Know IT? Just a little BITS
One of the most pressing needs for businesses in Wisconsin, as well as the nation, is for workers to have basic to advanced levels of information technology (IT) skills regardless of career sector. The Department of Labor notes that “In today’s global economy, advancement in technology applications extends across multiple industries, creating the demand for transferable, basic IT skills and competencies among new hires and incumbent workers at almost all levels of employment.”
Even though computers seem to be absolutely everywhere, not everybody knows how to use them or use them well. That’s why a Basic Computer Skills Course was recently created. Through the Interface grant, a project funded by the Round 3 Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College Career Training grant (TAACCCT) from the U.S. Department of Labor, all 16 WI technical colleges contributed to the process for creating BITS. Fox Valley Technical College took the lead in producing this amazing interactive course with 11 modules consisting of digital learning objects, videos and games for hands on learning.
After completing the full course, learners will be better prepared to operate computing devices, navigate operating systems, input data, create documents, use email, manage files, use the Internet and social media, access learning management systems, navigate college information systems and safely manage personal data.
This course is completely free! BITS is available as an Open Education Resource via Wisc-online. This course is designed for Trade Adjustment Act-eligible dislocated workers, Veterans and other adult learners. It can be used by learning centers, job centers and other workforce partners, Wisconsin Technical College System colleges and anyone anywhere with internet access.
Last week Kris Wilson and Bonnie Tomlin from FVTC, gave a “train the trainer” BITS session at MPTC for our basic ed faculty and staff and workforce development partners. Just a little BITS goes a long way to help students!
Check out the other Interface training programs available at MPTC: www.morainepark.edu/itcareers
What a great opportunity and learning tool to introduce computer concepts to individuals. The learning modules can also be used in any order to strengthen skills. This is an excellent example of how Moraine Park, the Wisconsin Technical College System and the U.S. Department of Labor have worked together to make learning accessible.