Hello!  A little about me:

I've taught American Sign Language for over 15 years.  I'm hard-of-hearing. My wife, Belinda, is Deaf.  I'm certified by the American Sign Language Teachers Association, have a masters in Deaf Education from Lamar University (accredited), and a Ph.D. in Human Services from Pacific Western University. I also have and earned, accredited, doctorate in Deaf Studies/Deaf education from Lamar University. 

I used to hold a few computer certifications. All of them have probably expired by now, but it took a bunch of time and money to get them so I'm going to list 'em:

MCSE:  Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
MCP+I:  Microsoft Product Specialist, plus Internet
A+:  PC technician certification
N+:  Network technician certification
EDNet:  Distance Education Certification

So, hmmm, a background in ASL and computing!  Can you see now why I'd enjoy being involved with Online ASL instruction?

I'm glad to have you as a student.  Good luck with your studies! 

Bill

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<<In a message dated 11/17/2002 7:06:10 PM Central Standard Time, Jack S_______ writes:

Hello Dr. Vicars,
This is Jack S_______, The Plan seems great to me, I will begin working in the expressive Video and the 1-5 tests this week. I will be going on a trip to Alaska next week so it will take some time to complete. but I will keep you posted on my progress. As far as the purpose of my learning ASL, it is both personal Enrichment and part of a future career change, I am an elementary school teacher (5th and 6th grade) and have also worked as a residential councilor for adult mentally retarded. I would like to complete a Ph.D. in Social services and work with troubled teens, or adults as a councilor. I have a strong desire to be able to communicate with deaf teens and adults that may be in need of help with personal issues. (Or just make some new friends in the deaf community)
By the way, In regard to Ph.D., Do you think the program at Pacific Western is worth while? It is certainly more affordable then other distance learning programs, Are they fairly well excepted in the professional field without being fully accredited?
I have sent for their info package. and I am considering them as an option.
Thanks     Jack S_______>>

Jack,

No. Don't go with Pacific Western. It was a mistake on my part.  I am repenting of that mistake by going BACK to school and getting an accredited doctoral degree. As of this writing I have one class left.  It has been a long road but I'm glad I went back.

It seemed like such a good idea at the time to go with Pacific Western. They were (and I believe still are) approved by the California State Board of Education.  Of the various "non-accredited" degrees out there Pacific Western was, I feel, the best choice.  

Later it became evident that to have "rock solid" credibility I'd have to go with an accredited college. I chose Lamar University because of their excellent program and consistent support for best practices in Deaf Education. (They are innovative and willing to let me run with new ideas and technology).

There are a number of accredited distance education doctoral programs out there now with minimal residency requirements that are certainly worth checking into.  My wife is in the process of pursuing an accredited degree in creative writing from a distance education program offered by Union Institute (an affiliate of Vermont College).

I think as long as whatever degree you get is accredited by one of the regional accrediting agencies that are approved by the U.S. Dept. of Education--you be better off.

Bill