U@Rio by Rio Salado College Online

Spring/Summer 2010 Vol 1: Issue 3

Transfer Student 101 p.4 Save $ with the American Tax Credit p.6 New Programs: Paralegal, Accounting, Creative Writing p.8 Sustainable Food Systems p.14 Rio is Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greenest Campus! Live Long, Prosper, & Green! p.24

p.13

Education Your Way Why Choose Rio Salado College Online?

Are you ready to start college? Visit www.uatrio.com, choose your classes, and begin now! It’s that easy! At Rio Salado, you don’t have to worry about semesters, applications, traffic or parking. Our online classes are affordable, flexible, and 24/7 help is accessible, which allows you to conveniently fit a quality college education into your life.

Aﬀordable

“Rio Salado approaches sustainability from the triple bottom line: activities that are socially just, economically robust, and environmentally viable.” - Rio Salado College President Linda M. Thor

• $71/credit* • No surcharge or tuition increases in 2009 • Save an average of 52% with custom textbooks • Save money by not driving to class • Financial aid is available to eligible students • Scholarship opportunities

Flexible

• Classes start every Monday • No semester restrictions • More than 550 classes online • More than 50 degree and certificate programs • 8-week class option available

Accessible

• Take a class at any time of the day • 24/7 technical and instructional support • Online library and library assistance is always open • Free tutoring in-person, by e-mail, by phone, or online • Academic advising is available online or in-person • 24/7 Librarian chat

*For Maricopa County residents. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

In addition to “greening” our own college, Dr. Thor is a Charter Signatory for the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment and a member of its Leadership Circle.

Rio Salado College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

TABLE of contents Taking Exams ........................................................................................................................ 3 Transfer Student 101 .......................................................................................................... 4 Tax Credit for School Expenses....................................................................................... 6 Learn to Teach Online ........................................................................................................ 7 New Programs @ Rio Salado............................................................................................ 8 Online Classes by Discipline ............................................................................................ 9 Communiversity Opens in Surprise .............................................................................. 10 Visually-Impaired Student’s New Life @ Rio............................................................... 12 America’s Greenest Campus ............................................................................................ 13 Sustainable Foods on the Menu .................................................................................... 14 Green Partnership ............................................................................................................... 15 Recruiting Boomers for Encore Careers....................................................................... 16 Chuck Powell’s Project Give ............................................................................................. 17 8-week Class Option ........................................................................................................... 18 Top Online Classes .............................................................................................................. 19 Live Long, Prosper and Green ......................................................................................... 24 Sustainability Word Match ............................................................................................... 25 Rio Salado Locations .......................................................................................................... 26 Produced by Institutional Advancement Contributing writers: Mira Radovich, David Staudacher

DO - IT - YOURSELF REGISTRATION There are 5 ways to register for classes at Rio Salado: 1. Online at www.uatrio.com 2. Call 480-517-8540 or 800-729-1197(option 1) 3. Complete the Student Information Form (available online) and mail to: Rio Salado College, ATTN: Registration, 2323 West 14th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281 4. Complete the Student Information Form (available online) and fax to: 480-377-4701 5. In-person at 2323 West 14th Street, Tempe

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Making the Grade!

Top-Notch Tips For Taking Exams* BEFORE A TEST

Create a study plan for the days leading up to an exam. Use your class syllabus to review the course competencies. Your study plan should include setting aside a certain amount of time each day/week that is devoted solely to studying. Review your study habits and determine how you can be more productive while studying. Take practice tests, if applicable. Remember to take study breaks!

DURING A TEST

When taking a test, answer the easiest and shortest questions first. Mark difficult questions and return to them later. If you get stuck or draw a blank, move on - another question may trigger the answer. Once you are finished, take the time to verify that all questions have been answered. Different types of exams require different strategies to prepare. Multiple choice and essay tests are two of the most common types of exams.

MULTIPLE CHOICE EXAMS

• • • • •

Analyze the question. Identify the subject and verb. Read the question and answer it before reading the choices. Look for similar answers; one of those will usually be the right answer. Eliminate answers that you know are wrong. Change your answer only if you have reason to do so.

ESSAY QUESTION EXAMS

• • • • •

Read the entire question. Pay attention to key words, i.e. “describe,” “compare” and “contrast.” Develop an outline so you know what to include in your answer. Your opening statement summarizes your essay. Summarize and conclude your thoughts again in your final paragraph.

You can learn more about study skills, time management and academic success from classes offered by Rio Salado College’s Counseling department at www.riosalado.edu/counseling. *Adapted from the book Making Your Mark by Lisa Fraser, LDF Publishing Inc., 2005.

Transfer Student 101: What You Need to Know

Arizona students have many options when it comes to transferring credits between community colleges and universities. The following are FAQs from aztransfer.com, a comprehensive website that provides students with accurate information about transferring within Arizona’s public institutions of higher education, community colleges, tribal colleges, and state universities. Remember to work with your high school counselor or community college advisor to find the best ways to meet your transfer goals. 1. How do I know if I am a transfer student? You are a “transfer student” if you are thinking about a career which requires a bachelor’s degree, and you wish to begin your studies at a community college or tribal college and then transfer to a university to complete higher level courses for a bachelor’s degree. 2. I’m undecided about a major and university - can I still get started? Yes! Many students find their careers by taking “general education” courses first. General education includes a wide range of traditional knowledge and skills and is part of community college transfer programs and university bachelor’s degrees. 3. What is AGEC? Arizona General Education Curriculum (AGEC) is a block of traditional courses (35-37 credits) developed by community and tribal colleges in Arizona. 4. What courses are included in an AGEC? AGEC courses are made up of English Composition, Mathematics, Arts and Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Physical and Biological Sciences. Some community and tribal colleges also require courses in speech, foreign languages, and/or computer science.

5. Are there diﬀerent kinds of AGECs? There are three AGECs which correspond to various career paths. • AGEC-A – For arts-related studies (art, music, theatre, humanities, or social and behavioral sciences) • AGEC-B – For business-related studies • AGEC-S – For science-related studies (biology, physics, chemistry, geology, or pre-med) 6. Is the AGEC a transfer degree? No. The AGEC is only one component of the transfer programs at community colleges and tribal colleges. There are three transfer degree programs which include the AGECs. They are: Associate of Arts degree (AA), Associate of Business degree (ABus), and Associate of Science degree (AS). 7. Should I complete an associate degree before transferring to a university? It depends on the career or major you are thinking about. For some programs you are advised to complete one of the AGECs, before transferring to a university. For other programs, completing an associate degree is beneficial. In all cases, the best advice is to speak with an academic advisor or counselor about the details of the major you have in mind. 8. How many credits are there in an AGEC and associate degree? The AGEC-A and AGEC-B are 35 credits. The AGEC-S can range from 35 to 38 credits. The three transfer degrees (AA, ABus, and AS) are typically 64 credits. The universities will generally accept up to 64 credits (semester hours) from the community and tribal colleges. This does not include remedial or developmental coursework.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Tuition Chart

$2,130

$6,676

RIO

rth

ern

CO L

$6,846

$6,856

Ari

zon

Ari

zon

tat eU

ive

niv ers

ity

rsit

niv ers

$14,740

$15,300

$15,900

Arg

Vry U

ity

rizo

niv ers

osy

ity

ive

rsit

f Ph

nix

Approximate full-time annual tuition comparison based on two 15-credit semesters. *For Maricopa County residents. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

line

Receive aTax Credit While Earning College Credit Attention college students! Start saving your school receipts! Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) newly-created American Opportunity Tax Credit, college students and their parents may be eligible for tax credit.

“The amount of the credit now goes up to $2,500 per student,” said Eric Smith, media relations specialist at the Internal Revenue Service. To get that maximum credit of $2,500, you need to spend $4,000 on qualifying expenses. That’s mainly tuition and fees, but it can also include books.” The American Opportunity Credit is good for the first four years of school, which is twice as long as the previous Hope Credit, which was good for the first two years. There are additional changes that benefit students and parents.

For people who need the money sooner, rather than later, there is a way to benefit now. “If you work and have tax taken out of your paycheck, you can actually reduce the amount of withholding that you have based on the credit that you expect to be able to claim,” said Smith. To determine if you qualify and how much of a credit you can receive, visit www.irs.gov and use the withholding calculator. If you qualify, file a new W-4 with your employer to have less tax taken out of your paycheck.

“The income limits have been raised for the American Opportunity Credit,” said Smith. “There are some people who didn’t qualify under the old law who now qualify.” Smith said students and their parents must file a tax return to get the credit, and added that it is better for the parent to claim the credit instead of the student. “The key here is that students and parents shouldn’t leave this money lying on the table,” Smith said.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

LEARNING TO TEACH...ONLINE Online learning is on the rise in schools throughout the Valley and across the country. According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Education, “Online learning — for students and for teachers — is one of the fastest growing trends in educational uses of technology.”

It is estimated that more than a million K–12 students took online courses in the 2007-2008 school year. The demand for instructors to teach online is on the rise, too. To keep up with the demand of students seeking online classrooms, Rio Salado College recently started rolling out its new K-12 eLearning Design classes for teachers. “We’ve had a lot of people inquiring about the classes before they were available,” said Jennifer Freed, faculty chair of eLearning Design at Rio Salado College. “Students started enrolling in classes the day they were available. As more schools add online classes we expect our enrollment to increase dramatically.” Using 21st century skills, K-12 eLearning Design classes teach everything from designing curricula and multimedia presentations to instructing participants with wikis, blogs, video-sharing and social networking.

“The students will learn the ins and outs of teaching an online class,” said Freed. “The classes cover such topics as eLearning design and delivery, classroom management, discipline, and behavior in online learning, parent communication and involvement in eLearning, legal issues with K-12 eLearning, engaging K-12 eLearners, and writing online assessments.” “Additionally, they will experience an online environment so they understand both the instructor as well as the student perspective of online learning,” she said. There are many advantages to learning online and those same perks, apply to teaching online. Teachers can work from home and prepare a class at any time or from any place. “Students often open up to instructors more online,” said Freed. “I find that I get to know my online students better than I do my in-person students. When students don’t see you they aren’t as intimidated. Even the shy students will participate more in an environment where they feel more comfortable.” The program features general elective courses for those who want a general introduction to the eLearning Design field, and it allows teachers to earn an endorsement, too. “If a teacher takes 30 credits of eLearning Design courses, they can add a computer science endorsement to their Arizona teaching certificate,” said Freed. “New courses will be rolling out with each of our major start dates for the next year, and more course opportunities will become available throughout the year.”

7 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

NEW PROGRAMS Highlight Rio Salado’s Academic Offerings

With unemployment still a concern for Arizonans today, going back to school is more relevant than ever. Those looking to re-career and get a job in a new field, and even new students deciding on a career, can look to community college as an affordable option. And now, students have even more educational options to choose from, including Accounting, Creative Writing and Paralegal. The Accounting and Paralegal programs are offered as certificates of completion or associate in applied science degrees. Creative Writing is offered as an academic certificate.

ACCOUNTING

Because accounting is an important part of the business world, Rio Salado offers a program that provides students with the basic skills and knowledge needed to enter the accounting field. Students learn about how a business operates through its financial activities, with courses covering accounting principles, managerial accounting, payroll and more.

CREATIVE WRITING

For those more interested in the liberal arts, Rio’s Creative Writing program offers the ultimate form of self-expression. Students will have access to a community of writers, and creative writing activities and workshops. Established authors provide instruction and offer guidance on improving writing techniques and marketing your works. Writing-centric classes focus on poetry, fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and children’s literature.

Other new programs offered through Rio Salado College: • • • •

General Business Sustainability and Ecological Literacy Language and Literary Culture of the USA Sustainable Food Systems p.14

PARALEGAL

Paralegals assist attorneys with their legal work, including legal research, legal writing, preparation of exhibits and case management. While not authorized to provide legal advice or practice law, paralegals are an integral part of the legal community. Through the Paralegal program, students will get an overview of the types of law and the fundamentals of litigation.

NUMBER of Online Classes By Discipline Allied Health.......................................................................16 Biology......................................................................................9 Business and Management.....................................31 Chemical Dependency...............................................27 Communication..................................................................5 Computers...........................................................................49 Corporate and Government Programs..............4 Counseling and Personal Development...........2 Dental Assisting...............................................................12 E-Learning Design.............................................................8 Early Childhood Education......................................43 Education..........................................................................109

English and ESL................................................................26 Humanities and History.............................................20 Languages...........................................................................35 Library Science....................................................................3 Mathematics......................................................................16 Nursing......................................................................................9 Physical Science...............................................................27 Psychology, Philosophy, Religion, ........................8 and Future Studies Public Safety Programs...............................................20 Reading.....................................................................................4 Social Sciences..................................................................16 Total.......................................................................................499 Note: Data is representative of Fall 2009 online offerings; additional classes are continually added. Rio Salado has more than 550 online classes in its system. The number offered fluctuates each term.

9 U @ Rio Salado Magazine

SURPRISE! The Communiversity is open The Communiversity @ Surprise is open and offering a new educational option for the West Valley. And students from around the region are raving about the new facility and the money they are saving. “I live about a minute away,” said Despina Lozevski, a Communiversity @ Surprise student. “It’s very convenient and coming here is a gas saver. It’s new, clean and the classes are smaller. The teachers are giving more one-on-one interaction with students.” The Communiversity, hosted by Rio Salado College, is a unique educational partnership that represents a new model for higher education. Several institutions are providing classes and programs at the Communiversity, including Rio Salado College, Phoenix College, Glendale Community College, Ottawa University, University of the Incarnate Word, Western International University, and West-MEC. The Communiversity allows students to complete everything from a certificate and associate degree, to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, in one location.

Students can choose from 40 programs through the Communiversity’s educational pathways, which include: health care, education, business, information systems, public safety and liberal arts. Communiversity classes are available in-person and/or online. By allowing students to take up to 90 credits through the community college partners, students save on tuition before transferring to a university partner for the remaining credits. “I like it. I like my teachers, and the environment here is calm,” said Dhani Hubbard, a Communiversity @ Surprise student. “I live right down the street, and I can walk here. How cool is that?” The Communiversity is located at 15950 West Civic Center Plaza in Surprise. To learn more visit www.azcommuniversity.com.

@ SURPRISE

Rio Salado President Linda M. Thor and Surprise Mayor Lyn Truitt cut a ribbon during the October building dedication at the Communiversity @ Surprise.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

US OUT! » 550+ online classes » Saves money

When shopping for your college education, make a list of important requirements:

» Flexible schedules » Variety of educational options

Rio Salado. The college where classes start every Monday, at $71/credit.* *For Maricopa County residents.

YOU CAN GET IT ALL HERE!

www.riosalado.edu/future

Visually-Impaired

Student Finds

NEW LIFE “I quit high school because I was embarrassed about my vision problems,” said Rio Salado College student Deitrick Fields. “I wore big glasses and I was still bumping in to things and people. I was too embarrassed to ask for help, and chose to quit school instead.” That was the attitude Fields had when he was a freshman in high school. Today, Fields, 32, has a more positive approach toward school and life. “Now, I’m loving school. I earned my GED (General Equivalency Development) and I’m starting college classes,” said Fields. “My goal is to get a degree in broadcasting.” Like thousands of students, Fields’ path to earning his GED started at Tempe-based Rio Salado College. Finding a school that could cater to his disability, however, added an extra obstacle. He tried one school, but found the technology outdated and the lack of instructor support daunting. On the verge of giving up again, Fields found Rio Salado College, where he got the help he needed with online classes.

“I contacted other schools, but they didn’t know what to do with me,” said Fields. “I looked into Rio Salado and they got me started in classes immediately.” The prompt help came from Rio’s Disability Resources and Services department, which is set up to help students like Fields. “We provide a variety of resources and services to promote a successful learning experience for students with disabilities,” said Terry Ferra, Disability Resources and Services manager at Rio Salado College. “Depending upon the disability and the resources we have available, students with documented disabilities may receive accommodations such as sign language interpreters, text in alternative format, and extended test taking time,” said Ferra. Fields is using his experience at Rio Salado to help motivate others in his situation. “I try to motivate others like me, too,” said Fields. I meet a lot of people who are visually impaired and want to give up. But I tell them they can’t quit. There is help out there and anything is possible.” In the last two years, Fields turned his life around by earning his high school diploma, which led to a new job, and he’s starting college with a very positive outlook. “I have a new attitude toward school and life and there is nothing I can’t accomplish,” said Fields. “Things are coming together the way I always wanted them to be.”

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

RIO SALADO named

America’s Green Greenest Campus™ Rio Salado College was recently named America’s Greenest Campus by Climate Culture for having the highest average of carbon reduction per person. The college also was awarded $5,000 to be put toward green initiatives on campus.

In effect, the award recognizes Rio Salado for having the smallest carbon footprint among all the entrants. Rio Salado’s official carbon footprint, as documented for the American College and Universities Presidents Climate Commitment, is .84 tons of C02e. The miniscule footprint is the result of Rio Salado’s efficient learning formats, which include 550 online courses, in-person classes on-site at corporations and government agencies, and accelerated formats.

Rio Salado has a carbon footprint the size of a baby bootie, as shown by President Linda Thor, whereas the boot represents an average college’s carbon footprint. Rio Salado College beat out nearly 500 universities and colleges across the country in the America’s Greenest Campus contest, which started in April. All of the participating schools combined to save $4.5 million in energy costs and reduce their collective carbon output by 18.6 million pounds, which is equivalent to the annual amount of carbon emitted by 1,900 cars.

“Environmental viability is part of the culture at our College,” said Rio Salado President Linda Thor. “We want to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” Rio Salado College is planning to use the contest money to help fund the Community Garden Project at its main campus, 2323 W. 14th St., Tempe. The community garden will be open to Rio Salado students pursuing a degree or certificate in its Sustainable Foods Program and Rio Salado employees. Food from the garden will be used in the Café @ Rio.

On the menu:

SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS PROGRAM STARTS FEB/MAR ‘10! Rio Salado College continues its commitment to green initiatives by offering a new Sustainable Food Systems program emphasizing fair-trade and the use of local products.

The garden will be open to Rio Salado students pursuing a degree or certificate in the sustainable foods program, as well as to employees, and members of surrounding communities. Students will have a hand in every aspect of the project, including determining the direction of the garden, establishing community workshops and identifying possible venues for the food production.

Students will have the opportunity to learn about native and local foods and sustainable agricultural practices, purchasing and operations. But the best part is the hands-on experience.

One such venue is Rio Salado’s onsite cafeteria. Herbs and produce grown in the community garden will be used in the Café @ Rio which is currently under remodeling and slated to re-open in late spring.

“Students will learn how to compost and grow food,” said Shannon Corona, Rio Salado’s faculty chair of Physical Sciences. The food will be grown at a new community garden located at Rio Salado’s Tempe campus.

Early classes in the Sustainable Food Systems program will emphasize the movement toward sustainable food systems, including researching food sources, purchasing locally and building relationships with local producers.

“There will be a holistic approach to the community garden,” Corona said. “From seed to supper, students will learn the importance of nutrition and real food production.”

As students progress through the program, they will complete fundamental culinary course work, with a focus on real food and hands-on learning experiences in the café.

According to Corona, the garden is a timely and relevant project, due to the current lack of local community gardens and the importance of student involvement in sustainable initiatives. “The community garden will stimulate social interaction and help to conserve resources,” Corona said. “In addition, students will be empowered to build intergenerational relationships among community members.”

CLASSES Classes now available: AGS182 FON100 FON104 FON122 FON143

Gardening Practices and Techniques Introductory Nutrition Certiﬁcation in Food Service Safety and Sanitation Principles of Food and Beverage Service Food and Culture

Classes available in early Spring (February/March): 2 3 1 3 3

FON160 + FON161 + FON162 + FON163

Modern Food Systems Sustainable Food Production Systems Organic Foods Production Sustainable Restaurant Practices

3 3 3 3

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

FIVE

Energy

Auditing Tips 1. Check the insulation levels in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces. 2. Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak. 3. Check for open fireplace dampers. 4. Make sure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. 5. Study your family’s lighting needs and use patterns, paying special attention to high-use areas. Look for ways to use lighting controls—like occupancy sensors, dimmers, or timers—to reduce lighting energy use, and use compact or standard fluorescent lamps. Source: U.S. Department of Energy, www.energysavers.gov.

RIO PARTNERSHIP Highlights Green Living Tips RIO’S PARTNER: Southwest Building Science Training Center, affiliated with the Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)

CLASS CONTENT: Students will gain an understanding of how building subsystems interact with and affect the others to achieve building performance and efficiency. “

INDUSTRY: Home Performance/ Weatherization. This field covers a broad range of trades including HVAC technician and envelope workers such as air sealing, insulation, vapor barrier, siding and window specialists.

“This model is great for individuals with little or no contracting experience as they gain a more comprehensive education in construction principles, building component, and principles of building science,” said Gavin Hastings, Energy Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator for FSL Home Improvements.

CERTIFICATION OFFERED: Building Performance Analyst Certification ONLINE CLASSES: Principles of Building Science (WRKDEV 10020006) and Comprehensive Building Assessment (WRKDEV 100-20007). The two online classes offered through Rio Salado College prepare students for the in-person field training classes and exams required for Building Performance Institute (BPI) certification, a common requirement for contractors doing weatherization work. The Southwest Building Science Training Center is the only affiliate in Arizona where workers can get BPI certification.

WHY THE PARTNERSHIP WAS FORMED: “We continue to experience a dramatic growth in the weatherization and home performance industry that will require a large number of highly trained individuals to deliver this service in Arizona,” said Hastings. “The partnership allows individuals wanting to become energy auditors the opportunity to learn online from a local resource.” For more information: www.riosalado.edu/certifications

Rio Recruiting Boomers for ENCORE CAREERS Rio Salado College was recently awarded a $25,000 grant to support a targeted retraining program aimed at adults over the age of 50 who are eager to prepare for new careers in education.

The grant, which was awarded from Civic Ventures and Metlife Foundation, allows Tempe-based Rio Salado to customize its online teacher certification programs for eligible adults, who are interested in re-careering and pursuing teaching positions in early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education. “Many adults over the age of 50 are facing unemployment and depleted retirement funds,” said Kimberly Tobey, Rio Salado College’s community liaison director. “Now, they are turning to Rio Salado to retool their careers with a goal to combine meaningful work and income.” Based on adults’ areas of interest, experience, educational backgrounds, and employment situations, candidates will be able to enroll in one of four online teacher certification programs.

The programs are: • • • •

Post Baccalaureate Teacher Prep for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and may be working fulltime. Teacher in Residence for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and are working in the classroom while completing their teacher certiﬁcation. Teacher Education for candidates who do not have a college degree. Troops to Teachers for military personnel transitioning from the military to second careers.

“This program will prepare future workers and fill the need for qualified teachers in high demand sectors,” said Tobey. “There is still need for teachers in Arizona’s rural areas and certain subject matters.” Civic Ventures and MetLife Foundation launched the project to provide support to community colleges that are updating their offerings to help people over the age of 50 prepare for encore careers combining continued income, personal meaning, and social impact. Rio Salado was one of eight community colleges selected from a nationwide pool of 100 applicants and chosen for its innovative approach to matching boomer talent with social purpose jobs that fill specific local workforce needs. For more details about the Rio Salado College program and to inquire about enrolling, please contact Rio Salado’s Enrollment Services at (480) 517-8580.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Community Services Spotlight: PROJECT

CHUCK POWELL’S

Chuck Powell’s Project Give is a partnership between Rio Salado College and 98.7 FM The Peak DJ Chuck Powell to bring awareness to volunteering.

Rio Salado College serves the community through a variety of outreach programs that provide cultural and educational enrichment. We highlight a community service in each issue of U @ Rio Salado.

“During these difficult economic times, we know it’s not easy to donate to your favorite charities,” Powell said. “But there are plenty of ways for you to get involved in your community without opening your wallet. That’s what Project Give is all about.” Charities throughout the Valley are in need of volunteers. Whether it is reading to children, serving the homeless, or making yourself available for fundraising events, there are many ways you can help the less fortunate in your community. “Rio Salado employees participate in thousands of volunteer hours annually and we want to encourage other members of the community to do the same,” said Rio Salado College President Linda M. Thor. The goal of Project Give is to make it easy for willing volunteers to know where, when and how they can help. Over time, Project Give’s Web site will grow to encompass all local charities that are in need of volunteer assistance. Every month, a charity is highlighted and Powell writes about his experience volunteering with the organization. Powell’s most recent efforts included the Special Olympics of Arizona and Hope Kids of Arizona. To find out how you can volunteer or if you are involved in a local charity that could use the Project Give service, visit www.987thepeak.com.

17 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Earn Your Degree Faster with

8-WEEK

Class Option Students can complete their degrees faster now that Rio Salado offers classes that are 8 weeks in length. The 8-week class option is available for a majority of Rio Salado’s online classes. If you prefer fast-paced classes, this option is for you! However, you can continue to choose the traditional 14-week option if you prefer a moderately-paced class.

What are the advantages of 8-week classes? • • • •

Allows you to concentrate on one or two subjects at a time Lets you complete more classes in a shorter period of time Empowers you to go from part-time to full-time status Leads you to faster degree completion

You can choose the “8-week class option” within the first 7 days of your course start date. The RioLearn system will automatically create an 8-week calendar for you and adjust your assignments, quizzes and examinations accordingly.

How does the 8-week class option work? • • • •

You select the 8-week class option when you start your class, not when registering for classes. Check the online class schedule or mini-syllabus to see if a class is offered in the 8-week format. If the 8-week option is highlighted, you can accelerate that class. Select the 8-week option for your class through RioLearn.

NOTE: If you choose not to select the “8-week class option” for your classes, the default setting will remain as a 14-week format.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

TOP Online Classes @ Rio Salado by Enrollment (Spring 2010)

AGEC CODES C = Cultural Diversity in the United States CS = Computer/Statistics/Quantitative Applications FYC = First-Year Composition G = Global Awareness H = Historical Awareness HU = Humanities and Fine Arts L = Literacy and Critical Inquiry MA = Mathematics SB = Social and Behavioral Sciences SG = Natural Sciences General SQ = Natural Sciences Quantitative

The classes listed below represent a few of the 500+ online classes offered by Rio Salado with most starting every Monday. Additional information, including mini syllabus and course number for My.maricopa.edu registration can be found in the online class schedule. Classes with Arizona General Education Curriculum (AGEC) codes meet specific degree requirements at Arizona universities.

Easily search our online class schedule at www.uatrio.com

Class

AGEC Code

Career Pathways*

Accounting ACC111 ACC250 ACC230 ACC240

Accounting Principles I Intro Accounting Lab Uses of Acct Info I Uses of Acct Info II

Bookkeeper $24,540-$37,780 Accountant $47,200-$57,020

Anthropology ASB222 ASB102 ASB202

Buried Cities & Lost Tribes:Old World Intro/Cultural & Social Anthropology Ethnic Relations in the U.S.

G, H, HU, SB G, SB C, H, SB

Anthropologist $28,862-$49,930

Arabic ARB101 ARB102

Elementary Arabic I Elementary Arabic II

Art Humanities ARH100 ARH101 ARH102

Introduction to Art Prehistoric Through Gothic Art Renaissance Through Contemporary Art

HU H, HU H, HU

Art ART112

Two-Dimensional Design

Astronomy AST101 AST102

Survey of Astronomy Survey of Astronomy Laboratory

SG SG

Behavioral Health Science BHS205

Therapeutic Models

Biology BIO156 BIO201 BIO100 BIO160

Intro Bio/Allied Health Human Anatomy & Physiology I Biology Concepts Intro to Humn Anatomy & Physics

SQ SG SQ SG

Biologist $34,560-$57,980 Zoologist $32,800-$53,300

Business-Personal Computers BPC110 BPC135DK BPC100

Computer Usage & Applications CS Word: Level I Business-Personal Computers

Chemical Dependency CHD100 CHD102 CHD110 CHD161

Foundations of Chemical Dependency Communication Skills in Chemical Dependency Pharmacology of Substances of Abuse/Dependency Beginning Clinical Documentation Skills

19 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Case Manager $24,000-$32,000

*Salary information obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Go online to see our complete class schedule, www.riosalado.edu Chemistry CHM130 Fundamental Chemistry SQ CHM130LL Fundamental Chemistry Lab SQ CHM151 General Chemistry I SQ CHM151LL General Chemistry I Lab SQ

Child/Family Studies CFS176 CFS205 CFS157 CFS159

Child Development Human Development Marriage & Family Life The Modern Family

SB SB SB SB

Social/Human Services Asst. $22,380-$30,150

Chinese CHI101 CHI102

Elemen Chinese (Mandarin) I Elemen Chinese (Mandarin) II

Clinical Dental Assisting CDA125 CDA105 CDA110 CDA115

Dental Materials Intro to Clinical Dental Assisting/Dental Office Mgt Infection Control/Hazard Communication Dental Anatomy & Pathology

Dental Assistant $19,000-$33,000

Communication COM100 COM110 COM263 COM230

Intro to Human Communication Interpersonal Communication Elements of Intercultural Communication Small Group Communication

SB SB C, G, SB SB

Communications Specialist $35,670-52,940 Public Relations Asst. $38,450-$57,800

Computer Information Systems CIS105 CIS114DE CIS133DA CIS117DM

Survey Computer Info Systems CS Excel Spreadsheet Internet/Web Dev Lev I MS Access:Database Mgmt

Computer Technician $14,000-$32,000 Web Master $27,000-$46,000

Counseling & Personal Development CPD102AB CPD115

Career Exploration Creating College Success

Creative Writing CRW150

Intro to Creative Writng

Critical Reading CRE101

Critical & Evaluative Reading I

Early Childhood Education ECH128 ECH236 ECH282

Early Learning:Play/Arts Learn Materials:Young Children Discipline/Guidance of Child Groups

Early Childhood Manager $35,600-$73,020

Early Education EED215 EED200 EED212 EED220

Health, Safety, Nutrition/Fitness Foundations of Early Childhood Education Guidance, Management & Environment Child, Family, Community & Culture

Early Education Professions EEP224 EEP246 EEP240

Child Dev: Prenatal to Age Eight Early Childhood / Culture, Community, Family, Child Early Childhood Foundations

Economics ECN211 ECN212

Macroeconomic Principles Microeconomic Principles

SB SB

Education EDU220 EDU285AA EDU287AA EDU276

Intro to Serving English Language Learners Education Program Seminar Master Teacher Seminar I Classroom Management

Teacher Assistant $20,740-$31,610 Principal $67,735-$92,965

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Class

AGEC Code

Career Pathways*

Education Field Experiences EFE260AC EFE263AC

Intern Certificate St. Teaching Lab K-12 Art I Intern Certificate St. Teaching Lab K-12 Music I

Education Professional Development EPD233 EPD220 EPD273

SEI/ESL Teaching Methods for Teachers Serving the Eng. Language Learner for Teachers Phonics Based K-12 Reading D/R

Teacher w/Endorsement $42,000-$47,000

eLearning Design ELN101 ELN100 ELN102

eLearning Design Level I Foundation eLearning Design K-12 eLearning Media Level I

Instructional Designer $52,000-$70,000 Training Manager $58,000-$107,450

English ENG101 ENG102 ENG091 ENG081

First-Year Composition FYC First-Year Composition FYC Fundamentals of Writing Basic Writing Skills

Copywriter $38,850-$67,820

English Humanities ENH251 ENH291 ENH275 ENH241

Mythology Childrens Literature Modern Fiction Amer Literature Before 1860

G, HU HU HU HU

English as a Second Language ESL040 ESL041

ESL IV: Grammar ESL IV - Listening & Speaking

Food & Nutrition FON241 FON241LL FON100

Principles of Human Nutrition SG Human Nutrition Lab SG Introductory Nutrition

Nutritionist $43,250-$49,950

French FRE101 FRE102

Elementary French I Elementary French II

General Business GBS151 GBS205 GBS233 GBS175

Introduction to Business Legal, Ethical, Regulatory Issues in Business Business Communication L Professional Development

Business Manager $50,100-$59,300 Business Administrator $46,500-$74,000

Geography-Cultural GCU121

World Geog I:Eastern Hemisphere

G, SB

Geography-Physical GPH111

Intro to Physical Geography

Geographer $35,572-$62,990

Geology GLG101 GLG103 GLG110

Intro Geol I-Physical Lecture Intro Geol I-Physical Lab Geological Disasters & the Environment

G, SQ SQ G, SG

German GER101 GER102

Elementary German I Elementary German II

Health Care Related HCR240 HCR230 HCR210

Human Pathophysiology Culture & Health C, G Clinical Health Care Ethics HU

21 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Go online to see our complete class schedule, www.riosalado.edu Health Core Curriculum HCC130 HCC145 HCC146 HCC145AA

Fund in Hlth Care Delvry Med Trm Hlth Care Wrkrs Com Med Trm Hth Cre Wrkr Med Trm Hth Cre Wrk I

Health Science HES100

Healthful Living

History HIS103 HIS104 HIS102 HIS105

United States History to 1870 U.S. History 1870-Present Hist of Western Civilization-1789-Pres Arizona History

H, HU, SB H, SB G, H, HU, SB H, SB

Historian $28,880-$48,520

Humanities HUM205 HUM210 HUM250

Introduction to Cinema Contemporary Cinema Ideas & Values in Humanities

HU HU H, HU, L

Information Studies IFS101 IFS105

Info Skills in the Digital Age L Find Health Information Online

Japanese JPN101

Elementary Japanese I

Law Enforcement Technology LET106 LET109 LET211

Patrol Procedures Criminal Law Criminalistics

Police Officer $39,900-$58,000 Campus/Business Security $28,850-$66,000

Library Skills LBS101

Library Resources: Concepts & Skills

Library Technician $24,000-$31,550

Management MGT175 MGT253 MGT229 MGT251

Business Organization & Management Owning & Operating a Small Business Management & Leadership I Human Relations in Business

Marketing MKT271 MKT268

Principles of Marketing Merchandising

Mathematics MAT082 MAT092 MAT122 MAT102

Basic Arithmetic Introductory Algebra Intermediate Algebra Math Concepts/Applicatns

Statistician $44,480-$87,080

Music: History/Literature MHL153 MHL145 MHL140

Rock Music & Culture American Jazz & Popular Music Survey of Music History

H, HU C, HU H, HU

Nursing Science: Basic NUR271 NUR251 NUR151 NUR171

Nursing Theory/Science IV Nursing Theory/Science III Nursing Theory And Science I Nursing Theory/Science II

Registered Nurse $34,000-$56,000

Paralegal PAR102 PAR104

Foundations of the Paralegal Profession Ethics for the Paralegal

Pharmacy Technology PHT120 PHT104

Pharmacy Tech Responsib Pharmacology for Pharmcy Tech

Pharmacy Technician $23,920-$28,828

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Class

AGEC Code

Career Pathways*

Philosophy PHI101 PHI243

Introduction to Philosophy World Religions

HU G, HU

Physical Science PHS120 PHS110

Intro to Physical Science Fund of Physical Science

G, SQ SQ

Introduction to Physics

Physics PHY101

Political Science POS221 POS222 POS110

Arizona Constitution U.S. Constitution American National Government

Property Management PRM110 PRM120 PRM114

Legal Aspects for Property Management Apartment Property Leasing Property Risk Management

Property Manager $37,400-$78,040

Psychology PSY101 PSY230 PSY240 PSY290AB

Introduction to Psychology Introduction to Statistics Developmental Psychology Research Methods

SB CS SB L, SG

Psychologist $45,400-$77,750 School Psychologist $35,800-$61,290

Public Administration PAD101 PAD170 PAD107

Survey of Public Administration Public Sector Organizational Behavior Public Finance Administration

Public Admin Manager $58,230-$105,130 Govt. Sector Manager $34,970-$74,730

Reading RDG091

College Reading Skills I

Sign Language SLG101 SLG102

American Sign Language I American Sign Language II

Sociology SOC101 SOC140 SOC157 SOC212

Introduction to Sociology Racial & Ethnic Minorities Sociology of Marriage & Family Gender And Society

SB C, SB SB C, SB

Elementary Spanish I Elementary Spanish II Intermediate Spanish I Intermediate Spanish II

G G

Sociologist $35,800-$60,290

Spanish SPA101 SPA102 SPA201 SPA202

Spanish Humanities SPH245

Hispanic Heritage in the Southwest

C, HU

Introduction to Cinema Contemporary Cinema

HU HU

Theater THE205 THE210

Total Quality Management TQM101 TQM230

Quality Customer Service Teamwork Dynamics

Go online to see our complete list of classes, at

www.riosalado.edu

23 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

LIVE LONG, PROSPER & GREEN

eRea

GREEN READING

der

In addition to the energy auditing tips on p. 15, here are some green living tips* you can incorporate into your daily life.

Use an E-Book Reader Electronic book readers leave a smaller eco-footprint than paper books. With an e-book reader, you can download books, newspapers, and magazines from anywhere so you won’t have to drive to the bookstore to pick up the paper versions. Visit Your Local Library Libraries are great because you can get books without hurting your wallet or creating additional demand for trees. You can also choose from a wide selection of magazines, newspapers, videos, CDs, and audiobooks.

CLEAN GREEN Clean Naturally Why scrub counters, floors, and tubs with harsh chemicals that reduce indoor air quality and harm the environment when a few common household items can get the job done. Basic ingredients for DIY cleaners include baking soda, white distilled vinegar, lemon, salt, liquid soap, and hot water.

GREEN YOUR WARDROBE Get Used It was cool in the ‘90s and it’s cool again. Buying used is the ultimate way to keep your closet’s carbon footprint small. But stepping out of a thrift store doesn’t mean you have to dress in grungy plaid or frumpy floral. Scour flea markets and vintage boutiques for designer labels and edgy pieces that fit your personal style. Or save gas by shopping online for your dream green outfit. Clothes Made of Sustainable Materials If you do buy new, look for clothes made of sustainable material. Bamboo and hemp are planet-friendly because both plants quickly regenerate and are easily grown without pesticides. Organic cotton is another decent option. Be on the lookout for fabrics made of recycled stuff, including plastic bottles and other fibers. *These tips were provided by the Sierra Club’s “The Green Life” Web site: http://sierraclub.typepad.com/greenlife/

Use Reusable Wipes and Scrubbers Spring cleaning doesn’t have to result in a trash can full of used paper towels. Instead, try reusable scrub brushes or cut up old clothes to make your own cleaning rags. Synthetic sponges are petroleum-derived and can contain harmful chemicals.

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

GREEN WORD MATCH: Match the term with its deďŹ nition.

A. FOSSIL FUEL

B. CONSERVATION

C. CARBON FOOTPRINT

D. POST-CONSUMER

E. RECYCLABLES

G. ORGANIC

H. TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE

I. ENERGY STAR

J. COMPOST

K. SUSTAINABILITY

1 ______ A measure of the impact our activities have on the environment and climate change.

F. BIODEGRADABLE

7 ______ Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

2 ______ The wise use of natural resources. Planned action or non-action to preserve or protect living and non-living resources

8 ______ A substance that is formed in the earth from plant or animal remains.

3 ______ A government-backed program helping businesses/ individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

9 ______ Made of substances that will decay and break down into elements, such as carbon, that are recycled naturally.

4 ______ A mixture of decayed plants and other organic matter used by gardeners for enriching soil.

10 ______ Material that is reused/recycled after it has completed its life cycle.

5 ______ Waste material that can be saved, collected or used for reprocessing into something useful.

11 ______ A framework for measuring and reporting performance against economic, social and environmental parameters.

6 ______ Grown without the use of synthetic chemicals in favor of naturally-occurring pesticides and fertilizers. Answers key: 1-C, 2-B, 3-I, 4-J, 5-E, 6-G, 7-K, 8-A, 9-F, 10-D, 11-H

25 U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Locations RIO SALADO COLLEGE Administrative Headquarters

480-517-8000 or 1-800-729-1197 2323 W. 14th St. Tempe, AZ 85281 (west of 52nd Street between University and Broadway)

Tower @ Rio

Rio Salado @ East Valley 480-377-4150 1455 S. Stapley Drive, Suite 15 Mesa, AZ 85204 (just north of the U.S. 60)

• Testing Center • ABE/GED/ELAA classes • Computer Lab

• Advising • Cashier’s Office • Computer Lab • Counseling (by appt.) • Financial Aid • Library • Registration • Technology Helpdesk • Testing Center • Tutoring _________________________ • KJZZ/KBAQ Radio Stations 480-834-5627 • Sun Sounds of Arizona Radio Reading Service 480-774-8300

Rio Salado @ PV Mall

Conference Center @ Rio

Rio Salado @ Luke AFB

• Bookstore

Rio @ Hohokam Drive 1480 S. Hohokam Drive Tempe, AZ 85281

Rio Salado @ Avondale 480-377-4400 420 N. Central Ave. Avondale, AZ 85323 • Testing Center • ABE/GED/ELAA classes • Computer Lab

480-377-4200 4550 E. Cactus Road Phoenix, AZ 85032 (above the food court at PV Mall) • Testing Center • ABE/GED/ELAA classes • Computer Lab

Rio Salado @ 7th Avenue 480-377-4050 Adult Learning Center 619 N. 7th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85007 (just south of I-10) • ABE/GED/ELAA classes

480-941-5166 1170 N. 86th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85257 (old Apache Park School) • ABE/GED/ELAA classes

Rio Salado College Ann Ott Adult Learning Center 480-377-4300 1801 S. 12th St. Phoenix, AZ 85034 (south of Buckeye Road) • ABE/GED/ELAA classes

Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center

480-377-4010 56th Mission Support Cntr, Rm 3138 7383 N. Litchfield Road Glendale, AZ 85309 (two blocks north of Glendale Avenue on Luke Air Force Base) • Restricted access • Testing Center

Rio Salado College School of Dental Hygiene 480-377-4100 1150 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85034

Rio Salado College Scottsdale Adult Learning Center

480-377-4250 12535 Smokey Drive Surprise, AZ 85374 (just south of Bell Road) • Testing Center • ABE/GED/ELAA classes • Computer Lab

Communiversity @ Surprise

www.azcommuniversity.com 480-384-9000 or 866-330-6892 15950 W. Civic Center Plaza Surprise, AZ 85374 • Certificates through master’s degrees

ABE - Adult Basic Education GED - General Education Development (high school diploma equivalency) ELAA - English Language Acquisition for Adults

U @ Rio Salado Magazine - www.uatrio.com

Did you know? Online classes are eco-friendly - - they reduce energy consumption by 90% over traditional classes.

www.uatrio.com

What’s

NEW @ RIO? » Sustainable Food Systems Certificate of Completion/ Associate in Applied Science

» Creative Writing Academic Certificate

» Paralegal

Certificate of Completion/ Associate in Applied Science

» Sustainability & Ecological Literacy Certificate of Completion/ Associate in Applied Science

» CIS280 - Current Topics in Computing New class using Second Life

» CPD150 - Strategies for College Success Class begins Spring 2010

Printed on recycled paper, 40% post-consumer.