There is little we can do to prevent criticism from coming our way-whether it’s in your studies, your personal relationships, or on the job-so you should actually try and turn into a positive experience that will help to shape your the quality of the your work. Being open to criticism allows you to quickly recognize areas of improvement. When you acknowledge that receiving criticism is fundamental in becoming the best student you can be, then you can prepare yourself to deal effectively with it and not become defensive and run from the situation.

Top three things to remember: 

1. Learn to expect criticism
2. Learn to recognize, accept and welcome constructive criticism
3. Never allow criticism-constructive or destructive-to negatively impact your thoughts or performance.

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How can you apply your prior learning towards your degree?

Just ask B.S. Information Technology student, Robert Flowers. Throughout his twenty seven year career, Rob has been a police officer, held management positions, network engineering positions, private security positions, and teaching positions. He is currently an Enterprise Architect.

Rob began his career in law enforcement; and then went into private security where he started learning about computers. From there, Rob began learning all he could about computer networking through independent study and on-the-job trial and error. He recently participated in the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program at American Military University. Rob was able to demonstrate prior learning in computer science and networking based on what he had learned through experience. Rob completed seven portfolios (21 credits) towards his degree via the PLA portfolio program!

[How to Apply Prior Learning to Your Studies]

PLA is a great way to put your prior learning to the test and demonstrate your mastery of specific courses in your academic plan. Portfolio is not the only method by which to demonstrate prior learning. Rob also passed College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests to obtain credit in subject areas he was very proficient in such as Computer Science and Productivity Applications.

CLEP exams are available in a variety of subjects from general education courses, such as English and Mathematics, to specialized areas like computer science and networking. No matter what method of prior learning assessment you choose, PLA can help you earn your degree faster and save you money. Check with your school of choice and their transfer credit and prior learning assessment offices for specific policies, procedures, and fees, as they vary from institution to institution.

By Liz Jackson
Manager & Advisor, Prior Learning Assessment at American Public University System

The online student needs to make sure they have 5 areas of interest down in order to survive school. They need to know time management, how to take notes, refine their writing skills, how to conduct research effectively, and effective study habits. Here are 5 app types to facilitate the online learning process:

• Time management/Organization
  • GoTasks
  • Homework Tracker w/Reminders
• Note taking
  • Evernote
  • iAnnotate PDF
• Writing
  • Write 2 Lite
  • Papers
• Researching
  • Article Search by Foreminds
• Studying/Flashcards
  • Flashcards Pro
  • iCram Master

Check out my app picks in the podcast below!
By J. Mason
5 App Types for the Online Student by APUS

A picture says a thousand words right? Well, if you were to take a picture of your classes, or online experience, how would that look? A screenshot of your online classroom may not be the most appealing thing to show friends and family, unlike a cute baby or cat picture. What you can do is “snap” a picture by detailing what you’ve learned, and where your education is taking you.

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