Mount Saint Vincent University launches virtual IT program

July 31, 2003 - Mount Saint Vincent University is launching the Maritimes' first truly virtual university certificate in IT. Using new and cutting-edge computer technology called vClass, students will be able to take IT courses from home by connecting to an interactive classroom where professors and students engage in real-time.

"This new technology allows us to take our existing certificate program to a whole new level. This is truly the next generation of IT. vClass is an amazing platform because it allows students around the world to ask questions and talk to each other in real-time. It also allows professors to communicate through text and a shared white board and to see each student's computer screen during class. This means they can watch students work on individual assignments and work with them one-on-one on their computer screens to explain how to tackle a problem, equation or programming challenge," says Paula Crouse, Chair of Information Technology at MSVU.

The licensing of vClass technology from a leading Canadian software company was made possible by the companies who supported MSVU's Women in Technology Fund. The program is open to both women and men, but one of the goals is to make IT education more accessible, particularly to women in rural Nova Scotia who want to upgrade their skills or re-enter the workforce.

"Less than 25% of computer technology graduates are women and enrolment in post-secondary high-tech education is expected to reach critical levels in a few years. Many of the barriers that prevent women from studying are geographic and scheduling-related. This program makes it easy for women, and men, to study in their homes or offices on a schedule that suits their work and family obligations," says Ms. Crouse.

The first interactive classes begin in September.