Bartering for classes?
November 28, 2011
Many mothers can pursue their dream of getting a college degree despite difficult economic times by financing their education through grants for parents, scholarships for mothers and other financial aid. Furthermore, mothers can supplement their education through another way of learning: bartering.
The idea of bartering for classes was launched in New York City in February 2010. It was started by the Trade School, which has offered classes on a wide range of topics including grant writing, composting, portrait photography, how to make a website on WordPress, Scrabble strategy and ghost-hunting.
Everything having to do with the school is bartered. The organizers barter their services to temporarily use a storefront. The teachers give their time in exchange for items or services from students. Some of the items exchanged to attend classes have included food spices, art supplies, back issues of magazines, clothing, furniture and help using websites such as Twitter and Facebook.
While the school is not accredited and won't help you gain credits towards a degree, it does offer practical skills that help individuals become more well-rounded.
It's an interesting idea that can be replicated virtually anywhere there are people who want to learn and someone willing to share his or her knowledge. The best part may just be that it's free!
