Fast Job and Personal Skills Training

18 AUGUST 2004 -- When you need to acquire skills quickly without earning a college degree, Jacksonville State University’s Department of Continuing Education may be able to help.

JSU’s personal enrichment classes, professional development workshops, and certificate programs provide a fast way to learn new skills. And people who don’t have time to come to class can take certain courses online.

 

The following programs are among September's offerings. For a complete catalog or more information, call 1-800-634-7199, 256-782-5983, or e-mail the Office of Continuing Education at conted@jsu.edu .

Computers Made Easy

Intimidated by computers? If so, take Computers Made Easy and learn to master that modern marvel known as “the personal computer”. This is an introductory course designed for the user who has little or no experience using a personal computer. Participants will explore hands-on the wide range of tasks that computers are capable of performing including how to operate a mouse, how to understand the components of a Windows-based system (working with icons, scroll bars, menus, tool bars, etc.), how to give the computer commands, how to navigate directories, the correct way to shut down the computer, and much more. Participants will also learn typical computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, etc. Take Computers Made Easy today and make your PC your new best friend!

Ron White
Thursday, September 2, 2004
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ01
$99* .6 CEUs

Diane Reynolds
Wednesday, September 8, 2004
8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Joe Ford Economic Development Center
Gadsden, AL
Course #04FACOMG02
$99* .6 CEUs

Windows XP and Windows Explorer
The Essentials

Learn to use efficiently one of the most popular operating systems in use today! Microsoft® Windows is designed to make operating a computer even more user-friendly. You will gain knowledge of the basic start-up icons; the basics of file management; windows explorer; how to change your computer settings; how to run multiple applications simultaneously and to share data between applications; and much more. Some knowledge of PC’s, basic keyboard and mouse skills are helpful, but not required.

Ron White
Thursday, September 16, 2004
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ03
$99* .6 CEUs

Diane Reynolds
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Joe Ford Economic Development Center
Gadsden, AL
Course #04FACOMG04
$99* .6 CEUs

Microsoft® Office Suite Overview

This class offers participants an overview of the basic features of the Microsoft® Office Suite. Each section of this class examines features to help you work more efficiently in the different components of the Microsoft® Office Suite including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. After taking this class, you will have a greater understanding and be able to say, “How sweet the office suite is!” Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Windows or completion of Windows XP and Windows Explorer: The Essentials.

Jan Jones
Tuesday and Thursday,
September 21 and 23, 2004
5:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ05
$115* .6 CEUs

POWER CLASS!

Using Word’s Mail Merge

At long last, a class for mail-mergers! Take this 2 hour cram session to fine tune your mail merging skills! You’ll learn how to create form letters, mailing labels, and more. We’ll also dig in to working with data sources in Excel, Access, and other programs. This is the perfect class for someone who wants to learn to use Microsoft® Word’s mail merging feature, but doesn’t have the time to sit in an all day class. Prerequisite: Experience using Microsoft® Word.

Wednesday, September 22, 2004
1:00 PM–3:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ09
$35 .2 CEUs

Microsoft® Excel
The Basics

Microsoft® Excel is the popular and user-friendly Windows spreadsheet application in the Microsoft® Office Suite. Learn to create, save, edit and print a worksheet; create and copy formulas; insert and delete rows and columns to enhance the format of your spreadsheet with headers, column titles, etc.; work with charts; develop multiple-sheet workbooks; and much more. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Windows or completion of Windows XP and Windows Explorer: The Essentials.

Ron White
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ11
$99* .6 CEUs

Microsoft® Project
Basic Level

Microsoft® Project is one of the most popular project management software programs in the world. It operates in a graphical environment, making it a user-friendly project management system. Microsoft® Project lets you create a variety of projects from very simple schedules to complex budgeting and reporting systems. This course will teach you how to use the program to increase your personal productivity, save time, and make your everyday goals easier to reach. A better knowledge of Microsoft® Project will prove itself to be a valuable ally as you use the program to accomplish your professional tasks. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Windows or completion of Windows XP and Windows Explorer: The Essentials.

Jan Jones
Tuesday and Thursday,
September 28 & 30, 2004
5:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ26
$125* .6 CEUs

QuickBooks Pro: Level 1

Learn QuickBooks to make managing your business easier than ever! No accounting knowledge is needed to use the program. QuickBooks helps you manage your business with easy, fill-in-the-blank screens. Routine tasks such as writing invoices, paying bills, and receiving payments can all be performed in easy-to-use dialog boxes and electronic forms. In addition to making day-to-day business easier, QuickBooks also provides you with tools to analyze your finances over an extended period of time. QuickBooks can produce P&L Reports, Balance Sheet Reports, Accounts Receivable Reports, Sales Reports, Accounts Payable Reports, Purchase Reports and many others. This class will provide the fundamental skills for anyone working with QuickBooks 99, 2000, 2001 or 2002.

Joan Butterworth
Thursday, September 30, 2004
8:00 AM–3:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ30
$125 .6 CEUs

A+ CERTIFICATION SERIES

This information systems course series attempts to show participants that computers have become an integral part of our lives. They control our cars, our telephones, and our kitchen appliances. Many of us wear watches that have greater computing power than many mainframes of thirty years ago. The Personal Computer (PC) is the mainstay for both business and the home user. It has grown from a hobby into a tool used daily by millions of people all over the world. The demand for highly qualified and professional repair specialists has exploded. Customers need qualified people to install, upgrade, and repair their computer equipment. This series of courses will provide the information a student needs to enjoy a successful career in the computer industry and to help prepare for the A+ Certification. Topics will include the following:

• Proper tools and safety considerations
• Proper assembly and disassembly techniques
• Installing, upgrading, and configuring computer components
• Installing and configuring an operating system
• Troubleshooting computer problems
• Basic networking and Internet connectivity
• Customer service considerations for the Professional
• Preparation for taking the A+ Certification exams

A+ Certification Series–Part 1

Introduction to Technology Basics

This course will discuss the basics of Information Technology as it relates to the computer technician. Topics include the different computer types used today, software applications, and a brief overview of the Internet. The student will identify the basic features of the Windows Operating System and the elements of the Windows Desktop.

Additionally, the student will learn several of the vocabulary words important to the technician and the methods used in number conversions, including binary to decimal, decimal to binary and so on. An explanation of analog and digital is included as is an introduction to algorithms.

The number one priority in working with computers is safety. This course will detail safety procedures that pertain to the labs used throughout this course and in the workplace.

Bobby Roach
Tuesday and Thursday,
September 7 and 9, 2004
5:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Merrill Hall, Room 215
Course #04FACOMJ34
$125 .6 CEUs

Personal Enrichment

What’s It Worth?
Appraising Furniture, Collectibles, Etc.

Learn to evaluate your grandmother’s furniture, collectibles, etc., that you have inherited. Be able to determine the approximate value of items you are considering buying for investment, decorative, or other purposes. Know how to distinguish between valuables and junk at yard sales, auctions, thrift stores, etc. Learn the basics for determining the age, quality, and value of almost anything. Know what to look for, the essential tools (flashlight, tape measure, magnifying glass, etc.) needed, the readily available reference materials, and the process for determining the value of almost anything.

Jerry Gilbert
Tuesdays, September 14–28, 2004 (3 Sessions)
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Curtiss Hall Basement, Room B14
Course #04FADIV17
$69 .6 CEUs

Beginner’s Spanish

The essentials for Spanish conversation for beginners! This class is excellent for students, travelers, teachers and professionals who often have contact with Spanish-speaking people. This class will include oral practice with individual and group presentations.

Sara Gonzalez
Mondays, September 13–October 18, 2004 (6 Sessions)
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Stone Center, Room 325
Course #04FALAN01
$69 1.2 CEUs

Stained Glass

Limited Seating! You’ll want to register early for this class! This 7-week class will teach the participants how to use all the tools necessary in building a beautiful stained glass project to treasure for many years to come! This class is a complete hands-on class for beginners. The supply fee will be payable to the instructor the first night of the class.

Charles Mundy
Mondays, September 13–October 25, 2004 (7 sessions)
6:00 PM–8:30 PM
JSU, Patterson Hall, Basement
Course #04FADIV01
$135 plus Supplies 1.75 CEUs

Beginning Golf

In this course you will learn techniques for the short game, bunker play and the full swing. It is preferred that you supply a wood, 7-iron, pitching or sand wedge and putter, but not required.

Marc Spaulding
Tuesdays, September 14–October 5, 2004 (4 Sessions)
6:00 PM–7:30 PM
Cane Creek Golf Course
Course #04FADIV02
$95 .6 CEUs

Marc Spaulding
Saturdays, September 18–October 9, 2004 (4 Sessions)
10:00 AM–11:30 AM
Cane Creek Golf Course
Course #04FADIV03
$95 .6 CEUs

Note: In case of inclement weather, please call the Cane Creek Clubhouse at 820-9174 for instructions.

Beginning “One Stroke” Painting Class

It took Michelangelo years to paint the Sistine Chapel, but using a style of painting called “one stroke” you can complete your masterpiece with only a few strokes! Come join in the fun and learn Donna Dewberry’s “one stroke” painting technique. In this beginner’s class you will learn how to paint rosebuds, hydrangeas, sunflowers, wildflowers and different kinds of leaves for each flower. Participants will receive a supply list at time of registration.

Belinda Blackburn, OSCI
Mondays, September 20–October 11, 2004 (4 Sessions)
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Curtiss Hall Basement, Room B21
Course #04FADIV04
$79 plus Supplies .8 CEUs

 Dip Into Art

Beginner’s work on basic drawing skills, gradually moving on to color. Those with some background in art may work with pen and ink, pastels, watercolors, or on a personal project.

Anita O’Kelley Armbrister
Tuesdays, September 7–October 12, 2004 (6 sessions)
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Curtiss Hall Basement, Room B21
Course #04FADIV06
$79 plus supplies 1.2 CEUs

Cathedral Window Quilting

Cathedral Window Quilting is a very old, much sought after type of quilting! It can be done by either hand or by machine. If you can sew on a button, you can learn how to do this type of quilting! You will learn how to create and join squares that can be made into many things such as a table runner, a pillow, placemats, hot pads, a valance and more! There are so many possibilities! Join in the fun and enjoy what you have made for yourself or as a wonderful handmade gift for someone. Register early! Limited seating.

Shirley French
Thursdays,
September 9–30, 2004 (4 Sessions)
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
JSU, Curtiss Hall Basement, Room B21
Course #04FADIV09
$59 plus supplies .8 CEUs

Floral Arranging I and II

Beautify your home and save money by creating your own floral arrangements! Come and join in on the fun and learn with demonstrations and hands-on activities which include techniques for loop ribbons, bow tying, grape vine wreaths, cemetery flowers, swags for doors and walls, round mounts, corsages, boutonnieres, center pieces and bud vases.

John Usry
Mondays, September 13–November 1, 2004 (Except Oct. 11 and 18) 6 Sessions
6:00 PM–9:00 PM
JSU, Patterson Hall, Basement Level
Course #04FADIV11
$69 plus supplies 1.8 CEUs

Advanced Floral Arranging

Participants will learn the “rules” making themselves more confident in designing their arrangements. In this class a new arrangement will be made every week with everyone working on the same design. The “rules” will be covered for each design as it is being arranged. This class is for those who have completed the Floral Arranging I and II class.

John Usry
Tuesdays, September 14–November 2, 2004 (Except Oct. 12 and 19) 6 Sessions
6:00 PM–9:00 PM
JSU, Patterson Hall, Basement
Course #04FADIV12
$69 plus supplies 1.8 CEUs

Piano Magic Workshop

If you can hum, whistle or sing you can play piano by ear. This entertaining class reveals what you need to know about the keyboard, chords, melody and emotion. Learn the secrets of playing like a pro and set your creative self free! The instructor is Michael Anderson, a “self-taught” professional musician and author of the book Piano Magic: The Secrets of Playing Piano By Ear which is included in the class fee. Also included is a 50% discount for a one year membership to the Piano Magic Members only area of pianomagic.com, where you can receive continued Piano Magic instruction and advance your performing skills. For more information about the course, visit the instructor’s website at http://www.pianomagic.com, or call his Info Hotline at 1-800-845-3709 ext. 221.

Michael Anderson
Monday, September 13, 2004
6:00 PM–9:00 PM
JSU, Houston Cole Library, 11th Floor, Room 1102
Course #04FADIV15
$81 .3 CEUs

Everyday Fashion
for the Everyday Woman

Interested in a makeover?!! Join us in this course for ideas that will help every woman learn how she can look her best, whether in the daily carpool, the grocery store isle, at church and community activities or a date with your husband or significant other – you deserve the best!! In this class you will learn ideas on how to organize your current wardrobe such as how to clean out your closet and know what to keep/what to donate, how to bring new life to old clothes, etc. You will also learn how to dress thin and how to determine your correct color and style.

Theresa Shadrix
Saturday, September 4, 2004
9:00 AM–11:00 AM
JSU, Patterson Hall, Basement
Course #04FAFAS01
$29 .2 CEUs

Strategic Dressing for Business

This class will offer the participant insight in appropriate dress for the workplace and how overall image impacts a career. You will learn the basic information on fashion and style in the workplace, how to organize your current wardrobe, information on workplace etiquette and how behavior, dress, image and communication skills can affect your career.

Theresa Shadrix
Saturday, September 18, 2004
9:00 AM–11:00 AM
JSU, Patterson Hall, Basement
Course #04FAFAS03
$29 .2 CEUs

Low Country Cooking

Enjoy learning more about this exciting Carolina cuisine. This plantation type cooking plays on the incredible bounty of the land and the sea. There are some African, West Indian, and Mediterranean influences as well as a little English and country French. An exciting cuisine to add variety to your table.

Prudence Hilburn
Monday, September 13, 2004
6:00 PM–9:00 PM
JSU, Mason Hall, Room 202
Course #04FACOK01
$29 .3 CEUs

How do online courses work?

These courses begin each month on the following start dates for Fall 2004:

September 15, 2004
October 20, 2004
November 10, 2004
December 8, 2004

Each course runs for 6 weeks and consists of 12 lessons. The lessons are released twice a week on Wednesday and Friday throughout the six-week course. Once the lesson is released, you can access the materials throughout the six-week course. You’ll attend class in a virtual classroom where you will obtain your lessons. The lessons are supplemented by interactive quizzes, assignments, tutorials, and online discussion areas. Read your lessons and ask questions of your instructor at the times most convenient to you!

What are the requirements?

All you need to get started is Internet access, an e-mail address and a Web browser. Additional requirements, such as textbooks, software, etc., will be listed with the course description. For a complete listing of courses or for more information, go to http://www.ed2go.com/jsuconted. At this website, you can also take a demo course, get course starting dates, descriptions, instructor biographies, etc.

How do I register and what’s next?

To register for and proceed with an online course, simply follow these three easy steps:

1. You must register by phone or in person and pay by the Monday prior to the course’s start date on Wednesday. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, cash or personal checks. However, if you pay with a personal check, we cannot actually process your registration until we receive your check. Please call our office to make sure your check has been received.
   
   
2. Next, go to http://www.ed2go.com/jsuconted. Once at the website, click on the “orientation” link and attend the required online orientation for each course you wish to take.
   
   
3. On the Wednesday your course begins, return to http://www.ed2go.com/jsuconted and click on the “classroom” link. Log into the classroom with the information you provided in the online orientation.
   
      
   
   

   ---

   Submit items for news releases by using the request form at http://www.jsu.edu/news/requestform.html.