And most professions don't require members to take exams to stay in good standing with their boards, but simply need proof they logged their time. It's essentially an honor system. It's not only white-collar workers who are availing themselves of online continuing education. The California Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind says it may soon use the Internet to teach instructors more about issues regarding blindness. Based a few miles south of San Francisco, Classroom Connect is betting the Internet will be a desirable alternative for continuing education credits for public school teachers - and offer some learning advantages.
Teachers also enroll in professional growth classes regardless of requirements.
More than 100,000 people now are registered with Connected University. Using the computer is certainly different, and the Internet gives you access to more resources than a textbook would. In addition to the online course, books and materials are included in the package, as well as a library of pre-researched Web sites set up to enhance learning. They are exposed to things that they otherwise might not be able to experience. Suits needs Carol Pikes, a kindergarten teaching assistant in rural Wakefield, New Hampshire, has taken three courses through Connected University for her recertification.