Blog #11

MLA citation:
Honawar, Vaishali. "Accreditation Makes Virtual Teachers College 'Real Thing'." Education Week 26.14 (2006): 8-8. Academic Search Premier. 18 April 2007. http://search.ebscohost.com.
Summary:
This article is about Western Governors University, an online college created by 19 governors from western states, that recently introduced a teachers program to its couse history. Once known for technology and business degrees, WGU got the accreditation needed for the certified teachers program through NCATE, The National Council for Accreditati0n of Teacher Education. This gives the college, and degrees earned, valiadity upon graduation. The college also gives students mentors throughout their enrollment and when employed. The number of students to attend this university has grown from 400 to 4,500, mostly by word of mouth of satisfied graduates. WGU boasts of being very hands on with their students and offer courses taught by reputiable 4 year universities. The idea behind internet colleges is in its infancy and has room to improve. the NCATE is looking for more outlets for teachers education to thrive. It seems the median age to attend online universities is 36, and more males enroll then female. Minorities and people in more rural areas also benefit from taking online courses.
Importance:
This article is important in giving an example of an accrediated online college that has grown since instituting the teachers program. I am understanding why online colleges are beneficial to everyone. They offer people who wouldn't have a chance to attend school the opportunity to do so.
Connections:
I am so tired of the internet. This is the same way I went about researching my previous paper about online something or other. I would much rather write an evaluation essay on George Bush or a paper on Che Guevara. Something interesting.
Supporting Source:
This article shows that there are reputable online universities. It also gives great information about the teaching style and students who attend.
Argumentative Source:
Their is a shortage of teachers and online colleges give more people an opportunity to become one. This is a new concept and the standards must be set high, as not to let undesireable people an ability to teach our children.