We’re excited to announce an incredible campaign launching on 17th September at Tefl.ie! For 48 hours,
The TEFL Institute of Ireland is offering its 30-hour Teaching English Online course for just €5 (normally €105). With only 100 spots available, this exclusive deal is perfect for those looking to explore remote teaching without a major commitment. Whether for students, career changers, or digital nomads, this offer is a game-changer!
Control smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops remotely with Miradore
Miradore is a mobile device management (MDM) platform that enables businesses of all sizes, including freelancers, startups, and small businesses, to manage and secure their devices efficiently. Its cloud-based interface helps users control smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops remotely, ensuring security, monitoring usage, and providing updates across various operating systems.
For freelancers and small businesses, Miradore simplifies IT management, offering the ability to remotely wipe or lock lost or stolen devices, track device usage, and install applications. This helps startups protect sensitive business data while saving time and resources on device management, which is often challenging for smaller teams without a dedicated IT department.
Miradore offers a freemium pricing model, making it highly accessible for businesses on tight budgets. The free plan supports basic mobile device management, covering essential features like remote device locking and wiping, encryption enforcement, and application management. The paid plans, starting at $2 per device per month, offer more advanced features such as automated compliance checks, customized reports, and premium support, making it affordable and scalable for growing businesses.
Competitors and Comparison
Miradore faces competition from several established players in the MDM space, including:
- Jamf Now – Focuses heavily on Apple device management, offering simple, user-friendly MDM for small businesses.
- Microsoft Intune – Integrated with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it ideal for businesses heavily using Windows and Office 365.
- AirWatch by VMware – A robust solution designed for enterprise-scale businesses, but with more complex features.
Compared to competitors, Miradore stands out due to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, making it well-suited for freelancers and startups who may not need the heavy features of enterprise-level MDM but still require essential security and management functionality.
Miradore’s ease of use, competitive pricing, and solid feature set make it an excellent choice for small teams looking for a scalable and efficient device management solution.
Understanding open source Moodle LMS
Introduction to Moodle LMS
Moodle, which stands for Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment, is one of the most popular Learning Management Systems (LMS) in the world. Launched in 2002 by Martin Dougiamas, Moodle is an open-source platform designed to provide educators, administrators, and learners with a single robust, secure, and integrated system to create personalized learning environments. Its flexibility and the strong community supporting it have made Moodle a preferred choice for many educational institutions and organizations worldwide.
Prominent Brands Using Moodle
University of the People (UoPeople)
The University of the People (UoPeople), an accredited online university offering tuition-free degrees, leverages Moodle for its LMS. UoPeople utilizes Moodle’s extensive features to manage courses, track student progress, and facilitate interaction between students and instructors. The adaptability of Moodle allows UoPeople to provide a high-quality education to students globally, irrespective of their geographical location or financial status.
Other Prominent Brands
- The Open University: Known for its distance learning programs, The Open University in the UK uses Moodle to deliver online courses to thousands of students worldwide.
- California State University: Several campuses within the California State University system employ Moodle to manage their online learning and hybrid courses.
- UNESCO: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) utilizes Moodle for various educational programs and initiatives, supporting learning and development on a global scale.
Open-Source Nature with Free and Paid Plugins and Themes
Free Plugins and Themes
Moodle’s open-source nature means that anyone can access, modify, and distribute its source code. This has led to the development of a vast array of free plugins and themes that can extend Moodle’s functionality and customize its appearance. The Moodle Plugin Directory contains thousands of plugins developed by the Moodle community, including:
- Attendance: Helps instructors track student attendance.
- Quiz: Provides advanced quiz-building capabilities.
- BigBlueButtonBN: Integrates the BigBlueButton web conferencing system for virtual classrooms.
Paid Plugins and Themes
In addition to free plugins, there are also premium plugins and themes available for purchase. These often offer more advanced features, better support, and regular updates. Examples include:
- PoodLL: A set of plugins for audio and video recording, playback, and language learning activities.
- Edwiser RemUI: A modern, user-friendly theme that enhances the visual appeal and usability of Moodle.
Technology Stack
Moodle is built on a robust and scalable technology stack that ensures its reliability and performance. The core technologies include:
- PHP: The primary scripting language used for server-side development.
- MySQL/MariaDB: Commonly used relational database management systems for storing Moodle data.
- JavaScript: For client-side scripting and interactive features.
- HTML/CSS: For structuring and styling the Moodle interface.
- Apache/Nginx: Web servers that handle requests and serve Moodle content to users.
Customization for Developers
Moodle’s open-source nature and modular architecture make it highly customizable. Developers can extend Moodle’s functionality and tailor it to specific needs through:
- Custom Plugins: Writing new plugins to add features or integrate with other systems.
- Themes: Developing custom themes to change the look and feel of the Moodle site.
- APIs: Utilizing Moodle’s extensive APIs to interact with its core functionalities and data.
- Localization: Translating Moodle into different languages or adapting it to local educational standards.
Pros and Cons of Moodle
Pros
- Flexibility: Moodle’s modular design allows extensive customization and scalability.
- Cost-Effective: Being open-source, it eliminates licensing costs, although there may be costs associated with hosting, customization, and maintenance.
- Community Support: A large global community contributes to the development, support, and enhancement of Moodle.
- Rich Feature Set: Offers a wide range of features out-of-the-box, including forums, quizzes, assignments, and gradebooks.
- Interoperability: Supports integration with other systems and standards, such as SCORM and LTI.
Cons
- Complexity: The extensive features and customization options can be overwhelming for new users and administrators.
- Performance: Large-scale implementations may require significant server resources and optimization efforts.
- Usability: Some users find the interface less intuitive compared to modern proprietary LMS platforms.
- Maintenance: Regular updates and security patches are necessary, requiring technical expertise.
Comparison with Other LMS
Open-Source LMS
- Canvas: Known for its user-friendly interface and strong community, Canvas is another popular open-source LMS. While Canvas offers a more intuitive UI, Moodle is often preferred for its flexibility and extensive plugin ecosystem.
- Sakai: Also open-source, Sakai is geared more towards higher education institutions. It has a smaller community and fewer plugins compared to Moodle, but it is valued for its collaborative learning tools.
Proprietary LMS
- Blackboard: A leading proprietary LMS, Blackboard offers a comprehensive suite of features and integrations. However, it comes with high licensing costs, and its closed-source nature limits customization compared to Moodle.
- D2L Brightspace: Known for its modern interface and strong analytics capabilities, Brightspace is another proprietary LMS. It provides excellent support and training but lacks the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of Moodle.
Conclusion
Moodle stands out as a versatile and powerful LMS that caters to a wide range of educational needs. Its open-source nature, coupled with a vast array of plugins and customization options, makes it a preferred choice for many institutions. While it has its challenges, such as complexity and maintenance requirements, the benefits it offers in terms of flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and community support make it a formidable player in the LMS landscape. Whether for a small educational institution or a large organization, Moodle provides the tools and resources needed to create an effective and engaging learning environment.
Which LMS (Learning Management System) do you use?
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Disclaimer: This article was generated with the assistance of large language models. While I (the author) provided the direction and topic, these AI tools helped with research, content creation, and phrasing.
University of the People: A pathway to affordable and accredited higher education
In an age where higher education is becoming increasingly expensive, the University of the People (UoPeople) offers a beacon of hope for many aspiring students worldwide. Founded in 2009, UoPeople is a non-profit, tuition-free, online university that provides access to higher education to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Through its scholarship programs, UoPeople makes it possible to earn accredited associate, graduate, and postgraduate degrees at no cost, presenting a transformative opportunity for students around the globe. This article explores how UoPeople can help you achieve your educational goals and the potential career pathways it opens.
The Scholarship Program: Unlocking Free Education
UoPeople’s commitment to providing affordable education is exemplified through its extensive scholarship programs. These programs aim to support students who demonstrate financial need, ensuring that the lack of financial resources does not hinder their academic ambitions. Scholarships cover various costs associated with studying, including assessment fees, making it feasible to earn a degree without incurring debt.
Types of Degrees Offered:
Associate Degrees:
- Associate of Science in Business Administration
- Associate of Science in Computer Science
- Associate of Science in Health Science
Bachelor’s Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Health Science
Graduate Degrees:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Postgraduate Degrees:
- Opportunities for further specialization and advanced research.
Certificate Programs:
- Specialized courses designed to enhance specific skills and knowledge areas.
Accreditation and Its Implications
UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the programs meet certain academic standards and that the degrees are valid and credible. However, it is important to note that UoPeople’s accreditation is at the national level, not the state level.
National vs. State Accreditation
- National Accreditation: Typically awarded to institutions that offer specialized or vocational education. It is recognized nationwide but may not always be accepted by state licensing boards or certain employers.
- State Accreditation: Often required for institutions offering traditional academic programs, and widely recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
Suitability for Career Paths
Given its national accreditation, UoPeople may not be the best choice for those seeking government jobs or careers that require state-accredited degrees. However, for aspiring entrepreneurs, startup owners, or individuals aiming to join the private sector, UoPeople can be an excellent choice. The skills and knowledge acquired through their programs are on par with those obtained from traditional universities, and the cost savings can be substantial.
Benefits for Entrepreneurs and Private Sector Professionals
Cost-Effective Education:
- Save on tuition fees and avoid student loan debt, freeing up resources for business ventures or personal development.
Flexible Learning Environment:
- Online courses allow for a flexible schedule, enabling students to balance their studies with work or entrepreneurial activities.
Comprehensive Curriculum:
- UoPeople’s curriculum is designed to be as rigorous and intensive as traditional, fee-based programs. Students receive a quality education that prepares them for real-world challenges.
- Global Networking Opportunities:
- Students from around the world enroll in UoPeople, providing a diverse and international network that can be beneficial for business connections and cultural understanding.
Intensive Curriculum and Quality Education
Despite being tuition-free, UoPeople ensures that its curriculum is comprehensive and challenging. Courses are designed by academic professionals from top universities, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. The university offers a range of degree programs that cover essential knowledge areas and skills required in today’s job market.
Example Programs and Their Relevance
- Business Administration: Prepares students for various roles in business, from management to entrepreneurship. Courses cover topics such as marketing, finance, operations, and strategic planning.
- Computer Science: Equips students with the skills needed in the tech industry, including programming, data analysis, and software development. The tech industry’s demand for skilled professionals makes this degree particularly valuable.
- Health Science: Offers insights into public health, healthcare management, and disease prevention. This program is ideal for those looking to enter the healthcare sector, which is continuously growing.
The Role of Core Expertise
While degrees and certificates are important, UoPeople emphasizes the value of core expertise and practical skills. In the modern job market, employers often prioritize candidates who demonstrate practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities over those with just formal qualifications. UoPeople’s programs are designed to develop these essential skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
UoPeople is dedicated to making education accessible to all, regardless of geographical location, financial situation, or personal circumstances. The university’s online format means that students can study from anywhere in the world, removing barriers to higher education.
Supporting Diverse Student Populations
- International Students: UoPeople’s global reach allows students from different countries to access quality education without the need to relocate.
- Working Professionals: Flexible schedules enable working professionals to advance their education while maintaining their careers.
- Underprivileged Communities: Scholarships and financial aid ensure that students from low-income backgrounds can pursue their academic goals.
Conclusion: A Valuable Educational Opportunity
University of the People represents a revolutionary approach to higher education, providing tuition-free, accredited programs to students worldwide. While its national accreditation may limit certain career paths, it offers substantial benefits for those pursuing entrepreneurship, private sector jobs, or further specialization. The intensive curriculum, coupled with the flexibility and affordability of online learning, makes UoPeople an excellent choice for many.
In the end, the true value of education lies not just in the degrees and certificates one earns, but in the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained along the way. UoPeople equips its students with these valuable assets, preparing them for success in their chosen careers. Whether you aim to start your own business, join a private company, or simply gain new knowledge, UoPeople provides a pathway to achieving your dreams without the burden of financial strain.
Disclaimer: This article was generated with the assistance of large language models (LLMs). While I (the author) provided the direction and topic, these AI tools helped with research, content creation, and phrasing.
The Job Skills of 2024 Report by Coursera
Source: Coursera newsletter dated 14 Dec 2023
Discover the fastest-growing skills with the new Job Skills of 2024 Report from Coursera. This data-rich report draws on skills data from Coursera’s nearly 5 million enterprise learners across 3,000 businesses, 3,600 higher education institutions, and governments in over 100 countries.
In addition to examining the fastest-growing skills in the technology, data science, and business domains, this year’s report explores the fastest-growing AI, cybersecurity, and leadership skills.
Access the report to:
- Explore trends shaping the evolving skills landscape.
- Learn how newly curated training pathways are affecting how learners develop skills.
- Get insights from experts around the globe and hear how they are developing future training programs.
Equip your teams with in-demand skills to drive productivity, innovation, and efficiency.
This is a 43-page report with sections including:
- The State of Job Skills in 2024
- Using Data to Identify Critical Skills
- The Fastest-Growing Job Skills of 2024
- Business Skill Trends
- Fastest-Growing Leadership Skills
- Data Science Skill Trends
- Fastest-Growing AI Skills
- Tech Skill Trends
- Fastest-Growing Cybersecurity Skills
- Business Skill Trends
Flexjobs: Discover 50 Full-Time Remote Jobs Now!
Source: Flexjobs newsletter dated 27 September 2023
The FlexJobs Weekly Newsletter
To make remote work arrangements as successful as possible, there are some qualities specifically beneficial to remote work that hiring managers often look for. When you’re applying for jobs, it’s smart to integrate these qualities into your cover letter and resume because they can help set you apart from other candidates!
As you consider your next career steps, we invite you to check out FlexJobs’ full service to help you find the best remote and flexible job opportunities as quickly, easily, and safely as possible. We hope you decide to join today and find out why our members describe us like this:
“FlexJobs is such a positive, energetic source for job searching! Being able to see all the opportunities for change and growth really changed my perspective. My hours, a stimulating, interesting new job…I love it! Thanks, FlexJobs!” — Cathy T.
Many cheers,
The FlexJobs Team
50 Full Time Remote Jobs
Whether you want to get out of an office job, are hoping to explore the world or want to relocate, a remote job may be the answer. We’re here to help launch your search for a full-time remote job. Here’s a list of full-time remote jobs for you to consider.
As a non-member, you can go to each employer’s site to find these jobs, OR you can subscribe to FlexJobs today for full access to these and 24,000 more hand-screened remote jobs all in one easy place!