Business Office

Self-study Training Programs

Depending on needs and interest, and limitations for people to be able to attend training classes, there are fall-back options that are based on self-study with or without the help of a coach. Self-study training is not an easy alternative to going back to school, but it is an important option for individuals that are not in the position to make use of our classroom programs. What the courses in this section are about is the exploration of different study approaches to make sure the student is capable and motivated to go through this alternative mode of study. There are some things to keep in mind:

  • All the courses are based on exactly the same materials as we use in the classroom, so that for students capable of working independently there is no loss of information. The goal is to make each training course as hands-on practical as possible, but there are limitations inherent in the distance mode of study that are not easy to overcome.
  • There may be no opportunity to work with a local teacher, although we encourage individuals with the ability to facilitate the training programs to provide such local support. We empower local resources to provide the training to members of their community without bias of access based on prior educational achievements.
  • Offering the opportunity for self-improvement through training does not, unfortunately, mean that prospective employers will recognize the effort the same way as a formal education from a college or university is received. This is especially true for self-study programs based on credits rather than the degree or diploma conferred upon completing formal education.
  • Ideally students have access to the internet, but at least they need access to a computer with MS-Office™ software installed (many libraries and community centers provide such options). In order to provide practical experience we make use of customized Excel™ workbooks so that no other software needs to be installed for students to complete course assignments.

The courses have a set number of contact hours based on the equivalent classroom presentation, even though the manner of delivering the training can require extra time. This set of contact hours may be important for continuing education credits, but it also forms the basis for charging students for different training programs. Each course can be taken individually, and students are under no obligation to make any long-term commitments, so you can explore your options at minimal cost before you decide that you want to embark on a full program of study as outlined on our website.If you have any questions, please use the contact form on the link page through which you accessed this website. Thank you for your interest in this training option.

On-line Self-study Program       TDST_OSP

This course is a “trial” to explore how on-line studies work, and whether the student is able to learn in this mode. Typically candidates live and/or work too far away to attend training classes, but at least they have access to Internet services that allow them to study the material, perhaps by using resources at the local library or community centers if not available in a home setting. In this course we go through the mechanics of how these on-line facilities are blended into courses described in other sections on this site. Although there are limitations caused by the fact that no teacher-student interaction is available, determined individuals can use optional tools that can be requested to pursue the training on-line.

Distance Education Program       TDST_DEP

This course is a “trial” to explore how the distance education program works, and whether the student is able to learn in this mode. Typically candidates live and/or work too far away to attend training classes, and they do not have access to Internet services that allow them to study the material, not even using resources at the local library or community centers. In this course we go through the mechanics of how distance education facilities are blended into courses described in other sections on this site. Although there are limitations caused by the fact that no teacher-student interaction is available, determined individuals can use optional tools that can be requested to pursue the training through distance education.

Corporate Development Program       TDST_CDP

Distance Learning Programs are an ideal fall-back option for corporations that want to provide an opportunity for advancement to employees. This course reviews the business case for corporate involvement in training, and the steps that corporations should take to provide in-house support through different learning options. This course is intended as a “consultation and review” of the options that are available to build a more capable workforce, as well as to help that workforce if necessary to prepare for a pending downsizing program.

Coaching Distance Learners       TDST_CDL

Distance learning is not easy for many people – what they require is contact with someone who can help them through the learning materials. Coaches are our representatives in areas where we do not have a formal presence, which can inhibit opportunities for study in those areas when no other training providers exist. Because distance learning without the support of a group can be a major challenge, the objective is to at least provide an option for qualified individuals to get engaged in ways to deliver training where it is needed. In this course we explore options for a model in which training facilitators can coordinate the delivery of training programs in their local areas of operation, and how that works with our other training delivery programs.