Thursday, August 29, 2013

Guest Blog: Gardening for Beginners


I have been gardening for more than 15 years and over those years have deciphered some of the strangest and craziest vocabulary that you find in the gardening world. Trust me, if you have never looked, some of it is kind of odd! For example, have you ever wandered through the garden section of one of those big box stores and wondered what the difference between part shade and part sun on the plant tags meant?

I can honestly say that the answer is actually pretty simple! Part shade means direct morning sun, best on the east side of a building, or afternoon sun on the west side of a building with no direct midday sunlight (usually between 10:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.). Part sun is actually very similar but can handle midday sun if that is all they get.

How can a plant be drought resistant when the plant tag advises to “water thoroughly until established?” Well, first, there are two parts to decipher. First what do they mean by drought tolerant and second, what are they calling established? Well established means that the roots have grown into the soil medium that you transplanted it to. The time for this to happen really depends on the plant itself. As for drought tolerant, well, once those roots are “established” they have the ability to pull moisture out of the soil and retain it for long periods of time within the cells of the plant. But it still needs that little help at the beginning!

  • Sep 7-14, SAT, 8:30am-12:30pm, Cost/$25
  • Oct 26-Nov 2, SAT, 8:30am-12:30pm, Cost/$25

For other classes and information please visit our Fall 2013 Catalog at http://www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf.

So, do you have any other questions that have been bothering you about gardening but have no desire to wade through the vast amounts of gardening information on the internet to find the answer? If the answer is yes, look to CTC Continuing Education for Gardening for Beginners!

You can register over the phone by calling us at 254-526-1586 or you can visit us on the CTC campus building 136, Room 139, located on the corner of Clear Creek and Central Texas College Drive.

Jacki Bakker

Instructor

September 2013 Classes



Haven't had a chance to see what Personal Enrichment, Career Development, LifeLong Learning, and College for Kids classes start this month? No problem! All September classes are listed below and will be updated as changes are made. 

Professional Development & Career Training

  • Webpage Design I, Sep 4-30, M/W, 7-9pm, $75
  • Launching Your Own Business, Sep 14, SAT, 9am-1pm, $25
  • CPR for Healthcare Providers, Sep 14, SAT, 9am-noon, $25
  • Anger Resolution, Sep 14, SAT, 8am-noon, $45
  • Common Sense Parenting, Sep 14, SAT, 1-5pm, $45
  • Positive Self Talk, Sep 14, SAT, 10am-2pm, $25
  • Basic Bookkeeping, Sep 16-25, SAT, 1-5pm, $45
  • Accelerated PowerPoint 2010, Sep 16-25, M/W, 6-8pm, $39
  • Computer Concepts, Sep 17-Oct 3, T/TH, 8am-noon, $99
  • Word 2010, Sep 17-26, T/TH, 1-5pm, $75
  • CPR for Healthcare Providers, Sep 19, THU, 5-9pm, $25
  • Unpack Your Emotional Suitcase, Sep 21, SAT, 9:30am-12:30pm, $39
  • Computer Concepts, Sep 21-Oct 26, SAT, 1-5pm, $99
  • Blood Borne Pathogens, Sep 26, THU, 6-8pm, $25
  • Listen to Your Business, Sep 28, SAT, 9am-1pm, $25
  • Heartsaver AED, Sep 28, SAT, 9am-3pm, $35
  • Prezi Pizazz, Sep 30-Oct 2, M/W, 6-8pm, $25

Personal Enrichment

  • Sports Photography, Sep 4-6, WED Orientation 6-7:30pm, T/F Game 6:30-8:30pm, $39
  • Zumba, Sep 6-Oct 25, FRI, Noon-1pm, $29
  • Let’s Get Altered, Sep 7, SAT, 1-4pm, $35
  • Zumba Toning, Sep 7-Oct 26, SAT, 10-11am, $29
  • Tailgate Party, Sep 7, SAT, 11am-4pm, $49
  • Gardening for Beginners, Sep 7-14, SAT, 8:30am-12:30pm, $25
  • Hatha Yoga, Sep 9-Oct 2, M/W, Noon-1pm, $29
  • Zumba, Sep 9-Oct 2, M/W, Noon-1pm, $29
  • Water Fitness, Sep 9-Oct 2, M/W, 7:30-8:30pm, $29
  • Beginning Tennis, Sept 9-Oct 7, MON, 5:45-7pm, $35
  • Vinyasa Yoga, Sep 10-Oct 3, T/TH, 6-7pm, $29
  • Aqua Zumba, Sep 10-Oct 3, T/TH, 1:30-2:30pm, $29
  • Zumba, Sep 10-Oct 3, T/TH, 7:30-8:30pm, $29
  • Group Guitar (ages 13+), Sep 11-Oct 16, WED, 6-7pm, $89
  • Core Strength & Conditioning, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 11:45am-12:45pm, $29
  • Aqua Zumba, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 6:30-7:30pm, $29
  • Water Fitness, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 11:45am-12:45pm, $29
  • Water Fitness, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 5:30-6:30pm, $29
  • Salsa-Beginning, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 6-7pm, $29
  • Salsa-Intermediate, Sep 13-Nov 1, FRI, 7-8pm, $29
  • Parent & Child Swim, Sep 13-Oct 4, FRI, 3-3:30pm, $15
  • Water Fitness, Sep 14-Oct 19, SAT, 10:30-11:30am, $25
  • Basic Math Review, Sep 14-Oct 5, SAT, 1-5pm, $45
  • Creative Photography, Sep 16-Oct 21, MON, 6-9pm, $55
  • Belly/Oriental Dance, Sep 16-Oct 9, M/W, 6-7pm, $35
  • Exploring Tribal Bellydance, Sep 16-Oct 9, M/W, 7:10-8:10pm, $35
  • Group Piano (ages 13+), Sep 16-Oct 21, MON, 4-5pm, $89
  • Adult Swim Lessons, Sep 16-19, M-TH, 3-4pm, $49
  • Line Dancing, Sep 17-26, T/TH, 7-8:30pm, $25
  • So you want to be a Scientist?, Sep 17-Oct 3, T/TH, 5:30-8pm, $45
  • Sports Photography, Sep 18-20, WED Orientation 6-7:30pm, T/F Game 6:30-8:30pm, $39
  • Handmade Greeting Cards, Sep 19, THU, 6-8pm, $19
  • Adult Swim Lessons, Sep 20-Oct 11, FRI, 8-9pm, $49
  • Diva Desserts, Sep 21, SAT, 11am-4pm, $49
  • Acrylic Painting, Sep 24-Oct 10, T/TH, 6-8pm, $39

Lifelong Learning (50+)

  • Water Aerobics, Sep 6-Oct 11, FRI, 9-10am, $25
  • Internet & Email, Sep 16-25, M/W, 1-4pm, $45
  • Computer Essentials, Sep 16-25, M/W, 8-11am, $45
  • Computer Essentials, Sep 21-Oct 5, SAT, 8-11am, $45
  • Excel 2010, Sep 30-Oct 9, M/W, 8-11am, $45
  • PowerPoint 2010, Sep 30-Oct 9, M/W, 1-4pm, $45

College for Kids

  • Group Guitar (ages 7-12), Sep 11-Oct 16, WED, 7-8pm, $89
  • Swim Lessons (ages 3-4), Sep 13-Oct 4, FRI, 3:45-4:15pm, $29
  • Swim Lessons (ages 5+), Sep 13-Oct 4, FRI, 4:30-5:15pm, $35
  • Camp Geek: Rocket Science (ages 5-12), Sep 14, SAT, 1-4pm, $35
  • Group Piano (ages 5-12), Sep 16-Oct 21, MON, 6:30-7:30pm, $89
  • Swim Lessons (ages 3-4), Sep 28-Oct 19, SAT, 12:45-1:15pm, $29
  • Swim Lessons: Level I (ages 5+), Sep 28-Oct 19, SAT, 9:30-10:15am, $35
  • Swim Lessons: Level II (ages 5+), Sep 28-Oct 19, SAT, 11:45am-12:30pm, $35 


See something you like? You can always check out our current catalog at www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf. To register for classes, call us at 254-526-1586 or visit our office on the Central Texas College campus in building 136 (located on the corner of Clear Creek Rd and Central Texas College Drive) in room 139. 

Instructor of the Month! September 2013

Congratulations to our September 2013 Instructor of the Month... 
Marlena Martin!




Marlena has been a member of the Continuing Education family for over 3 years! She teaches Screenwriting 1 & 2, Comic Books for kids, Photoshop for Kids, Stop Motion, Cartooning for Kids, and coming soon a E-Book publishing class!

We asked Marlena a few quick questions so we can get to know her more:
What is your favorite part about teaching? Inspiring minds. My students always keep in touch. I see them at CTC Geekfest every year, it's a like a reunion.
What would you name the autobiography of your life? 6 of 1029.
What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod? "Rockstar 101" by Rihanna.
What is your favorite form of exercise? Walking.
What’s your current favorite TV show/Movie? Rise of the Guardians in 3D .
What is something you learned in the last week? Game Art.
When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time? Study. I'm an animation student and currently creating apps.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose? Mary Poppins. I wish I could snap my fingers and clean my house.
What advice do you have for new instructors of Continuing Education? Be prepared and on time. Always be positive and courteous. Enjoy what you're doing and... bring snacks!

To see Marlena's classes and more, you can visit http://www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf to register or additional information, give us a call at 254-526-1586.

Would you like to nominate one of our Continuing Education instructors? Let us know by emailing our coordinator Rufus Walker at rwalker@ctcd.edu.

Fall 2013 Course Catalog!



Our Fall 2013 Catalog is here and leaves aren't the only things that change! This fall learn a new hobby or get the training you have always wanted to take.

So, what you waiting for? Our Fall 2013 Catalog is just a click away at www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf. Register over the phone by calling 254-526-1586, or visit us on campus in building 136, Room 139, located on the corner of Clear Creek and Central Texas College Drive.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Materials Preparation



Hello Instructors!  Recently I taught a creative writing class for College for Kids. An important part of my class was handouts and materials. While reading William A. Draves' How to Teach Adults he mentioned how many instructors use materials as an afterthought. These three easy steps will give you insight on what may be too much for your students or not enough.

One. Most Adults won't have time to read a whole book, but chapters or articles are feasible. Following the copyright laws, using articles or chapters is a good way to convey information without burdening the student too much.

Two. Other handouts can be prepared by you. This is the best way to convey most succinctly the information you deem most important. Be sure to use handouts well. Don't put down on paper things better said. Don't overdo handouts. Put down information participants should know or can use after the course. Use handout material for things it would take too long to copy in class, or take up too much valuable class time.

Three. If possible, provide a reading list or list of references for further research or study. For practical classes, this might be a list of people, places, or other resources.


Hopefully, these few tips can help conquer the classroom. Feel free to contact us if you have any marketing needs, advise or questions. Let's work together to better our community.



Rufus Walker
Coordinator

August 2013 Classes



Haven't had a chance to see what Personal Enrichment, Career Development, and LifeLong Learning classes start this month? Don't worry! All August classes are listed below and will be updated as changes are made. 

Professional Development & Career Training

  • Excel 2010, Aug 3-10, SAT, 8am-5pm, $75
  • CPR for Healthcare Providers, Aug 3, SAT, 9am-5pm, $45
  • Focus! Get Results!, Aug 5-7, M/W, 6-8pm, $35
  • Beginning Linux, Aug 6-29, T/TH, 7pm-9pm, $75
  • Computer Concepts, Aug 6-22, T/TH, 8am-12pm, $99
  • Dealing with Difficult People, Aug 9, FRI, 8am-12pm, $25
  • Effective Time Management Skills, Aug 9, FRI, 1-5pm, $25
  • Word 2010, Aug 13-22, T/TH, 1pm-5pm, $75
  • Professional Truck Driving, Aug 19-Sept 13, M-F, 7am-4pm, $4,195 (cash) $5,995 (financed*)
  • Anger Resolution, Aug 24, SAT, 8am-12pm, $25
  • PowerPoint 2010, Aug 27-29, T/TH, 8am-5pm, $75
  • Sports Photography: Session 1 
    • Aug 28 (Orientation), WED, 6-7:30pm, $39
    • Aug 29 (Game), TH/F, 6:30-8:30pm, $39

Personal Enrichment

  • Jazzercise, Aug 1-29, T/TH, 9:15-10:15am/ 5:35-6:35pm, $29
  • Jazzercise, Aug 5-28, M/W, 8:10-9:10am/ 5:35/6:35pm, $29
  • Beginning Jewelry Beading, Aug 5-8, M-TH, 9am-12pm, $39
  • Let’s Get Altered!, Aug 5-7, M-W, 5:30-6:30pm, $35
  • Hatha Yoga, Aug 5-28, M/W, 1pm-2pm, $29
  • Zumba, Aug 5-28, M/W, 12:15-1:15pm/ 6-7pm, $15
  • Vinyasa Yoga, Aug 8- Sept 3, T/TH, 6pm-7pm, $29
  • Water Fitness Training, Aug 9-Sept 6, FRI, 11:45am-12:45pm, $15
  • Zumba, Aug 9-30, FRI, 12pm-1pm, $15
  • Unpack Your Emotional Suitcase: 9 Essential Life Skills!, Aug 10, SAT, 9:30am-12:30pm, $39
  • American Sign Language, Aug 10-31, SAT, 10am-3pm, $45
  • Zumba Toning, Aug 10-31, SAT, 10-11am, $15
  • Water Fitness Training, Aug 10-Sept 7, SAT, 10:30-11:30am, $15
  • Sweets and Treats, Aug 10, Sat, 11am-4pm, $49
  • Belly/Oriental Dance, Aug 14- Sept 11, M/W, 6-7pm, $35
  • Exploring Tribal Belly Dance, Aug 14-Sept 4, M/W, 7-8pm, $35
  • Aqua Zumba, Aug 16-Sept 6, FRI, 6:30-7:30pm, $15
  • Common Sense Parenting, Aug 24, SAT, 1-5pm, $25
  • Sausage Making, Aug 24, SAT, 11am-4pm, $49
  • Handmade Greeting Cards, Aug 27, TUE, 6-8pm, $19


Lifelong Learning (50+)

  • Internet &Email, Aug 5-14, M/W, 1-4pm, $45
  • Word 2010, Aug 5-14, M/W, 1-4pm, $45
  • PowerPoint 2010, Aug 19-28, M/W, 1-4pm, $45
  • Excel 2010, Aug 19-28, M/W, 1-4pm, $45



See something you like? You can always check out our current catalog at www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf. To register for classes, call us at 254.526.1586 or visit our office on the Central Texas College campus in building 136 (located on the corner of Clear Creek Rd and Central Texas College Drive) in room 139. 

College for Kids! August 2013

College for Kids!
August 2013 Classes


CTC Continuing Education understands how busy this time of year can get for you and your kids. To make things a little easier all the start dates, times, and costs of our College for Kids' classes are listed below.
  • Messy Science (ages 5-12), Aug 1, THU, 9am-12pm, $35
  • Cyber Safety (ages 5-8), Aug 2, FRI, 9am-12pm, $35
  • Cyber Safety (ages 9-12), FRI, 1-4pm, $35
  • You’re Hired! (ages 14-18), Aug 3-10, SAT, 12:30-2:30pm, $19
  • Galaxy Quest (ages 5-12), Aug 5-8, M-TH, 9am-12pm, $65
  • I Love Ladybugs! (ages 6+), Aug 5-8, M-W, 4-5pm, $29
  • Alter It! (ages 8-11), Aug 5-7, M-W, 4-5pm, $29
  • Arts & Crafts (ages 5+), Aug 6-9, M-TH, 1-4pm, $55
  • It’s Cookie Time! (ages 7+), Aug 9, FRI, 9am-12pm, $35
  • Parent & Child Swim (ages 6m-3yrs), Aug 10-31, SAT, 12:12:30pm, $15
  • Weather Phenomena (ages 5-12), Aug 10, SAT, 1-4pm, $35
  • Beginning Drawing (ages 10+), Aug 12-13, M/T, 3:30-6pm, $29
  • Creative Dramatics (ages 5-8), Aug 14-15, W/TH, 1-3pm, $29
  • Act Out! (ages 9-12), Aug 14-15, W/TH, 3:30-5:30pm, $29
  • Animal Heroes (ages 5-10), Aug 15, THU, 3-6pm, $25


See something you like? You can always check out our current catalog at www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf. To register for any classes, call us at 254.526.1586 or visit our office on the Central Texas College campus in building 136 (located on the corner of Clear Creek Rd and Central Texas College Drive), room 139. 

Instructor of the Month! August 2013

Congratulations to our August 2013 Instructor of the Month... 
Suzan Falkner!




Suzan has been with Continuing Education for an astounding 5 years! She teaches College for Kids fun-filled science classes such as Slippery Slimy Science, You Rock: Fossil Hunting, and so much more. 

We asked Suzan a few quick questions so we can get to know her more:
What is your favorite part about teaching? Watching students excitement as they face the challenges of learning new things.
What would you name the autobiography of your life? The Jam of a Gemini:  Creative in Spirit
What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod? Guest of Honor by Tamela Mann
What is your favorite form of exercise? Playing Sports
What’s your current favorite TV show/Movie?  Drop Dead Diva/The Whiz
What is something you learned in the last week? The baby prince's name is George Alexander Louis
When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time?  Play Candy Crush 
If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose?  Biblesaurus:  A character in my children's books I am writing!
What advice do you have for new instructors of Continuing Education? Love what you are doing, give students respect and expect it in return. Make class fun and exciting, as you impart knowledge. Be prepared for the unexpected.
Any final thoughts you would like to share? This journey has been a blessing because I have met so many wonderful children and parents.  My hope is that science will always be fun and challenging, as my students continue their education.  With five years teaching this program, this year seniors will graduate who have taken one of the aforementioned classes, as well as some will start kindergarten.  That is incredible and I pray each students success in life! 

To see Suzan Falkner's classes and more, you can visit http://www.ctcd.edu/ce/schedule.pdf. To register or get additional information, you can give us a call at 254-526-1586.

Would you like to nominate one of our Continuing Education instructors? Let us know by emailing our coordinator Rufus Walker at rwalker@ctcd.edu.