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  • Cultivating Minds: How Gardening Enhances Higher Education

    Cultivating Minds: How Gardening Enhances Higher Education

    Gardening has been around for centuries, providing sustenance and enjoyment for people across cultures and generations. But did you know that gardening can also enhance higher education? By integrating gardening and horticulture into higher education, students can benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, promote sustainable practices, and enhance community engagement. In this article, we will explore the benefits of integrating gardening into higher education and provide examples of how gardening can be used as a tool for learning.

    I. Hands-on learning opportunities

    Hands-on learning is an effective method for engaging students and enhancing their understanding of concepts. By providing students with opportunities to participate in hands-on activities, they are able to experience real-world applications of the theories they learn in the classroom. Gardening provides a unique opportunity for hands-on learning in higher education. Gardening activities such as planting, pruning, and harvesting require students to actively engage with the plants and soil, and in doing so, they are able to learn about plant anatomy, soil composition, and plant growth cycles. Additionally, gardening can provide opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, as students can learn about botany, ecology, and even business and marketing through activities such as selling produce at farmer’s markets or starting a garden-based business.

    II. Promoting sustainable practices

    Sustainability has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, and for good reason. Sustainable practices ensure that we are able to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Gardening and horticulture can promote sustainable practices by reducing the use of harmful chemicals, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity. By using organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods, gardening can reduce the use of harmful chemicals and promote healthy soil and plant growth. Additionally, by utilizing practices such as composting and rainwater harvesting, gardening can conserve water and reduce waste. Finally, by promoting biodiversity through the planting of native species and the creation of habitat for beneficial insects, gardening can support the health of local ecosystems.

    III. Enhancing community engagement

    Community engagement is an important aspect of higher education, as it helps students connect with the wider community and develop a sense of civic responsibility. Gardening can enhance community engagement by providing opportunities for students to work with community organizations and to engage in service-learning projects. Gardening can also provide opportunities for intergenerational learning, as students can work with local senior centers or schools to teach gardening skills and promote healthy eating habits. Additionally, gardening can provide a platform for community building, as community members can come together to work on shared gardening projects and to celebrate the harvest.

    FAQs

    1. What are the benefits of gardening in education?
      Gardening provides hands-on learning opportunities, promotes sustainable practices, and enhances community engagement.
    2. How does gardening promote sustainable practices?
      Gardening promotes sustainable practices by reducing the use of harmful chemicals, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity.
    3. What are some examples of hands-on learning activities in gardening?
      Examples of hands-on learning activities in gardening include planting, pruning, harvesting, soil testing, and composting.
    4. How can gardening enhance community engagement?
      Gardening can enhance community engagement by providing opportunities for students to work with community organizations, engage in service-learning projects, and build community through shared gardening projects.
    5. What impact does sustainable gardening have on the environment?
      Sustainable gardening can have a positive impact on the environment by reducing the use of harmful chemicals, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity.
    6. How does community engagement in gardening benefit education?
      Community engagement in gardening can benefit education by providing opportunities for students to learn about civic responsibility, intergenerational learning, and community building.
    7. Can gardening be integrated into all areas of higher education?
      Yes, gardening can be integrated into many areas of higher education, including STEM, business, and humanities.
    8. What resources are available for educators interested in integrating gardening into their curriculum?
      There are many resources available for educators interested in integrating gardening into their curriculum, including lesson plans, workshops, and funding opportunities.
    9. How can gardening be adapted for students with disabilities?
      Gardening can be adapted for students with disabilities by providing accessible garden beds, tools, and materials, and by incorporating sensory experiences such as touch, smell, and sound.
    10. Are there any funding opportunities for gardening and horticulture programs in higher education?
      Yes, there are many funding opportunities available for gardening and horticulture programs in higher education, including grants, scholarships, and fundraising opportunities.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, gardening and horticulture can provide a wealth of benefits to higher education. By providing hands-on learning opportunities, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing community engagement, gardening can help students develop a deep understanding of the natural world and their place within it. As educators, we have a responsibility to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in all aspects of life. Gardening and horticulture provide an opportunity to do just that. So, whether you are a student, educator, or community member, we encourage you to explore the many benefits of gardening and horticulture in your own life. Get your hands dirty and discover the joys of growing your own food and connecting with the natural world.

     

    Learn More:

    1. Pennington: “The Many Benefits of Starting a School Garden” 
    2. The Guardian: “How to cultivate wellbeing through gardening” 
    3. Healthline: “10 Benefits of Gardening, Plus Helpful Tips & Recommendations” 
    4. University of Georgia Extension: “Enhance Academic Performance | School Garden Resources” 
    5. BillyOh: “How to Design a garden”

  • Embracing Independence: The Benefits of Mobility Scooters for Seniors

    This article serves to educate readers on the benefits of using mobility scooters for seniors, and the importance of addressing the challenges faced by this population.

    Overview of the Senior Population and their Needs

    As individuals age, mobility often becomes a concern. This can impact their ability to participate in daily activities and maintain their independence. It is important to address these challenges and find solutions that improve the quality of life for seniors.

    Addressing the challenges faced by senior citizens is crucial for promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Mobility scooters can significantly improve seniors’ daily lives and provide them with the independence and freedom they need to live life to the fullest.

    Understanding Mobility Scooters

    Mobility scooters are electric-powered scooters designed to assist individuals with limited mobility in getting around. They come equipped with a comfortable seat, handlebars, and a platform to rest one’s feet.

    Advantages of Using Mobility Scooters

    One of the main benefits of using mobility scooters is improved mobility and independence. This allows seniors to participate in daily activities and maintain their independence, reducing their reliance on others for transportation and assistance.

    Using a mobility scooter also reduces physical strain, making it easier for seniors to get around and participate in daily activities. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with disabilities, arthritis, or other physical conditions that affect mobility.

    Finally, Mobility scooters provide seniors with increased access to daily activities, including shopping, attending social events, and participating in hobbies and interests. This can greatly improve the quality of life for seniors and provide them with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

    Types of Mobility Scooters

    Three-Wheeled Scooters

    Three-wheeled scooters are designed for indoor and outdoor use, offering a smaller, more maneuverable option.

    Four-Wheeled Scooters

    Four-wheeled scooters provide more stability and support, making them a good option for outdoor use.

    Travel Scooters

    Travel scooters are designed for individuals who frequently travel or need a scooter that is easy to transport. These scooters are lightweight and can be easily disassembled for transport.

    Medline Plus – https://medlineplus.gov/mobilityaids.html

    Electric Mobility Rascal – https://www.rascalmobility.com/products/scooters/

    Pride Mobility – https://www.pridemobility.com/scooters

    Golden Technologies – https://www.goldentech.com/mobility-scooters/

    ParentGiving – https://www.parentgiving.com/shop/electric-mobility-scooters-213/c/

    Overcoming Stigma and Promoting Inclusivity

    Unfortunately, there is a stigma surrounding mobility scooters, with some people viewing them as a sign of aging or weakness. This can prevent seniors from using mobility scooters, even if it would greatly improve their quality of life.

    The Importance of Addressing the Stigma

    It is important to address the stigma surrounding mobility scooters to promote inclusivity and accessibility for senior citizens. Breaking down these barriers can help seniors feel more comfortable using mobility scooters and enjoy the benefits they offer.

    How to Promote Inclusivity and Accessibility for Senior Citizens

    Open and honest discussions about mobility scooters and seniors’ challenges can help break down stigma and promote understanding.

    Educating the public about the benefits of mobility scooters and the challenges seniors face can help raise awareness and promote inclusivity.

    Improving access to resources and support for seniors who use mobility scooters can greatly enhance their quality of life. This includes access to scooters, training, and maintenance services.

    Conclusion

    The article has discussed the importance of addressing the challenges faced by senior citizens and highlighted the advantages of using mobility scooters. The article has also discussed the stigma surrounding mobility scooters and the importance of promoting inclusivity and accessibility for senior citizens.

    Mobility scooters have the potential to greatly improve the daily lives of senior citizens. By addressing the stigma and promoting inclusivity, we can help seniors to maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.

    As a society, it is important that we continue to advocate for and support senior citizens. This includes providing access to resources and support, promoting inclusivity, and working to address the challenges faced by seniors. Let’s work together to ensure that senior citizens have access to the resources and support they need to enjoy a high quality of life.

  • 5 Memory Improvement Techniques for Retaining Course Material in Higher Education

    College Woman StudyingImage by Silvia from Pixabay

    The Importance of Retaining Course Material in Higher Education

    How well you remember what you learn in class will determine how well you do on your college exams. Since memory is nothing more than a record of what you have learned, you’d think it would be easy to recall what you’ve learned when you need it. Memory retention depends on many variables, like how much new information you take in, how well you pay attention in class, and how strong your desire is to remember the information.

    The Challenges of Remembering and Recalling Information in a College or University Setting

    Memory is the key to all learning because it lets you store and recall the information your instructors have taught you. While learning material for one class can be challenging, learning content for multiple college classes can be much more stressful. Adding to the confusion is that each professor has their own teaching style. Students struggle since there is no set method for learning new concepts and formulas

    For memory retention and recall, the brain can be hit-or-miss. Since it gets distracted easily, we need to get it to focus. We will show you some tricks and techniques that can help you stay focused and remember information longer than usual.

    In this blog, we will cover five memory improvement techniques for retaining course material in higher education. Those techniques are:

    1. Creating a Study Guide
    2. Using Mnemonic Devices
    3. Practicing Spaced Repetition
    4. Teaching the Material to Someone Else.
    5. Using Visual Aids.

    Technique #1: Create a Study Guide

    One proven strategy to get better test results is to create a detailed study guide. Study guides are also helpful in increasing your motivation to study. Putting what you’ve learned in class into a study guide helps your brain make stronger connections so you can recall it for tests.

    You can create study guides in a notebook, a binder, or on 5×7 note cards. Use whichever works best for you. Information should go from general to specific and cover everything you think will be on the test. Add notes and illustrations to help you remember the details. Math or scientific study guides benefit from the use of charts or diagrams. For other subjects, lists work well.

    PRO TIP: Use colored markers to create a color theme for each class.

    Technique #2: Use Mnemonic Devices

    Mnemonics are tricks to help us remember tricky information by making connections between abstract ideas and things we are familiar with. Rhymes, word associations, acronyms, short stories, colors, shapes, and even smells are a few examples of common mnemonic devices.

    Here’s an example of a mnemonic device that grade school students use to memorize the Great Lakes. Just remember the word “HOMES.” Then, practice reciting the name of each lake with the letters in HOMES.

    •             H = Huron
    •             O = Ontario
    •             M = Michigan
    •             E = Erie
    •             S = Superior

    Once you’ve learned this trick, you’ll never forget the names of the Great Lakes.

    To use mnemonic devices for studying, choose the appropriate mnemonic type for the information you need to recall. To make it easier for you to recall what you’ve learned, practice your mnemonic device as often as possible before your exam.

    Technique #3: Practice Spaced Repetition

    Spaced repetition may be the most effective method for enhancing your brain’s capacity for learning and retention. When you begin studying with spaced repetition, the intervals are close together, and then the gaps expand over time.

    An Example of spaced repetition:

    • Study your material.
    • Study again in 1 Hour.
    • Study again in 2 Hours.
    • Study in 4 Hours.
    • Study 4 Times the Next Day.
    • Twice the Day After That.
    • Once the next Day, and so on.
    • Study Right Before Your Exam.

    Use spaced repetition to reinforce learning and retention of course material. The spacing effect helps people learn and recall information more effectively by spreading the study time over a longer duration. Instead of cramming everything into one day and forgetting most of it, spaced repetition reinforces learning and retention by revisiting the information before your brain forgets it.

    Technique #4: Teach the Material to Someone Else

    The protégé effect is a psychological phenomenon in which we enhance learning when information is prepared to be taught to others. The benefits of teaching material to someone else are many. The process helps you learn and retain more than regular studying does. Learning by teaching can also help students build confidence.

    This technique is a great exercise for students to work together and help each other learn and retain classroom content. When you explain the information to someone else, you will be talking out loud. Speaking while you’re learning is another way to get more information to your brain. The more variety of input you receive, the higher your likelihood of remembering what you have learned.

    Technique #5: Use Visual Aids

    The benefits of using visual aids to remember course material are better retention and recall.

    Humans are very visual creatures, and 90% of the information sent to the brain is visual. That means information is easily retained when it is studied visually. Using visual images while studying improves our retention of information.

    Using visual aids, such as mind maps or concept maps is very helpful to most people. You can turn an idea or concept into a visual map for easier comprehension. Visual maps enable you to understand complex information for a more comprehensive learning experience. Also, mapping out information causes your brain to retain what you are learning on a deeper level.

    Conclusion

    In this blog, we have discussed five memory improvement techniques, including creating a Study Guide, using Mnemonic Devices, practicing Spaced Repetition, Teaching the Material to Someone Else, and using Visual Aids.

    While there are many techniques for studying, these five are among the most successful. We encourage you to try these techniques and find what works best for you. Simply trying any of these Techniques for Retaining Course Material will help you while you’re on your quest for Higher Education.

    Related Articles:

    The Learning Scientists: https://www.learningscientists.org/

    American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/education/k12/learning-and-memory

    Association for Psychological Science: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/topics/learning-and-memory

    American Memory Institute: https://americanmemoryinstitute.com/

    Mind Tools: https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newISS_01.htm

    Reminder Call: https://www.remindercall.com/resources/thanks-for-the-memories-brain/

  • 11 Highly Productive iOS & Android Reminder Apps for 2022

    Man-with-tablet-pcImage Credit: cuncon / Pixabay

    For many of us, daily life has a lot of tasks that are easy to forget. In particular, people with demanding jobs like management or sales often have a lot of appointments. In addition, many of us juggle various roles like a job, running the kids around town after school, and volunteer opportunities. Most busy people sometimes have trouble remembering everything on their to-do list.

    That said, juggling careers and other activities isn’t the only reason we forget things. For instance, we might remember to do something one minute and then forget before we place the item on our to-do list. Or we might not remember to add something to a shopping list because a pen and paper are too far away. Appointments, too, can easily be forgotten. It happens, even to the best of us.

    You can even see this problem play out during the workday. As soon as we enter the office, we’ll often find an inbox full of emails and meeting requests. Then, we need to read the emails and take appropriate action, whether that’s a response email, a follow-up call, or something else. Then, there’s making sure we get our lunches and never forget to attend that crucial meeting. Sometimes, things slip through the cracks, and we must play catch up.


    Image Credit: / stevedimatteo / Pixabay

    Being busy all the time can add a lot of stress to our lives. In particular, our always-on culture and fast-paced communications make time management more important than ever. There must be a better way to ensure everything gets done on time.

    In our experience, phone-based reminder apps are one of the best timekeeping tools. Since our phones are always with us, they don’t have the limitations of a computer-based calendar tied only to work (or home). Likewise, calendars don’t have the robust reminder features of these apps.

    However, as with many other things in technology, there are a lot of competitors. In addition, some apps have annoying “gotchas” like free trials or memberships. Or, the app might be challenging to use for one reason or another. When we find an app that doesn’t work for us, it can be frustrating.

    Luckily, several high-quality reminder apps truly deliver on their promises. They have different layouts and other options, so you can find one that works well for you (and your type of schedule). You can also use these apps for your personal time, business schedule, or both.

    These apps can help you start that new project and complete existing ones, set newly attainable goals, increase your productivity, save time, and feel like you’ve accomplished something.

    With these apps, you can work smarter and not harder, be more efficient, and get more done. With planning and scheduling on your reminder app, you’ll be more at ease when planning, prioritizing, organizing your many lists, and performing tasks more efficiently. In short, they help you with reminders about daily tasks so you can be more prepared for the day.

    These 11 Highly Productive Reminder Apps for iOS or Android devices are designed to help plan and organize your life. And the best part – they’re FREE!

    Todoist

    ToDoist

    Todoist is the mini assistant that helps you capture and organize all your tasks for now or later. Simply log your “mental notes” into the app, and you won’t be able to forget them so easily because of the timely reminders you’ll get. With Todoist, you can create reminders for events and lists. Todoist allows you to integrate your other favorite office tools like Google Calendar, Slack, and Amazon Alexa. You can even work on collaborative projects with your team in the same space and crush those goals together.

     

    GoogleKeep

    GoogleKeep

    GoogleKeep is free and designed to help you stay organized and ready for your day. The app works around your time and your needs, giving you the options of handwritten notes, a voice command option, and, if you’re more of a visual person, a picture option that you can draw or upload for keeping a note about important things. For example, if you create a reminder to pick up those groceries after work, GoogleKeep allows you to set a reminder based on the store’s location. This way, you won’t forget and walk right past that market without your groceries!

     

    Any.do

    Any.do

    Any.do is a free app that offers a cool “Plan my Day” feature. This feature has you set a date for when you plan to complete a particular task. Any.do can also sync with your Google and Outlook calendars, allowing you to have all of your meetings and agendas in one place. You need this if you’re the kind of person who adds things to a list anywhere and later forgets where you put them. Any.do will save and sync any other calendar you use all in one place.

     

     

    Calendars

    Calendars

    Calendars is a free iOS app that helps organize your life, create routines, and keep everything in one place. See the complete picture of your day with apps to-do and scheduling. Create or plan a video call by jumping into your Zoom call or GoToMeeting right from the task created on the app. Stay informed about your coworkers’ schedules and availability. You can connect all your calendars and have them all in one place or enjoy the widget option for a quick reminder while using your phone for other tasks. The Calendars app is ready for all your online or offline planning and assures you that your data is always saved.

    RememberTheMilk

    Remember the Milk

    RememberTheMilk is the smart reminder app for busy people. Free and easy to use, the app helps you remember the milk and everything in between. Set a reminder for a specific time or location, and receive it via your preferred method. The app will send you a reminder as a mobile pop-up notification via text messages, email, or a tweet, so you can choose any contact method that works best for you.

    Save, send, and share your frequent note searches and tasks with your Smart Lists and even assign tasks to others as a reminder or to get things done faster. You can even stay on track with your tasks by syncing all your devices and getting your reminders on whichever device you are on.

    Minimalist

    Check Mark
    Minimalist is an easy-to-use iOS app that handles big assignments. It combines a to-do list, a reminder, a checklist, and a top-tier task manager that assists you in getting things done. Minimalist has a Pomodoro timer if you want to set the clock for time blocks and get mentally prepared. This feature allows you to set an intentional time block for better focus. The Pomodoro option also has unique sounds to choose from to get you in your best mood.

    Minimalist can remind you on all your devices using their cloud syncing option. But if you’re a bit skeptical about sharing all that information on your different devices, the app provides Touch ID/ FaceID for high-level security. This way, you can feel secure when organizing your life.

    MindList

    Mind List

    MindList is a free iOS app where you can organize your lists and plan your day. Simply add your tasks and appointments to make MindList your go-to planner/ scheduling app. Let the app help you tackle the many tasks on those lists. With reminders of your daily, weekly, and monthly tasks overviews, MindList allows you to customize, prioritize, and visualize everything on your calendar.

     

    YappReminders

    Yapp Reminders

     

    YappReminders is 100% free and super easy to use iOS app. The app helps remind you of your healthy self-talk quotes and mantras. YappReminders allows for affirmation, quotes, or simple reminders to randomly pop up on your screen within customized time frames. Set it to pop up on your lock screen or on a widget near your frequently used apps for a friendly reminder to stay on track.

    SmartTask

    Check Mark

     

    The SmartTask app is free and easy to use. With its intuitive yet straightforward design, SmartTask helps you to stay organized. You can customize and prioritize your tasks by color-coding with their wide selection of colors. When in a rush, simply swipe your finger on the job to access your quick action response and finalize it. Or drag and drop to quickly add, reorder, repeat or delete any essential tasks.

    ListTodo

    List To Do

    ListTodo is a free android app that you don’t even have to open. The app noticeably reminds you of tasks by using a red icon badge that will actively display the number of tasks pending on your list for the day. Pin your tasks, prioritize, complete, or delete them and check them off your list. ListTodo is there to help you to get stuff done instantly.

    In short, ListTodo combines simplicity and functionality to help you achieve the most in a day.

     

    Asana

    Asana Logo
    Now available as a mobile app or on your favorite web browser, Asana is here to assist at no charge.

    Utilize Asana to get organized, improve your focus, stay connected with your team, and stay on top of those projected goals. While on the go, Asana allows you to attach files easily, post and like comments, and stay updated with your team’s work and activity wherever you are. Asana’s integrated work graph display shows your project goals and creates visibility, integrity, responsibility, and coordination between all team members working towards that goal. This app is great for group projects, but it is also ideal for your own tasks and specific needs, so you can see how you’re progressing on your personal goals.

     


    Image Credit: geralt  / Pixabay

    Boost your productivity by using these reminder apps.

    After research, we chose these 11 Highly Productive iOS & Android Reminder Apps for 2022 to provide you with a wide array of useful reminder apps to help you get on your way. Having explained the different options and offers given in creating and customizing your projects, we hope you’ll find an app that best fits all your needs

    Remember that these reminder apps aim to keep you on track, especially throughout a long, stressful day. When using your reminder app, you’re setting yourself to be at an advantage because you won’t forget things easily. The preplanned and scheduled element and being sure of your next task helps reduce the workday’s stress.

    Reminder apps allow you to give each task your full attention and focus more easily. You are allowing for better concentration and establishing an ease-free workflow for your brain, resulting in better efficiency and greater productivity throughout the day. So imagine what you can accomplish with some consistency and accountability these reminder apps help to provide. Especially with all of these apps being free, it’s a win-win.

    So, if you’re a scatterbrain, or get off task quickly, find and download your preferred app onto your iOS or Android device. Once downloaded, you need only remember to use your new reminder app tool.

    Use the app to be reminded to pick up the groceries after work, share the grocery list with your roommate or significant other, start that assignment, or do anything you need to remember to have a functional week. Each app has cool quirks and features to choose from that make them unique. With their color-coding, syncing, offline and online data saving, privacy and security, task-sharing, project planning, and handling options, you must remember to write everything you need to get done onto the app. Then set the reminder so that from then on, you can be assured that you won’t miss a task.

    With a reminder app, you can easily remember the bigger picture at hand, and completing each one of your tasks sets you closer to your goal. Utilizing a reminder app can help you confidently become that highly productive, prioritized, and organized person you have always wanted to be.

    So, no more walking around with brain fog due to all those lists in your brain. You can now confidently tackle any task with a bit of help from your friendly reminder app. Then, you can be your best and do your best when knowing what comes next during your busy day.

  • What is Divorce Mediation?

    What is divorce mediation?

    Divorce mediation is a confidential meeting that uses a neutral third-party mediator to help you and your spouse negotiate a settlement. The mediator doesn’t make decisions for you or dole out legal advice.

    Instead, they help facilitate the conversation so you and your spouse can better resolve issues together. You should walk out of mediation with a complete divorce settlement for an uncontested divorce.

    How much does divorce mediation cost?

    Divorce mediation generally costs between $500 and $8,000, with a national average hovering at $1,500. Your cost will depend on several factors:

    • Mediator’s rate. Mediators charge between $100 and $300 per hour on average, or a flat day rate. They may also add a setup fee for the first consultation meeting.
    • Number of sessions. The clock keeps running regardless of the number of issues you need to resolve and the longer it takes to reach an agreement.
    • Additional costs. The mediator may charge extra fees, like a session cancellation fee or a fee if you need a written record of each session.

    How long does divorce mediation take?

    One divorce mediation session usually lasts about two hours. Depending on how many issues you have, your divorce mediation process might require multiple sessions spread out over several weeks or months.

    Do I need to hire a lawyer during mediation?

    No, you don’t need an attorney for mediation. In fact, mediators may prefer lawyers not to be present during sessions because they can create a more adversarial environment that may hinder positive communication.

    But you might consider hiring a lawyer if your case involves substantial property or other legal matters to make sure you’re protected. And it might be a good idea to have an attorney review the settlement terms during or after mediation.

     

    What issues can divorce mediation resolve?

    Here are a few of the most common issues that divorce mediation can help sort out:

    • Alimony
    • Child support
    • Custody and parenting plan
    • Debt division
    • Property division, including real estate and personal property

    How does the divorce mediation process work?

    The mediation process will be smoother if you and your spouse have all of your documents in order and are willing to compromise. Here’s what you can expect:

    1. Prepare your documents. Organize all of your paperwork, including statements for your bank accounts, retirement accounts, mortgages, and life insurance policies. Not having all of your records can delay the mediation process.
    2. Attend your first mediation session. You and your spouse list all the issues that need to be resolved. The mediator may also ask questions to get background information and facts of the case.
    3. Continue meeting to negotiate the issues. The mediator helps keep the conversation on track and may present information about the court system or context for how issues are commonly settled.
    4. Finalize settlement agreement. Once everything is resolved, the mediator drafts the divorce agreement.

    Pros and cons of divorce mediation

    Divorce mediation can be a valuable alternative to a court trial, though it’s not without its limitations.

    • Less expensive. Mediation is generally more cost-effective than a long, drawn-out trial. After mediation, you can finish the divorce process online and potentially skip the court hearing altogether.
    • Confidential. Divorce hearings are public records, whereas mediation is a private meeting.
    • Negotiated agreement. The divorcing couple comes to a resolution together, rather than a court-imposed settlement.
    • You and your spouse control the process. The mediator only serves to facilitate the session, but you ultimately control what happens.
    • Higher compliance rate. Couples generally follow the terms of the divorce agreement more than a traditional lawsuit because they participate in the decision-making.
    • No legal counsel. Even though the mediator may be a lawyer or a former judge, they can’t give you or your spouse any legal advice. You may still need to hire a lawyer for legal counsel.
    • Doesn’t include filing and fees. You’ll still need to submit your divorce settlement agreement to the county clerk and pay a separate filing fee — on top of your mediation costs.
    • May not be a good solution for everyone. Mediation requires that the divorcing couple be willing to compromise and come to an agreement. And it may not be safe or appropriate for spouses with a history or fear of domestic violence.

    Is divorce mediation right for me?

    Divorce mediation isn’t about assigning blame or proving wrongdoing. Instead, it’s generally best for couples who:

    • Want to keep divorce costs low
    • Have children and want to find a solution that works for everyone
    • Want to maintain a working relationship after the divorce
    • Want to avoid a public court hearing
    • Are willing to compromise

    Where can I find a divorce mediator?

    A divorce mediator plays a critical role in the process. Here are a few places you can find one:

    • Local legal aid office
    • Local bar association
    • Local community mediation center
    • National mediation organizations, including the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, the American Arbitration Association, and the Association for Conflict Resolution

    How to prepare for divorce mediation

    Here are a few tips to try to make the mediation process as smooth and successful as possible:

    • Research before you hire. Some mediators specialize in child custody mediation or focus on resolving financial disputes. You and your spouse should agree on one specially-trained or certified mediator that you both feel comfortable with.
    • Gather your documents. Make the most of your mediation session by having all of the records you need, including your assets, income sources, debts, and expenses.
    • Set goals. Since each session is a negotiation, know what issues you won’t budge on and which areas where you’re more flexible.
    • Compromise. Both you and your spouse should be ready to have a meaningful conversation in each session. Keep in mind that mediation is not about winning or punishing your ex, but about finding a solution that best suits everyone.

    Mediation vs. arbitration vs. collaborative divorce: What’s the difference?

    Here’s how the three most common alternatives to litigation break down:

    Mediation Arbitration Collaborative divorce
    What it is
    You and your spouse negotiate the terms of your divorce with the help of a mediator.
    An arbitrator hears both sides and delivers a final decision on the terms of your divorce.
    You and your spouse each hire an attorney to negotiate a settlement.
    Who it’s best for
    Couples with a good working relationship who want to keep divorce costs low.
    Couples who need a third party to resolve specific issues and want to maintain some privacy.
    Couples who can’t communicate effectively with one another, but want to avoid a public court hearing.
    Estimated cost
    Average of $225 per hour
    Varies anywhere from $150 to over $500
    Average of $270 per hour
    Amount of time
    1 to 10 sessions — varies greatly depending on the number of issues you need to resolve
    1 to 10 days — varies greatly depending on the number of issues you need to resolve
    1 to 10 sessions — varies greatly depending on the number of issues you need to resolve
    Lawyer required
    No
    No
    Yes
    File for divorce online
    Yes
    Filing generally included
    Yes

    Bottom line

    In many cases, you can keep your divorce case out of the court system by opting for divorce mediation. It can be cheaper and faster than litigation if you and your spouse can communicate well and are willing to compromise.

    After you walk out of mediation with a divorce settlement, you’ll still need to fill out a few more legal forms and file all the paperwork with the courts.

    Frequently asked questions

    What happens if we can’t agree on anything at mediation?

    • If you can’t reach an agreement, you might consider arbitration, hiring a lawyer to negotiate for you (collaborative divorce), or settling the case in court.

    Who selects the mediator?

    • Both you and your spouse should agree on a mediator.

    Is divorce mediation legally binding?

    • Yes. Divorce mediation is a process that produces a legally binding divorce agreement — but only after the paperwork is signed and executed with the courts. Since mediators aren’t judges, they can’t make binding decisions themselves, nor can they force you to reach a settlement.

  • General Ideas About Architecture and Construction Career Pathways

    General Ideas About Architecture and Construction Career Pathways

    It takes a family to build a home. It also takes a team of workers to build a building. Architecture and Construction Career Clusters contain occupations in the same field of work that require similar skills. The careers in this cluster incorporate many of the moving parts required to construct and maintain buildings and structures. Each job requires a different level of education. Career Clusters help students, parents and educators alike focus educations plans towards obtaining the necessary knowledge, competencies, and training for success. Education plans are a general guideline for what is needed to pursue a particular career. Some careers in the Architecture and Construction Career Clusters require more formal schooling than others. If you are interested in architecture and construction, it is worth consulting this cluster for ways to pursue a job in this field.


    Image Credit: Wokandapix / Pixabay

    General Outlook

    Careers in this cluster range from designing, planning, managing, and building a structure to maintaining the finished environment. Because highways, tunnels, bridges, and buildings will need upkeep and repair in the coming years and on into the future, there will remain a need for a variety of people skilled in architecture and construction. Although the demand for new housing is expected to decline, the demand for remodeling and repairs on existing residential structures should grow. Skilled laborers will also be needed in construction trades, especially electricians. With the rising interest in “smart” buildings, there will be a demand for workers that can wire buildings to keep pace with this continuing growth in telecommunications and computer equipment.

    Skills Required

    Most architecture and construction jobs require that a person has solid math skills. Attention to detail is also important. Taking classes in art, algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and drafting is a great way to prepare for careers in this cluster. Some careers require more schooling than others. Careers such as architects, engineers, and city planners require at least a bachelor’s degree. Other jobs in this cluster may only require a high school education. Most of the jobs do require a period of formal training or apprenticeship. New employees may work beside experienced skilled workers, and after some time may be expected to pass a licensing examination in order to practice on or their own.

    Career Pathways

    There are three pathways in this career cluster: design/pre-construction, construction, and maintenance /operations.

    • Design/Pre-Construction – People in this area take ideas and put them on paper, creating blueprints and detailed design plans. These plans are used as the construction project gets underway. Most positions require at least a licensing and sometimes a higher degree. Careers in this area include architects, computer-aided design technicians, surveyors, city planners, cost estimators, and civil engineers.
    • Construction – People in this area turn the plans created by designers into reality. They build, renovate and restore buildings and structures. This includes houses and office buildings as well as bridges, highways, and factories. Many of these jobs required skilled laborers that have gone through training or an apprenticeship. Some positions even require a degree. Careers in construction include plumbers, construction laborers, electricians, construction inspectors, landscape architects, and sheet metal workers.
    • Maintenance/Operations – People in this area keep existing structures maintained and running smoothly. They keep buildings up to codes set out by the government. There is some overlap between this pathway and construction. Jobs in this pathway usually require little schooling. Some positions may require some technical training. Careers in maintenance/operations include electricians, boilermakers, highway maintenance workers, janitors, elevator installers and repairers, heating and cooling technicians, and pipefitters.

    Planning

    Once you know what pathway you are interested in, it is much easier to plan for the future. Most of these jobs benefit from some technical training. Attending a one to two-year technical school can equip you with skills that will set you apart from the competition. If you are interested in a career in the planning and design stages, earning a degree from a four-year institute might be required. Gaining experience at a young age can help advance your skills in areas like carpentry, painting, and plumbing. Doing repairs and home improvement projects can prepare you for your future. Joining the math club while in high school and volunteering to care for the flowers at a local park or community center are great ways to stay involved and gain skills.

    The Architecture and Construction Career Cluster includes a wide range of career paths. It includes the planners, builders and maintainers of highways, bridges, houses and buildings. Individuals in these fields need various levels of education to be successful.

    Construction Career Resources

    Tips for a Successful Career & Employment in Construction
    Construction Is A Career Like No Other
    How to Start a Career in Construction
    Career Paths – Careers in Construction
    Careers in construction: Building opportunity

  • regionalism

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