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Frequently-asked Questions
How do I take the course?
Who is the instructor, and what is his background?
Is there a course outline so that I can see what the course covers?
Is a textbook required for this course, and where do I get it?
Is there a specific schedule for this course, or can I go online at any time?
What do other students say about this course after completing it?
How do I take the course?
Over 2500 people have taken this course, almost none of whom had any experience with online learning before this class. Sure, there are some challenges in being a pioneer, but the benefits make it worthwhile. I've selected the technology that best delivers the course content, and I've kept it simple. There are essentially two skills you need to take this class, and you can try both here and now.
Technical Requirements: Mac or PC, a web browser v.4 or better, modem (if you are reading this web page, you have enough power for this course) and about 4 megs free space for free software and text downloads.
Interactive method: All software information, course readings, etc, will be eMailed to you directly, and you may:
* participate in real time lecture/discussion classes led by John Spiers, in something called "internet relay chat." (There is no streaming video or audio involved.)
* contact the instructor or other participants by eMail at any time.
* use virtually any computer /modem /communication equipment and software.
* join other aspiring traders from around the country "online" (schools in other areas will be registering students from their territories to my seminars. Students in other countries may join the classes as well.)
* be guaranteed the class will occur.
* have verbatim transcripts available for each class available to all students anytime.
* Upon completion of the course, each student is invited to join an eMail listserv that allows access to the instructor and other past-students to share questions and ideas at no extra charge, so the course never really "ends."
There are two skills needed (which you probably have) to take this course.
1. Download .pdf files and
And
2. join IRC (optional).
If you have no idea about either, here you can test both before you begin class.
1. Live Real-Time Discussion Lecture Location - How to join the live classroom.
We encourage you to enroll early so the preparations to "learn online" can be made well in advance. Click here to learn what is involved in connecting to a live classroom.
2. Download Adobe Acrobat Reader .pdf files.
Check your hard drive directory to see if you have a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader (it would be VERY strange if you did not, since every computer made in the last five years has had a copy).
If not, get a copy free by going to
to download a FREE copy. After you know you have installed on your computer a copy of adobe acrobat reader, then go to
http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/bychapter/index.htm
and download one of the free short chapters of the harmonized Tariff Schedules of the United States, using your new-found adobe acrobat skill. Pick a heading that interests you. You'll learn more about all this in the course.
Once you have these two functions working, you have all you need to take the class. If you have any problems, feel free to contact the instructor: john@johnspiers.com or VIU administration: julie.clarke@viu.ca
Who is the instructor, and what is his background?
John Spiers owns and operates the John Wiley Spiers Company, a private international trade company. He is a rare resource: he
actually practices daily in his own business what he preaches to others. John Spiers has worked in Seattle and San Francisco with
international trading companies since 1974, in virtually every position.
Self-employed since 1984 importing housewares and exporting agriculture products, John shares what he has done in the past, what
he has advised others to do successfully, and what he is doing now all in seminars highly rated by participants for content, experience,
pace and humor.
As a regular lecturer at colleges around the country and consultant to numerous companies, he shares over 30 years experience in
international trade buying/selling, operations and computerization, market penetration, sourcing products, structuring finance and
distribution plans. Although almost all his clients are small companies, large corporations such as Maersk/SeaLand and Metropolitan Life
Insurance (agriculture investments division) have retained John for his expertise on small business international trade development.
Seattle Teachers College Press selected his book "How Small Business Trades Worldwide" for publication in November of 2001, and is available at all the usual outlets. John also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Asian Studies and a Master's Degree in Education.
Is there a course outline so that I can see what the course covers?
Course syllabus is available by clicking on this link.
Is a textbook required for this course, and where do I get it?
Text Required : "How Small Business Trades Worldwide: Your Guide to Starting or Expanding a Small Business International Trade Company Now"
ISBN-10: 0595199550; ISBN-13: 978-0595199556 is available from Amazon.ca
Is there a specific schedule for this course, or can I go online at any time?
This is one of the rare online courses that we offer where there is actually a schedule for interacting with the instructor and other students. The current intakes of the course require you to be available from 6-8 am Pacific time (this would be 7-9 am Mountain time, 8-10 am Central time, 9-11 am Eastern time) each Wednesday morning for the 8 weeks of the course.
What do other students say about this course after completing it?
Reviews from Participants:
I ran global product management, marketing and sales operations for several Silicon-Valley based, high-tech companies. Even with that experience, I
learned more about international trade in your one-day course than in the last 25 years. It was fantastic!
Keith Blackey, San Mateo. CA
A very enjoyable experience with a very diversified group of class mates. Some with a great deal of business acumen and others who were clueless. The instructor was able to weigh these factors and deal with them very effectively during the class time without causing offense or hold up the course delivery, which was awesome without visual (eye to eye) or audio contact.
C Parent, Arkansas
Great! Real world advice enthusiastically presented by a real-world pro.
Ray Gruenewald, Seattle, WA
Great - done with humor and realistic information. The combination with excellent organization indicates a great teacher.
Ethel Kirk, San Rafael, CA
John's communication skills, ideas, experience, handouts were exceptional. This armed me with reality about (the) business...this class was better than the two years I spent getting my MBA.
Paula Royalty, Bellevue, WA
You've given us vital information - you've saved us time, energy, frustration and money. We'll be consulting you further!
Jan Dean, Bothell, WA
Very informative and valuable, especially for those who are new to the field.
Gus Tofany, Lynnwood, WA
John talks from his own experience, provides reality and insight.
Amy Lam, San Bruno, CA
I like (John Spiers) personal involvement in the field.
Dean Karay, Benicia, CA
(John Spiers) is in the same business (as I am). Really communicates actual experience. He's excited about what he's doing.
M. Glad, Seattle, WA
Fabulous class. John is a gifted teacher. The class far exceeded my expectations for its excellent caliber of teaching and John's humourous quick witted responses to the students.
J Liddle Bellevue WA