Latest from IT Academy
Don’t Miss This Year’s Webinar Series Debut—“Training with Technology”—This Thursday!
If you’re not signed up yet, delay no further. This year’s webinar premiere, taking place Thursday at 8 A.M. Pacific Time, zeros in on a topic that affects nearly all educators—using technology to engage and motivate students.
The webinar is a free, monthly virtual event that’s open to anyone affiliated with an academic institution. See the series calendar and sign up to tune in live or on-demand.
Save the Date: Certified Career Day Is October 29
Certified Career Day returns by popular demand on October 29, 2013. Take advantage of this opportunity to hear from IT experts on the latest trends in technology training and certification, the skills needed to succeed in today’s market, and how new technologies like cloud computing are redefining job opportunities. Stay tuned to the IT Academy blog, as well as our Twitter and Facebook channels, for details.
New Sign-In Criteria for First-Time ITA Member Site Users
Starting September 16, 2013, new users of the IT Academy member site will need the following information the first time they sign into the site:
IT Academy administrators need to distribute the required membership ID and program key to all new ITA member site users at their schools. If you have questions, please contact your ITA Regional Support Center.
Improvements to Microsoft Official Academic Course Curriculum for MOS and MTA
We have simplified the download experience for Microsoft Official Academic Course (MOAC) curriculum for Microsoft Office 2010 and Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) student files. Students will now need only one .pdf file per course.
We are also in the process of releasing the MOAC content for Office 2013. Microsoft Excel 2013, Microsoft Word 2013, and a preview copy of Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 are available today. To learn more, visit the IT Academy member site and view and download the MOAC content.
Education News from Microsoft
Thinkspace—An Inspiration for and by Students
Sixteen year-old James Anderson of Devonport High School for Boys, in Plymouth, UK, spends most of his free time developing websites and apps, he writes. His latest invention (a collaboration), Thinkspace, is a website aiming to undo stereotypes associated with the programming profession while teaching young coders how to create successful sites and apps. “To attract the most dedicated and passionate individuals, we’ve made our spaces as wonderful and—some would even go as far as to say magical—as possible, so we hope this will unleash people’s creativity.” Read James’ post on the Microsoft UK Schools blog.
Windows 8 Apps Creating New Opportunities in the Classroom
The UK Schools blog shares this video, in which educators and partners speak about how Windows 8 apps are enhancing education for both teachers and students, providing new ways to engage with relevant and interactive content.
Stay Informed & Join the Discussion
Shine a Light on Your Success!
By highlighting your IT Academy accomplishments on the IT Academy blog, you can help lead the way for other members and students around the world. Send a brief summary of your success and any accompanying images or videos—along with your contact information—to the IT Academy team. We look forward to hearing from you!
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At Microsoft IT Academy, we know your work as an administrator or educator is ever-changing—especially in today's dynamic technology environment. So this year we’ve designed a webinar series that mirrors the excitement and leverage you get from technology in your everyday work. Each topic and speaker has been chosen to provide what we consider the most useful and timely information—from top-ten classroom enhancements to keeping up on the technology curve.
Our first webinar, September 12th, is “Training with Technology: Using technology within the classroom to engage and motivate students.” This topic reflects a growing interest we’re seeing in ways to boost student performance and teacher productivity by using new technologies like tablets. Recent research from the Pew Research Center from shows a vast majority of instructors view technology as a valuable tool for improving collaboration, creativity and writing. And while many instructors already use interactive whiteboards, wikis, websites, blogs, and word processing programs to reinforce their teaching, it’s clear from the numbers there’s plenty of room to expand usage of these and other technologies.
During the webinar, we'll showcase some findings, opportunities and insights from guest speakers to help you plot your next steps and decide how best to use technology in your classroom.
Guest speakers will include Peter Sigmund, CIO of LaSalle College High School in Pennsylvania, who will share how the school is using Surface devices to improve student performance; and Scott Thompson from Microsoft Education, who will cover training resources for educators teaching technology in the classroom.
View the monthly webinar agenda to get more details and sign up. Be sure to tell your colleagues—other teachers, faculty and administrators—to tune-in live or watch the webinars on-demand. We believe your institution will gain hugely from getting up to speed and inspired.
We look forward to an informative and invigorating discussion. See you there!
Keith Loeber is the Director of the IT Academy Program for Microsoft Learning Experience. He and his team oversee the strategy, benefits, operations, and policies for the program. An 18-year Microsoft veteran, Keith has spent the last several years in education with the majority of his career focusing on training and certification.
To those of you who are IT Academy members, the following may not come as a surprise. Word is spreading about IT Academy’s ability to engage faculty and students in successful technology training, and our reach is growing. To date, there are more than 15,000 IT Academies in dozens of countries around the world. Tens of thousands of Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) and Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certificates have been awarded, sending students off to higher education and the workplace better equipped.
The global scope of IT Academy’s benefits is one measure of its strengths. Another is the specific accomplishments of individual programs and their students. Let’s take a look at Queensland, Australia. In 2004, the state’s Department of Education, Training and Employment launched a program called “Smart Classrooms,” aiming to use IT to transform education at every level. The initiative set out to automate record keeping, streamline instructional materials, improve teacher technology use, and provide virtual learning environments for anytime student access and collaboration.
Nine years later, Smart Classrooms is soaring. Among other dramatic improvements to its infrastructure, the program has implemented IT Academies for all of its secondary schools. Students get access to the Microsoft IT Academy online courseware, and both teachers and students have the opportunity to develop skills recognized on a global scale.
Within this paradigm is a specific victory I’d like to shine a light on: a student named “Aidan” who goes to Springfield Central State High School in Queensland. Aidan recently won the state title at the 2013 Microsoft Office Specialist Worldwide Championships. Like other students in his state, through IT Academy, Aidan receives not only the chance to get certified but the opportunity to receive Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) credit toward graduation.
Watch this video to hear what Aidan and his business teacher have to say about the program.
Congratulations, Aidan and Springfield Central State High School! We look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Keith Loeber is the Director of the Microsoft IT Academy program for Microsoft, overseeing strategy, benefits, operations and policies. An 18-year Microsoft veteran, Keith has spent the last several years in education with the majority of his career focused on training and certification on Microsoft technologies.
Webinar Series Debut—“Training with Technology”—Around the Corner!
This year’s monthly IT Academy Webinar Series kicks off on September 12th with a look at how educators can best put technology to use in their classrooms. Speakers will include Peter Sigmund of La Salle High School, a Microsoft IT Academy in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania with an award-winning technology program and a plan to distribute Microsoft Surface devices to freshmen, and Scott Thompson from Microsoft Education.
The webinar is a free, monthly virtual event that provides the latest information on skills development, certifications and exams, training curriculum, best practices in the classroom, and technology in the classroom. It is open to anyone affiliated with an academic institution. See the series calendar and sign up to tune-in live or on-demand.
Get Trained on Office 2013 with Your E-Learning Benefit
As an IT Academy member, you can now receive training on Office 2013 via the Microsoft E-Learning curriculum, which provides unlimited access to more than 400 courses aligning with ITA programs. Get up to speed on popular Office programs through the Essentials course series (Microsoft Word 2013 Essentials, Microsoft Excel 2013 Essentials, Microsoft Project 2013 Essentials, and others). And in September and October, watch the ITA member site for information on Microsoft Official Academic Course (MOAC) Office 2013 content.
Recognize Teachers and Staff with Customizable Certificates
Elevate your school’s ITA instructors and staff by using customizable and printable IT Academy certificates. Find the certificate customization tool on the IT Academy Marketing Resources page.
Note: These certificates are intended for faculty and school recognition; they are not to be used for students. For students, please use the Course Completion Certificates available in the Curriculum area on the My Academy page.
IT Academy in the News
Georgia Student Bests Competition at Microsoft PowerPoint 2010
Seventeen year-old Jake Ruiz, of Fayette County High School, won Microsoft PowerPoint at the Microsoft Office Specialist National Competition. Jake was one of six finalists out of more than 140,000 students who entered the U.S. competition to demonstrate their skills at Microsoft desktop computing applications.
Read the story | Watch the news broadcast segment
Infographic Shows Nuts and Bolts of 21st Century Classroom
Partners in Learning presents this research-based infographic depicting the 21st century classroom. See how today’s education emphasizes effective use of technology. Some findings:
By highlighting your IT Academy accomplishments on the IT Academy blog, you can help pave the way for other IT Academy members and students around the world. What we’re looking for:
Send a brief summary—along with your contact information—to the IT Academy team. We look forward to hearing from you!
Welcome to our weekly round-up of news, events and opportunities for IT Academy members.
Microsoft IT Academy Newsletter, Now Monthly, Keeps You in the Loop
Starting with the August 2013 edition, the Microsoft IT Academy newsletter will publish monthly, delivering program news and information to help you get the most out of your IT Academy membership. If you haven’t subscribed, sign up today to stay current on the very latest IT Academy updates.
Webinar Series Kicks Off with “Training with Technology”—Register Today!
Register now for the 2013-14 IT Academy Webinar Series, a free, monthly virtual event that provides the latest information on skills development, certifications and exams, training curriculum, best practices in the classroom, and technology in the classroom. The virtual events are open to anyone affiliated with an academic institution.
The September 12 webinar will feature “Training with Technology.” The event will feature Peter Sigmund of La Salle High School, a Microsoft IT Academy in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania with an award-winning technology program. Peter will share his vision for using Surface in the classroom. Scott Thompson from Microsoft Education will also discuss training resources for educators teaching technology in the classroom.
Stand by for more detail about the webinar from Keith Loeber, Director of IT Academy, who will be posting on the Microsoft IT Academy blog later this week.
Vancouver’s Brighton College to Partner with IT Academy
Through a newly announced partnership with Microsoft IT Academy, Vancouver, B.C.-based Brighton College is offering exam prep courses for the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert Server (MCSE) Infrastructure certification exams, starting in September.
Program curriculum includes interactive lectures, instructor-led classes, and workshops led by industry specialists. Students will receive training from Microsoft certified trainers, participate in labs and save on exams.
Read the article.
On ITA’s Workforce Skills Development Blog
Engineering for Tomorrow
Author James Lengel continues his ongoing commentary on today’s education, tackling what it takes to become an engineer. “On the one hand engineering is often very complex, thus requiring structured thinking and attention to detail, while on the other hand, engineering is also a highly creative process,” Lengel says. Read about the creative and “soft” skills that go along with engineering, on ITA's Workforce Skills Development blog, hosted by Partners in Learning.
Technology Can Help Close Growing Workplace Credentials and Skills Gap
Kelly Walsh argues that technology can be leveraged to address many of the problems underlying the workplace skills gap, such as high cost of education, inadequate retention and graduation rates, insufficient preparation for higher education, and the need for more personalized or differentiated instruction. Read his post on the Workforce Skills Development blog to learn more.
Stay informed & Join the Discussion
Share Your Story: Gain Recognition and Inspire Others!
Join the teachers and faculty who have shared their success stories on our blog, Born to Learn. Your story can help inspire a new generation of IT Academy members and students around the world! Topics of interest:
The monthly IT Academy Webinar Series kicks off on September 12th! This year’s series is bigger and better than ever, with a fantastic line-up of guest speakers and discussion on topics that matter most to the modern educator. Topics range from skills development to student employability and trends in education technology. Anyone affiliated with academic institution is invited to tune in live or on-demand.
Register today for the series, and mark your calendars for September 12: “Training with Technology” featuring Peter Sigmund, CIO of La Salle High School, a Microsoft IT Academy in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania with an award-winning technology program. Mr. Sigmund will share his vision for using Surface in the classroom. Scott Thompson, from Microsoft Education, will talk about resources available for training educators to teach technology in the classroom.
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: Speaking skills for the modern workforce
Last week, we shared an editorial from author James Lengel on the various approaches educators take to instill solid writing skills, and the role of technology to produce better writers and communicators. Lengel follows up this week with an editorial on the need for greater focus on fostering speaking skills to prepare students for the workforce. Read the post on Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” blog and join the discussion.
New eBook: Devices in education—which one is right for you?
Are you refreshing your classroom technology for the new academic year? Microsoft Education UK introduces a new eBook that helps you choose the right Windows 8 device for educators and students. Find out what works best for your students, across grade levels and age ranges; your teaching staff; and administrators. View and/or download the eBook >
The Use of Social Media in School
How do students and educators use social media in school, and what are the potential benefits? A new infographic provides insight into the latest trends, and adds perspectives to a round of interviews Microsoft Education VP Anthony Salcito recently conducted with leaders in social media for education. View the infographic and read the interviews >
Share Your Success Story
Do you have a success story about one of your IT Academy students? Have IT Academy resources enabled you to provide more in the classroom? Share your story and best practices in a brief email with photos and your contact information to [email protected].
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It’s that time! Register now for the 2013-14 IT Academy Webinar Series, a free, monthly virtual event that provides the latest information on skills development, certifications and exams, training curriculum, best practices in the classroom and job opportunities. Sign up to take advantage of this year’s series, packed with insight and relevance that can help you stay in the know.
New for the 2013-14 academic year:
Q: Who is eligible to register?
A: Anyone affiliated with an academic institution can register.
Q: What’s the program format?A: Each webcast is hosted live and available on-demand shortly after the event.
Q: What topics will be discussed?A: Each month's webinar will focus on a set of topics that matter most to today's educator...
View the monthly webinar agenda for more details.
Q. Why are IT Academy Webinars a worthwhile investment of my time?A. You gain access to technology education “insider information” that can help inform and shape your curriculum, and help students get the skills they need for today's marketplace. Register now to receive updates about each webinar and reminders to tune in.
Know someone who might want to tune in? Share this link: http://aka.ms/ITAWebinar
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: Writing skills for the modern workforce
Solid written and verbal communications tops the list of critical workplace skills across educator surveys and research; however, there's a lack of consensus on how educators should teach these skills. On Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” blog, author James Lengel explores the various approaches educators take to instill solid writing skills, and the role of technology to produce better writers and communicators. Read the post >
Invite your students to DigiGirlz Day
Inspire your students to focus on technology skills this school year at a DigiGirlz event near you. This one-day event, held at multiple Microsoft locations worldwide, is designed to provide high school girls with a better understanding of what a career in technology is all about.
During the event, students interact with Microsoft employees and managers to gain exposure to careers in business and technology and to get an inside look at what it's like to work at Microsoft. This exciting event provides girls with career planning assistance, information about technology and business roles, thought-provoking exercises, and interesting Microsoft product demonstrations. By participating in the Microsoft DigiGirlz Day, young women can find out about the variety of opportunities available in the high-tech industry and can explore future career paths.
See the full list of DigiGirlz Day locations and datesFind out how to register for a DigiGirlz DayFind out about eligibility
Share this short video to help inspire students to attend and focus on technology this year:
IT Academy Update
This Thursday, August 1: Registration opens for free IT Academy monthly webinar series
The IT Academy monthly webinar series returns for the academic year with a great line-up of monthly topics and guest speakers, all hosted on a new interactive webcast platform. Starting this Thursday, August 1st, you can pre-register for the entire series in advance, including the debut webinar on September 12th. Watch this space for series details and a link to the registration page.
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: The Pyramid of Skills
On Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” blog, author James Lengel explores the U.S. Department of Labor's "Pyramid of Skills"-- the building blocks needed to assemble a modern worker; and analyzes the role and responsibility schools must take to ensure students achieve strong foundations in personal competencies, academic competencies, and higher-order soft skills. Read the post >
Infographic: Are Textbooks a Thing of the Past?
Recent surveys reveal that nearly 40% of students cannot go more than 10 minutes without checking in with their laptop, smartphone or tablet; and that 85% of students consider technology critical to save time when studying. In this age of the device-connected student, what's the future of the traditional textbook? A new infographic explores the changing role of the textbook in the modern educational landscape. View the infographic and join the discussion at Daily edventures >
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: Workplace Skills Worldwide
What do global employers consider the most essential skills for new workers? On Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” blog, author James Lengel explores the common thread between sought-after employee traits in the U.S., India, and Europe; and uncovers the role schools play in preparing students for the road ahead. Read the post >
White Paper: New Pedagogies for Deep Learning
With the leadership of Michael Fullan, global leader on system improvement, and contributions from over 20 global leaders in the education field, Microsoft in Education introduces a new white paper that discusses the challenge for systems and schools towards New Pedagogies for Deep Learning. Read the overview by Anthony Salcito, VP of Worldwide Education, and download the white paper at www.newpedagogies.org.
Infographic: 18 Myths People Believe About Education
What are some of the top misconceptions about education? The Daily Edventures blog shared an infographic that explores the truth behind common sentiments people believe about education policy.
Microsoft Education Innovative Schools Program
Through the Microsoft Innovative Schools program, Microsoft is helping educators discover, share, and scale best practices, and develop assets to help students and educators reach their full potential. A new video showcases how enrolled schools in Colombia, the U.S., the U.K., and Qatar are using Microsoft technology to put students and learning first, and giving school leaders and educators new ways to reimagine education.
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: Learning Another Language
What languages does one need to know to be a valuable worker and citizen in today's world? On the Workforce Skills Development blog, author James Lengel explores the value of the multilingual worker, including the languages of music, mathematics and the arts—forms of communication just as valuable to one’s contribution to society. Read the post >
Today! Watch the Microsoft Research Faculty Summit live and online
Computing has changed the world—from online shopping, to social media, to big data analyses of, well, just about everything. The rate of computing-driven change continues unabated, and we find ourselves wondering: what are the hot trends and burning issues in computer science research today?
On July 15 and 16, 400 elite academic investigators will explore these questions with Microsoft researchers during the annual Microsoft Research Faculty Summit in Redmond, Washington. This free online event offers highlights, such as the opening and closing keynotes, streamed on location from the Faculty Summit. Plus, you’ll hear from leading scientific and academic researchers who are making social and scientific advances—from prediction engines to quantum computing breakthroughs—with the help of technology.
This year, for the first time since 2005, the summit will feature Microsoft Corporation Chairman Bill Gates as the keynote speaker. He will address the role of computing in solving global problems and then take questions from the in-person audience and our online viewers. You may tune in to the rebroadcast on July 15th at http://webinar.acm.org/faculty_summit/ .
It's always an honor to share success stories from IT Academies around the world. Yesterday, we announced news from Kalama High School in Kalama, Washington that three IT Academy students earned the opportunity to compete at the Microsoft Office Specialist World Championships. These three students will join six other U.S. students, along with students from 89 other countries, to prove their high proficiency in Microsoft Office software. It's a distinct honor for all of the participants and we congratulate every student who will compete in Washington D.C. July 31 - August 3.
Today, I'm thrilled to introduce Katherine Schmit, the Business & Technology Instructor/FBLA Advisor at Kalama High School. Katherine, a Microsoft Certified Trainer and Microsoft Office 2010 Master Specialist, shares insights into the Kalama High School IT Academy--a program that is fostering a new generation of tech-ready--and award-winning--young professionals.
Katherine joins us having just returned from the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference, where students Morgan VanRiper, James Willman, and Brady Harmon clinched first place wins, qualifying them for the international competition. Welcome Katherine!
WE WON! We had three kids make it to the FBLA national finals and WE WON – all three with perfect scores and we are off to the Certiport World competition!
Juniors Morgan VanRiper and James Willman, and sophomore Brady Harmon each took first place at the Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda competition in Anaheim, Calif., in June.
THANK YOU Microsoft IT Academy and the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) for rising to the challenge; giving educators the ability to substantiate our curricular efforts. Teaching and testing is one thing, but for students to leave class with not just one, but multiple industry-level certifications is another. Then to have those translate into credits at local community colleges - over the top! Students and parents are getting an amazing benefit from their public education with IT Academy. Prior to IT Academy I searched out places where students could take a certification test after instruction, but they were always cost prohibitive. Then as an educator, one of my dreams came true. Students were allowed to certify for free!I came to teaching through the Washington State CTE Business Route Teacher Certification, so I know the importance of certification and real world skills for the workforce. I was looked over for many jobs because I did not hold industry credentials or a traditional college degree, even though I could do the work.Our first year in IT Academy started mid-semester, with the first round of testing in February of 2012. By year end, students had earned 150 certifications, I had earned my Master certification and Microsoft Certified Trainer credentials, and one student joined me as a Master. This landed us a #6 ranking in Washington State for our first year of IT Academy.During our second school year, 2012-2013, students caught the vision. They were able to benefit from differentiated instruction; monitor and pace themselves or stay with my teaching - they were finding success. This success fueled a fire! Students fed off their competitive natures to be the best. They began to share their test scores and times and wanted to be on top. Absentee rates went down as students wanted to be in class to learn the material and get to the next certification. At last count we had earned the #4 ranking in Washington State with 350 certifications, four students with MCP credentials, a total of 5 Masters in Office and a Second Place National Champion according to the Microsoft Office National competition. We are also having industry professionals come to class and talk about the importance of certification, how a certified candidate may be favored for a job opportunity. For example, one of our students who earned his Master is involved in our partnership with our local Chamber of Commerce, maintaining their website during the school year. Also our student who placed 2nd in the nation for the competition was offered an administrative assistant position. Both will be juniors this year.
Currently most students earning certifications at our school are freshmen. When they approach working age (16 or so) we will track the jobs they obtain as a result of certification.One best practice I would like to share is about testing. Put kids into the test immediately. If they test first, the instruction takes on a whole new meaning! Then, don’t be afraid to use the resources on the Moodle. Use the state partnership with CCI Learning to get your lab up and running--they are quick to communicate and offer amazing customer service. Then, take the test yourself and certify! Put your name on a “Wall of Fame” along with your students’! Once they’ve seen you take it, encourage them to take the test. Our success comes from certifying soon after instruction is complete for a program. After a test concludes, have your students write down their questions (this is done anonymously). Then review these questions with the class before you test again. This one method has dramatically increased our test scores! When students start to certify it’s like a flame that ignites into a bonfire!Finally, the program benefits staff development too! Within the Microsoft IT Academy there are vouchers for staff members to become Microsoft Certified Trainers – at no charge. This is usually a $150 fee. There just isn’t a down side.Again, thank you OSPI and Microsoft for this amazing opportunity.
Katherine SchmitBusiness & Technology Instructor/FBLA Advisor, Kalama High SchoolMicrosoft Certified TrainerMicrosoft Office 2010 Master Specialist
Read other posts from the Teacher's Perspective series:
IT Academy News
Three Microsoft IT Academy students to compete in international competition
Exciting news from a Microsoft IT Academy in Washington State! Three students from Kalama High School will compete at the Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship, a global competition taking place July 31-August 3 that tests students’ skills on Microsoft Office Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Juniors Morgan VanRiper and James Willman, and sophomore Brady Harmon each took first place at a national competition for students in the Microsoft IT Academy.
The three students competed in the Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda competition in Anaheim, Calif., in June. VanRiper placed first in Microsoft Word Expert, Willman in Excel and Harmon in PowerPoint. By placing first, the students will go to the Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship in Washington, D.C.
Stay tuned tomorrow for a special guest post from Katherine Schmit, Business & Technology Instructor at Kalama High School. Katherine will share details about the school’s IT Academy program.
Congratulations to the student team, instructor Katherine Schmit, and Kalama High School students, parents and staff!
Read more from the Longview Daily News: “Kalama trio among nine in U.S. to compete in world computing contest."
Infographic: Our Future Demands STEM
We recently shared with you a visual view of the skills gap in technology—the divide between the growing number of IT roles requiring cloud computing skills, and the lack of “cloud ready” IT professionals.
This trend isn’t limited to the IT field: the U.S. will have more than 1.2 million job openings in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-related occupations by 2018; yet there will be a significant shortage of qualified college graduates to fill these careers.
On the Daily edventures blog, Microsoft Vice President of Worldwide Education, spotlights a new infographic that compiles the latest data on STEM learning in early education and explores the importance of working to make technology available to students through programs like Microsoft IT Academy.
Click to view or download the infographic.
Microsoft IT Academy debuts in Azerbaijan
This week, Odlar Yurdu University in Baku, Azerbaijan, debuted the country’s first-ever Microsoft IT Academy program. The university will offer training for Microsoft Office Specialist, Microsoft Certified Professional and Microsoft Technology Associate certifications. In addition, the university will provide access to Microsoft software for learning, teaching and research purposes through the DreamSpark program. The IT Academy program is expected to expand across universities and schools across the country in the near future.
Infographic: How Microsoft IT Academy helps bridge the global skills gap
Click to download a PDF of this infographic.
More Education News from Microsoft
Build 2013: Windows 8.1 and Mindstorms EV3 for STEM Education
The annual Build conference showcases some amazing applications developers can create for Windows devices, including STEM learning opportunities. Check out how robotics students and hobbyists can use Windows 8.1 tablets to wirelessly control Lego Mindstorm creations, as demonstrated by keynote speaker Antoine Leblond, corporate vice president of the Windows Web Services.
Hasan Eksi, Computer Science Teacher at Chesapeake Math and IT Academy (CMIT) in Laurel, MD, reports in to the IT Academy blog with a wrap-up of the school's first year as an IT Academy.
Hasan Eksi, Computer Science Teacher, Chesapeake Math and IT Academy Laurel, MD
In the first year, CMIT certified 50 Microsoft Office Specialists in the sixth grade....
7th grade....
...and 8th grade. Congratulations CMIT students!
I am the Computer Science teacher at Chesapeake Math and IT Academy (CMIT). I teach Microsoft Office Suite and Introduction to Programming to my 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. I wanted to let everyone know how easy it is to get started with the IT Academy program and how priceless it is.CMIT being an IT school, our principal was looking into technology programs which we could implement. As we all know, certification is crucial in the IT field; so it was important for our students to learn how to use Microsoft Office effectively AND get an industry recognized certification. Microsoft IT Academy program was the perfect fit for this.Shortly after we enrolled in the program and started utilizing its resources, our students became competent in Microsoft Office. I have even received many emails from parents writing about how their kids have helped them out in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other Microsoft programs.We also wanted our students to be able to take the certification exam at our facility; and thanks to Microsoft IT Academy it only took a couple of days to become a Certiport Authorized Testing Center.In our first year, we now have 50 students who are Microsoft Office Specialists. There are two 6th graders, thirty 7th graders, and eighteen 8th graders who have been certified. The parents are extremely happy with the results. Personally, I was not expecting this much success in our first year; we did not advertise the program at all. Now we are looking at 150 certifications for next year. I am confident that we will reach our goals with the help of our strong IT Academy program. Thanks to Microsoft IT Academy, some of our students are looking for more advanced certifications now, and others are very excited to take their first steps on the certification journey.Thanks IT Academy!
Chesapeake Math and IT (CMIT) Academy is a Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) public charter school in northern Prince George’s County that aims to serve grades 6 through 12 with an academic program focusing on mathematics and information technologies (IT). Learn more about the Chesapeake Math and IT Academy program at www.cmitacademy.org.
IT Academy Spotlight: University of West of Scotland
Take a tour of the IT Academy program at University of the West of Scotland, courtesy of the UK Schools blog. Discover how the university is meeting the needs of local employers by offering a comprehensive selection of technology training curriculum and certification opportunities.
Why STEM Education and Blended Learning Matter
This past week, policy makers, educators, industry leaders and others gathered at the Microsoft Innovation & Policy Center in Washington, D.C. to discuss critical design elements of successful and innovative education programs to prepare students to meet the demands of the U.S. economy in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.
Read a synopsis of the conversation and watch brief interviews with attendees about new thinking in STEM learning.
Calling All Schools: Join The Bing For Schools Program!
Bing introduces a new, free initiative to help schools teach digital literacy skills. Starting later this year, Bing For Schools will offer schools in the U.S. the option to tailor the Bing experience for K-12 students by removing all advertisements from search results, enhancing privacy protections and the filtering of adult content, and adding specialized learning features to promote digital literacy.
Read more about the Bing for Schools program, then visit the Bing for Schools site to register to receive updates on how to participate.
Last week, we provided an insider's look at the internship experience at Microsoft Xbox headquarters. This week, we continue the series with a first-person perspective from Stan, a Program Manager intern on the Windows PC System Co-Engineering team. Share with your students how this University of Illinois student joined the intern development team that built one of the first Windows 8 applications; and how technology training and certification can lead to similar real-world experiences.
Stay tuned next week for more insights from a Microsoft intern, and be sure to share this series with your students and staff.
A new Gallup study sponsored by Microsoft Partners in Learning and the Pearson Foundation provides clear evidence linking 21st century skills and student engagement in school with higher quality of work later in life.
Gallup explored the relationships between 21st century skills developed in the classroom, student aspiration in schools, and perceived quality of work later in life. Using a 21st century skills index to measure seven specific areas--collaboration, knowledge construction, skilled communication, global awareness, self-regulation, real-world problem-solving, and technology used in learning--Gallup polled 1,014 individuals aged 18-35 who were either employed or students.
21st Century Skills + Student Aspirations: The Formula for Work Success
The results confirmed that developing 21st century skills in the last year of school positively correlates with future work success. In fact the study found that those who have 21st century skill development are twice as likely to have higher work quality compared to those who had low 21st century skill development. In addition, 59% of those polled strongly agree or agree that they developed most of the skills they use in their current job outside of school.
The study also found that student aspirations play an important role in future success: Americans who have teachers who care about them and know their aspirations and dreams were much more likely to have developed the key 21st century skills.
The study validates Microsoft IT Academy’s mission to provide industry-leading technology skills to help bridge the skills gap and Microsoft’s overarching education message: 21st Century teaching and learning that provides students with real world problem solving and the right kind of technology experiences are what students of today need to prepare them for successful future life and work.
Snapshot of Findings:
Read more:
Presenting the Walla Walla Wall of Fame: 354 MOS certificates!
Walla Walla High School (Walla Walla, Washington) created an impressive wall of fame for the 354 Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certificates earned by IT Academy students this year. Congratulations on your fantastic achievement, Walla Walla students!
A New Set of Skills for the 21st Century Workforce
What will it take to succeed in business tomorrow, and how can we prepare next generation students today? On Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” blog, author James Lengel explores the set of discovery skills students will need to produce innovative ideas in an increasingly competitive global economy. Read the post >
Free eBook: Enabling and inspiring students and teachers with Windows 8
New to Windows 8? Microsoft UK presents a free eBook, “Enabling and inspiring students and teachers with Windows 8,” available for free download or viewing on SlideShare. Topics covered include:
Browse or download the eBook >
As the academic year concludes in many regions, students are flocking to internships for real-world, hands-on experience with hopes of gaining a competitive edge in the job market. Over the next few weeks, we’ll provide a first-hand view of the intern experience at Microsoft through video testimonials you can share with your students.
With the newly-announced Xbox One on the minds of gamers around the world, we kick off the series with an insider’s tour of Microsoft Xbox, where business skills and cutting-edge technology abilities drive innovation to gamers around the globe—abilities that your IT Academy program foster every day.
We start the interns' tour with a behind-the-scenes look at the Xbox headquarters:
With a sense of the work environment, we introduce you to Matthew, an intern working as a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) for Xbox.
Preview the 2013-14 IT Academy Curriculum
For many schools, June/July kicks off planning sessions for the 2013-14 academic year. To help IT Academies prepare, we previewed the program roadmap for the coming year at the recent member webinar, now available on demand with your IT Academy ID. Watch the presentation to learn ways you can optimize your curriculum next year.
Last Chance for a Second ShotIf you have purchased a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification exam voucher using the Second Shot offer, be aware that the voucher expires on June 30, 2013. Both the initial exam and, if necessary, the free retake must be completed before that date. For more information, review the Second Shot details on the member site.
Technology Education in the News
Partners in Learning Hot Topics: Workforce Skills Development
Partners in Learning’s “Hot Topics” spotlights views from global educators on topics that are shaping the changing world of global education. This week, author James Lengel explores the educators' critical role in developing workforce skills by fostering technology-literate students who think critically about information readily available at their fingertips. Read the post >
Chip In: Crowdsourcing Contributions for Student PCs
Microsoft introduces Chip In, a new seasonal buying program to help students get the Windows PC or tablet they need for school. With Chip In, students crowdsource contributions from friends and family toward the purchase of a new Windows PC or tablet. Microsoft will chip in 10 percent of the purchase price on select PCs, and the first 10,000 students to fully fund their PC will also get a four-year subscription to Office 365 University. Learn more about the program at http://www.windowschipin.com/
TED Talks: “Every Kid Needs a Champion” with Rita Pierson
“American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen” is a 60-minute television special featuring inspirational TED talks about education innovation and the dropout crisis in America. Anthony Salcito, VP of Worldwide Education, spotlighted one of the individual speakers from the special-- an inspiring talk from teacher Rita Pierson on the most important component of learning: relationships. “Every child deserves a champion,” says Pierson, ”an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” Watch the video at Daily Edventures >
Code.org: Anybody can Learn to Code
Code.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to growing computer programming education. Share the video below with your students to help them understand the value and opportunities that computer programming offers, as told by Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, will.i.am, and a host of technology luminaries.
Two years ago, Washington State deployed the largest statewide rollout of the Microsoft IT Academy program, with training and certification available to over 300,000 students and over 19,000 teachers in over 700 public high schools, skill centers and tribal schools across Washington State.
Today, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) announced a monumental milestone: more than 10,000 certifications achieved statewide in the 2012-13 academic year—more than double the number of certifications earned the previous year (4,049, to be exact).
We extend our congratulations to everyone involved in the state’s program; from the students who are building a foundation for career success and the educators who inspire and motivate students every day; to the staff and faculty who support technology learning and the IT Academy program.
Along with news of the milestone, OSPI shared inspiring stories from a few schools in the program. Take a few moments to learn about Morgan VanRiper of Kalama High School, who achieved a perfect score on the 2010 Word core exam—one of the top 5 placing students nationally. And find out more about the program at Anacortes High School, where the 10,000th exam was passed.
OSPI press release: “OSPI-Microsoft IT Academy Passes 10,000 Technology Certifications Earned Statewide”
More information about Washington State and Microsoft IT Academy
Learn how IT Academy is making a difference in the lives and future careers of Washington State high school students:
May IT Academy Webinar Now Available On Demand
This month’s Microsoft IT Academy webinar is now available on demand with your IT Academy ID. The last webinar of the 2012-13 academic year, this month's presentation includes a briefing on the program roadmap for the coming year—critical information you need to optimize your curriculum next year. Be sure to tune in.
Florida Middle School Receives Grant for MOS Certification A grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation will go toward helping middle school students in Bellview, Florida, earn a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification. Read more>
Georgia-based IT Academy Certifies Over 100 Students in Inaugural YearA total of 106 students at Fayette County High’s IT Academy earned Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications in the 2012-13 academic year; a key first-year milestone for one of 436 public schools in Georgia’s statewide IT Academy program that debuted in September 2012. Read more>
A New Look for the IT Academy BlogWe’re excited to introduce a new look for the IT Academy blog. We refreshed the design and navigation to make it easier to catch up on the latest posts and browse the archive. The new, clean reading pane is also easier to get around, and improves the reading experience. We welcome your feedback about the new look—share your thoughts below.
As any educator can attest, time flies when you're heads down in the academic year.
Just three (short) academic years ago, Microsoft and the North Carolina State Department of Public Instruction piloted the first-ever statewide Microsoft IT Academy (ITA) program. The year prior to that, twenty one students and teachers across three school districts achieved Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification. By the end of the first academic year--with high schools across the state enrolled in the ITA program--the number jumped to 8,794 certifications earned by students.
This month, near the end of the program's third year, I am thrilled to share with you that North Carolina teachers and students are rapidly approaching 100,000 certifications in Microsoft technologies.
We’ve had the opportunity to share some of the great individual success stories that are contributing to this milestone, and look forward to sharing more news as the state continues to prepare the next generation for technology-focused careers. Hats off to you North Carolina!
This week, North Carolina's PBS affiliate UNC-TV profiled the state's IT Academy program, providing insight into the approach and results at Green Hope High School. Watch the segment on the UNC-TV website.
Watch Tuesday, May 21, 2013 on PBS. See more from NC Now.
Learn more about North Carolina's IT Academy program: