will be able to: Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental features of Outlook 2007 Set up new email accounts along with understanding how to convert their previous Outlook information to 2007 Utilize the toolbars and navigation panes in Outlook 2007 Understand how to operate the email tools in Outlook 2007 Demonstrate an understanding of how to customize email options and tools Perform personal information management tasks Manage and utilize Outlook 2007's contact management tools Understand and utilize Outlook 2007's calendar, tasks, notes and journal entry tools Demonstrate an understanding of the collaboration and remote access tools in Outlook 2007 Course Structure This course is broken down into eleven lessons to take you through each of the tools that Outlook 2007 offers the user. Each lesson will cover between five to six learning goals and each goal is associated with one aspect of Outlook 2007. 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 Outlook 2007 and in each lesson we will also alert you to common errors or 'pitfalls' to watch out for. Before you begin: We recommend you back up your current Outlook information including your inbox/folders/address book using the File menu/export/.pst files. If you are a current user of Microsoft Office Outlook 2003 or an earlier version, before you download 2007 we recommend you uninstall these programs. Outlook 2007 will not download 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550113.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>ABC's of Technical Writing </title><description> Technical writing is the art and science of translating technical information into readable, accessible writing usable by a wide audience. If you have ever read the user's manual for a piece of software or equipment you've purchased, you've seen technical writing in action. Creating manuals, help and technical support systems, online help systems, and instruction manuals are some of the main projects technical writers take on. Since nearly every business in every industry imaginable has at least an occasional need to bring technical information to its users and customers, technical writing is found in nearly every business, government agency, and non-profit organization. If you work in a high tech industry, technical writing may be a part of your job description and daily duties. If you love to write, enjoy learning, and have an interest in technology, technical writing can be an exciting, rewarding career in itself. Job opportunities in the field are expected to grow as technology continues to advance. Whether you are called upon to communicate technical information to clients and coworkers, or you are thinking of technical writing as a new and interesting career, this course is designed to help you get started. We'll talk more about the kinds of products technical writers get involved in, and discuss the kinds of skills that successful technical writing requires. We'll talk about ways to approach and organize a technical writing project, and look at the kinds of materials technical writers produce, from written manuals to video tutorials. For those looking at technical writing as a new career, we'll discuss ways of improving your skill set, getting training, making contacts, and breaking into the field. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550201.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:50:51 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Basic Computer Troubleshooting </title><description> Your computer locks up and/or is acting weird? The keyboard or mouse doesn't work? The computer displays a disk error or non-system disk message? If you have ever faced these types of day-to-day computer dilemmas then this course is for you. This course covers the basic concepts of troubleshooting, solving common computer errors and upgrading computer systems. This class is designed to give you certain tools to use when you encounter problems with a computer at school, home or at work. It is designed to provide you with some basic troubleshooting skills, knowledge of resources that are available on the internet and confidence in your ability to work with computer software as well as hardware-related problems. When you leave this class you should be able to solve simple computer problems yourself, and communicate effectively with a technician if you ever need to! Also, besides the textual/theoretical explaination covered in this course, we will also focus extensively on hands on troubleshooting exercises. In addition to that, all participants would be able to discuss their computer problems and their possible resolutions/technical support through email/chat board during and until the completion of the course. All in all, I guarantee you that the level of personal support and commitment I provide to all my students is exceptional. My main focus group for this course are computer beginners, teenagers, stay-at-home moms, the elderly or anyone who has problems dealing with computer issues and always gets a hard time finding help. You don't have to bang every door or spend your hard-earned bucks anymore for every little computer mishap because after this course you might just solve those problems yourself! I have this policy that a student is forever, so even after you are finished with this course, you can keep in touch with me and I'll be willing to help you out in any way possible! Enjoy this course and always remember that everyone has a techno-geek inside, it just takes a little time to discover him :) </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/13942.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 1 Aug 2005 13:53:10 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Yasar</author>
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<title>PowerPoint 2003 </title><description> MS PowerPoint 2003 is probably one of the most convenient software applications in the Office suite because it allows you to do so much and#8211; easily. Whether you want to create professional presentations for the office or just brush up on your skills, you'll find MS PowerPoint 2003 not only useful, but fun to learn. By the time you're finished with this course, you'll be able to put together advanced slide shows as well as create and deliver board room-style presentations with ease. You'll also feel so comfortable with PowerPoint that you won't be able to believe you didn't use it more before! MS PowerPoint 2003 can be used in much the same way as video creation software, but without all the headaches and complications! This course is designed to teach you all the fundamentals that you need to know, as well as advanced tips to give you a head start with the software. You'll learn: The MS PowerPoint 2003 interface How to create presentations How to add special effects How to insert movies and pictures into your presentations How to create and run slide shows The various features of PowerPoint 2003 that make your presentation a professional masterpiece. In addition to teaching you everything you need to know to easily use MS PowerPoint 2003, this course will also give you: Public speaking tips Tips to make your presentation more interesting and effective And rehearsal tips No matter if you're being asked to take this course for work or doing it on your own to stay up-to-date, you'll find this course will make using MS PowerPoint 2003 easier than you could have ever imagined. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550145.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Graphics Design With Paint Shop Pro X </title><description> Do you love art and want to know how make your own images into computer graphics? If you can click a mouse, you will need this course!!! All computers use graphics! 'Graphics Design With Paint Shop Pro X' takes you through the basics of creating stunning computer graphics with Paint Shop Pro. Custom computer graphics are used for programming, to create eye-catching web pages and even to make your own signatures in emails. Create easy images to slide effortlessly into popular HTML code. Screenshots allows you to see exactly where to click along with where everything is to make nice one of a kind images. Step-by-Step tutorials will led you through using the various tools in Paint Shop Pro, applying different effects, creating custom textures, using patterns along with tips and handy tutorial links that are so very popular. Corel's Paint Shop Pro is available as a shareware download at www.corel.com . There is a link included with the first Lesson that you can download and install it (requires Windows XP or 2000). There are people actually ADDICTED to the graphics program Paint Shop Pro X! This course will teach you why along with how to put your art into graphics for the computer!!! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/15727.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Mar 2006 13:32:39 GMT</pubDate>
<author>R. Deak</author>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Business Math 101 </title><description>This course takes you through an overview of the wonderful world of business mathematics. The course is designed for a person of any age and anywhere in the world. All that is required of the learner are a computer, a connection to the internet, a calculator or spreadsheet, skills to use these tools, and a willingness to learn. First we begin with a comprehensive review of the decimal system and basic calculations. Next are fractions, percent, and ratios. Then we move on to exponents and square roots. In the lesson that follows, the learner sets a personal budget and reviews personal finances, including thrift buying, and calculating interest on a loan. Then there is a discussion of conservation of energy used in the home. Later we are encouraged to budget our personal time and energy as well as money. The trip then takes you into the business world of purchases and sales, then bookkeeping, with a thorough explanation of debits and credits, petty cash, and an overview of financial statements. In the following lessons, we take a look at graphs, measurements and statistics. (Is mode the same as average?) After that we find ourselves in the business office for office etiquette, netiquette, and telephone etiquette. Also the science of Ergonomics is discussed. We finally arrive near the end of the course when we emphasize lifelong learning, goal setting plus good health habits for a balanced life. From the beginning, the advanced learner is encouraged to click on web references and search for more information via the internet. And everyone is encouraged to 'surf' and 'google' the world wide web often for more fun. The course material includes plenty of examples and exercises for practice, interesting anecdotes about the character, history and origins of our math system from many parts of the world. Math can be fun! However, calculations do require practice, and then more practice to be easier, more proficient and more fun. Enjoy the course! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550069.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:52:51 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Tsung</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Web Design with Dreamweaver </title><description>This course is for people who are new to web design and who want to use Dreamweaver to build attractive and accessible websites. Learn how to plan your Web site, create and edit content, add interactivity and publish your site using Dreamweaver tools. Start with the Dreamweaver user interface and proceed step-by-step to more advanced topics like creating animations, using cascading style sheets and online forms. At the conclusion of this course you will understand how to use the tools in Dreamweaver to build and publish Web sites. Note: Basic experience with Windows, Web Browsers and the Internet are recommended. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11090.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2004 16:15:03 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Bauslaugh</author>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
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<title>Typing and Keyboarding 101 </title><description> Today, knowing how to type fast is almost a necessity in the business world. More and more corporate-world employees are being asked to create reports, sales letters, business plans, blogs, web content, forecasts and more. Knowing how to type can save you hours of valuable work time, increasing your productivity. This course, Typing and Keyboarding for Business Professionals, is entirely self-teaching. Each lesson is short, simple and easy to master, with easy-to-understand text and custom-designed typing drills. Here are some features you will like about this course: 1. Cumulative Reviews: At the end of each lesson, you will be quizzed on the most important points to remember. This will help to reinforce your understanding of those keys before you go on to the new ones. 2. Accuracy and Speed-Building practice: Learning how to type faster means nothing without the accuracy that goes along with it. Weand#8217;ve created special practice drills that will help you master both. 3. Learn Business Correspondence Formats: This course helps you learn and understand the correct format and etiquette for the most common letters, documents and notes used when communicating in the business world. 4. Speed and Accuracy Tests: Weand#8217;ve provided tests that allow you to see how your words per minute (wpm) rate and your accuracy have improved over the course of the class. 5. Online Typing Aids: To help you continue to practice, weand#8217;ve provided links to several websites offering free typing games and tests. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550009.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 6 Feb 2008 13:02:46 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>MS Word 2003 </title><description> It doesn't matter if you've never used MS Word before or you just want to familiarize yourself with MS Word 2003. This course teaches you all the basics of MS Word, from doing simply functions like typing in the text area to formatting text, to give the beginner all the instruction needed to be proficient. To make it even easier, screenshots are provided to help you navigate and see first-hand the many features of MS Word 2003. However, this course doesn't stop there. After explaining and reviewing the basics of MS Word 2003, it goes more in-depth and covers advanced tools and techniques. Learn how to: Navigate MS Word 2003 Format text Do simply editing tasks Proofread using MS Word 2003 Create charts, diagrams, and tables Create mailing lists Add security to documents And much more! If you're an experienced Word user, you will vastly improve your skills by learning new shortcuts and features in MS Word 2003. And if you're an amateur, don't worry about a thing! You're just 11 lessons away from being able to use MS Word 2003 like a pro! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550091.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 6 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>PowerPoint 2007 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550082.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>MS Office 2003: Word, Excel, PowerPoint </title><description> This all in one training course will provide comprehensive instruction on three popular MS Office programs: MS Word 2003, MS Excel 2003, PowerPoint 2003. MS Word 2003 T his course teaches you all the basics of MS Word, from doing simply functions like typing in the text area to formatting text, to give the beginner all the instruction needed to be proficient. To make it even easier, screenshots are provided to help you navigate and see first-hand the many features of MS Word 2003. However, this course doesn't stop there. After explaining and reviewing the basics of MS Word 2003, it goes more in-depth and covers advanced tools and techniques . Learn how to: Navigate MS Word 2003 Format text Do simply editing tasks Proofread using MS Word 2003 Create charts, diagrams, and tables Create mailing lists Add security to documents And much more! If you're an experienced Word user, you will vastly improve your skills by learning new shortcuts and features in MS Word 2003. And if you're an amateur, don't worry about a thing! You're just 11 lessons away from being able to use MS Word 2003 like a pro! MS Excel 2003 This section is designed to teach you the features of MS Excel 2003 to have you using it like a pro. This course is designed to walk you through MS Excel 2003, showing you how to use this popular spreadsheet program to do anything from making a list to calculating complex equations in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. We promise you that even if you've never used a spreadsheet program before, you'll come away with this course with advanced knowledge and comprehension of MS Excel 2003. Topics include: andmiddot; Introduction to MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Worksheets and Workbooks in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Entering Information into MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Formatting a Worksheet in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Adding Elements to a Workbook in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Charts and Diagram in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Formulas and Calculations in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Managing Data in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Lists in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Security and Protection in MS Excel 2003 andmiddot; Sharing Worksheets and Workbooks in MS Excel 2003 PowerPoint 2003 By the time you're finished with this section of this course, you'll be able to put together advanced slide shows as well as create and deliver board room-style presentations with ease. You'll also feel so comfortable with PowerPoint that you won't be able to believe you didn't use it more before! MS PowerPoint 2003 can be used in much the same way as video creation software, but without all the headaches and complications! This course is designed to teach you all the fundamentals that you need to know, as well as advanced tips to give you a head start with the software. You'll learn: The MS PowerPoint 2003 interface How to create presentations How to add special effects How to insert movies and pictures into your presentations How to create and run slide shows The various features of PowerPoint 2003 that make your presentation a professional masterpiece. No matter if you're being asked to take this course for work or doing it on your own to stay up-to-date, you'll find this course will make using these popular software programs easier than you could have ever imagined. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550160.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Understanding Computer and Internet Terminology </title><description> This course has been designed for people who use computer and Internet related technology at all levels . It introduces and explores general computing and Internet related concepts and terminology with definitions as well as picture and image illustrations. The concepts and terminology are carefully chosen for the average technology user to exclude terms that are too technical. After taking this course, students will come away with a deeper understanding and better appreciation of the computer and Internet related technologies and become better educated and better versed technology users and consumers. If you are more interested in understanding how computers work, though, you might want to take my 'Understanding Computers' course. If you are interested in exploring different online communications technology, I encourage you to take my 'Netiquette, Emoticons, and Abbreviations for Online Communications' course, which introduces and explains the proper use of netiquette, emoticons, abbreviations, and concepts and terminology for online communications, such as email, discussion forums, chat, and instant messaging. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/9719.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2003 11:23:44 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Gao</author>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Effective Communication 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550121.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Virus and Spyware Removal </title><description> Is your computer running slower than usual? Not connecting to the internet? Behaving erratically? When you click on your browser you are directed to strange web-pages? Getting constant error messages? Windows are popping up while you are working? Then your computer is most probably infected with a Virus and or a Spyware. This course will discuss various types of malicious viruses, spywares, adwares, popups and browser hijackers and will guide you in eradicating them from your computer. This course also discusses issues pertaining to internet security and you will learn how to use firewalls to prevent viruses and spywares from entering your computer. Various tips will be given out to protect your computer from new virus attacks and different types of tools and software will be discussed. You will also get an insight into downloading free tools for virus protection and spyware removal. This class is designed to give you certain tools to use when you encounter problems with viruses/ spyware at school, home or at work. It is designed to provide you with some basic troubleshooting skills, knowledge of resources that are available on the internet and confidence in your ability to work to solve virus and spyware removal problems yourself. When you leave this class, you should be able to solve these simple problems yourself, and communicate effectively with a technician if you ever need to! Also, besides the textual/theoretical explaination covered in this course, we will also focus extensively on hands on troubleshooting exercises. In addition to that, all participants would be able to discuss their virus/spyware related problems and their possible resolutions/technical support through email/chat board during and until the completion of the course. All in all, I guarantee you that the level of personal support and commitment I provide to all my students is exceptional. When you finish this course, I can guarantee that you'll be able to protect your computer more efficiently and next time a virus or spyware hits your computer, you'll know just what to do! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/15047.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Aug 2005 18:13:07 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Yasar</author>
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<title>MS Word 2007 </title><description>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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550073.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Electronics 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550149.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>MS Publisher </title><description> MS-Publisher class will instruct students on how to create desktop publishing documents as flyers, newsletters, brochures, greeting cards, etc. Anyone who is interested in creating more professional looking desktop publicating documents with ease should take this course. The skills acquired can lead to employment in a printing or document-creation business. *Student should have MS-Publisher 2003. However, MS-Publisher 2002 (XP) can be adapted. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8718.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:07:29 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Lawrence</author>
<category>MS Applications</category>
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<title>Introduction to MS Excel </title><description>Whether you've used MS Excel before and just want to learn more about Excel or are completely new to the program, this course is designed to teach you the features of MS Excel to have you using it like a pro. It's a fact that a lot of people just like you shy away from learning MS Excel because it seems so complicated. Those who do eventually use it only know certain aspects of the program and are not aware of all it can do. But there's good news for you! MS Excel is even easier to use that past versions with more toolbars and commands to simplify even the hardest of tasks. This course is designed to walk you through MS Excel, showing you how to use this popular spreadsheet program to do anything from making a list to calculating complex equations in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. We promise you that even if you've never used a spreadsheet program before, you'll come away with this course with advanced knowledge and comprehension of MS Excel. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550100.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Effective Presentations </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550101.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Understanding Technology </title><description> This is an introductory technology course on using and understanding information technology for people who use computers as everyday tools both at home and at workplace, not for individuals aiming to learn programming and designing computer systems. This course focuses on communications using computer technology, the digital revolution, the Internet, and the World Wide Web. It covers the fundamental computing concepts surrounding the digital age including software, hardware, data, people, communications, and procedures. It also examines ethical issues in the information age and investigates emerging technologies that could impact individuals as well as businesses and organizations in the future. This course is designed in a logical sequence and format to help the average user to better understand and utilize information technology. If you are also interested in how computers work, I encourage you to take my 'Understanding Computers' class as well. If you would like to become well versed in general computing or Internet related concepts and terminology, check out my 'Understanding Computer and Internet Terminology' class. If you use online communication a lot or are just starting to use various online communcations tools such as email, chat, instant messaging (IM), and etc, I strongly recommand my 'Netiquette, Emoticons, and Abbreviations for Online Communications' class, a fun class that introduces and explains the proper use of netiquette, emoticons, abbreviations, and concepts and terminology for online communications, such as email, discussion forums, chat, and instant messaging. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/10609.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Sep 2004 12:54:05 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Gao</author>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Mail Merging With Word </title><description> Mail Merge with Word Mail merge is a feature of Word that will allow you to create original letters and other documents, including mailing labels and directories for a specific group of people, places or things. The concept of mail merge is the merging of a database file containing names, addresses, phone numbers, birth dates, and other constant data into a document or form (letter for example) to produce a third document. This third document is called the merged document, resulting from the merging of the database to the document or form. You will learn how to create a database containing records. Your sample database could be all of your family and friends. Taking this class will help you with printing mailing labels from the database of family and friends so that you can decide, for example, who will get a Christmas card, a birthday party invitation, an invitation to a retirement ceremony, etc. The goal of this class is to show you how to use the Mail Merge feature in Word to: Create letters Produce mailing labels (with graphics) Produce a personal directory Maintain your database file Creating a database of family and friends may take a little time. However, in the long run, you will see that it is a time saver because you can use your database over and over again with different documents. This class contains not only lecture notes but also screen images to make the learning easier. This is a FUN class! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8719.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 8 Sep 2004 13:00:03 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Lawrence</author>
<category>MS Applications</category>
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<title>Excel 2007 </title><description>Microsoft Excel 2007 is Microsoft's latest version of its very popular business productivity application for the management and manipulation of data. Microsoft Excel is often packaged as part of Microsoft Office that includes other applications such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Microsoft Outlook. Other desktop applications such as Microsoft Publisher and Microsoft Tools have also been added in recent releases of Office. Since its launch in 1985, Microsoft has released 24 Excel application versions for Windows, Macintosh, and OS/2 based computer systems. Each successive release incorporated new functions and features that allowed the user to customize how data was displayed, and to do more and better data management. However, Excel 2007 is by far the most powerful and versatile of them all ! In addition to a whole new look and feel, Excel 2007 has modified its underlying technical foundation that enables businesses to expand the uses, integration and reach of Excel. Microsoft has also has continued to improve security, plug security gaps, and address functional issues. All this has helped to make Excel a very stable and reliable business application. Many new features await the Excel 2007 user. Below are just a few highlights: Horizontal 'ribbons' that display commands left-to-right instead of the traditional vertical water-flow look. More rows and columns to help manage your really massive spreadsheets! Memory management increased from 1GB to 2GB's which allows for faster computations and increased performance . New options for applying themes and styles which enhance the look of your spreadsheets and graphics. And, Excel now supports up to 16 million colors ! Easier creation and use of formulas . New Pivot Table User Interface to help the user more effectively use pivot tables. With the right training and understanding of Excel 2007, businesses and individual users can unlock the world of opportunities that this powerful business application offers. This Excel 2007 Online Training Course does just that and more! It assumes users have no prior experience with Excel or other spreadsheet programs. We start with the basics, and move up from there. So join us today, and lets learn the fundamentals of Excel 2007! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550072.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Understanding Computers </title><description> This course is a beginner's guide to the world of computers. This is an introductory course on using and understanding computers for people who use computers as everyday tools both at home and at workplace. If you are considering a career as a computer professional in business, it will give you an introduction to the computer technology field and provide you with a foundation for future study. If not, it will give you the basic knowledge you need to use and understand computers in school, on the job, and in your personal life. This course uses non-technical, straightforward terms to explain the importance of learning about computers, types of computers, components of a computer system, how the computer works, and how different parts of a computer system work together. It covers the fundamental computing concepts including data presentation, the binary system, the system unit, memory, storage systems, input devices, output devices, systems software and application software. This course is designed in a logical sequence and format to demysterize for the average user how computers work. If you are more interested in general computing or Internet related concepts and terminology, you might want to take my ' Understanding Computer and Internet Terminology ' class. You might also be interested in my ' Netiquette, Emoticons, and Abbreviations for Online Communications ' class, which introduces and explains the proper use of netiquette, emoticons, abbreviations, and concepts and terminology for online communications, such as email, discussion forums, chat, and instant messaging. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/9416.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 1 Nov 2003 10:03:16 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Gao</author>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Cascading Style Sheets </title><description>In this course you will learn the basics of Cascading Style Sheets - how to save time and effort by separating content from design. CSS gives you control, and enables you to edit or altar one page or your entire Web site in moments instead of hours. You will learn how to convert HTML tags to CSS elements, and to control those elements in the DOM (document object model) with Java Script and DHTML to quickly create and maintain professional looking, dynamic pages and Web sites. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/4926.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 3 Oct 2002 14:14:01 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Bennet</author>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Work From Home-Learn How To Telecommute </title><description>Learn the ins and outs of working from home. I will show you real work from home jobs and how you can work from home. Don't spend useless hours searching MLM and Other Work From Home Scams. With this course you will know where to go to find legitimate work from home jobs to stay home with your family!!! This class covers everything from a home office, creating an online resume, choosing the right career for you, researching jobs online, to knowing where to go to apply for legitimate paid telecommute jobs. I have spent over 1000 hours online researching this topic only to realize that most people fall victim to telecommute scams. Don't waste your time and money..take this class and learn where to go and what to do to Work From Home with a legitimate business! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8553.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jul 2003 12:10:21 GMT</pubDate>
<author>P. Hansen</author>
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<title>Personal Computers Level 1 </title><description> If you are frustrated or annoyed while trying to use computer technology or you simply want to become familiar with the terminology, such as input, output, storage, hardware and software, this course will satisfy most of these concerns. This course is a guide for the novice computer user who wants to expand their ability to use a personal computer system and gain general knowledge of how a computer system works. The course does not examine specific computer applications, but rather it will give you an overview of the applications available. This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of a personal computer system that operates in Windows 98, 2000 or XP. You will explore computer hardware devices, software applications and discover methods to search and retrieve documents from the Internet. The course will provide information on the physical components of the computer and the applications that allow you to be productive using a personal computer. The course will also help you to identify various uses for computers in your business and personal life. If you like to work at your own pace, review pictorial illustrations and explore through hands on projects this course will provide the learning tools you require. The lessons in this course will give you the foundation if you want to go into specialized computer courses on hardware and software. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/15482.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 2 Jan 2006 17:33:43 GMT</pubDate>
<author>T. Coleman</author>
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<title>Netiquette, Emoticons, and Abbreviations for Online Communications </title><description> This course introduces, explores, and illustrates netiquette, emoticons, abbreviations, acronyms, concepts and terminology related to online communications, including (but not limited to) email, online discussion forums, chat, and instant messaging. Students will learn terminologies used in the various online communications tools with definitions, image and picture illustrations. The focus is on netiquette rules, use of emoticons, commonly used abbreviations and acronyms for online communications, and instant messaging. If you are more interested in understanding how computers work, you might want to take my ' Understanding Computers ' course. If you are interested in general computing or Internet related concepts and terminology, I recommend you take my ' Understanding Computer and Internet Terminology' course. (All these courses may be taken in any order.) </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/9802.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2003 11:56:58 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Gao</author>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
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<title>Computer Basics 101 </title><description>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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550038.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:18:49 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Geometry 101 </title><description>This course will provide the learner with a better understanding of the underlying concepts of geometry. Through readings, lessons, quizzes and independent explorations, the learner will leave the course with more complete understanding of geometry and begin to be able to think in a geometrical fashion. Websites are also provided to help the learner further explore the topics on his/her own. At the end of this unit, the learner will be able to describe some of the basic premises behind geometric thinking, reasoning and study. They will also be able to demonstrate the following learning objectives: Objectives (based on the Van Hiele levels of geometric thought): Students will be able to demonstrate the ability identify the ways geometry is used by people in their daily lives (i.e. professions, synthetic universe, natural universe, in the home, etc...) Students will be able to recognize and name figures (triangle, square, rectangle, rhombus, parellelogram, polygon, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, kite, rectangular and triangular pyramids, prisms, cone, sphere) Level 0 Visualization Students will be able to analyze various properties of shapes (i.e. right angles, parallel sides, number of sides, number of corners, etc...) Level 1 Analysis Students will be able to construct relationships between classes of figures (i.e. rectangles are parallelograms with a right angle, etcand#8230;) Level 2 Informal Deduction Students will be able to think deductively in regards to geometrical concepts. Level 3 and 4 Deduction/Rigorous Proof </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550045.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Tsung</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Advanced CNC Techniques with Basic Features </title><description> Many people completing our basic programming courses stated (in the course evaluation) that they would like to see us provide an on-line Advanced CNC Techniques course. Well, here it is! It is the next logical progression from our basic courses. We define an advanced technique as any technique that is not commonly presented in a basic CNC class. Many of the techniques we show are quite easy to understand - they're just not among the first things you learn. Additionally, we say an advanced technique is any technique that you don't currently know about that can help you . Indeed, even many experience CNC people will probably discover techniques that they have not been exposed to. Benefits that can be achieved by applying the techniques we show include reducing setup time, reducing cycle time, improving workpiece quality, shortening programs, making machines easier to run, improving your company's CNC environment, and in general, improving your knowledge of CNC. Indeed, given the high costs associated with running CNC machine tools (and the low price of this course), it's likely you'll pay for the cost of this course with the first technique you apply! We present many techniques for the two most popular forms of CNC metal cutting equipment. For each topic, we'll begin by showing techniques that these two machine types share in common. Next, and when applicable, we'll show machining center-related techniques. Finally, we'll show turning center-related techniques. While this class will be of most value to people that work with both machining and turning centers, even people that work with but one or the other should find plenty of techniques that will help them Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website ( www.cncci.com ). From our navigation buttons, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11228.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 1 Apr 2004 18:31:21 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
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<title>CNC Turning Center Setup and Operation </title><description> This class will present the concepts related to turning center setup and operation. CNC turning centers are among the most popular metal-cutting machine tools in use today. Most companies that manufactures any metal products have more than one - and is constantly searching for qualified people to run them. To fully master the use of a CNC turning center, a person must become proficient in three distinct skills - programming, setup, and completing production runs. This class addresses two of the three; setting up a machining center and how to complete a production run (another class is available for helping you learn CNC turning center programming). Special requirement: Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website (www.cncci.com). From the navigation buttons on our website, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/10274.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 28 Mar 2004 19:56:15 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
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<title>CNC Machining Center Setup and Operation </title><description> This class will present the concepts related to machining center setup and operation. CNC machining centers are among the most popular metal-cutting machine tools in use today. Almost every company that manufactures any metal products has more than one - and is constantly searching for qualified people to run them. To fully master the use of a CNC machining center, a person must become proficient in three distinct skills - programming, setup, and completing production runs. This class addresses two of the three; setting up a machining center and how to complete a production run (another class is available for helping you learn CNC machining center programming). Special requirement: Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website (www.cncci.com). From the navigation buttons on our website, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/9552.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 2 Dec 2003 23:55:11 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
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<title>Parametric Programming For CNC Machining and Turning Centers </title><description> Learn Fanuc's custom macro B, Okuma's user task 2, and Fadal's macro -- all in one course! We've always said that parametric programming is one of CNC's best kept secrets. While more and more people are becoming familiar with this powerful programming tool, there are still many in the industry that don't even know what it is, let alone how to take advantage of its many features. At the very least, all CNC people should know the applications for parametric programming. Better yet, they should be able to apply this powerful tool to reduce setup time and cycle time, facilitate CNC machine utilization, make programming easier, and in general, make their CNC machines easier to work with! In this comprehensive course, you'll learn what parametric programming is, it's five application categories, its features, and how to apply it. An ample supply of examples is given for all application categories. Application categories for parametric progrmaming include part families, user-created canned cycles, utilities, complex motions, and interfacing with accessory devices. This course covers three very popular versions of parametric programming. The strongest emphasis is placed upon the most popular version: Fanuc's custom macro B. This version of parametric programming is used by any any control manufacturer claiming to be Fanuc-compatible (Yasnac, Haas, Mitsubishi, Mazatrol's eia, Seikos, among others). Instruction for custom macro B is included in the PowerPoint slide presentations as well as in the course text. This course also includes material for Okuma's user task 2 and Fadal's macro (only in the course text, not in the PowerPoint presentations). Over 80% of CNC machines used today are covered by this course! Each step of the way, we show real-world applications that you can easily adapt to your specific needs. There are plenty of examples and we stress the reasons why features are available as well as how they can help you (compare this your control manufacturer's descriptions in their programming manual). Upon successful completion of this course, you'll know what it takes to become a proficient parametric programmer. While you won't be an expert (yet), you will have taken eight tests and worked through five programming assignments to confirm your understanding of how this powerful programming tool is used. And of your work is reviewed and graded by Mike Lynch, so you can be sure that you truly understand the subject matter. Graduates of this course will be ready to approach parametric programming applications with confidence. Certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation are available when you complete this course to testify to your accomplishment. Include these in your resume to show perspective employers what you know. Special requirement: Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website (www.cncci.com). From the navigation buttons on our website, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. For more information about this course , including course requirements, course goals, course materials, grading policy, and prerequisites, view the syllabus for this course. A link to the syllabus can be found on the enrollment page under 'Additional Information'. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8888.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 5 Sep 2003 18:15:40 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
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<title>CNC Turning Center Programming </title><description> The two most popular forms of metal-cutting CNC machine tools include CNC machining centers, which machine a stationary workpiece with a rotating cutting tool, and CNC turning centers, which machine a rotating workpiece with a stationary cutting tool. This course focuses on turning centers. Note that a similar course is available for machining centers. Students will learn how to program CNC turning centers in twelve lessons using our proven key concepts approach (see below). The material presented in this course can be applied to just about any CNC turning center, but we'll concentrate on the most popular type - the two-axis slant-bed type. And specific techniques will be shown for the most popular CNC controls in the industry (made by Fanuc). As when learning any form of CNC machine tool, basic machining practice experience is a plus. The more you know about basic machining practices as they apply to turning operations, the easier it will be to learn to program a CNC turning center. We emphasize manual programming (G code level) techniques. It is with this style of CNC programming that you can be the most intimate with the CNC machine tool, commanding everything the machine will do from within your program. And a thorough understanding of manual programming is a prerequisite for mastering any computer aided manufacturing ( CAM ) system. When you're finished with this course, you'll know what it takes to become a proficient turning center programmer. Though we cannot make an expert of anyone in an entry level class, you will have taken twelve tests, worked through two practice exercises, and completed seven programming assignments to confirm your understanding of how CNC turning centers are programmed. And most of your work will be reviewed and graded by Mike Lynch, so you can be sure that you truly understand the subject matter. Graduates of this course will be ready for entry-level programming positions in most companies. Certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation are available when you complete this course to testify to your accomplishment. Include these in your resume to show perspective employers what you know. The key concepts The key concepts approach helps us stress the reasons why things are done as importantly as how they're done. They put a light at the end of the tunnel, allowing students to know where the stand as the class progresses. It should be nice to know that there are only six key concepts. Think of it this way: If you can master but six new concepts, you'll be well on your way to becoming a proficient CNC machining center programmer! Note that these same key concepts can be applied to any form of CNC machine tool. The six programming-related key concepts include: 1) Know your machine 2) Prepare to write programs 3) Understand the three most often used motion types 4) Master the three compensation types 5) Format your programs in a strict manner 6) Understand the special programming features We further divide the six key concepts into ten lessons. And there's plenty to do in each lesson: Lesson activities include: Viewing PowerPoint presentations - Every lesson (except one) includes a colorful and animated, self-navigating PowerPoint presentation. These presentations (.ppt files) will provide you with graphic visuals and help you understand the most complex course topics. You'll control the pace for these presentations each step of the way. And you can view them as many times as you must in order to fully understand each lesson! Reading lesson text - Every lesson contains a comprehensive Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) file that you can view and print. This provides you with a permanent reference for course materials during the class and long after the class is over. If you print everything, you'll have a manual that contains over 200 pages! Reading supplements (also .pdf files) - For some lessons, there will be supplemental information that will explain CNC features that are beyond the scope of the class. This will give you a way to learn about many additional CNC functions. Taking class polls - For some lessons, you'll be asked to give your opinion about a topic of interest. And you'll see what others in the class think. Taking online tests - After you study each lesson, and when you think you're ready, you'll take a test for the lesson. This is one of two ways we confirm your understanding of the material in the lesson. Grading is automatic and you'll see your results immediately. Mike Lynch reviews your tests and will provide pointers and suggestions in areas that may be causing you trouble. Doing practice exercises - In some lessons, you'll be asked to do a practice exercise (answers provided right in the exercise) to help prepare you for the programming assignment. Doing programming assignments that you're graded on - for seven of the lessons, you'll be asked to do a programming assignment. This is the second way that we confirm your understanding of material. You actually submit your programming assignments for Mike Lynch to grade. Results will be posted for you to see on-line. And again, Mr. Lynch will be offering reinforcements to help you stay on track. Need help during the class? If you run into problems, your instructor, industry-expert Mike Lynch, is just an email or phone call away. We even provide free phone/email assistance after you finish the class and you're putting what you've learned to use for your company! There is also a class forum available so you can exchange ideas with others attending the class. Course requirements In order to successfully complete this class and qualify for a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation, you must: 1) Check in at least twice a week until you've completed the course 2) Complete all ten lessons 3) Do two practice exercises 4) Pass ten tests 5) Complete and pass seven programming assignments Special requirement: Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website (www.cncci.com). From the navigation buttons on our website, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. Want to learn about CNC machining centers? We offer a similar class for CNC machining center programming. When it comes to format (key concepts approach, lesson structure, PowerPoint presentations, etc.) these two courses are almost identical. Actual content for each class, of course, is specific to the type of machine being presented. This should make it easy for students to take both classes. Once you've completed one class, you can easily transition to the other. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8359.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 2 Jul 2003 16:30:45 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>CNC Machining Center Programming </title><description> CNC machining centers, which are used to machine stationary workpieces with rotating cutting tools, are among the most popular types of metal-cutting machine tools in existence today. Just about every manufacturing company that has any CNC equipment owns at least one. If you want to learn safe, proven, and accepted methods for programming CNC machining centers, you can't afford to miss this self-paced, key concepts approach to learning how to program CNC machining centers. Though we do assume students have some experience with basic machining practices, we'll take you through CNC programming from the ground up. We will emphasize manual programming (G code level) techniques. It is with this style of CNC programming that you can be the most intimate with the CNC machine tool, commanding everything the machine will do from within your program. And a thorough understanding of manual programming is a prerequisite for mastering any computer aided manufacturing ( CAM ) system. The material presented in the course can be applied to just about all CNC machining centers, but we'll concentrate on the most popular type - the vertical machining center. And specific techniques will be shown for the most popular CNC controls in the industry (made by Fanuc). Upon successful completion of this course, you'll know what it takes to become a proficient CNC programmer. While you won't be an expert (yet), you will have taken ten tests, worked through two practice exercises, and completed seven programming assignments to confirm your understanding of how CNC machining centers are programmed. And all but the two practice exercises are reviewed and graded by Mike Lynch, so you can be sure that you truly understand the subject matter. Graduates of this course will be ready for entry-level programming positions in most companies. Certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation are available when you complete this course to testify to your accomplishment. Include these in your resume to show perspective employers what you know. The key concepts approach The key concepts approach helps us stress the reasons why things are done as importantly as how they're done. They put a light at the end of the tunnel, allowing students to know where the stand as the class progresses. It should be nice to know that there are only six key concepts. Think of it this way: If you can master but six new concepts, you'll be well on your way to becoming a proficient CNC machining center programmer! The six programming-related key concepts include: 1) Know your machine 2) Prepare to write programs 3) Understand the three most often used motion types 4) Master the three compensation types 5) Format your programs in a strict manner 6) Understand the special programming features We further divide the six key concepts into ten lessons. And there's plenty to do in each lesson: Lesson activities include: Viewing PowerPoint presentations - Every lesson (except lesson nine) includes a colorful and animated, self-navigating PowerPoint presentation. These presentations (.ppt files) will provide you with graphic visuals and help you understand the most complex course topics. You'll control the pace for these presentations each step of the way. And you can view them as many times as you must in order to fully understand each lesson! Reading lesson text - Every lesson contains a comprehensive Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) file that you can view and print. This provides you with a permanent reference for course materials during the class and long after the class is over. If you print everything, you'll have a manual that contains over 200 pages! Reading supplements (also .pdf files) - For some lessons, there will be supplemental information that will explain CNC features that are beyond the scope of the class. This will give you a way to learn about many additional CNC functions. Taking class polls - For some lessons, you'll be asked to give your opinion about a topic of interest. And you'll see what others in the class think. Taking online tests - After you study each lesson, and when you think you're ready, you'll take a test for the lesson. This is one of two ways we confirm your understanding of the material in the lesson. Grading is automatic and you'll see your results immediately. Mike Lynch reviews your tests and will provide pointers and suggestions in areas that may be causing you trouble. Doing practice exercises - In some lessons, you'll be asked to do a practice exercise (answers provided right in the exercise) to help prepare you for the programming assignment. Doing programming assignments that you're graded on - for seven of the lessons, you'll be asked to do a programming assignment. This is the second way that we confirm your understanding of material. You actually submit your programming assignments for Mike Lynch to grade. Results will be posted for you to see on-line. And again, Mr. Lynch will be offering reinforcements to help you stay on track. Need help during the class? If you run into problems, your instructor, industry-expert Mike Lynch, is just an email or phone call away. We even provide free phone/email assistance after you finish the class and you're putting what you've learned to use for your company! There is also a class forum available so you can exchange ideas with others attending the class. Course requirements In order to successfully complete this class and qualify for a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation, you must: 1) Check in at least twice a week until you've completed the course 2) Complete all ten lessons 3) Do two practice exercises 4) Pass ten tests 5) Complete and pass seven programming assignments Special requirement: Note that you need to have two software viewers (Microsoft PowerPoint Viewer and Adobe Acrobat Reader) installed on your computer before you can view material presented in the lessons. Both of these viewers are freely distributed and can be downloaded from our website (www.cncci.com). From the navigation buttons on our website, click SERVICES and then click ON-LINE COURSES. The two viewers can be found at the bottom of this page. Want to learn about CNC turning centers? We offer a similar class for CNC turning center programming. When it comes to format (key concepts approach, lesson structure, PowerPoint presentations, etc.) these two courses are almost identical. Actual content for each class, of course, is specific to the type of machine being presented. This should make it easy for students to take both classes. Once you've completed one class, you can easily transition to the other. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8295.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2003 16:52:40 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Lynch</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>MS Office 2007: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook </title><description> MS Office 2007 will provide a comprehensive tutorial of these programs- Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. MS Word 2007 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, b asic editing features, how to insert items into a document, how to create and edit tables, Macros, And much, much more! MS Excel 2007 Microsoft Excel 2007 is Microsoft's latest version of its very popular business productivity application for the management and manipulation of data. With the right training and understanding of Excel 2007, businesses and individual users can unlock the world of opportunities that this powerful business application offers. This Excel 2007 Online Training Course does just that and more! It assumes users have no prior experience with Excel or other spreadsheet programs. Many new features await the Excel 2007 user. Below are just a few highlights: Horizontal 'ribbons' that display commands left-to-right instead of the traditional vertical water-flow look. More rows and columns to help manage your really massive spreadsheets! Memory management increased from 1GB to 2GB's which allows for faster computations and increased performance . New options for applying themes and styles which enhance the look of your spreadsheets and graphics. And, Excel now supports up to 16 million colors ! Easier creation and use of formulas . New Pivot Table User Interface to help the user more effectively use pivot tables. PowerPoint 2007 The purpose of this section 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. 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. Outlook 2007 This section has been developed to be of benefit to new users of Outlook, individuals migrating from previous versions of Outlook and individuals wanting to learn to use the advanced functionality of Outlook 2007. After completing this section, learners will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental features of Outlook 2007, set up new email accounts along with understanding how to convert their previous Outlook information to 2007, u tilize the toolbars and navigation panes in Outlook 2007, understand how to operate the email tools in Outlook 2007, demonstrate an understanding of how to customize email options and tools, perform personal information management tasks, manage and utilize Outlook 2007's contact management tools, u nderstand and utilize Outlook 2007's calendar, tasks, notes and journal entry tools, and d emonstrate an understanding of the collaboration and remote access tools in Outlook 2007. Before you begin this course: It is strongly recommended you have MS Office 2007 or have access to this version. If you are a current user of Microsoft Office 2003 or an earlier version, before you download 2007 we recommend you uninstall these programs. MS Office 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550161.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Digital Photography 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550187.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:02:41 GMT</pubDate>
<author>E. Thomas</author>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Photoshop Elements 101 </title><description> 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 </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550186.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:53:57 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Microsoft Publisher 2007 </title><description> Microsoft Publisher can be an amazing tool. It can help us complete impressive tasks in a fraction of the time, and help to accomplish things that we could never have done on our own. But you have to know how to use this program. This course will show you how. Through a series of 13 different lessons, you will familiarize yourself with the program and its capabilities. By starting at the beginning and working your way through you will cover everything from opening a new publisher document, learn how to add punch to otherwise boring copy, learn how to create different mailing lists, learn how to create brochures and other business material, learn how to create a website, learn how to highlight important facts, or add other design elements, and much more. Microsoft Publisher 2007 provides a great source of templates, tips and layout ideas which will cut your design time in half. Having this knowledge will make the design process shorter, and help curb unnecessary frustration. By the end of this course you will be able to create material ready for a professional presentation. The latest version of Microsoft Publisher is used, but students will not need a copy of this program in order to benefit from this course. It will be of use to anyone from the brand new Publisher user to the person who is simply looking for a little refresher. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550196.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
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<title>Internet Fundamentals 101 </title><description> Are you in the dark about how the Internet works? Do you wonder how in the world it is possible to communicate with someone on another continent in the blink of an eye? This straightforward course clearly and plainly lays out the basics of the Internet in a light and interesting way. It also offers valuable information about how to protect your computer, your family and yourself from the inevitable dangers that naturally arise in a system so open, and so very powerful. With a tool as elegant and robust as the Internet, it is good to know what you are looking at when you see or hear about things like 'TCP/IP' and#8211; it's not all complex programming language, but often just logical abbreviations for simple terms that best describe the process. You will be more comfortable using the Internet after taking this course. You will be able to hold a meaningful discussion, not only socially, but with technicians and computer geeks. Get online and get informed with our Internet Fundamentals class! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550204.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:01:57 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to Create Web Pages </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550192.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:01:20 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>MS Applications</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Adobe Flash 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550218.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
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<title>Dreamweaver 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550274.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Sales Management </title><description> Do you want to become a Sales Manager or improve your management skills? Then this course is for YOU! Motivating employees is often tiring and time consuming work. As a manager, you provide incentives, set goals, acknowledge top producers, even use consequences or threats. Yet, when that external stimulation is no longer present, people have a tendency to slip back into their old ways: not moving unless someone is there to push. In this course I will present you with the 'basic' principles and practices of sales management. You will see that as a sales manager, you wear many hats; in a way, a sales manager needs to be a 'jack-of-all-trades.' Sales managers are planners, strategists, tacticians, organizers, forecasters, personnel specialists, trainers, communicators, motivators, leaders, data analysts, salespeople, employees, bosses, decision-makers, and often spouses and parents. So take the first step to gain the knowledge needed to: become a better manager and lead a high performance, self-motivated team that takes the initiative without having to constantly push Communicate more powerfully and permanently eliminate communication breakdowns. Use 'pull strategies' rather than 'push strategies' to accelerate team productivity and motivate employees Identify and eliminate unproductive management habits that actually create the problems you are working so diligently to avoid. Develop a greater level of awareness that will enable you to anticipate and prevent problems that slow down productivity, damage good will, cause stress and waste time, money and energy. Dramatically reduce turnover. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/15289.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 6 Oct 2005 18:32:04 GMT</pubDate>
<author>T. Velasquez</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Budgeting and Saving 101 </title><description>This course is designed to get you up to speed on the basics of business budgeting and cost cutting. You will be introduced to the different aspects of business financial tools and will have an essential primer to current business trends in cost cutting and increasing profits. At the conclusion of this course, you will understand important budgeting concepts, time tested strategies, and be able to see and easily implement savings for your company. These topics will be discussed: Business Budget- We will discuss the different aspects of a business budget and how to implement a discipline for your budget that will be reasonable for your staff. Cash Flow and Related Issues- We will cover the basics of cash flow, short-term cash flow, long-term cash flow, how they affect your PandL statement and profit sheets. Business Savings and Cost Cutting- We will discuss the various areas of savings and cost cutting to explore in your company. We will also discuss employee involvement and motivation and non-traditional areas to examine. Payroll Budgeting- We will cover the basics of payroll budgeting, essentials to keep in mind, and both the trend in handling them and some non-traditional methods. Tax Concerns- We will discuss effective strategies for managing taxes is to establish a budget for your company's taxes. Business Plan- We will cover the importance of creating a business plan, how to create one and how to make it a strong presentation. Business PandL Reports- We will take an overview of your Profit and Loss Reports, what goes where, how to read them and the essentials for a successful business manager to know. Profit Margin Guarantees and Staying in the Black- We will cover basic and popular theories and practices in the business world. Balance Sheets and the Business Cycle- We will cover the importance and uses of the company's Balance Sheet and we will briefly visit the concepts of the Business Cycle. Traps and Mishaps- We will address the dilemma of overcoming our inevitable errors in business and managementCompany Savings- We will focus on savings and how to make the most progress toward savings by utilizing the good will and brain power of your staff. You will have an overview of how to continue to increase your company's savings and how to encourage sales and staff members with rewards without giving away the savings. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550130.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 6 Oct 2008 12:19:03 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Time Management 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550056.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Proofreading and Copyediting 101 </title><description>Become a Skilled Proofreader or Copyeditor If you're looking for a new career path or if you're a writer who wants to improve your writing skills, learning how to proofread and copyedit with our easy to follow, in-depth course, may be just what you need. Learning these specialized skills will help improve your overall writing ability and may provide a career path that is both lucrative and in high demand. In today's world, proofreaders and copyeditors are sought after not only in the corporate environment and Internet-related ventures, but also by start-up companies, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Freelance proofreading jobs are bountiful, and many companies offer work-from-home opportunities as an additional benefit. This online course will cover: Exactly what proofreading and copyediting will entail. The tools you need to be an efficient proofreader or copyeditor. The basic skills you need to learn, taught to you in an easy-to-understand manner. Step-by-step instruction on how to proofread or copyedit. How to apply your newly learned skills. Tips to make you a professional proofreader or copyeditor with just a little practice. How to proofread and copyedit different kinds of writing such as fiction, blogs and articles. How to proofread and copyedit your own work. How to secure employment as a proofreader or copyeditor. How to start your own proofreading or copyediting business upon completion of the course. Current salary information. Practice exercises to implement your new skills. This course is designed for everyone, regardless of education, experience, or background. No matter who you are or what you want to achieve in life, gaining proofreading and copyediting skills will improve your written communications, help you think more clearly, and perhaps start you on the road to a brand new career. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550008.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Dec 2007 10:10:43 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Project Management 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33432.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 5 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Investing 101: Stocks, Bonds, and Mutual Funds </title><description> This course will help you demystify the stock market and start making money! Everyone yes, everyone is sure to find something suitable in the stock market to invest in. It doesn't matter if you are looking for a very safe investment to protect your nest egg or a risky investment with a huge potential to make a killing! Everyone finds themselves along that spectrum and will discover that the stock market has investments for people who want to protect their savings and for people who want to grow their savings. The stock market can be confusing. Using examples, actual stories from real investment advisers, and lists of great online resources, each lesson builds on the last to give you the clarity needed to understand investments. By the time you're done with this course, you'll have found a few investments you can enjoy and you'll be able to start investing right away with the assurance that you know what you're doing. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30609.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Jul 2006 19:35:18 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Coburn</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Medical Transcription 101 </title><description> With the opportunities to work in the healthcare field, particularly that within the Medical Transcriptionist (MT) arena, foreseen to be on the rise for the next ten years; it makes a great deal of sense to acquire specialized training within the field. Within our Medical Transcription course, we provide a comprehensive look at what the profession entails from translating physicians' dictations to learning a significant amount of medical terminology. Further, we have identified the supplies you will need to embark on a successful career as an MT, as well as, the resources available to help you get a strong foothold on what has all the makings of being a most stimulating and rewarding career. Whether working from home (Medical Transcription has been ranked as one of the top ten growth industries for home-based businesses) or within a hospital or physician's office, the duties of an MT are best suited for those persons who are able to concentrate for long periods of time, excel at using reference materials and have an ear for various dialects and accents. Bear in mind when you decide to become an MT your work will not only be assisting physicians and medical facility administrators but also that of patients who rely upon the accuracy of medical information in order to receive quality care. Thus, while both diversified and scientific in nature, the profession of medical transcriptionist is one of which you could be most proud. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550070.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:54:33 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Kahre, RN</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Credit Report and Repair </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550109.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 4 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Introduction to QuickBooks Bookkeeping </title><description> If you need an easy-to-use computer bookkeeping system that saves you time and gives you control of your business. A simple system that does not require you to know debts, credits, and double-entry bookkeeping. Then QuickBooks is the answer to your bookkeeping needs. Tracking your business activity is as easy as posting your daily transactions (checks, invoices, bills, and deposits) so that you have complete up-to-date financial information about your business at your fingertips whenever you want it. This introductory course covers bookkeeping fundamentals, then shows you an easy way to setup your organization in QuickBooks. Students learn how to setup the chart of accounts, post income and expense items, enter credit card transactions, work with balance sheet accounts, reconcile bank and credit card accounts, and interpret financial reports. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31496.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jan 2007 20:45:31 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Marks</author>
<category>Software Programs</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Loan Processing 101 </title><description>As we move into a new era of lending, one in which there will be increased regulations and scrutiny of loan officer activities, it is very critical to have well educated and trained professionals in place capable of knowledgably working with clients and guiding them on their process to secure a loan. Regardless of whether your goal is to work with mortgages/home loans, automobile loans, school/college loans, small business or personal loans, this course will provide you with the tools to help you better understand the overall lending industry and the specific responsibilities undertaken by loan officers from evaluating client's credit histories and financial data to seeking out appropriate lending sources and preparing final loan documentation. Also important for potential loan officer candidates to understand is that the lending environment has a great deal of options with respect to the types of loans available to clients. With varying payment structures, there is a loan type that is custom fit for each and every individual based upon his/her individual earning styles and motivations for paying off the loan with a defined period of time. And, pertaining to the loan officer's earning, there is also a range of incentive structures via which to earn money based upon one's performance as opposed to being relegated to earn a flat fee on an ongoing basis. This is just a sampling of the many options that exist within the wide world of lending. An exciting and worthwhile career, our course has been designed to act as a guide to help you to get a foothold in the industry. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550143.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 8 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Small Business Guide </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550083.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:25:11 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Home Business </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550094.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Gregg Shorthand 101 (Centennial Version) </title><description>Gregg Shorthand is the most widely used system of its kind in the world. It is used by millions of professionals from all walks of life in nearly every country worldwide. This system of shorthand is the most efficient of any other type created, it is considered the easiest to learn, use and read, it is simple, straightforward and elegant in design. As the Gregg system evolved, since its inception in 1888, it has become even easier to learn over the years. This course addresses the newest version of Gregg Shorthand, which is the second edition and#8220;Simplified.and#8221; You will find that by learning this system of shorthand that your work will become much easier and the knowledge you have obtained will give you valuable access to numerous positions in the business world. There are ten comprehensive lessons written in an easy to follow, informative manner. Lessons will contain the following elements: Introduction to the Lesson: 'Introduction' The Lesson body broken down by topic: and#8220;Learn Itand#8221; Lesson Conclusion: and#8220;Conclusionand#8221; Practice writing and audio activities following each lesson Brief lesson review quiz Highlighted key terms, checklists, exercises, and Web site resources will be threaded throughout the entire course when and where appropriate and necessary. Making full use of this course, in its entirety, is the first step in getting more of what you want in life and business. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33894.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Oct 2007 10:30:01 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Speed Reading 101 </title><description>Speed reading provides you with the tools and information you need to improve not only the speed that you read, but your comprehension and concentration as well. Speed reading will also provide you with effective tools that you can use when you're in a pressure reading situation. Throughout the course, you will find a number reading passages to test your words per minute reading rate as well as your comprehension abilities. A number of drills are also provided so that you can retrain your eyes and expand your vision, which is an essential skill for reading at a much faster rate. Far too many people still read at the same rate they were taught in elementary school and speed reading will help you to break your elementary reading habits. Additionally, you will learn how to break other bad habits that are slowing you down. This includes subvocalization, using your fingers while you read, and reading aloud or under your breath. These are bad habits that many people have developed from poor reading skills and never being taught more effective reading habits. When you learn to speed read, you are able to break these bad habits and improve your reading rate as well as your comprehension of the material. Many people believe that speed reading requires months of training and that you need to work with someone specialized in speed reading. However, with just a few minutes of practicing each day, you are able to improve your reading level, improve your reading rate and comprehension, all on your own. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550263.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Raley</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Hotel Management 101 </title><description>Hotel Management will provide a realistic look at every major portion of the hotel business which will help anyone planning or currently pursuing one of the many different career opportunities available in this burgeoning and dynamic industry. A great hotel manager leads by example. Like any business intent on survival and success, the hospitality industry requires insight into the financial aspect of every facet and every detail. Hotel Management is a course for those who wish to enjoy both personal and professional success in the hospitality industry; and need to have a more than casual understanding of the business and financial operations of the industry. Hotels and motels are not only places where a guest can obtain tasty food and comfortable lodging, they are an integral part of community life, with facilities for meetings, entertainment, and personal services. The career choices for a person seeking a job in the hospitality industry are vast: guest service manager, head chef, front office clerk, security officer, banquet manager, bookkeeper, concierge and many more opportunities that can be personally satisfying and financially rewarding. Renewed business travel, and domestic and foreign tourism will boost employment growth of lodging managers in full-service hotels. Additional demands for managers are expected in suite hotels. Business customers are willing to pay more for rooms with kitchens and suites that are spacious enough to conduct small meetings in. Other trainee and managerial opportunities will be available in large full-service hotels offering restaurants, fitness centers, ample meeting rooms and play areas for children, among other amenities. The hospitality industry offers today's young men and women an interesting and exciting career. Management of a hotel or restaurant calls for a wide range of capabilities. For those wishing a rewarding and challenging life of service to others, a future in the hospitality field should be seriously considered. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33024.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Nov 2007 13:34:16 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Mellencamp</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Fundraising 101 </title><description> 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!' </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32862.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Six Sigma </title><description>Welcome to Six Sigma! Six Sigma is a business and data-driven, disciplined approach to minimizing defects in any type of process (be it manufacturing or services). Popularized in the mid-90's by companies such as Motorola and GE, Six Sigma has grown greatly in acceptance among thousands of companies, and has proven to be both a time and money saver when implemented properly. This course is designed to provide students with an overview of Six Sigma and the DMAIC methodology. This course assumes students have no prior knowledge about Six Sigma, Quality, or Lean and delivers lessons and examples to build management skills. We examine Six Sigma case studies from various perspectives- Human Resources, Marketing, Sales, Operations, Construction, Government, Finance, and IT. Specific topics include: Maximizing Business Value, Critical to Quality, Voice of the Customer, Measurement Systems, Data Collection Plans, Design of Experiments, Analysis, Process Control, and Response Plans. Students who are interested in mastering the Six Sigma methodology can also use this course for that purpose. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31856.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 1 Aug 2007 14:08:15 GMT</pubDate>
<author>O. Martin</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Financing Your Business </title><description> Find the money and resources to fund your business or the business you dream about. This course will provide: Financing options The Financing Model will give you a visual and written step-by-step process for developing a strategy to finance your business. From personal assessment to the loan proposal it provides a process to obtain your loan. Programs and resources for you to successfully fund your business. Examples from agencies and organizations are provided to facilitate the process as well as provide background on sources of funding expectations. Federal, state and local agencies that provide resources for building and growing a business are identified. The federal programs range from business counseling to loans, and even in certain cases grants. Local agencies and organizations are important because of the proximity and availability of those resources. In many instances these services are free or a nominal fee is required. If you already own a business or you are thinking about one, this course is your best source to build your business. Instructor feedback based on experience will be the direct connection to accomplishing your dream or just learning about it for a future project or business idea. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31504.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jan 2007 11:47:26 GMT</pubDate>
<author>R. Campbell</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Economics 102 </title><description> Economics is an inherent part of our world. And, with every passing day, economics becomes more and more pivotal to our survival. From the items we buy at the store and our personal banking accounts to the types of industries in which we work and the resources government employs to sustain our communities, we are surrounded by economically-based challenges on a daily basis. With this course, our goal is to equip you with a working understanding of economics and its myriad of business and personal applications. As such, we have crafted an easy-to-understand course comprised of economic's principle tenets while specifically highlighting such central ideas as: supply and demand, interest rates and inflation. True, economics can be a complex subject. Yet, it remains highly pertinent to our modern-day lives not to mention a most stimulating topic. From gaining a sense of the forces that drive the economy to understanding how statistical and economics come together to forecast future monetary trends, this course offers a great deal of valuable information for both business and personal purposes. Knowing how the system operates has a range of benefits from the practical-why we pay taxes to the more lucrative possibilities and#8211;tips for investing within the money markets. Regardless of whether you want to become more familiar with economics so that you can better budget your household expenditures or so that you can became the entrepreneur you have always dreamed, has the fundamentals to guide you without overtaxing your brain. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550063.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>E. Mackerson</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Economics 101 </title><description>The average individual knows very little about economics and tends to believe whatever was seen or heard on television. However, we all contribute and are impacted by economic factors and need a basic understanding of how this works as economics becomes more and more pivotal to our survival. With this course, our goal is to equip you with a working understanding of economics and its myriad of business and personal applications. As such, we have crafted an easy-to-understand course comprised of economic principle tenets while specifically highlighting such central ideas as: andmiddot; History and Various Forms of Economics andmiddot; Schools of Thought andmiddot; Ten Major Principles of Economics andmiddot; World Economic Systems and Comparative Economics andmiddot; Components in Societal Economy andmiddot; Basic Tenets of the U.S. Economic System andmiddot; Global Economies: Ranking National Economies andmiddot; Micro and Macro: Styles of Economics andmiddot; Federal Reserve System: aka 'The Fed' andmiddot; Managerial Economics andmiddot; Gross National Product (GNP) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Regardless of whether you want to become more familiar with economics so that you can better budget your household expenditures or so that you can became the entrepreneur you have always dreamed, has the fundamentals to guide you without overtaxing your brain. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550051.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>E. Mackerson</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Dealing With Difficult People </title><description>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 </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550249.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business Management 101 </title><description>Introduction to Fundamentals of 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550114.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>How to Write a Business Plan 101 </title><description>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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550132.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 8 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>How to Improve Your Memory </title><description> '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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550096.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Customer Service 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31686.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Oct 2007 17:12:53 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Understanding Finances, What I wished I knew at 20 rather than 64! </title><description> The basic facts and reasons of finance: What it is supposed to do. What general ideas does it propose. What you are supposed to do! Using the Web as your research tool in finances. From budgeting to financial planning and using financial calculators. Buy or lease, save or put on credit are questions that will be covered. What are loans, stock, mutual funds? This class is just the beginning of your knowledge! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11267.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2004 17:25:15 GMT</pubDate>
<author>R. Newton</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Cosmetology Careers: What You Need To Know </title><description>Are you interested in a cosmetology career? Are you confused by all the different claims and advertising language of cosmetology schools? This self-paced online course can help! It's packed with information on the hottest careers for beauty professionals, including what to expect from each, and how to select a career path. Cosmetology Careers has been specifically designed to give you an overview of all the factors needed to evaluate each career plus information on earnings potential, educational requirements, how to choose a cosmetology school and a description of the typical work environment. Within this course's seven lessons, you will be introduced to the various specialties that are part of this fast-growing industry, You will also be given an in-depth look at many of the specialties within the cosmetology industry such as hair stylist, barber, nail technician, esthetician, day spa employee, massage specialist and make-up artist . You'll learn about training and licensing requirements, and get an idea of what you can earn as a fully licensed cosmetologist. Before you begin a course of study om a brand new area, why not learn if you have the personality suited for the career and before you spend money on tuition, why not find out salary range and cost of the total education? Take this course and save time and money and stress! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33250.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 6 Sep 2007 18:00:13 GMT</pubDate>
<author>B. Wills</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Negotiating Skills </title><description> In order to be effective at any business endeavor learning how to negotiate properly is not simply a 'nice skill to have,' it has become an essential requirement in career advancement. This course will teach you what you need to know in order to become accomplished at finding that perfect 'middle-ground' in any deal. For those who relish the idea of engaging in what some call the 'dance' of compromise, you will also profit from the beneficial information contained within this course. Lastly, those who tend to overshoot their mark will learn how to be more restrained in their negotiations. 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550241.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Etiquette 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550110.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:28:57 GMT</pubDate>
<author>T. Long</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Blueprint Reading for Machinists </title><description> The Blueprint Reading for Machinists course is a comprehensive guide to interpreting drawings commonly found in manufacturing. This is the 'short course' of 'need to know' information for blueprint reading in machine trades. Beginning with the background of blueprints, looking at the types of lines used on a drawing, and how parts are shown in different views. Dimensioning and Tolerancing are explained, as well as an introduction to Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. This course is intended as an introduction to understanding blueprints and being able to visualize and understand the intent of the designer or draftsman as presented in a blueprint. The first step in making quality parts or assemblies is interpreting the drawing correctly and applying the given information to the final product. Completing this course will enhance the learner's ability to gain employment in a manufacturing/machining area and/or increase their chances of advancement in related areas. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/8683.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Sep 2003 10:17:20 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Clayton</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Contract Law 101 </title><description>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 - 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550180.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 5 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Coburn</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Legal Terminology 101 </title><description> 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' . </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32170.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2007 16:55:54 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Coburn</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Leadership and Supervision 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550075.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Interview Skills 101 </title><description>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 </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550092.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 5 Jan 2009 13:42:09 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Organizational Psychology 101 </title><description> Industrial and Organizational Psychology or I/O is a varied field of study filled with many career opportunities. The importance of this field has never been more prevalent than in the last decade. The use of I/O methods has been proven to increase productivity, profits and general workplace satisfaction by startling percentages. Most large and successful companies have implemented some or all of these methods into their workplace environment within the last several years. I/O Psychologists may work within organizations, act as consultants to various organizations, or they may move into the area of academic research. The topics of this course primarily concern themselves with careers within organizations or as acting consultants. While there are numerous sub-fields within I/O, for the purposes of this course we will be focusing on the tools and methods that are common to all specialties. In the lessons contained herein you will learn about how to properly prepare for a career in I/O and what some possible specializations in the field are; additionally, we will cover some of the most important aspects of this profession including the use of various techniques and tools to help companies best utilize and motivate their most valuable resources--their employees. Whether you choose to later enter into Training and Development, Employee Motivation or Diversity Coaching this course will teach you what you need to know in order to make the leap towards the growing field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33430.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 3 Apr 2008 13:46:03 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Retail Business 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550124.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:07:23 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business Ethics 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550088.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:32:09 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Enhance Your Everyday Vocabulary </title><description> Have you ever been reading a newspaper or listening to a commentary and been confronted with a word you didn't know -- like for instance, plethora ? Over the years, you've seen and heard this word 20 times but you don't quite manage to remember the definition or use the word yourself when writing or speaking. You were supposed to have learned all this vocabulary stuff in high school or college but maybe you were absent that day? Well, It's never to late to fill in some of the gaps. Increase your vocabulary at your own pace! Memorize just 10 words a day - or a week - whatever works for your schedule. In some cases it's not really memory work - it's just 'refreshing'. Amaze your business associates, family, friends, and (more importantly) yourself by enhancing your conversational skills. Not only will you avoid the embarrassment of misusing or mispronouncing words, but also with the right vocabulary you may impress others with your dexterous and inventive handling of important concepts without being considered a show-off. Plus vocabulary enrichment does wonders for your self-esteem and certainly has the added benefits of helping with crossword puzzles and Trivial Pursuit. Through these interactive lessons, which have divided up ten different words in twenty lessons, you will learn interesting and relevant vocabulary. Words used frequently by 'experts' to describe various cultures, words used in restaurants, words used in economics and business, legal words, technology terms, psychological jargon and much more. You'll not only practice using the words in a sentence you create, you'll also be writing short paragraphs with some of the words. Although the course emphasis is on vocabulary building, you'll have the added bonus of receiving some general writing assistance. So join the class and retain some of those words you once learned and promptly forgot. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550253.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Raley</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Anger Management 101 </title><description>If you have been at the mercy of the negative consequences that result from mishandled anger, Anger Management 101 will provide relief. This insightful course is filled with both practical wisdom and application that will end the anger trap for good. Everyone occasionally gets angry and anger is a natural reaction to the things that happen: to you, around you, to someone you care for. Anger is a normal emotion unless the result of your anger is such that your reaction becomes uncontrollable, violent, or destructive. When anger becomes your reaction of choice to even the most minor of situations, or if you find yourself lashing out unnecessarily at people you love, respect, or care for, your anger may be spiraling out of control. Out of control anger can lead to many psychological and emotional issues, as well as many difficulties with your career, important relationships, and friendships. This course will provide the information you will need to end the anger cycle and live up to your true potential. We will discuss these topics: What are Various forms of Anger What are the Responses to Anger How to Control Anger Developing Empathy Passive Aggressive Behaviors Stress Factors Anger in Relationships Professional Help Resources Breathing and Relaxation Exercises </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550244.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Accounts Receivable Management </title><description>Accounts Receivable management is a demanding job. You'll be making decisions that can make or break a company. Your role is unique and complex--one that is closely integrated into the overall customer service of your company. In this course, we'll look at what exactly AR is, what it is you're going to be doing, what you'll need to know to get started, why your company needs an accounts receivable department to begin with, and what some of the keys are to a successful accounts receivable department. In this course, we're going through all the basics. You don't need any prior accounts receivable experience or knowledge to successfully complete this course. Using a 'ground-up' approach, we'll be covering topics such as 1. approving credit, 2. the billing process, 3. collecting money, 4. customer service, 5. handling deductions, 6. legal considerations, 7. bankruptcy, as well as many other important topics. So come join the fun...Let's get started now! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/31060.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 7 Apr 2007 10:41:44 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Accounts Payable Management </title><description>This course is a training guide for the new manager of an accounts payable department. It will help you step into your new role and take a commanding and successful lead. This course will take what you know and enhance it by adding management principles to those practices. Accounts payable is not just processing checks, mailing them and then filing the backup paperwork. To truly manage accounts payable, you must understand all parts of the deparment including but not limited to customer service, vendor management, check requests and POs. This course will discuss how to handle invoices; check processing ; preventing errors; annual audits; and technology uses in the department. Learn all about the best practices to adapt for your A/P department, PLUS, get expert advise from a well-seasoned disbursement manager with many years of A/P experience. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30873.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Sep 2006 09:07:01 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business in the Global Marketplace </title><description> This course takes a look at business structures around the world with an emphasis in both similarities and differences based on culture, tradition, politics, social responsibility, and economics. It is designed to give the student an overview of both the advantages and the possible pitfalls of doing business on foreign soil from their own business or industry's base of operations and how best to generate future trends as well as plan for possible outcomes. This is a strategic level course. This class is for students who have dealings in foreign countries, hold positions in companies that have or may open foreign subsidiaries, or want to expand their strategic mindset in order to expand operations into the global marketplace or are already working abroad and wish to expand their negotiating skill set. Prospective students should have some prior business experience or have lived in another country besides their own for at least six months. This class will use readings and other material found primarily on the Globalization 101 website and all other materials will be provided by the instructor or obtained from the Internet. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33442.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Dec 2007 12:11:42 GMT</pubDate>
<author>R. McCarthy</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Retirement Planning </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550163.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Coburn</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Paralegal Studies 101 </title><description>The paralegal field is highly rewarding for those who seek to be a part of the justice system. On a day to day basis, the paralegal is the attorney's right hand. From the perspective of the law, the paralegal is a sort of junior attorney in so far as she must know a lot of what he knows and she creates and presents his documents for execution upon his approval. She is his detail person, and she is necessary for him to follow up on his communications, check his court dates, check client backgrounds, client relations, law office to law office relations, check every detail and every reference in all of his documents, research applicable laws and case references, prepare all of his court documents, and generally keep him going. Trial paralegals also prepare the case interrogatories, file with opposing counsel for discovery, prep the client for deposition and accompany the attorney to court. Although the work is quite detailed, in practice a paralegal's work is anything but secretarial and many have equal use of their attorney's secretary so that the paralegal can follow up on the details of her work. Some paralegals also have legal assistants junior paralegals to whom they delegate details of their responsibilities. The Paralegal Studies course is designed to give you information you need to be a successful paralegal. It will take you through a survey of what is needed to become a paralegal, how you may choose to go about it, all of the business details which are generally not known until you are into the firm, and some of the social skills and information you will need to survive and thrive in a firm. It also covers issues which will never be said to you by anyone in your firm; some of the material cannot be said by members of your firm without putting them in legal jeopardy because they possess licenses or practice in certain areas of law. If you already have your paralegal certification, then this course will be beneficial if you are seeking your first firm position. You will get an insider's scoop on common mistakes and pitfalls, and you will know how to avoid or overcome common faux pas. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550162.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Marketing Outreach </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550171.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 5 Jan 2009 13:44:20 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Team Management 101 </title><description> 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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550168.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 7 Mar 2009 10:20:26 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Memory and Concentration Techniques </title><description> Memory, concentration, focus, communication, problem solving and relationships all interconnect and interact to give us the information we need to function properly in the everyday world. T his course will focus on these topics and explore how memory works, factors that affect and enhance memory, strategies to improve memory, the process of concentration, ways of improving the concentration process and how different circumstances can affect one's ability to focus and concentrate effectively. Studies indicate that exercises for the brain now can decrease the risk for Alzheimer's later. Certain foods and vitamins have also been reported to increase brainpower and improve the power of memory and concentration. Find out how you can improve and maintain a healthy memory and increase concentration skills today. Topics covered include: How Memory Works Healthy Habits and 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 Concentration and the Brain Concentration Frustration Exercising Your Brain The Sound of Music Food for Thought Concentration Barriers Concentration Helpers </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550175.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Public Relations 101 </title><description>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 </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550174.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Mortgage Broker 101 </title><description>~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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550183.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 5 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Estate Planning </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550178.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Administrative Assistant Fundamentals </title><description>Administrative Assistant Fundamentals 'A clueless boss gives you a wide-open field. Learn what's important to your boss, understand what your company is looking for and help the fool meet those expectations.' ( John Hoover) Oh how times, and people, have changed in the world over the last few years. Presently and into the foreseeable future, business people will not only have to continue picking up the pace but will need to adapt to new methods, systems and responsibilities that would have seemed unsustainable a few years ago or even just last year! Due in part to the recession--technology and necessity has amplified the requirements and pace of this change. It's not all bad news though, the truth of the matter is that the recession is providing opportunities to people in certain segments of the business world--administrative assistants are one of them. AA's are now, and will in the future, be performing roles that middle managers would have done only a year or two ago. They are acting on behalf of their bosses on a regular basis and have full authority to do so. Whether you are returning to the workforce after a number of years away or you are new to the administrative side of the business world, there are some great opportunities out there for administrative assistants, especially the new kind of administrative assistants--i.e. those who are skilled, prepared to take on extra responsibility and don't mind taking a risk or two. This is a 3 Part Course , which will begin covering some very important basics before going on to deal with the importance of training others to fulfill the position. We will then focus on the innovative role which has a place both in the present and future--that of a Virtual Assistant ! This course will open your eyes wider in regards to the choices you have available in an Administrative Assistant career, as well as introduce you to the business sector and the opportunities that now exist in this demanding field. This course provides a basis on which you can build your new future, so join us today! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550190.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:03:21 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Mediation 101 </title><description>The individual who pursues a career as a mediator can look forward to a job that is personally satisfying and financially rewarding. With its emphasis on fairness and cooperation, this career is an ideal choice for those who are empathetic and want to help others bring their conflicts to a positive resolution. Mediation allows the parties involved to reach resolutions more quickly, inexpensively, and amicably than may be possible through the court system. This Mediation 101 course is not only geared toward those who are interested in learning what it takes to become a professional mediator, but it also makes a great tool for those who will be involved in any aspect of mediation. By explaining the stages involved in the process, as well as clearly outlining the roles each party plays, this online class can help reduce anxiety and answer any questions that might have arisen over the issue of whether or not mediation is the right alternative for a particular case. From the basics of defining just what mediation entails, to the more in-depth issues surrounding mediator liability, this course creates an excellent starting point for those who would like to have a solid understanding of the process. This class also covers the types of information necessary to determine whether or not a case is a good candidate for mediation, the confidentiality issues involved, and what follow-up activities can be expected. Additionally, each section concludes with a quiz that allows you to assess your comprehension of the information presented. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550251.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Workplace Safety 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550195.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business Administration 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550194.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business Analysis 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550200.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:02:19 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Managerial Accounting 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550197.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Employment Law Fundamentals 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550199.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Business Credit 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550203.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:52:38 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Workers' Compensation 101 </title><description> Since as far back as Ancient Greece and Rome, there has been a system in place in all civilized societies to compensate those individuals who have become injured or disabled due to a work-related accident. The laws and regulations governing what is known today as Workers' Compensation have changed dramatically over the last 1700 years. This course will take a close look at the entire Workers' Compensation system, from the filing of an initial claim, to a detailed look on how to choose the right doctor and lawyer, how to represent yourself in the absence of a lawyer, and, most importantly, a detailed look into the specific federal, state, and private benefits that are available to people who have become injured in their workplace. Filing a Workers' Compensation claim need not be a daunting task. Every worker must seek the advice of qualified professionals. This course will provide an understanding of the core concepts in a Workers' Compensation claim, as well as education on where to get further information. Being injured in the workplace can mean a significant change in one's life, and it is important to ensure that one's rights and#8211; either those of an employee or an employer and#8211; are being fully protected. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550193.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Internet Marketing Basics </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550188.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 1 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Technology Skills</category>
<category>Learn HTML</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Conflict Resolution 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550238.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Diversity Training 101 </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550245.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Sexual Harassment Compliance </title><description> Sexual harassment is a hot topic in today's world--both in the corporate arena and in the personal arena. In this online class we will explore the concept of sexual harassment and look at solutions. Most of the ideas here will be directed toward the corporate arena, however many of the definitions and concepts apply equally to both arenas. Be aware that many aspects of the rules and concepts governing sexual harassment are part of law. That means they must be respected and followed, but it also means that they are changing--constantly. Any sub-topic within the legal field is part of a living code, that means the code has been set out but is always being refined, talked about, tested, renewed, and sometimes discarded. Fifty years ago, online sexual harassment wasn't an issue; today it is. So be aware that this course is not going to replace solid legal council in the area of sexual harassment. Instead, this course will be a guideline to help you understand and end sexual harassment in the workplace. To that end, we'll provide practical advice, suggestions, and ideas on how to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, and moreover, we'll go into the necessary procedures/guidelines your personnel/HR department should have in place (and posted) in case there is an instance of sexual harassment. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550240.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Personal Protective Equipment </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550185.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 13:01:44 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Advertising, Marketing and Sales Writing </title><description> 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'! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550287.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Merritt</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Investing 201: Intro to Commodity, Options, and Futures Markets </title><description>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. Commodity Markets and Futures Trading is a 13-part course 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550212.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Borland</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Resume Writing 101 </title><description> One of the most important and intimidating steps in the job search process is writing a solid resume that gets the attention you want and need. Unfortunately, many job seekers get overwhelmed before they even get started. The result is poorly-written resumes that are built on top of templates that don't do the job seeker any good. Today, resumes must appeal to potential employers while also being optimized for the electronic age. Whether you are handing a resume over in person or are emailing an electronic copy to be added to an online database, the words you use and the formatting you choose will make a big difference in whether or not you get that interview. This course teaches you not just what a resume should look like, but what it should say. It walks you step-by-step through the creation of the most common sections found on resumes in today's job market. In addition to helping you determine what information should be included, it also goes a step further to help you realize what pitfalls to avoid when creating this powerful, job-searching tool. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550211.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Patel</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
</item>
<item>
<title>Writing Effective Persuasion 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550210.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>Creating an Effective Sales Team </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550216.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
<category>Business Applications</category>
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<title>How to Take an Online Class at UniversalClass </title><description> This free tutorial presents an open Demo of a typical UniversalClass online classroom. We encourage potential students and new students to join and have a look around at the many things a UniversalClass room can do for you! The lessons in this demo class will provide an easy to follow step-by-step demonstration and illustration of exactly how to navigate our online service. Here students will not only view and practice using an online classroom, but will also find out where to locate courses, how to join a class, how to use My UniversalClass , how to view personal awards, how to view an online transcript, in addition to resources and guides, frequently asked questions, and much more! Come in and join the UniversalClass community, made up of a worldwide population of adult learners, who are interested in knowing how our classrooms are set up in order to effectively pursue their educational interests and expertise. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30541.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Mason</author>
<category>Computer Programming</category>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Learn How to Ebay </title><description> Have you tried Ebay and could not make money? Maybe you even tried Ebay's tutorial and still did not make enough money. Well now, you can learn how to sell and make great money on Ebay, simply by following the proven methods taught in this course. With systematic instructions, you will learn how to be a successful auctioneer! *This course is for anyone desiring a home based business. * Ebay has a NEW Store with a Free 30 Day Trial. It is called Prostores and here is a link for you http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-301032-10408753 . Your Credit Card will not be charged now, but when your trial is completed. You may choose to keep it or not before that. * However, for a more true and realistic course advantage, you will want to sign up and pay for an ebay store. Here is the link for that. http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-301032-10357027 . *You will receive hundreds of time and money saving ideas and products that will insure your Auctioning success! *You will learn how to make logos and graphics that you can save and use later too. *You will learn which items are the best (and worst) to sell on Ebay. *At the end of this course, you will be sent a document packed with even more moneymaking ideas, tips and innovative auctioning methods and techniques that will further enhance your home auction business. Why wait until it's too late. Turn your junk into someone else's treasure and make money doing it! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/11452.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2004 18:45:44 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Manzoni</author>
<category>Computer Basics</category>
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<title>Sociology 101 </title><description>This comprehensive course provides an up-to-date presentation of the essentials of sociological study. Students will learn a wide range of classical and contemporary perspectives which will encourage links between theories and current research. With the addition of numerous net links, thoughtful exercises and examples, and review quizzes--this course will help students develop a sociological imagination. This is an ideal environment in which to examine ourselves, study our own society, as well as study our neighbors. Topics covered will examine the sociological perspectives, sociological research, cultural debates, the process of socialization, groups and organizations, crime and deviance, stratification, inequality and discrimination that effects ageism and gender, race and ethnicity, issues involving the economy, different forms of government, marriage, religion, health and environment safety, urbanization, and social movements. This course is an excellent resource for any age student pursuing aspects of this study or the non-academic hobbyists and life-long learners. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33335.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jun 2007 14:53:47 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Human Resources Management 101 </title><description>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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550050.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Salazar</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Building Self Esteem </title><description> Your self-esteem needs your attention, as the consequences of low self-esteem are often the precursor for many other health related problems. Avoid future personal health issues by evaluating your level of self-esteem today! This self-paced course will examine what self-esteem is, the development and factors effecting self-esteem, an examination of the consequences and symptoms of low self-esteem, the behaviors associated with the symptoms of low self-esteem, and methods to rebuild self-esteem and maintain a good level of self-esteem throughout life. Anyone who is enduring the draining experience of low self-esteem, anyone who may know others suffering from low self-esteem, or anyone who is interested in maintaining a healthy and happy life in general, should enroll in this course today! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550239.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Money</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Interior Decorating Made Easy </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/32969.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 14:34:58 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Walker</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Writing Basics 101: Spelling, Grammar, Punctuation, Writing Structures </title><description>Most of us learned spelling and grammar in elementary school and brushed up on the rules occasionally in junior high or middle school. Once we entered high school, it was assumed we knew and remembered all of the essentials -- and slowly we discovered that although there were some rules we just had to look up, we simply stopped worrying about 'the minor details.' It's time to relearn those 'minor details' that can help you write, and read more effectively. But it's hard to fix something unless you know how it works. This self-paced, stress-free course was developed not only for students wanting to improve their basic writing skills, but also for business writers, creative writers and office staff wanting to improve poor work related writing and avoid embarrassing their boss and themselves. Our innovative course is designed as a refresher course for those who need to brush up on their skills and a reference for anyone who wants to be able to look up the rules for confusing grammatical questions quickly and easily. After you've reviewed the basic rules of grammar and spelling, you can move on to the lessons on writing style for tips on improving your sentence and paragraph structure, how to polish your writing and how to avoid common errors. And because the course is online doesn't mean that you'll be left on your own. The instructor will be grading assignments and tests and is available through email to answer questions and provide guidance. Why not join us, learn at your own pace and your own schedule and reap the benefits? </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550258.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Raley</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Vocabulary Building </title><description>Are you interested in building your vocabulary? Do you feel that your writing or your speaking vocabulary is below average? The purpose of ' Vocabulary Building ' is to beef up your everyday vocabulary with words that you could use in everyday conversation. A strong vocabulary will not only give you the tools to say and write exactly what you mean it can also help you on a job interview, communicate better with a doctor or your lawyer and certainly help you with school work. A good vocabulary makes you sound smarter, feel more assured and practically guarantees you'll be a better writer and speaker. The purpose of this vocabulary class is to beef up your everyday vocabulary with words that you could use in everyday conversation. The larger our vocabularies the more clearly we can communicate with others and understand what others are trying to communicate to us. This course will introduce some simple ways to learn new vocabulary words by practicing reading in context, by writing sentences using the words and by doing practice exercises and quizzes. The class is not a beginning or advanced vocabulary course. It's that 'in between' course where so many people's vocabulary skills fit. So if you're interested in expanding your vocabulary skills in a self-paced, no stress format where an instructor actually reviews and corrects your sentence writing, why not give it a try? Enrich your life by enriching your vocabulary. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550256.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Raley</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Writing Improvement 101 </title><description>We know that effective writing will help students in their coursework but it's equally important to write well in the workplace. If a job interviewer is considering two qualified candidates, the candidate who can write well will have the edge. If you're interested in improving your basic writing beyond correct grammar and punctuation, this course will help you. The more you write, the more confidence you will have in your abilities as a writer. The best grammar and punctuation in the world can still produce average or even poor writing if you don't know how to use the sentences properly or which type of sentence works best to get your point across. By the same token, if you can write lyrical sentences but you string them together into paragraphs that are a tangled mess, the sense and impact of each sentence is lost. This course is designed to give students the most flexibility and independence. You set your own schedule and learn at your convenience. Just because this course is online doesn't mean you're left on your own. The instructor will be reviewing and grading assignments and is always available to answer questions through email. This course assumes you have a high school reading and writing level in English, and that you understand sentence structure, grammar and punctuation. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550261.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>A. Raley</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Counseling Psychology 101 </title><description>Professional counselors need a strong foundation to prepare them for entering the profession of counseling. If you are seeking a program to enhance your skills, or just want to learn more about this career, Introduction to Counseling will give you great insight toward reaching your educational goals. The course will focus on counselor's work as well as a counselor's typical day, provide understanding into how personal and professional ethics play a major role in the dynamics between counselor and client, and the challenges of various abnormal behaviors and mental disorders a professional counselor must face in helping people to live their own life rather than be lived by it. This self-paced course incorporates a vast variety of areas that apply to many different environments and circumstances including addiction, marital problems, eating disorders, bereavement, educational and career counseling. You'll learn the top ten basic counseling skills to create a positive relationship between client and therapist and how these skills can help the client to make positive changes. Introduction to Counseling offers an inside view of core counseling techniques and approaches, and opportunities for counseling professionals to understand the complex role client diversity plays in their work. When the ailment can't be measured by numbers on the thermometer, that's when a counselor's work begins. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550089.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:30:56 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Accounting and Bookkeeping 101 for Everyone </title><description>'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. This course is complete and comprehensive, and covers all the fundamentals of accounting, and includes full video to help you master the concepts covered! So join us today! And let's learn the fundamentals of accounting! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30302.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 1 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>J. Tsung</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Psychology 101 </title><description> Why not learn the basics of psychology with our online course designed to give students the most flexibility and independence? Psychology 101 is a comprehensive class providing an up-to-date presentation of the fundamentals of psychology. It's an excellent resource for any age student curious to learn about the extensive amounts of knowledge explaining human behavior. This user-friendly course will cover topics that will help your understanding of behavior and you'll learn the many theories that explain the complexities of human interactions. You'll find topics that dissect the brain to understand the thinking process; topics on the theorists and contributions of Pavlov, Skinner and Thorndike; topics on the influence of personality theorized by Freud; topics on the world of social psychology, and much more. If you're p ursuing any of the numerous career options involving the vast field of psychology or you're a non-academic hobbyist and life-long learner, this course will provide a solid introduction. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33623.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 2 Dec 2007 21:10:08 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Mithaug</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Telephone Skills and Quality Customer Service </title><description> 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550225.htm</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:49:15 GMT</pubDate>
<author>C. Addington</author>
<category>Human Resources</category>
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<title>Photography 201- Including Digital Process and Film Developing </title><description> This course offers advanced photographic instruction. For those who understand the basics of photography, this course will teach you intermediate photography skills. You will learn the four basic problems of pro photography and how to overcome each. There are also creative lessons on black and white portrait photography, photographing models for profit and their portfolios and composite cards, editorial photography, developing your own b/w and color prints, advanced lighting, commercial, press and digital photography and finally, putting together your own professional photographers portfolio and setting up your own at home or studio photography business. Free downloads pertinent to operating a portrait studio are given including photo imaging and editing, bookkeeping, accounting, order and invoicing record-keeping. Student will also prepare photographs and submit them for personal critique by the instructor. This advanced course is for the serious beginner, intermediate or professional photographer needing to further study the art and science of photography. Join this course in conjuction with any of the photography courses here on Universal Class. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/5924.htm</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Jan 2003 22:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Luttman</author>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
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<title>Photography Basics </title><description> 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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/30276.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 May 2006 13:09:54 GMT</pubDate>
<author>E. Thomas</author>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
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<title>Film Appreciation 101 </title><description> ' Film Appreciation for Modern Audiences' is intended as a journey through the world of film, for 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, here you can learn more about the narrow-passages of film-analysis, discussion of film, the period genres and movements in film-style, and more, for 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 can about the world of film for his personal enjoyment; or for the student, hoping to become familiar with the 'lay-of-the-land' for film-criticism. Chapters include discussions on: v How you can get real enjoyment from the films you watch, and why you should care v Early film-history v The process of film-making and how it relates to understanding the films you watch v A look at 100 years of film-styles, genres and movements v A discussion of film-psychology, and some fascinating aspects of the perception of films v 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 v General ideas about film and art-theory as a consumer habit v Film composers to know v Film directors to know v How to get your twenty-dollar's worth at the movie-theater v New ways to enjoy film and new audience technologies v And much more </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/33251.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2007 16:40:11 GMT</pubDate>
<author>E. Thomas</author>
<category>Photography</category>
<category>Image Editing</category>
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<title>Wedding Planning 101 </title><description> You won't find as comprehensive of a wedding course line 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550040.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>T. Long</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Wedding Photography and Planning </title><description> This photography course will cover the art and science of wedding photography. In this course you will learn how to prepare and present a beautiful wedding album from start to finish, wedding checklists, and how to design low-cost decorations for weddings. This course will also include information on how to open a portrait studio, how to get clients with free advertising and promotions, how to get and keep track of clients in a new or existing portrait. For this course you will need an automatic 35mm camera with an on-camera flash or a simple digital camera for submitting photo's. (for further information refer to the course syllabus) </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/6599.htm</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 20 Mar 2003 11:11:35 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Luttman</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Scrapbooking 101 </title><description>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 guide to scrapbooking, the beginner will learn how to start her scrapbooking hobby without being overwhelmed. Everything from choosing the right supplies to get started to tips for journaling effectively is included in chapters that reflect the wide variety of scrapbooking styles and themes popular today. Scrapbooking 101 also includes a reference section with helpful advice on designing interesting lay-outs, 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. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550189.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 7 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>S. Walker</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Photography 101- Including Indoor and Outdoor Professional Lighting </title><description> This course is designed for the beginner, intermediate or advanced photographer seeking affordable training and extensive, easy-to-read lesson plans. Course material will include information on types of cameras, the use of film, digital, and darkroom developing. It also covers information about studio lighting both indoor and out, as well as several types of photography including wedding, child and glamour photography. Your instructor will provide personal coaching and portrait critique through lesson readings, assignments and quizzes. * While you will not need a professional camera, you do need a camera in order to send in samples of the lessons given. (refer to course syllabus for additional information) </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/5574.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 4 Nov 2002 17:14:19 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Luttman</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Family, DayCare, and Senior Portrait Photography </title><description>If you have an interest in opening your own photography studio or an 'on location' family photography business, this is the course you should be taking! The class will give you step-by-step information so you can start a profitable business photographing families, photographing daycare and preschools, and taking those teen senior portraits. Not only will your work be critiqued by a photographer who has her own photo business, she will tell you how to make those special old-time prints plus give you tips for photographing awesome children's portraits. You will also learn to create your own unique alternative backgrounds and photo studio sets for the lucrative market of 'senior portrait' photography. So if this is something you always wanted to try, but were a little fearful, this stress-free self-paced course will be just the place to start. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/10407.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 25 Sep 2004 12:59:16 GMT</pubDate>
<author>K. Luttman</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Travel Writing 101 </title><description> 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! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/7550222.htm</link>
<pubDate>Sun, 1 Feb 2009 14:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
<author>M. Merritt</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Art of Digital Photography </title><description> 'Digital Photography- It's not out of the picture!! This introductory course on digital photography and image processing will demonstrate how easy and how much better it is. The lessons will include tips on purchasing a camera, many features and its uses, film media, taking various pictures, retouching photos using image editing software, printing pictures, and file usage and sharing. I have used both a film camera and digital camera. Ever since the digital camera came out in the early 1990's, I have always had one, and have used it for various purposes, ranging from taking pictures of the family or other various settings, to communicating exactly what I mean. For example, when I need a repair part, I just take a picture of the defective part and show it to the dealer. But don't throw away your film camera, for it has still some use in today's market. This step-by-step course is designed to help you learn all about photography, including choosing the right camera, taking good pictures, processing and use of digital images, and printing, sharing and storage of your pictures. It also discusses about the scanner and its uses. Come and join this class and see how you can explore the wonderful world of photography. I am sure you'll get a lot of pleasure once you know what it's all about!! All lessons are fully illustrated with photographs to help you learn the materials. In addition, there is a BONUS lesson on how to create and view breathtaking 3D pictures right on your computer without additional equipment!! For a limited time, this class is just $119, so get your camera out, forget the film, come in and join us today! </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/3781.htm</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Oct 2002 09:52:05 GMT</pubDate>
<author>R. Acosta</author>
<category>Photography</category>
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<title>Advanced QuickBooks Accounting </title><description>This course is a practical one that follows my QuickBooks Accounting class. It focuses primarily on those who have an interest in starting their own bookkeeping business, although anyone with some basic QuickBooks and accounting experience stands to benefit from it. The course expands and goes into an in-depth discussion of bank reconciliation, online banking, payroll taxes, federal tax preparation, the statement of cash flow, ratio analysis, depreciation and of course a whole lesson on starting a bookkeeping business. This lesson offers practical advice and discusses the basic tools you will need to start your own bookkeeping practice. Among other topics, this lesson looks into the forms to fill out to register your business, where to begin, how much to charge for your services, advertising, education, qualifications and more. Students will also see a sample Service Agreement, which they can customize to their own particular situation. This contract will be the basis for signing up new customers and getting your business off the ground. </description>
<link>http://www.universalclass.com/i/crn/5550.htm</link>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Oct 2002 20:10:29 GMT</pubDate>
<author>D. Joseph Jr.</author>
<category>Software Programs</category>
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