Fueling Online Learning

Rising Gas Prices - Serena Imani Korn, musingsofajournalism student

2011-05-28T05:00:00.002-05:00

Increasing gas prices are causing significant change to everyday lives of South Puget Sound Community College students, according to a poll conducted on Wednesday. Of 62 SPSCC students polled, 61 percent said gas prices have had an impact on their lives; 26 percent said they felt no major impact. Those impacted are making significant alterations to their daily schedules. In a separate question, 61 percent of students polled claim to drive less and 31 percent make efforts to carpool. 45 percent of those interviewed take Intercity Transit, utilizing their student I.D. cards as a free pass. Jeff, in his first quarter at SPSCC, is one of those students heavily impacted by the rising gas prices. Jeff lives in Shelton, 21 miles northwest of Olympia. Finding gas prices particularly hard-hitting, he leaves his car at home, and instead catches a bus to downtown Olympia. While this saves money, it also causes Jeff to put more thought and planning into his schedule.

Will students, commuters take the bus? - CLIF LeBLANC, the State

2011-05-26T05:13:00.000-05:00

Plans are rolling to attract suburban commuters and U South Carolina students to metropolitan Columbia’s bus system, but the relationship-in-the-making will require wooing — and someone to pick up the check. Derrick Huggins, the bus service’s new temporary director, is seeking federal money to finance a scaled-back version of a so-called “park and ride” plan devised more than a year ago. The ambitious proposal calls for new Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority buses to ferry commuters from Newberry, Camden, Batesburg-Leesville and Blythewood into downtown Columbia. Riders would leave their cars at parking stations along major feeder roads and move around Columbia on CMRTA buses.

As Memorial Day nears, pump prices still a pain for everyone - Grant Welker, Herald News

2011-05-25T05:11:00.000-05:00

The impact can be felt directly at places like Bristol Community College’s Fall River campus, where thousands of students, many with limited budgets, commute for classes. Dayna Butts, a 19-year-old business administration student from Brockton, now takes most of her classes online to avoid a 40-mile round-trip to Fall River. She commutes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and stays home for classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. It’s the best she can do to avoid putting more miles on her Jeep Cherokee, which she spends $100 a week to fill. Finding the cheapest gas isn’t always an option. “I try to, but it can be wasting gas to get there, so sometimes I just go to what’s closest,” Butts said. She also tries consolidating trips, but other suggested methods — like not exceeding the speed limit on highways — not so much. “I’m not going to drive, like, 60 and have people passing me,” she said with a laugh. Other students, like Hadeer Mohamed of Fall River, find avoiding miles almost impossible. Mohamed is a medical laboratory science student who can’t avoid making trips for his clinical studies at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford.

Gas prices set back students - AnaJaye’ Diggs, Otterbein 360

2011-05-23T04:06:00.001-05:00

Gas prices don't just affect professionals on their daily commute to work. Many Otterbein commuters have been hit by the recent steep increase in gas prices. Some commuter students adjusted their schedules around the spike in gas prices. Sophomore music performance major Agnes Hayes comes to campus five days a week and sometimes on weekends. "I stay on campus more so I don't have to pay for gas. I try to get everything done within the five days as much as possible," she said. The social lives of students have also taken a hit because driving isn't always an option. Sophomore biology major Mary Holmquist said, "I don't go anywhere besides school and work."

High gas prices lead to low Ivy Tech summer enrollment - Seth Slabaugh, Star-Press

2011-05-22T20:04:00.000-05:00

Officials at the East Central Region of Ivy Tech Community College say high gasoline prices are partly to blame for a decline in summer enrollment. The number of summer students enrolled at the college's campuses in Muncie, Marion and Anderson is 4,300, compared to 4,900 last year, Mary Lewellen, vice chancellor of student affairs, said after a regional board of trustees meeting in Marion on Thursday. That 4,300 total could rise before the bulk of students start summer classes June 6, she noted.

Rising Gas Prices May Increase Appeal of Online College - Allen B. Ury, Everest University Online

2011-05-20T05:00:00.002-05:00

Along with online shopping and entertainment, another area likely to be affected positively by rising gas prices is online education. Online colleges have long appealed to students who already have "day jobs" or family obligations and don't have time to attend classes at traditional ground schools. Online colleges and universities are also attractive options for students who don't have a school in convenient proximity to where they live, or can't find the programs they want at their local community college. Now, with even modest commutes becoming unaffordable for many people, the zero-travel-time requirements of Internet-based colleges are likely to draw an increasing number of people to these institutions.

Pump prices pinch commuter students - TERRI PEDERSON, Beaver Dam Daily Citizen

2011-05-19T05:07:00.001-05:00

Tess Goeller, attends Marian University, fills her car up after working on Sunday before heading to Fond du Lac. Goeller is a graduate of Beaver Dam High School and expects to graduate in May of 2012 from Marian, but until that time she is still commuting back to Beaver Dam from Fond du Lac in order to work. No one is happy about gas prices around $4 a gallon, but few people struggle with the cost more than commuter college students. The cost of books, supplies and tuition with limited hours to work are things that can be budgeted. The increase price in gas, however, was not something they could factor in when the semester began last winter. Tya Hill, a Beaver Dam mother of two and re-entry student at UW-Oshkosh, said she has had to tighten her belt to deal with increased gas prices. "I've seen a big difference," Hill said. "In August, I was able to commute at a gas cost of approximately $65 per week. Now that has increased to about $90."

With ample supplies, gas price tests $4 - George Lauby, North Platte Bulletin

2011-05-18T05:01:00.002-05:00

As the price of gasoline neared the $4 a gallon mark in Nebraska, Exxon’s first-quarter earnings surged 69 percent. The giant oil company took in $11 billion in profits during the first three months of 2011, the highest profits since 2008, a year when the retail gasoline price also approached $4 a gallon. After the 2008 price zenith, gas fell back to $2.60 a gallon late last summer, but started skyrocketing again a few months ago. “I don’t like it, it’s too high,” said Jim Elletts of North Platte May 3 as he gassed up the family car. “I got a little irate when I read (about Exxon’s profits.)” "It’s outrageous,” said Kristin Hayes, 19, a community college student who bought only 2.6 gallons – about $10 worth.

Gas Tax Holiday? - Associated Press

2011-05-17T04:59:00.001-05:00

While politicians in New York, Indiana, New Hampshire and Illinois are among the first talking about easing gasoline taxes, the chances of actually seeing that kind of relief at the pump are remote. Even as prices hover around $4 a gallon and states consider cuts in taxes up to 50 cents off each gallon, there is resistance amid ongoing fiscal woes. More states are expected to consider the idea as summer approaches and as they join New York, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois and Washington, D.C. with $4-a-gallon gas. Some states have already rejected a “gas tax holiday.”

High gas prices have unpaid intern shelling out hundreds on commute - Dan Robson, The Star

2011-05-16T04:56:00.001-05:00

It takes two hours for poor Ronny Brown to get downtown. The unpaid intern at Corus Entertainment in Toronto lives at his parents’ house in Cambridge, about 100 kms west of the city. “I have a saying,” says Brown, a 23-year-old broadcast engineer. “It’s two hours, each way, each day.” When Brown started his two-month intern gig in April, he pumped $20 a day into his blue, four-door, nonconvertible Chrysler Sebring everyday. It was the exact cost of his drive to work and back. Then gas prices spiked. Suddenly, his daily 200 kilometre trek was ripping a hole in his savings account. The Sebring was swallowing $30 a day.

Monterey Peninsula College students revolt against escalating gas prices - the Californian

2011-05-15T11:54:00.000-05:00

Hundreds of students at Monterey Peninsula College are joining in an effort to boycott the high prices of gasoline, and are asking other community members to refrain from purchasing gas on Monday. "I am a parent as well as a full-time student," said Lorena Velasquez, a MPC student. "My budget is much more limited ... and gas prices has taken much of my budget. This needs to stop and the decision makers of gas-price increases should consider low-income families such as myself." Student leaders said in a written statement that they want to inspire consumers to not purchase gas for one day at a national level as a protest against the out-of-control price of gas, noting that up to this point, consumers have been "docile."

High gas prices bring out governor, savings strategies - Tyler Whitley, Richmond Times-Dispatch

2011-05-14T05:00:00.001-05:00

Still, said Zijing Liu, a 19-year-old student at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College who was buying discount gas at the Sam's Club on West Broad Street, "Sam's Club is a few cents cheaper" than other retailers. McDonnell stood in front of the large Siebert's service station, convenience store and take-out café in Henrico where customers stopping to fill their tanks vented their frustration. Regular gas at the station was $3.919 cents a gallon. Latasha Austin, who works for the State Board of Nursing, said, "It's ridiculous. It's getting so you can only go to work and come home." She had just paid $50 to fill up her Nissan Altima.

Americans Spend $386.09 Monthly on Gasoline - Rachel Smith, US News

2011-05-13T05:58:00.001-05:00

If you don’t keep track of your gas receipts, you might want to start. You're probably spending more on gas each month than you realize. A recent study the Oil Price Information Service did for CNNMoney found that the average American household spent $368.09 on gas in April. That’s college textbooks for one semester, two weeks of groceries or two 16 GB iPod Nanos. “The study, which compared average gas prices with median incomes nationwide,” writes CNNMoney, “also showed that U.S. households spent nearly 9% of their total income on gas last month.” That nine percent jump is $194.29 more than the $173.80 Americans spent in 2009.

Prices at pump may start dipping - Julie Sherwood, Messenger Post

2011-05-12T04:55:00.001-05:00

Alisha Wheeler, a nursing student at Finger Lakes Community College, pumped at least $100 a week into her car this past semester. Commuting between home in Honeoye to college in Hopewell, clinical studies in Rochester and work in Clifton Springs put a dent in her wallet, to be sure. Like others when they heard the news of dropping oil prices Thursday, she breathed a sigh of relief. “I am very excited. My wallet will appreciate it,” she said. Though predictions abound about how low prices may go at the pump in response to the cost of crude oil plummeting, one expert said Thursday it may be a modest dip and it won’t happen instantly.

Commuters struggle to keep the car running - Anthoney Simms, Castleton Spartan

2011-05-11T05:08:00.000-05:00

Castleton State College commuters are beginning to feel the heavy weight of the large numbers on gas prices. With prices averaging $3.84 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel, students are frustrated and upset."I think the gas prices suck. I drive a 1998 Nissan pathfinder. It costs 75 bucks to fill the tank and when you only make $8 an hour, it doesn't really help," said Sterling Nelson, a Castleton senior and commuter. Nelson is one of the many commuters who travel more than five miles to get to the college daily. Commuters are adjusting to the elevated prices in various ways-- one of which is by purchasing new vehicles.

With high gas prices, driving less may mean biking more - Melissa Daniels, Messenger Post

2011-05-10T04:55:00.001-05:00

Already in 2011, bike sales are up 10 percent from last year, Blumenthal said, with the bike boom expected to be greater this year than in 2008.“We think this year, the trend may be even stronger, and the bike industry and bike stores are better equipped now than they were in 2008 to provide what people need,” Blumenthal said. Andy Thomson, store manager of RV&E Bike and Skate on South Main Street in Canandaigua, says commuting to and from work on bike is a great way to start, and end, the day.

Residents cope with gas prices - Erin Thompson, Pacific Daily News

2011-05-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

"It's too expensive," Dededo resident Dennis Fejeran said while putting $20 worth of gas in his truck yesterday. The 18-year-old said he spends about $60 a week to fill up, and that only covers the commute between school and home.
"I'm a student at UOG, so I can't go out. It's just to and from school. That's it," said Fejeran. If the price of gas continues to rise, Fejeran said, he would consider biking or carpooling to cut down on the cost of gasoline. In the long term, however, Fejeran thinks Guam needs to come up with solutions to the high cost of energy. "Got to find other resources besides burning our own fossil fuels," he said.

Using alternative transportation could alleviate the parking stress at school - Jake Buntjer, UVU Review

2011-05-08T05:08:00.001-05:00

International affairs are directly affecting student finances and some need alternate solutions to commute within their budgets. This campus, specifically, is a large commuter school, serving students throughout the Wasatch area. The university does not provide on-campus housing, so every student has a commute, whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour. Instead of students stretching their financial capacity, they could make joint efforts in finding alternate solutions for transportation.

Tight Budget? Ways to Save on Gas and Transportation - Felicia Logan, SMU Mustang

2011-05-07T05:01:00.001-05:00

The economic downturn has hit just about everybody in the pocket, and college students already have plenty of things to be concerned with as far as their studies go. As gas prices continue to balloon, students are looking for ways to save money. Riding the DART, walking, carpooling, bicycling and using websites that provide information about where to find the cheapest gas are a few options that may help students pinch their pennies.

Drivers' anxiety rising along with gas prices - Melissen Dribben, Philly.com

2011-05-06T05:01:00.001-05:00

The price of gas, inching back up toward its painful 2008 peak of $4.16 a gallon, is making motorists in the Philadelphia area miserable and anxious and angry. The pump price pinch has some vowing, as they did three years ago, to walk more, ride bicycles, and switch to public transportation. But for many who are locked into a lifestyle dependent on cars and can't afford to trade in their gas hogs for more fuel-efficient models to commute to work and school, haul groceries, ferry children, and conduct business, there isn't much they can do except stoically suffer.

Gas prices affect Eastern student, faculty commutes - Matt Dauzy, Eastern Echo

2011-05-05T05:01:00.000-05:00

Students, staff and faculty members of Eastern Michigan University don’t always share the same concerns about budgeting resources, but with gasoline prices rising over $4 per gallon that are expected to continue rising through the summer, all segments of the EMU community face the same question: How can someone afford paying more for something affecting so many aspects of life?

$4.17?!? Gas prices hard on younger drivers, too - Andrew Walker, Star Press

2011-05-04T04:45:00.001-05:00

With local gas prices on Monday rising to about 58 percent of the hourly pay at her minimum-wage job, Shanda Nolley said she is beginning to run out of answers to how she can keep gas in her Jeep's tank. A single mother of an 18-month-old son -- as well as a business student at Ivy Tech Community College -- Nolley, 23, said her job as a waitress at Pizza King in Yorktown just doesn't cut it sometimes. "It's ridiculous," Nolley said. "My whole paycheck pretty much goes toward gas. I'm spending more in gas money than I am for rent each month. It's very frustrating."

Online tuition makes students reconsider - Chelsea Twiss, the Easterner

2011-05-03T05:15:00.000-05:00

Online learning at Eastern may be convenient for some, but whether the benefits of an online education outweigh its costs seems to remain in question. An additional cost of $202.10 per credit is charged to students enrolled in an online class. When visiting Eastern's online learning website, a green globe pops up with the caption, "Cut down on gasoline and travel time when you study online from home!" While these may be true advantages to online learning, some students feel it doesn't justify the extra costs.

High Cost of Driving Ignites Online Classes Boom - Sam Dillon, NY Times

2011-05-02T05:11:00.000-05:00

First, Ryan Gibbons bought a Hyundai so he would not have to drive his gas-guzzling Chevy Blazer to college classes here. When fuel prices kept rising, he cut expenses again, eliminating two campus visits a week by enrolling in an online version of one of his courses.Like Mr. Gibbons, thousands of students nationwide, including many who were previously reluctant to study online, have suddenly decided to take one or more college classes over the Internet.“Gas prices have pushed people over the edge,” said Georglyn Davidson, director of online learning at Bucks County Community College, where Mr. Gibbons studies, and where online enrollments are up 35 percent this summer over last year.

MVCC tries to ease pain of commuting - Daniel Bader, Obersver-Dispatch

2011-05-01T05:10:00.001-05:00

The free shuttle bus, which the college began offering twice a week in January, solves a couple of problems, MVCC spokesman Matthew Snyder said. With the recent rise in student enrollment, parking is at a premium on the Utica campus. And with rising gas prices and the increase in the number of students finding college increasingly hard to afford, the college is doing what it can to help.
“We heard from the leaders of the student government that they wanted the college to work on this,” Snyder said.

Gas prices drive commuters to bus stops - John Lantigua and Ana M. Valdes, Palm Beach Post

2011-04-30T04:44:00.000-05:00

Katina Osceola, 23, of Delray Beach, a student at the Boca Raton campus of Palm Beach State College, recently started riding the bus more because her boyfriend, who works at the Seminole Indian Reservation in Big Cypress, is staying there frequently these days. "He stays because he can't afford to drive back and forth every day," she said. "His truck uses diesel and that's even more expensive than regular gas. It used to take $100 to fill the tank and now it takes $200. "I get a bus pass for $45 per month with the student discount, and I have a Tri-Rail pass that costs me $50 per month.

Gas Prices Keep Going up - Omaha Action 3 News

2011-04-29T04:42:00.001-05:00

The rising cost of fuel is causing more pain at the pump. With Easter Sunday approaching, many drivers here are cringing at the inevitability of four dollars for a gallon of regular unleaded. Now, some residents are going the extra mile to make sacrifices. Students at Creighton University are also feeling the impact of skyrocketing gas prices. Economist Ernie Goss says some on campus might have to cut back on the number of times they return home per semester. Goss adds the reason students are getting forced into these tough decisions is primarily due to conflict in the Middle East and our own economy. "As the dollar goes down in value, that pushes up the price of oil and gasoline."

CT’s $4 gas fuels commuters' ridesharing - Gregory Seay, HartfordBusiness

2011-04-28T04:44:00.001-05:00

Connecticut's mass transporters say $4-a-gallon motor fuel is driving more commuters to park their cars in favor of ride-sharing options. Even Massachusetts-based ZipCar, which has operations at four Connecticut college campuses, says it is seeing growing demand locally and nationally for its popular car-sharing service. At Rideshare, three Connecticut vanpools have started up in recent weeks and another half dozen are in the formative stages, Rideshare officials say. "No question increased gas prices increases interest in ride-sharing,'' said spokeswoman Nancy Fitzgerald. Rideshare's network has approximately 600 vans shuttling some 5,000 commuters daily roundtrip from home to work, Fitzgerald said. Of those, about 350 vans with some 3,000 riders make daily runs.

With gas prices, college commuters getting an education in economics - David Robinson, Maine Morning Sentinel

2011-04-27T04:57:00.000-05:00

From how the 19-year-old sophomore picked her classes at Thomas College to what jobs she could take to pay for school, gas prices were always on her mind.
Childress, of Unity, said she has a 30-mile commute five days a week for her spring semester classes at Thomas in Waterville. The $30 a week spent on gas is already stretching her budget, which can’t absorb any more spikes in gas prices, she said. This fall she’ll only be going to Thomas twice a week. “I made sure all my classes were Tuesdays and Thursdays to avoid driving to school every day,” Childress said.

Rising Gas Prices Hurting Commuter Students - Catie Curatolo, Three Village Patch

2011-04-26T04:53:00.002-05:00

Gas prices on Long Island this week crossed the $4 mark, and commuter students at Stony Brook University are feeling the hit. "I think it's horrible. I have to drive out here at least twice a week, so I'm out $40 to $50 every week," said freshman Michelle Strano, 18, of Rocky Point, whose commute takes 40 minutes door-to-door.

Higher gas prices spur college students, officials to scramble - David Robinson, Morning Sentinal

2011-04-25T05:05:00.001-05:00

At the University of Maine in Augusta, officials are bracing for a drop in fall enrollment because some students can’t afford the commute, according to Jonathan Henry, dean of enrollment services. “We’re more concerned about fall, as the gas prices spike through the fall it may impact people’s decisions to enroll,” he said. One student at UMA, Mike Zulu, is worried skyrocketing gas prices may soon make it tough to finish his college education without going deeper into debt. He drives nearly 20 miles from Whitefield to get to class. It costs about $40 a week in gas for the commute and it’s already stretching his budget, Zulu, 22, said. “With the gas prices rising, if you want to get books all the extra money you had for that is going to gas,” he said. “You either have to take out more loans or sacrifice having a book for a semester.”

UM carpool plan can help students save - Timberly Moore, Daily Helmsman

2011-04-24T05:02:00.001-05:00

In order to combat rising gas prices, The University of Memphis Adult and Commuter Student Services wants to assist students in cutting their fuel costs. ACSS has implemented a carpool channel on MyMemphis, which allows students to match schedules with other students who live near them and split gas costs. "If you drive, you have to get gas and I know the students are feeling the pinch," said Heather Hampton, office coordinator for ACSS.

LESSONS FROM THE CONCRETE DESERT - Lauren Dubinsky, the Statesman

2011-04-23T04:57:00.002-05:00

“I hate this ‘gas crisis’,” said Alicia Ryan, a senior commuter student at the university. “I’m used to not having to spend very much on gas because I have an efficient vehicle, usually takes me 20 dollars to fill her. Now, it gets me a half a tank. Big shame, I don’t work enough for this.” Not only are their wallets thinning, but a feeling of disconnection to the university also looms over some commuter students. Ryan said that in one of her classes, her professor asked the students about an event and they responded, “”Oh, we’re commuters, so we’re not involved,” Ryan said that it “broke her heart” to hear the students say that because she is so involved in school.

To Drive or Not To Drive... - Hallie Golden, Stony Brook Independent

2011-04-22T04:54:00.001-05:00

Chrissy Simpson, a senior double majoring in business and music, commutes from Garden City, which at best takes her about an hour. And at worst, as she recalled, more than two hours. The U.S. Energy Information Administration showed that the average price of gas in New York State is about $3.70 per gallon. In Simpson's case-- if she drives about 65 miles a day-- she will probably be spending a little more than $1,500 on gas during the fall and spring semester. Factoring in her yearly car insurance of $1,200 and any maintenance her car may require, she will be spending at least $3,000 to commute for those two semesters.

Gas prices affecting college class attendance, recreation - Katrina Bruno, FIUSM

2011-04-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

The see-saw phenomenon of gas prices has college students stressed and pinching pennies. Many students who commute on a daily basis are spending hundreds of dollars on gas, in addition on their tuition, just to get an education. As if we were not already paying fees for University services we do not feel benefit us completely, we now have to pay close to $4 dollars per gallon to even make it here. I believe that these rising gas prices will significantly affect the college experience. The stress of the economy has encouraged me and other students to keep out of the classroom and stick with online courses. The $199 extra fee for an online course seems like chump-change next to the hundreds upon hundreds of dollars I would spend in gas driving to school. It is unfortunate because many students who find themselves more engaged in a classroom environment might no longer have that option.

Educator discusses importance of Minden college - Scott Neuffer, Record Courier

2011-04-20T04:59:00.001-05:00

Long-time Washoe Tribe Education Director Sherry Smokey believes closure of the Western Nevada College campus in Minden would hurt not only Native American students, but everybody who has had a hand in building the school, including the Washoe Tribe. “The biggest stumbling block is the high price of gas, that added burden,” Smokey said. “That's added on top of an already expensive education. When all these things come into play, it can be discouraging and defeatist after a while.”Smokey said it's a real possibility some students will not seek higher education if the Minden campus closes. She also agrees with other leaders in the community that closure of the school would impede efforts to revitalize the local economy.

Pump pain: Gas prices at all-time high for April - GUY KOVNER, Press Democrat

2011-04-19T04:37:00.001-05:00

“I could use that on books,” said David Valdez of Santa Rosa, a Santa Rosa Junior College student who spent a mere $33.28 gassing up his Toyota Prius hybrid, which purred silently away from the Costco pumps. Pederson, who is commuting to construction jobs in the Bay Area, tracks his fuel expenses, which came to more than $6,000 — $500 to $550 a month — last year. Last month, he spent $700. “It hurts,” Pedersen said. “It hurts bad.”

Under soaring gas prices, vanpooling provides alternative for commuters - WSYR TV

2011-04-18T05:00:00.001-05:00

After her bus line to the Cornell campus was terminated, Kim Scott thought driving would ber her only option. But she started vanpooling in January. She said vanpooling has cut her commute by a half hour each way. Scott noted that vanpooling is “more democratic” than car pooling."If there's something that has to be changed we talk to each other before we say this is the way it's going to be,” she said.According to Jesse Kafka of vanpooling organization VPSI, each participants’ needs have to complement each other."Work schedule has to match - we kind of hold the hands of the group to say these are the kind of things to think about - your schedule, a little bit about your personalities, you need to have people who are willing to drive,” Kafka said.Kafka visited Cornell on Wednesday and was scheduled to help lay the groundwork for a vanpooling program at Ithaca College on Thursday.

How High Will Gas Prices Climb? - Woodrow Bellamy III, Patch

2011-04-17T05:06:00.002-05:00

“I cut down on going out to eat, going out with friends, I have to save money for gas, said Ali Khraibani, a Falls Church resident who stopped for gas at a Sunoco station at Loehman’s Plaza shopping center on Monday. Khraibani is a junior IT student at George Mason University, and commutes from Falls Church to GMU’s Manassas campus four days a week for classes. “I put about $10 in my tank everyday just to get me there and get me back. At the end of the day we have to go home and provide meals for our children and families, so I can’t just throw all my money into the pump any time I want.” There’s no telling exactly how high prices will go, or when (if ever) they will retreat.

Gas prices drive new habits - Curt Brown, Star Tribune

2011-04-16T05:00:00.002-05:00

"The empirical evidence shows that escalating gas prices prompt people to cut back on driving and travel, work more from home and combine trips," said Prof. Akshay Rao, a marketing expert at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management. "We are seeing a lot more sensitivity to energy consumption." For five straight weeks, Americans have bought less gas than in comparable periods last year, according to MasterCard Spending Pulse, which monitors gas sold at 140,000 stations nationwide.

As gas prices rise, WSU promotes bikes - Winona Daily News

2011-04-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

The so-called “Bike Phantom” will spend the next week posting small prizes on about 200 bikes across campus. Her work is all part of the event that kicked off Monday and will run through Friday, in support of campus pedalers. “We’re really trying to promote a bike consciousness,” Lippe said. “It’s definitely more eco-friendly.” More people are opting for two wheels instead of four because of rising gas prices, and bike sales have picked up in the last couple of years, said Tim Theis the owner of Kolter Bicycle & Fitness in Winona. “We’ve seen more people getting back on their bikes,” he said. “We’ve seen a big jump.”

High gas prices hurt students - Michael Kincheloe, The Collegian

2011-04-14T05:00:00.001-05:00

Students are once again noticing that their wallets are getting lighter as gasoline prices continue to soar. The average price of a gallon of gas crossed into $4 territory last week, and quite a few of them are feeling the strain. Many are driving shorter distances, eliminating trips and in some cases, looking for a more fuel-efficient vehicle. “It makes me just want to sell my truck and get a car,” Fresno State student Anthony Velasquez said.

Avoid the pump - RamCigar (University of Rhode Island)

2011-04-13T05:00:00.001-05:00

According to the AAA website, gasoline prices in Rhode Island are up 41 cents since the beginning of 2011. The current state average price of $3.56 per gallon is 78 cents higher than it was at this time last year. This puts an even bigger dent in the wallets of University of Rhode Island students, especially commuters. Ask any students what his or her biggest expense is and the answer will probably be gas or groceries. Both are essential to survival, but a pain to pay for every week. Especially at this time in the school year, when many students' summer savings are waning to low numbers, Rhode Island gas prices do not encourage traveling.

Partnerships improve RULH - Bryan Peck, News-Democrat

2011-04-12T05:00:00.001-05:00

Providing college level courses for students at Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington High School will be a priority in the next year, thanks to partnerships with several Ohio based colleges and technical centers. The district has also been in contact with Southern State Community College. Skinner said SSCC has been hoping to retain post secondary students who are currently enrolled in classes with them. However, due to rising gas prices, Southern State is looking for other alternatives. Skinner said current RULH teachers are eligible to become adjunct professors with SSCC in order to continue to provide students with additional classes without having to drive to northern Brown County.

Pain at the pump - Karina Ramírez, Denton Record

2011-04-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Six days a week, Plano resident Querisha Felix drives 70 miles, round trip, to attend classes at Texas Woman’s University. With gas prices inching toward $4 a gallon, she says she’s starting to see how paying for her commute is costing her in more ways than one. “It is awful for me,” said Felix, 20, a senior majoring in family studies. “Before prices went up, I was spending between $20 to $25 each time I refueled my car. Now it’s more like $35.” Felix said she refuels her car every two to three days. When she is not in class, she has a job as a nanny. Nearly all of her earnings go to fuel her 2009 Subaru Impreza, she said.

From the pocket to the pump - Travis Madiera, LPC Express

2011-04-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

Paying the phone bill and car insurance, buying school supplies - all can empty a student's bank account. For some, like Las Positas College student Jonathan Lynch, their biggest expense is paying for gas."I purposely miss class sometimes to save money," Lynch said.Lynch said he pays well over $60 a week on gasoline, just to get to school. Traveling from Manteca takes a heavy toll on Lynch's wallet."I feel like I spend more money on filling my gas tank than I do on college tuition," Lynch said.

Driver's adjusting their wallets to make room for gas prices - WLOX

2011-04-09T05:00:00.002-05:00

As for commuting to and from school, one University of Southern Mississippi student said she had to stop driving to school because of how costly it had become. "I was commuting to Hattiesburg to go to school and I had to stop doing that because I can't afford it. And just kinda, work wise. I have to find a job around here. I'm not really able to do much at all anymore because it's too expensive," Alyson Hillyer said.

Public transportation fills important community needs - Theresa Campbell, Daily Commercial

2011-04-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

Single mothers with young children catch a bus along U.S. Highway 441 in Leesburg, joining college students and senior citizens. In a time of rising gasoline prices, high unemployment and other economic woes, LakeXpress provides hundreds of residents what they need: affordable transportation to medical facilities, shopping centers and other sites throughout Lake County.

Preparing for an Online College Class - Real Online Degrees

2011-04-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

Taking your first online college class is a great way to find out exactly what it is like to get an education online. If you have taken a few classes at a college campus then you probably have the routine down. Setting an alarm to get to an early morning class, rushing through traffic, looking for a parking spot, and spending your last five dollars on gas for the car. This hectic pace can be a thing of the past when you sign up for an online college class. Don’t rush into taking online college courses without first preparing, (doing your homework, as it were) for your first class.

Gas Prices Drain Our Wallets and Budgets - the Montclairian

2011-04-06T05:00:00.001-05:00

Because most of you have no idea who I am, allow me to preface this article with a very short introduction. I’m a commuter. I drive a black Pontiac G6 from the town of Wyckoff to the campus of Montclair State University five days out of the week. It’s not a large car; my gas tank only holds about 14 gallons of gasoline, yet around 8:45 p.m. last night I found myself surrendering $50 to a man at a Midland Park gas station. This was the first time I had been near a gas station in at least two weeks — and within that time period we’ve seen gas prices climb nearly an entire dollar.

ESF Joins Ride-Share Program - SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry Syracuse

2011-04-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

A new ride-sharing program jointly offered by ESF and Syracuse University will make it easier for students, faculty and staff to find a travel partner when it comes to carpooling, biking, or even walking to campus. Provided in collaboration with SU's Office of Off-Campus and Commuter Services, the Syracuse RideShare online program will be offered at no cost to users and will assist students, faculty and staff in choosing sustainable travel options. The goals of the program include encouraging members of the ESF community to travel to campus with others as an alternative to single occupant vehicles; reducing the need for on campus parking and the costs associated with individual travel; and reducing greenhouse gas emissions as part of ESF's Climate Action Plan.

Don't Waste Cash on Gas - Editorial Arkansas State University Herald

2011-04-04T05:00:00.001-05:00

For most college students, living on a budget is hard enough as it is, and paying for gas can be particularly troubling for commuter students. In Jonesboro, most individuals use vehicles to get around and some are uncomfortable at the thought of walking or biking around town. However, when gas prices are rising and your income is not, something has to give. If you are uncomfortable walking or biking around town there are still ways to save money on gas. Try car pooling to school, the gym or the grocery store with a group of friends.

Gas Vouchers at Farmingdale State College - Peter Michael Kreppein, Farmingdale Patch

2011-04-03T05:00:00.002-05:00

Skyrocketing gas prices have affected us all, but have hit commuter students particularly hard. The Farmingdale Student Government has responded by offering half price gas vouchers for sale. Students purchase the vouchers for $10 through the Axillary Service Cooperation in Laffin Hall, and receive $20 worth of Exxon-Mobil gift cards, which can be redeemed at most Exxon or Mobil stations. The program has seen immediate success, with gas vouchers selling quickly. Although members of the Farmingdale Student Government have admitted that the move is somewhat political in nature, meant somewhat to ensure that incumbents achieve reelection in this year's elections, students seem not to care. The gas voucher program will continue until the program runs out of funding, and may be renewed if the FSG decides to refund the program.

Technology, high gas prices give boost to telework - L.H. TIFFANY HSIEH, York Region

2011-04-02T05:06:00.001-05:00

If you have caught on with just one technology fad over the last two decades, chances are you have teleworked in some way, be it to check business e-mails from your personal laptop, schedule an interview over your BlackBerry or send that very important presentation via your iPhone. For some, the tendency to work after you've left the office is something that can't be helped. But for others, working from home isn't an obsession, but an option. When she's not in her Richmond Hill office, Flo McLellan can likely be found working in the comfort of her home near Bathurst Street and Major Mackenzie Drive. The program director for Smart Commute Markham, Richmond Hill has had a home office for nearly 20 years. "It's a two-way street - it's a win-win situation," Ms McLellan said.

Gas prices affect commuters and residents - Hailey Silvey, UPIU.com

2011-04-01T04:48:00.001-05:00

As we all know, the rising price of gas is affecting the way everyone was carrying out their day. However, we rarely think of how this rise in gas has affected college students. Students who commute to their campus are particularly affected by this change. They now find it difficult to attend events on campus and even their classes. Young Harris College has 162 commuter students. 145 of these commuters are from Georgia, the other 17 are from North Carolina. Students say that gas prices make it difficult for them to come to class. Freshman Stephenie Fagin from Hiawassee says “I skip class about once every two weeks simply because I just can’t afford the gas to come. I can’t work as many shifts as I need to, due to the work I have for my classes. It’s a really hard cycle that is difficult to overcome.”

Gas prices stretch some, some prepared - Chris Levister, Black Voice News

2011-03-31T05:02:00.002-05:00

The increase in energy prices is beginning to resemble the rise that occurred in 2008. But, this time, like many middle and low income Americans, Taylor, a the part-time college student and single parent is better prepared for higher fuel costs. She started driving less in December, when gas hit $3 a gallon. “It’s like waiting for the other shoe to drop, seeing just how high those prices will go. I knew I needed to gain some control over the situation,” she said. Experts say you can start by checking online to find the lowest prices in your neighborhood. Or make sure your car is well maintained— get the oil changed, put air in low-pressure tires, and replace a dirty air filter—to increase gas mileage. Taylor says she and her sons collect cans and bottles and exchange them for cash at a local recycling facility. She and her neighbors sell oranges, lemons, and grapefruits from their backyard fruit trees.

Mississippians hit hard by higher gas prices - ELLEN CIURCZAK, Hattiesburg American

2011-03-30T05:00:00.002-05:00

There's no question Mississippi residents are struggling. It turns out, they feel the worst pain at the pump, even though they aren't seeing gas prices as high as in some states, such as California.
"We're the poorest state in the nation. We've got the lowest per capita income," said David Duhon, chairman of the Department of Management and International Business at the University of Southern Mississippi. "Higher gas prices are gonna hurt us because we have low-income people." In fact, the latest figures from the Oil Price Information Service show Mississippi residents spend almost $403 a month on gas. With a median income of about $37,000 per household, that's 13.2 percent of their income - the highest percentage in the nation.

Gas costs force some to change plans - Matthew Clark, the Morning Sun

2011-03-29T05:00:00.001-05:00

For Nick Trayer, the latest hike in gas prices has forced him to look at making some life-changing decisions.Trayer, who lives in McCune, commutes back and forth to Pittsburg daily for work and for his classes at Pittsburg State University.But with fuel prices topping at $3.49 per gallon, the 19-year old said that something may have to change soon.“I’m pretty sure I’m going to have to move out because gas is so high,” said Trayer.Trayer stopped to get gas Monday afternoon with friends before they headed out to fish. He estimated that he spends around $200 per month in gas.

Rising Gas Prices Hitting Students Hard - Ashley Gadsden -- Black College Wire

2011-03-28T05:34:00.001-05:00

Regardless of what grade of gas you use, gas prices are on the rise once again. The increase in gas prices is hitting N.C. Central University students hard. Ashley Griffin/Campus Echo N.C. Central student buys gasAnd with increased turmoil in the Middle East, especially in oil-producing countries like Libya and Bahrain, prices are likely to continue to rise. "It's killing me," said Charles Robinson, junior music industry. Robinson commutes about ten minutes each day to school in his 2010 Ford Focus. Robinson said he usually spends $15 for a half tank — a financial dent for a college student working a minimum wage job. According to Robinson, that half tank will last him a week, but only if he travels directly between his house and school. According to CNNMoney.com, the price of crude oil now stands at $103 per barrel, the highest level since 2008. The consequence? One price hike after another at the pump.

Costs Related to Community Colleges - JustinE, eHow.com

2011-03-27T05:00:00.001-05:00

Travel expenses can add a significant cost to attending community college. Travel costs include gas, car repairs, public transportation fees and parking fees. California Colleges.edu estimates the cost of travel and miscellaneous expenses, like entertainment, to be almost $3,600 a year. According to "USA Today," rising gas prices may increase the cost of public transportation, like bus and metro fares. Travel expenses can be a large cost related to attending a community college.

Massive recession teaches consumers how to deal with rising gas prices - Robert Schoenberger, Cleveland Plain Dealer

2011-03-26T05:25:00.002-05:00

"Our disposable income is going to the oil companies," said Werner Lang, a sociology teacher who lives in Trumbull County but commutes to Edinboro University 20 miles south of Erie, Pa., for work. "I cut back on everything to make ends meet. I have to tap into my beer money. That hurts." Veronica VandenBout lives in Vermilion but drives to Sandusky every day for work. She has been thinking of retiring in a few years, but now she's planning on staying at work a little bit longer. "Higher gas prices mean less in retirement savings," VandenBout said. "Every time I fill up, I don't have those dollars to put into retirement."

College, community partner to offer free transportation - Christian Hudspeth, the Marcolian of Marietta College

2011-03-25T05:22:00.000-05:00

Students in need of a ride are in luck, as Marietta College has teamed up with Washington-Morgan Community Action to provide free public transportation.Executive Director of College Relations Tom Perry said that this is a relatively new service and has not been brought to the attention of many students yet. "I know that in years past the service was provided at a discount, rather than just being completely free," Perry said. "It's a really great service, especially with the way gas prices are, but right now just not enough students know about it for it to be successful."Darla Johnson is the director of housing and transportation for Washington-Morgan Community Action and worked with the college to provide this service.

Robertson County College Near Completion - Marcus Washington, News Channel 5

2011-03-24T05:10:00.001-05:00

Getting a college education has been out of reach for many people in Robertson County for years, but now Volunteer State Community College is helping to change that. "It was a tough decision," said first year Vol State Student Paul Farmer. "I'm married, have children and I have wanted to further my education for quite a few years now." The 42-year-old husband and father has a 45 minute commute from Greenbrier to school, which is taking a toll on his family as gas prices get closer to $4 a gallon.

I Want to Ride my Bicycle - Paul Schlesinger, Fresno City College Rampage

2011-03-23T05:16:00.002-05:00

Instead of having to depend on automobiles or public transit, many students at FCC are opting to ride their bicycles to school. Nick Flechsing, a student at FCC, said he has been riding bicycles since he could walk. Flechsing said he chooses to ride a bike instead of driving a car. "It's a healthier alternative and you help save the environment. There are so many benefits. Gas is expensive, insurance is expensive, and the cost to keep a bike maintained isn't a lot."

How Fresno State students deal with fuel costs - Shannon Handy, KFSN Fresno, CA

2011-03-22T05:38:00.002-05:00

The Dream Act is just one of many issues students are struggling with. Another big concern is raising fuel costs. Across much of the state, prices are very near the $4.00 mark. Right now in Merced, drivers are paying an average of $3.94. Visalia has the highest price in our area, at $3.95. And it's just two-cents cheaper in Fresno. Like many CSU campuses, Fresno State is a large commuter school. Campus officials estimate 9,000 people drive to class each day. Now, with gas prices at $4.00 a gallon, students say they are finding ways to switch up their routines.
Commuting to and from Fresno State together has become a daily routine for Sergio Donato and Mohannad Musleh of Chowchilla.

Rising gas prices affect spring break plans - Hanah Cho, The Baltimore Sun

2011-03-21T05:32:00.001-05:00

For her last spring break next week, Morgan State University senior Tenisha Duke planned a road trip to Florida with friends, the eight of them packed in two cars. That way, they could split the cost of gas.But when violence broke out half a world away, sending gas prices here soaring, even that strategy wasn't frugal enough for Duke. She will be spending her break at her District of Columbia home instead of the beach."I'll be home," said Duke, who spends $80 a week on gas to commute to Morgan State's North Baltimore campus. "And that will save me gas money for the week."

Rising Gas Prices Hitting Students Hard - Ashley Gadsden, Black College Wire

2011-03-20T05:30:00.000-05:00

Students can save gas money with Ride Share - Haley Henley, Settler Online

2011-03-19T05:26:00.003-05:00

Vol State's Ride Share program offers a way for students to set up carpool plans with other Vol State students. The program was started in an effort to conserve students' gas money. With gas prices soaring, students who are on budgets are finding that their accounts are quickly draining. According to www.CNN.com, gas prices have risen 29 cents per gallon in the last month, and is projected to continue to rise.Since the uprising in Libya began last month, gas prices in the United States have risen, while oil prices rose to the highest levels since 2008. That means Americans are now paying an extra $108 million each day for the same amount of fuel, according to the Associated Press.

Unraveling the Mystery at the Pump - Vince Vieceli, Huntley Patch

2011-03-18T20:21:00.000-05:00

As the hit to the wallet gets harder, many drivers are wondering: How are retail gas prices are determined? And some are thinking of giving up driving altogether—or at least as much as possible. “If gas continues to go up, I’ll probably have to have a purpose to drive somewhere,” said Anne Leadbeter, a single mom in Huntley who works full-time in West Dundee during the day and attends McHenry Community College at night.

Send us your news - Maddie Reynolds, Lahontan Valley News

2011-03-15T16:03:00.001-05:00

Patricia Ryle is a Fallon local who commutes to Carson City for college. “All my money goes to rent, my dog, and gas,” she said.Although Ryle is able to lessen the burden of gas by carpooling with fellow students, she still feels the sting of gas prices. It costs about $80 to fill up her F150, which doesn't leave a surplus of funds for many extracurricular activities. She spends most of her time with her dog, Ace, which also costs money.According to Michael Geeser, AAA Nevada spokesperson, the violence in the Middle East isn't directly influencing gas prices.“Yet the uncertainty of where the unrest might spread has driven investors to speculate that oil prices will increase further,” he said.Elliott Parker, chair of the Department of Economics at the University of Nevada, Reno, said that although the U.S. doesn't buy oil directly from the Middle East, what would affect another country will essentially affect the U.S. because oil is fungible.

Campus, community reacts to rising gas prices - Lindsey Blakely, Arkansas State Herald

2011-03-15T16:02:00.000-05:00

With oil prices climbing to more than $104 a barrel, drivers are feeling the sting of prices rising more than 40 cents within the past month. ASU students aren't immune. Luke Hansen, a sophomore exercise science major of Jonesboro, said there are alternatives to the rising gas prices. "Our government does not do enough when it comes to exploring fuel alternatives," Hansen said. "I know it can be done because my friend can run his diesel truck for a whole semester on used cooking oil. He spends maybe $20 on diesel warming the truck up before switching over to the oil."

Gas prices hit home with U’s student commuters - Kathryn Raddatz

2011-03-14T16:29:00.001-05:00

With gas prices at an all-time high for the season, University of Minnesota commuters and area gas stations are paying the price. Recent upheaval in the Middle East has pushed oil prices to more than $100 a barrel for only the second time in history, according to the Associated Press.
Gas reached a national average of $3.51 a gallon Monday. That’s up 14 cents over the past week. Gasbuddy.com — a website devoted to listing gasoline prices and locations for U.S. cities — reported the average Minneapolis gas price Monday at $3.58 a gallon.

Rising gas prices negatively impact Iona's commuter students - Lai Hiu Wan, the Ionian

2011-03-12T15:41:00.001-06:00

AAA Fuel Gauge reported that the price for a gallon of regular self-serve gasoline rose from $3.49 to $3.59. "The rise in gasoline prices is due to increasing crude oil prices as Middle East violence continues to make oil exports risky," Gas Buddy Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan said in a Dayton Business Journal. Regardless of the cause of the increased gas prices, students at Iona, particularly commuters, are concerned and frustrated with the higher prices, and are looking for ways to cut down on gas usage. For now, however, it seems that all students can do is try to alter their routines to drive only when absolutely necessary and to hope for the best in the Middle East.

Rising gas prices strain students’ wallets - Derek Miller, Murray State News

2011-03-11T19:26:00.000-06:00

According to the American Petroleum Institute, an increase in the cost of raw materials is the biggest contributor to higher gas prices. Many of the University's commuter faculty, staff and students this semester are feeling pressure at the pump due to rising gas prices. In a document e-mailed to The News, titled "What's Up With Gasoline Prices", the American Petroleum Institute points out many factors for the rise in gas prices - the economic recovery being one of them.

Awakening This Blog - Gas Prices on the Rise

2011-03-07T08:05:00.002-06:00

Gasoline prices have soared 34 cents in 13 days! The topic of this blog that I had suspended in 2008 unfortunately is once again relevant to students and all in higher education.

Click on the header on this post, or below to monitor per gallon prices around the U.S.:
http://money.cnn.com/news/storysupplement/economy/gas_prices_by_state/index.html

More to come.

Impact of Fuel Prices on Online/Blended Learning

2008-12-31T06:59:00.001-06:00

This blog is to chronicle a linkage between the rising cost of transportation - notably cars and public mass transit - and the rising interest in online and blended learning. The title of each posting is hyperlinked to the source of the report.

Colleges blend Web, classroom - Lori Yount, Wichita Eagle

2008-09-22T07:06:00.001-05:00

Butler Community College student Steven Lee had never taken an online class before, so he thought a "blended" learning class with half the work in a classroom and half on the computer would be a way to try online learning. The blended English class saves him almost an hour round-trip drive to campus every other week. "It's one extra day I can make money," Lee said. "And it saves gas."

High gas prices boost online classes - MARIE WADSWORTH Hobbs, Las Cruces News-Sun

2008-09-18T21:25:00.000-05:00

New Mexico Junior College and University of the Southwest, as well as Eastern New Mexico University and the University of New Mexico, have experienced an increase in the number of online students this year compared to last year. One of the reasons, some say, is a dramatic increase in the price of gasoline. According to AAA, gas prices in New Mexico average $3.66 for unleaded and $4.16 for diesel compared to $2.93 for unleaded and $3.02 for diesel a year ago. NMJC has increased from 749 students enrolled in online classes last fall to 1,629 online students this fall—up 117 percent, said Michele Clingman, dean of enrollment management at NMJC. USW increased from 585 online students last fall to 845 this fall—up 7 percent, said Evelyn Rising, acting registrar at USW.

Chaminade University offers more online classes - Roger Mari, KHNL

2008-09-11T21:05:00.000-05:00

Over the past few years there has been a steady increase in online enrollment. Chaminade University has been serving students online for the past nine years..... Kammie Wilson works on campus and is also an online student. She saves money on gas, and also has time to aim for a bachelors degree in psychology, while raising two kids. "About an hour a night after I put my kids to bed then I go online or read what I have to read or work on my paper," said Wilson.
More students enrolling, for more online classes translates to less people on the roads in Honolulu, and smarter people all over the world.

High cost of fuel means more students going online - GAYNELL BELLO, the weekly Vista

2008-09-10T18:06:00.000-05:00

What do a mother of three who is passionate about forensic accounting, a father of two with a full-time job and concentration problems, and a young man who just graduated from high school have in common ? Enrollment in online college classes. Also called distance learning, enrollment continues to increase, mainly due to convenience and increasing gas prices. "I need the flexibility - it works around my schedule and my needs, rather than me trying to fit my schedule into theirs," said Bella Vista resident Angela Tingblad. "It's important to get what you want and not have to sacrifice everything to get it."

Virtual IU opening doors for executive education - Erika D. Smith, Indianapolis Star

2008-09-10T07:25:00.000-05:00

With gas prices running high and time running low for executives in real life, Indiana University is turning to the virtual world of Second Life with its Kelley Executive Partners program. Starting Monday, the mostly midcareer members of the program can visit a virtual island, complete with buildings modeled after IU's Bloomington campus. All that's needed is a Web connection. The goal, IU officials say, is to make the Executive Partners, already heavy on online distance learning, more immersive.

Online classes taking off at YVCC and Central - James Joyce III, Yakima Herald-Republic

2008-09-09T08:07:00.001-05:00

YVCC's latest enrollment report, released Sept. 2, shows the equivalent of 686 full-time students were enrolled in distance learning courses, which accounts for about 18 percent of the school's total fall enrollment. That's up by nearly 200 students, or 33 percent, over the same enrollment cycle last year. "That's a huge increase," said Tomas Ybarra, the school's vice president for instruction and student services. "It is a possible sign that we are seeing more students opting for the distance learning courses as a way to get around some of the costs." Among the factors possibly contributing to the upward trend is the economy. Because of layoffs and increased work responsibilities, more people need to learn additional skills. And online scheduling flexibility makes that balancing act more manageable. Additionally

Hard Economic Times Increasing Junior College Enrollment - Elyse Miller, KESQ

2008-09-04T20:20:00.001-05:00

Classes are full at College of the Desert with enrollment higher than ever before at a nearly 8 percent jump from last year. "I can't register for any classes," says C.O.D. student David James. "There are too many students." An increasing amount of students are attending two-year colleges, avoiding the large price tag of a university education. Students typically pay 80 percent less at a junior college compared to a university. Now, with high food, home and gas prices, students are learning a real-life lesson in economics.... Students are looking for other ways to save by not driving to school everyday. Instead, they're taking classes online right from their home.

Students logging on to save up: As fuel prices rise, many opt for online learning - Rebekah Allen, Pensacola News Journal

2008-08-29T11:33:00.001-05:00

Cantonment resident Marc Churchwell lives about 15 miles from Pensacola Junior College. And that 30-mile round trip could add up — especially given today's gas prices. When Churchwell, 51, retired from the U.S. Navy in 2004, he was determined to get a degree that would allow him to teach young children and children with special needs. And he did it without ever setting foot in a classroom. Churchwell has been part of a boom in demand for online classes, which provide scheduling flexibility and in some cases, easier communication with professors.

Tri-C offering more classes online - Janet Okoben, Plain Dealer

2008-08-26T20:11:00.001-05:00

Once touted as a tool for faraway students, the popularity of online courses at community colleges and other community schools has gone up right along with the price of gas. One in three students at Cuyahoga Community College now takes some sort of online class, said Tina Royal, Tri-C's executive director of distance learning. The percentage of students learning online is expected to grow as technology improves and gas prices make students eager to cut down on their trips to campus.

Online enrollment rises at junior colleges - ADAM TESTA, The Southern

2008-08-22T16:12:00.001-05:00

Community colleges throughout Southern Illinois have seen enrollment in online courses skyrocket this year, and officials attribute high gas prices and convenience as the causes.
Three of four area community colleges reported increases of more than 40 percent over last fall, and for Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg, this year marks a special occasion as it's the 10th year the school has offered online courses.

Area colleges expand online presence in light of high gas prices - Daphne Drohobyczer, West End Word

2008-08-20T14:46:00.000-05:00

St. Louis-area colleges are starting to offer more online courses to their students, and in turn have seen a significant rise in the number of students who enroll in such classes. For most colleges, online classes are simply part of the mix, but with the increasing price of gas, online learning could become an even more familiar part of college life. Bob Samples, a spokesman for University of Missouri-St. Louis, said the university is working to provide a combination of online and on-campus courses and noted that there is an inherent versatility that comes with online courses. At any time of day or night, faculty members can post items to a class website, and online discussion does not have to correspond to regular class times, he said.

Online classes on the rise - Bali Fergusson, Honolulu Star Bulletin

2008-08-19T08:37:00.000-05:00

In the face of rising gas prices, more college students are eschewing costly commutes and turning to online classes.The national trend is reflected locally, where universities such as Chaminade and Hawaii Pacific are seeing sizable increases in online enrollment. "At the undergraduate level, we have a 9.6 percent increase in enrollment in online classes over the last fall," said Scott Stensrud, vice president for enrollment management at Hawaii Pacific University. "I think a lot of the interest is the economic situation and just the traffic. It's getting more expensive to commute."

MTSU’s summer enrollment drops 7.1% - COLBY SLEDGE, the Tennessean

2008-08-15T16:08:00.000-05:00

ummer enrollment at Middle Tennessee State University dropped 7.1 percent from last summer, and school officials are blaming high gas prices for keeping students away. The school's preliminary count this summer is 8,210 students, down from 8,845 on campus and online last year. The decrease marks the third straight summer decline. "The cost of gasoline certainly has been a concern, especially for those who commute several miles," said Sherian Huddleston, associate vice provost for enrollment services, in a university news release. "I expect we will see more students opting for online and other distance-learning methods."

Transportation costs force universities and students to wise up - MANDY MOENCH, Colorado Springs Independent

2008-08-14T08:05:00.000-05:00

Driving from the Springs to Pueblo each weekday can cost $1,000 per semester. Kimberly Barry spends $200 a month driving her Subaru from Colorado Springs to Colorado State University-Pueblo. She's planning to be a middle school science teacher, and chose CSU-Pueblo because of its "cutting-edge" education program. However, the top cut may mean a huge rut in Barry's credit rating.... Colorado's higher education outlets are thinking this way, to varying degrees, and they're shifting to accommodate suffering students via online courses. The University of Colorado at Boulder alone reported a 20 percent jump in online and distance-learning enrollment from last summer to this summer.

Hawaii colleges see boom online - Kim Fassler, Advertiser

2008-08-14T07:50:00.001-05:00

Between shuttling her two kids to school, working full time and sitting in rush-hour traffic to and from Pearl City, Kammie Wilson barely had time to think about going back to school, let alone spend hours in a classroom each day." They have classes all over the island, but I think it's good when you can be at home in your home clothes," said the 26-year-old receptionist and single mom.... With Island gas prices hovering at around $4.50 a gallon, more students are opting for online classes or hybrid classes that meet several times in person but mostly online, said Mike Fassiotto, director of the graduate program at Chaminade. Students ask, " 'Are you going to do it online? Because I just can't afford to drive anymore,' " he said.

Gas prices boost enrollment in online courses - laura bruno, daily record

2008-08-10T07:51:00.000-05:00

Morris County colleges are finding students increasingly opting to attend college online, both for the convenience of courses at home and to escape rising gas prices. Officials at the College of Saint Elizabeth watched the steady rise of gas prices last winter and decided to offer more online courses. They grew their online undergraduate and graduate course listings for the summer and fall by 35 percent and were rewarded with a 40 percent increase in online enrollment, so far.
"Gas prices are part of the consideration, especially for adult students," said Carol Strobeck, dean of the women's college at St. Elizabeth's. "Some travel fairly long distances to get to campus."

Tune In Tomorrow: New technology and higher gas prices are driving a boom in online education across the United States - Stefan Theil, NEWSWEEK

2008-08-09T21:09:00.001-05:00

Long gone are the days when "online education" meant little more than digitized correspondence courses. Today it features videos and podcasts, blogs and live chats, Webcams and wikis, and online courses are becoming ever more popular. This fall, more than 4 million students in the United States will take at least one course online, says Frank Mayadas, an expert on education technology at the Sloan Foundation in New York.

College Students Feeling Effects Of Sluggish Economy - Dara Rees, WYMT Hazard, KY

2008-08-09T19:34:00.001-05:00

Many people are seeking higher education to eventually get a better paying job. However, as gas prices and tuition costs rise, many students are finding it more difficult to even afford a college education.... Officials with the Hazard Community and Technical College say enrollment is down about 10 percent from this time last year and they say some people just can't afford the education they need to get ahead...."We just recently took a six percent cut in higher education and that has lead us to have increased tuition. Of course affordability is a real issue for us right now," said Doug Fraley with HCTC. Fraley says to help students through rough times in the economy, they are offering more distance learning classes. He also says a number of courses offer longer classes that meet fewer times each week.

Online Learning - Blake Wood, WCIA & MyCFN News

2008-08-06T07:59:00.000-05:00

Busier lives and higher gas prices mean more people are taking classes online. Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield has added 500 students in the last year alone. Teachers say you can learn just as much online and they’re adding more classes to meet demand.

Chipola Online Classes - WJHG Panama City

2008-08-05T19:52:00.000-05:00

High gas prices may be responsible for driving college students to the virtual classroom. Online class enrollment is up all across the country, but the trend is also affecting local schools.
Chipola College offers 40 different programs, ranging from four bachelor degrees to certification classes. This fall 28 of the classes for those programs will be offered online. In fact, Chipola administrator Kitty Myers says they're hoping to eventually offer one entire degree program over the Internet.

They carpool, take classes online or live close to campus - ADAM AASEN, The Times-Union

2008-08-04T18:44:00.000-05:00

College student Naomi Briggs said she keeps trying to find ways to ease the pain of filling up. Briggs, 31, boyfriend David Denais, 45, and his son Dustin, 19, are all enrolled at Florida Community College at Jacksonville. They carpool together for three to four trips to campus per week. When one person rides to campus alone, it's on a motorcycle, even in the pouring rain.
Even so, Briggs said they spend $600 a month for gas, a financial strain for this family of students.

Online class enrollments jump - ANGELA CAPUTO, Southtown Star

2008-08-01T18:29:00.001-05:00

Katie Hirdler has had it with filling up her tank. With each fill-up costing $70, Hirdler is always looking for ways to avoid visiting the gas pump. Hirdler traded in her truck for a Cadillac. She took a job as a nanny for a local family. And, despite being "not really that great with computers," the 22-year-old freshman at Moraine Valley Community College decided to give online classes a try this summer.

Ivy Tech helping students with rising gas costs - The Tribune-Star

2008-07-31T07:01:00.001-05:00

Ivy Tech-Wabash Valley is trying to assist students with the rising costs of gasoline through flexible scheduling options, more online classes and instructional sites closer to home.... “We’re responding to what we’re hearing from students,” said Deanna King, vice chancellor of academic affairs. “With today’s gas prices, it’s more difficult for them to come to campus multiples times during the week. Many of our students come from outlying counties and have to drive in.”

Online enrollment up: Administrators cite high gas prices - Charlie Angelo, Longmont Times-Call

2008-07-30T21:16:00.000-05:00

More Front Range Community College students are taking online classes this summer than are attending traditional classes at any one of its on-site campuses. That’s a first for the community college system, said FRCC chief administrative officer Mike Kupcho. Some 320 students are taking online classes, compared with 285 students signed up at FRCC’s Larimer campus in Fort Collins, which traditionally has had the highest enrollment, and 276 students at the Westminster campus. “It’s unusual for online to be higher than the two major campuses,” Kupcho said. “I would guess that people are trying to cut back on driving wherever possible.”