The Institute of Distance Learning at the University of Madras offers a number of graduate and post-graduate levels. Established in the year 1981, the institute has a proud backing of alumni scattered all over the globe. Through distance education system, the institute has courses in both regular and Open University streams.

A typical academic year at the Institute of Distance Learning begins in July/ August and extends till April/ May. In addition to graduate and post-graduate programs, there are courses spanning one year (from January to December every year) as well. The Chepauk Campus of the University of Madras is the main venue for admission along with a number of Spot Admission Centres spread all over India.

The Open University System of the Institute of Distance Learning was introduced in Madras University in the year 1985. This is aimed at providing educational prospects to people who do not have any basic qualification but aspire to go for higher studies. The only prerequisite for admission in the Open University system is that the aspirant should have completed 18 years of age as on July 1 of the year of admission. However, there is a basic entrance examination to test the literacy level of a candidate to join a particular course.

The various course curricula in the distance learning mode are designed keeping in mind the industry needs. The certificate and diploma courses are also meant to enable students inculcate a particular skill set.

All in all, the Institute of Distance Learning of the University of Madras is one of the upcoming institutes of its kind in India.

By: Jasdeep Kaur

Writing a good education cover letter is a must. However, there are those who fall over the mistake that this is the best way to show off and stand out. The education cover letter is actually a good way to give the good impression to your prospective employer. This is a first step to get that job in the teaching profession. It sure pays to be a part of this most respected profession. Thus, to be hired on that school you want, it is important to come up with a good education cover letter.

Most will aim for making the education cover letter perfect in every sense of the word. Everything is polished. There is this certain obsession to make the English perfect as much as possible from the grammar down to the writing styles.

There is really no need to freak out on every detail of grammar rules and sentence construction. It is a good way to maintain the formality of the education cover letter. However, there are more important things to keep in mind if you are aiming for a job at the teaching profession. It is better to keep in mind the things that matter more in your application.

Education cover letters should stand out. There are lots of other people who may be seeking the same position that you want. You cannot afford to make a dull and boring cover letter. That is why sticking so much on the grammar and rules may leave you with a stiff education cover letter. Too much formalities can be a disadvantage too. That is why you have to know the best way to approach the education cover letter.

Tips for Making That Education Cover Letter

Keep things interesting. To be able to catch the attention of the school superintendent or the hiring officer, it is a must that your information are very clear, direct and relevant. In this regard, you will definitely aim for good grammar. However, do not be stiff with your information. Do not make the mistake of using too many words when you can say it briefly. For example, some will indicate “possesses considerable experience in English instruction.” This could be replaced with a more concise phrase like, “taught English.” This will ensure that the reader will not get bored.

Give your education cover letter a good flow. You should not merely look at how much information you can enumerate. You must be able to convey a message in your education cover letter. This means, you also have to provide a direction to your cover letter. You must be able to express your desire to work.

In this regard, you have to do more than just combining words and following grammar rules. Yo must be able to convey your passion for teaching. You must be enthusiastic in presenting your education cover letter. After all, the teaching profession is far from being an impersonal field. Teachers and educators need to have the heart for the job. This is why you do not need to be too formal in making the cover letter. You have to reveal some emotions to show how much you love teaching.

Conclusion

The education cover letter is the key to getting that job interview and ultimately the privilege of becoming part of the teaching profession. Write it with your heart and you can never go wrong.

By: Mario J. Churchill

Remember high school gym class? You played volleyball, ran a mile on the track, and ducked before being hit in the face during a vigorous game of dodge ball? Physical education has been part of the educational scene for nearly 200 years. It is vital that students participate in physical education to keep their mind and body in peak learning condition. Currently, the childhood obesity rate is dangerously climbing to epidemic levels. Therefore, the focus on physical education is more important then ever before.

The question is how should physical education be conducted? First, take a look at physical education history. Physical education has evolved over the years. Physical education is defined as “instruction in the development and care of the body ranging from simple calisthenics exercises to a course of study providing training in hygiene, gymnastics, and the performance and management of athletic games (Merriam-Webster Dictionary).” This definition is broad because you can learn several topics ranging from the rules of basketball to sex education. It depends on the school policies of your state educational system.

Physical education was officially recognized in the United States in the early 1800’s. Colleges and Universities began to offer physical education programs throughout the 1800’s. Finally, in 1866 California was the first to mandate physical education. Many states followed this mandate within the next 30 years. The importance of training the body as well as the mind became prevalent in the educational system.

The 20th century brought varying levels of physical education to each state. Presidents such as Eisenhower and Kennedy promoted physical education and fitness. Children took the Presidential Fitness test each year to assess their physical fitness level. This arose from the need for U.S. students to be as physical fit as their European counterparts.

Controversial issues have played an integral role in physical education history. For example, in 1972 Title IX banned sexual discrimination in schools regarding sports and academics. This allowed female athletes to actively participate in team sports other than cheerleading with the financial and emotional support of the school system.

Another controversial issue is sexual education. It has been the subject of intense debate for many decades. Each state has specific guidelines about what will be taught and whether students can opt out of the sexual education program. Some states allow students to watch a video of a child being born while other states only discuss abstinence.

The official employment of physical education programs has a 200 year history which has become home to controversial issues, social reform, and overall child well being. Physical education will continue to evolve as the needs of the student population changes, societal attitudes fluctuate, and the flow of educational funds towards physical education is maintained.

By: Steve Bishop