

Welcome to Issue #20 of NACTEL News - February, 2007 - with news, info and insights from the National Coalition for Telecommunications Education and Learning. _________________ In this issue: o Registration Info o New Curriculum in Wireless Networking o Online Learning Tip o Today’s Chuckle o Techie Word of the Day o Partner News: CWA’s Speed Matters o Student Story - Rafael Quintero ________________	Registration Info Register now for classes beginning March 8! Don’t delay! Registration ends February 15. Visit the Pace Web site at csis.pace.edu/nactel for detailed information on degree requirements, admissions procedures and how to register.
	______________________________________________________________________
	Coming Soon - New Wireless Networking Degrees and Certificates from Pace University Pace University and the NACTEL Curriculum Committee have created new coursework in Wireless Networking. According to the industry members of the Curriculum Committee, this new curriculum is the first time that this content is available in an online educational format. Certificate in Wirless Networking Essentials includes these courses: Solid State Devices and Circuits Operating Systems Wireless LANs Telecommunications III / Data Transmission Systems Wireless Network Security AND, this certificate can lead to an AS in Applied Information Technologies Degree in this new Wireless Networking Track. If you are ready to get involved with this emerging technology, Become A Student in this brand new educational offering from NACTEL and Pace University. For the complete report, go to: http://www.census.gov/apsd/techdoc/cps/cpsmar05.pdf
	______________________________________________________________________
	Online Learning Tip: About Procrastination It may be hard to admit, but even the most motivated, highest achievers sometimes struggle with procrastination. And, while flexibility is one of the obvious benefits in online learning, it is can also contribute to the problem of procrastination. It can be tempting to put off your assignments in favor of watching television, spending time with your family, or reading a book. But here are some tips to help you overcome procrastination. One step at a time Remember the old saying: Q: How do you eat an elephant? A: One bite at a time! If you have a large task that seems overwhelming (and that you’re avoiding), break it into smaller chunks. Then, focus on one smaller step at a time. This prevents you from obsessing on how much you have to do and allows you to feel good about getting something done. Inspiration Display motivational posters or messages (even sticky notes on your mirror or computer screen) to remind yourself what you’re working toward. It’s easy to become discouraged, but keeping your goal in mind will make it easier to complete your work. Use “peer pressure” to your advantage. Find a study partner and agree that you will use each other to stay on track. Besides helping with procrastination, working with a study partner will probably help you learn more!
	______________________________________________________________________
	Today’s Chuckle – Wrong Answer Murphy applied for a technician position at an Irish telco based in Dublin. An American applied for the same job, and both applicants, having the same qualifications, were asked to take a test. Upon completing the test, both men missed only one question; all the other questions were answered correctly. The manager said to Murphy, "Thanks for your interest, but we've decided to give the American the job." A surprised Murphy replied, "And why would you be doing that? We both got 9 questions correct. This being Ireland and me being Irish, I should get the job!" The manager explained, "We have made our decision not on the correct answers, but on the question you missed." "And just how would one incorrect answer be better or worse than the other?" asked Murphy. The manager replied, "Simple. In question five, the American answered, 'I don't know.' And you answered, 'Neither do I.' " From www.jokesplace.com
	______________________________________________________________________
	Techie word of the day Ever heard of IMS Networks? IMS or IP Multimedia Subsystem represents a standard to define a generic architecture for offering Voice over IP (VoIP) and multimedia services. According to In-Stat, a digital communications market research firm, "Subscribers to IMS-based services are expected to grow from 10 million in 2007 to over 500 million by 2011." This subscriber base translates into overall corporate spending of roughly $12 billion by 2011. Mobile networks will lead the development of next generation of IMS Networks, and fixed-line operators will design IMS solutions to meet each carrier’s business goals. View a recent In-Stat article for more information.. You can learn about IMS Networks in Voice over IP (AIT 382), part of the NACTEL Emerging Technology Curriculum offered by Pace University.
	______________________________________________________________________
	*What’s New - CWA’s Speed Matters* Campaign** The Communications Workers of America released a new policy paper as part of its Speed Matters campaign, a million dollar, strategic effort to help bring affordable, high-speed Internet to all Americans and to create 21st century, quality jobs. According to the CWA, "While most attention has been focused on entertainment and gaming the real story is that advanced high capacity communication networks have become essential to economic growth and can increase democratic and civic participation, improve the delivery of health care, education, job training, public safety and other vital services." Their newest policy paper is available at the Speed Matters web site, in the "learn more" box. In addition, the site contains a speed test to measure individual Internet speed, and other breaking news and information. http://www.speedmatters.org/
	______________________________________________________________________
	Student Story Meet Rafael Quintero -- Local Field Manager -- Verizon Rafael Quintero has ambition and plans to move up in the world. When he completed his associate's degree in Verizon's Next Step program, he asked himself, "Why stop there?" Quintero had just been promoted to a first level manager and decided education was not going to be an obstacle to further success. So, he enrolled in the Pace NACTEL online B.S. degree program and found it a good choice. "I wasn’t really looking for an online program, just something that fit with my Telecom degree. Now, though, things are very hectic at work. I don’t know if I could have completed my bachelor's in a traditional setting." As a result of his studies, Rafael has become better prepared in his job. "My peers and supervisors have noticed my confidence in the technological aspects of our business as well as my ability to communicate. Whenever there are presentations to be made in front of senior execs in our region, I'm asked to prepare and make the presentation." Rafael graduated with distinction and has this advice for fellow Next Step grads: "The biggest fear of most Next Step people is how to stay disciplined and on track in an online program like NACTEL. I say, just start with one class and see how it goes. Once you get in it, it's not that hard to stay focused." And he adds, "The program has exceeded my expectations. I thought learning online was going to be a waste of time and I didn't believe I would pick up much. I was totally surprised."
	______________________________________________________________________
Copyright© 2007 CAEL All Rights Reserved	NACTEL News is brought to you by the National Coalition for Telecommunications Education and Learning. NACTEL is administered by CAEL, the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning. To unsubscribe or change your email address, please visit the NACTEL web site and use the Contact Us form.