Academic Breadth and Co-Curriculum: Why an online degree might be the perfect path to a 21st Century Education by Sarah Maple

Last night, Anthony Seldon, renowned headmaster of Wellington College in Berkshire, presented his opinions of the problems of UK education to the College of Teachers. According to Seldon, one of the primary issues regarding the education system as a whole is the matter of exams and tests. He stated, "We do not need so many national external exams - we could perhaps get away without any until the age of 18, as they do in America."

Seldon explained the problems of developing an education system obsessed with fact, comparing the system of today to that portrayed in Hard Times by Charles Dickens. He argued that, "Once children start to believe schools are places where things are being done for them, rather than done to them, their interest [in education] will revive," making schools "places of delight, of excitement, and of harmony."

However, Seldon also put forward some arguments regarding higher education that may seem even more unconventional - and directly in opposition to how the UK universities see themselves. He argues that universities ignore academic breadth, co-curriculum, and personal achievement, leading to less incentive for 'school pupils to stretch themselves beyond their A-Levels.

This is an opinion that holds far more relevance when one acknowledges that we have recently seen university enrolment numbers fall for the first time in years. However, for those considering distance learning or an online degree, it seems that such criticisms highlight the positive aspects of opting to continue further education outside of those methods used by traditional institutions.

This is due to a number of elements that are prevalent on distance education or e-learning courses, but are less so elsewhere. First off, embarking on a higher education course online means that you, the individual, can study and complete work where and whenever you want - providing, of course, that you have the necessary equipment such as a PC and internet connection. This added flexibility means that alongside study, other commitments such as work and family do not have to fall by the wayside - as well as any extra-curricular activities you wish to pursue.

Additionally, those who are deterred by the prospect of learning online due to lacking confidence in new technologies, such as the internet, should not be put off. Such courses take into consideration these problems and, in the spirit of co-curriculum, embrace these opportunities to teach students new IT skills in a sector that is developing at an incredible pace - and becoming more and more important to future employers and new businesses.

Sarah Maple is writing about adult education and home learning.

Overseas Travel Insurance for Students by Laxmi Wadhwa

Today foreign education is no longer the privilege of just elite people. With low interest rates on student loans, going abroad for higher studies has become quite manageable. Lacks of Indian students are now opting to study in US, UK, Australia and Germany to pursue higher education since a degree obtained from universities of these countries holds greater value and assures a promising career ahead. However, if you are a starter you have to make sure that you are well prepared for your new temporary home. Buying a proper student mediclaim insurance is a priority that demands proper attention.

Student medical insurance is a mandatory requirement at most foreign universities. Some universities do provide students with an insurance plan. However, it is recommended that you get a mediclaim health insurance from your home country and apply for an insurance waiver simply because insurance from the home country is relatively cheaper and provides the same coverage (and sometimes more) at a lower cost. The availability of dozens of insurance providers may baffle you. Nonetheless, you have to be vigilant when it comes to choosing the right student mediclaim health insurance policy.

ICICI Lombard General Insurance offers Student Medical Insurance that covers medical and non-medical benefits at a comparatively low cost. Buying in India means that you pay premiums in rupees and get benefits in dollars! Our plan offers flexibility in extending the policy term to two years. Besides covering hospitalization expenses, we also cover medical evacuation, repatriation, bail bond, trip cancellation, interruption and delay, emergency medical treatment or evacuation, etc.

To ensure quality health care, ICICI Lombard has now tied-up with United Health Group, the best, and the most diverse health care company in the US which serves more than 70 millions Americans. This tie-up will benefit the students going to U.S. because of the hospital network and give all the students access to United Healthcare's network of hospitals and physicians.

All our students traveling to the US will now receive a co-branded ICICI Lombard and UHI card printed along with the policy and get access to 86% of acute care hospitals, more than 554,000 physicians, 4,800 medical facilities, OPD centers and 60,000 pharmacies throughout the U.S.

Our student medical insurance is one of the most preferred plan because we cover pre-existing disease in life-threatening emergencies. The plans are tailor made according to the requirement of universities. Available in four plans (Gold, Bronze and Plus), the student can purchase the policy online and settle claims by applying to the Third Party Administration who reimburses the amount in Indian rupees.

Indian students enrolled at a U.S. university can purchase insurance in India and activate the policies prior to their departure and the commencement of their academic session.

Student Medical Insurance from ICICI Lombard can also be availed online from where you can get instant digitally signed policy whenever you want. All you need is an access to the Internet and within ten minutes you can have the policy documents in your hand. Its instant and hassle-free.

Studying abroad is an important phase of one's life. Begin this exciting chapter of your life by building a relationship with us. For further queries, call 1800-209-888 (toll-free) or visit www.icicilombard.com for more information and to buy online. You can also visit our University Search section to get insurance information for more than 500 Universities worldwide.