Vocational program offerings

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by SnakeStu, Feb 24, 2002.

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  1. SnakeStu

    SnakeStu New Member

    For several years I have been interested in taking a course by mail to learn locksmithing, just out of personal interest and maybe to establish a part-time secondary income as a "mental break" from my regular career. I've seen this option listed by outfits such as Harcourt Learning Direct and Stratford Career Institute, but before I commit any money to something like that, I want to make sure it will actually be worthwhile.

    I did some looking online to see what experiences others have had, and (at least when I searched Usenet postings via Google Groups) it seems that there was a lot of negativity toward Harcourt Learning Direct, and nothing good about Stratford Career Institute. However, the focus seemed to be on degree programs, rather than vocational training programs, so I don't know how applicable some of those criticisms are for my interests. (Some, like unresponsive instructors, are clearly applicable.) For example, do I care about accreditation if I am able to learn the trade? It's not like I want anybody to be impressed with my credentials, I just want to be able to open a door, fix a lock, install a safe, or whatever.

    I'm not in any hurry, this is just something I would like to do for personal development. I would appreciate any comments from those who have experience with this sort of thing, as I have zero experience with distance education. Thanks!
     
  2. Tracy Gies

    Tracy Gies New Member

    Check out the Foley-Belsaw Institute. Formerly known as the Belsaw Institute, they have been training locksmiths by correspondance for years. My grandpa received his locksmithing certificate from them long before I was born.

    While I don't have any personal experience with Foley-Belsaw, I can say that my grandpa was considered the best locksmith in town. He got all the big jobs from the local public schools and businesses. I believe he had some apptitude for things mechanical, which may explain his success as a locksmith, but I think it is also reasonable to assume that he learned much about the specifics of locksmithing from Belsaw.

    I don't think it is typical for the regional accrediting bodies to accredit vocational programs, so RA may be a non-issue for you. The best I could suggest is to ask Foley-Belsaw for a list of graduates that you could contact for feedback in order to get an idea of what they have to say about the program.

    Otherwise, something else you might consider is looking for a local locksmith who would be willing to take on an apprentice, or a part-time assistant.

    Either one of these methods may prove to be the key (ba-dum-pum) to achieving your goals.

    Tracy<><
     
  3. SnakeStu

    SnakeStu New Member

    Thanks for the tip, I checked out their site and it does look promising.
    I considered that, but I figured they would be less interested in an at-my-convenience arrangement, which is what I like about the idea of taking a "correspondence course."

    Thanks for your input!
     
  4. BillDayson

    BillDayson New Member

    Another DL locksmithing option is something called the Professional Career Development Institute.

    I know absolutely nothing about it, except that it is accredited by DETC as one of their sub-degree-level vocational programs.

    http://www.pcdi-homestudy.com/courses/lk/
     

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