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Computer
Horse
Lack of a computer has not stopped Fay Howell of Milan, New Mexico
from taking one of New Mexico State University's most popular online
courses.
The college has generously offered to let students who sign up for
the course, Training Performance Horses, and live within driving
distance from the college, use the computers in the college library.
Howell is taking advantage of this opportunity.
"The
minute I read about the course I desperately wanted to take it,
but I didn't have a computer," said Howell, who has been around
horses for 20 years. When I inquired at the college, they told me
I could use theirs. I am so grateful for the college's consideration.
I have now studied three of the nine lessons and have already worked
out a better feeding program for my horses."
Like all students who take the course, Howell also appreciates one
of the program's main attraction, which is not setting a limited
time for completing the course. Most students work with horses and
have no time for set classes. With this course, they have free time,
can get their lessons by computer and can learn at their own pace.
When students finish the course successfully, they receive a certificate
of recognition from the college.
The online course was designed by nationally-known author/trainer
Don Blazer, who actively participates in the program by grading
students' work and helping them by discussing specific problems
with their horses. The course teaches training techniques necessary
to perform all basic exercises from before the saddle to flying
lead changes. The student receives a lesson by e-mail, studies the
material, then submits a quiz question and a brief narrative report
explaining his or her training program, and then is given a lesson
link by e-mail.
Students have four colleges to choose from and can register by phone
for this course at any time. All four offer to provide computers
to prospective students who do not have computers.
The colleges are New Mexico University at (505)287-6670. Allegany
College of Maryland at (301)784-5341, or Arizona's Scottsdale Community
College at (602)423-6505. or Paradise Valley Community College at
(602)787-6800. Online registration is available.
A sample of one of the lessons and some of the test questions can
be seen at www.donblazer.com.
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