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February 1, 2007 by Proven Home Business.
By Aldene Fredenburg
The dramatic shift in employment patterns in the past decade, and particularly in the past five years, has dealt a blow to the American workforce. The development of the Internet, particularly high-speed Internet, World Trade Organization treaties, and the explosion of container shipping are only three of the many factors which have resulted in millions of jobs, including highly paid, skilled jobs, being exported to countries from Mexico to India and China. As American workers have seen their jobs disappear to outsourcing, many have responded by going back to college, either for individual professional development courses or for degrees in a new field.
Even as computer-related positions disappear to foreign programmers and graphic designers, many U.S. workers are finding they can fight back. Programmers, website developers, and graphic artists have discovered that, with up-to-date knowledge of software and hardware and a little business sense, they can contract their skills to a number of companies more than willing to hire a local worker in exchange for the chance to forgo business expenses involved in keeping a worker on the payroll: income and social security taxes, unemployment compensation, holiday and vacation pay, health insurance benefits. This silver lining in the outsourcing cloud has kept computer and business classes filled at community colleges and vocational schools, many of whom are seeing a sharp spike in enrollment among older students in their continuing education programs.
Other workers are changing careers entirely, opting for fields that can’t be outsourced. Jobs that require a warm body and a pair of hands onsite, like broadcast communications, nursing, and medical technician positions, make sense to an increasing number of students; and both health-related industries and communications are growing while other industry sectors are shrinking in their need for local employees.
Even workers whose jobs are safe for the moment are exploring continuing education in increasing numbers. Employees who have survived one or more company downsizings, for instance, often find themselves taking on more responsibilities, and need to update their professional skills in order to survive. Others recognize that today’s work environment demands much more flexibility, and decide to be proactive in developing skills that may protect their jobs in the future.
Perhaps the only certainty in an uncertain world is that things will continue to change. That includes the demands of the workplace, and employees will have to be able to adapt quickly and skillfully to these changes. It’s a good bet that continuing professional education is going to be an ongoing part of American workers’ defense in protecting their livelihoods.
Aldene Fredenburg is a freelance writer living in southwestern New Hampshire. She has written numerous articles for local and regional newspapers and for a number of Internet websites, including Tips and Topics. She expresses her opinions periodically on her blog, http://beyondagendas.blogspot.com She may be reached at amfredenburg@yahoo.com
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January 15, 2007 by Proven Home Business.
It has been said that the most rewarding career one can embark upon is one which serves the people. For the thousands of people who graduate each year with a degree in social work related fields they dedicate their lives to helping those who are less fortunate or need assistance in times of needs. When it comes to choosing a college to earn a degree in this field there are certain schools that stand out and truly deserve to be called the best.
Whether your pursue your degree in a local community college, University or through online education there are certain criteria you are undoubtedly looking for to make sure the school you choose is the best for your field. Some of the things that you should look for when making a decision include: What type of programs do they offer in the social sciences? Are they recognized by any national or world-wide institutes or organizations that deal with public service? How have they earned accreditation in this field? No doubt as you begin your search these questions and many others are going to be part of a comprehensive list you develop to help you in choosing the appropriate educational institution.
As you explore your options don’t forget to also check with local and state agencies that provide services to the public in your field to ask them if they can recommend higher education choices. Many times these organizations are thrilled to help someone who wants to pursue this type of work and can not only recommend schools but also help mentor you as you pursue your degree. Often these types of mentoring relationships can lead to full-time employment after graduation.
Nic Haffner is a writer and internet publisher who likes to publish College Education Info Resources and related stuff. Check out his news and in depth information website the-best-colleges.com.
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