Latest from IT Academy
UAE Launching 11 New Microsoft IT Academies for a Total of 25
The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education last week announced it would add 11 IT Academy centers to its existing 14. The ministry expressed its “determination to empower students…and equip them with sciences and knowledge, especially those related to advanced technology… to address future challenges.” Read the article.
New Microsoft in Education Website a Goldmine of Resources
Microsoft in Education has launched a new website where you can find a plethora of resources for educators, such as monthly webinars, lesson plans, a network of 800K educators worldwide, and more. Check it out.
Make 2014 Count with Microsoft Offerings for Education
What Microsoft offerings for education did you overlook in 2013? Find out with this comprehensive compile published on the UK Schools Blog.
Events & Happenings
January 14: Promoting 21st Century Skills Webinar
Today’s educators are familiar with the breakneck speed of change in technology and relevant workforce-readiness skills. Join a Microsoft Partners in Learning Virtual University webinar January 14th (7 A.M. or 5 P.M. Pacific Time) to explore the nitty-gritty including:
The event will be co-hosted by Richard Olsen, Assistant Director of ideasLAB, and Adrian Blight, Managing Director of Imagine Education.
Learn more.
Technovation “Global Technology Entrepreneurship Program for Girls” Begins February 3
Interested in challenging your female students to pursue STEM? Technovation is designed specifically for that purpose: to lead young women to identify and solve problems in their local communities by developing mobile app prototypes and business plans.
Working in collaboration with local or long-distance mentors, they research, design, code, and pitch their apps to prospective investors. Then 10 finalists go to Silicon Valley for the World Pitch competition in the spring. Learn more about how you and your students can get involved.
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By highlighting your IT Academy accomplishments on the IT Academy Blog, you can help lead the way for other IT Academy 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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As most of you know, IT Academy provides a bounty of benefits for teachers, not least of which is access to free Microsoft certification exams. These exams lead to three relevant certifications for teachers:
While many staff and instructors take advantage of this benefit, others don’t. Why is that?
The Q&A answers below, compiled in part from last month's webinar on professional development through Microsoft certification, might make you think twice about passing up that exam benefit. Read what these two IT Academy educators have to say—and watch the webinar to view their presentations. Both teachers are Microsoft certified and eager to share their perspectives on the value of certification.
Katherine Schmit, Business & Technology Instructor, Kalama High School in Kalama, WA
ITA: How and why did you pursue Microsoft certification?KS: I became a teacher and tried to teach my students these skills. I was teaching digital and computer applications at the time, and I knew that no matter what they learned, it wouldn't matter unless I could quantify it with some type of certifications for an employer.
When I heard about IT Academy and three certification exams, for me as an educator in Washington State, I was all in. It didn't matter what it took. I wanted to lead the way for them by getting myself certified.
ITA: What might hold a teacher back from certification?KS: For a teacher, probably our biggest concern with certification is time constraint. The second would be fear: What if I take the exam and I fail? I'm supposed to be teaching my students this. Don't let that scare you. I say, get into the exam as soon as you possibly can.
ITA: In your opinion, what’s the greatest value of Microsoft certification for teachers?KS: When you can tell your students that you are certified and that you know that they can do this, they have so much more confidence in you. Certification is key for an instructor. For me, it's created all the difference in my confidence as an instructor as well as in my students' confidence in me to lead them.
ITA: How does Microsoft certification lend to a teacher’s ability to adhere to Common Core Standards that are being enforced in the United States and numerous countries worldwide?KS: Currently every single discipline in the United States has a Common Core technology component that should be included with their final exam or with their final classroom-based assessment.
Students need to know how to use PowerPoint, how to integrate a spreadsheet into their PowerPoint, how to integrate Word, how to integrate charts. All of those types of things, how to save your PowerPoint as a movie so that it can be broadcast on the internet. These are just basic skills that students have to know across the disciplines.
Justin Crompton, CTE IT Instructor at Academy at Central in High Point, NC
ITA: What’s different about Academy at Central?JC: We're a special school because we allow students to graduate in three years, on an accelerated track. So we do things a little differently than a traditional school, and we focus on technology.
ITA: What Microsoft certifications do you hold, and what do you teach?JC: I'm a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), and I have four different MTA certifications. I'm an Office Master, and I have six other Office certifications. I've been in a classroom seven years. I teach the MTA track, and I also teach Office courses and programming. I also write curriculum.
ITA: What do you consider the most valuable certification for any teacher?JC: The most important certification for any teacher actually is Microsoft Certified Trainer.
MTA is a great starting point for fundamental knowledge, a step up from Office specialist. I know a lot of IT Academies focus on the Office specialist, but the MTA is a great step up, not only for the students, but also for any educators. MTA provides fundamental knowledge in various areas.
If you, as an educator, want to know how the Internet works better, how networks connect, how Microsoft Windows handles connections, the Networking Fundamentals is a great certification to start with. It breaks down wireless connections, talks about encryption, all of these different things that'll help you better understand how computers talk to each other and how the Internet works.
The next one, OS Fundamentals, is a really good one for any educator, not even as a technology educator, anyone who wants to know more about Windows 7, more about how it operates, how to customize the desktop, how to set up a backup, how to use the control panel, set up a printer. All these basic things that you might need to do, this certification teaches those things.
Security is a really good one to have, because it gives you great fundamentals on how to secure data and tells you about the current threats that are out there. As you know, threats evolve, there are new threats every day.
Lastly, Server Fundamentals is kind of the more advanced one of the track. It covers what happens behind the scenes. Most users don't see how the server operates and how permissions, sharing and stuff works. That kind of happens behind the scenes, and that's what server administration fundamentals covers. It’s great for your professional development if you want to know…how the client interacts in a domain, how it interacts with other computers in a server-client environment.
ITA: What special opportunities have unfolded for you, by way of your Microsoft certification?JC: Certification in the classroom lends respectability to the instructor, but it can also open doors for you to train others, either in your school district, at the state level, or other opportunities. Certifications are how I got into doing training at the state level. I write curriculum for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, which is the governing body for public education in the state.
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.
Related:
Catch Up on Professional Development Opportunities—Now's the Time!
Last week's webinar, "Advancing your skill set through professional development opportunities," presented a goldmine of insights for educators, on the topic of professional development.
Watch it now.
Featured guests Katherine Schmit, a high school business and technology instructor, and Justin Crompton, an IT instructor from North Carolina, shared how their various Microsoft certifications have impacted their careers and interactions with peers and students. We also looked at the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam experience and Microsoft certification exam prep resources. Participants posed some great questions, which you can view along with answers here.
We hope you'll take a few minutes during the upcoming holiday break to watch the webinar, and find out how you can polish your skills and make use of the free Microsoft certification exams included with your IT Academy benefits:
Check out past webinars available on demand, covering training with technology, guiding students toward technology careers, and other topics.
"Hour of Code" a Global Hit: "We are encouraged by the passion..."
More than 13 million students from around the world participated in Hour of Code, a week-long celebration of Computer Science Education Week aimed at exposing kids to computer science.
Microsoft hosted Hour of Code programs in partnership with Code.org at retail stores, and with YouthSpark partners.
You can watch a video of Microsoft EVP Brad Smith sharing the excitement with students and teachers at Fairwood Elementary School in Renton, Washington, and read a summary of Hour of Code, on Anthony Salcito's "daily edventures" blog.
Professional Development on Your Mind? Tune Into Thursday’s Webinar!
Staying ahead of the technology curve isn’t always easy in a world where technology evolves faster than school protocols. Tune into our next ITA Webinar, Thursday, December 12th (8-9 A.M. Pacific Time) to hear firsthand from educators on effective strategies and resources for professional development. Topics include:
Register today!
Motivate Students with “Hour of Code”—December 9-15
Spread the joy of coding with this week-long campaign that aims to demystify computer science for more than 10 million students of all ages. Through introductory tutorials that can be completed online, on a phone, or unplugged, Hour of Code offers exposure that can help ignite a lifelong passion for computer science. Learn more.
How Can Technology Assist in Teaching Common Core Standards?
Get ideas about where to start with implementing Common Core Standards (CSSS). This post on the Partners in Learning blog provides pointers to tools and apps for teaching CCSS for math and language arts, and for facilitating publishing, collaboration, and communication.
Let Techies Do Tech and Teachers Lead the Learning
Just what defines a successful technology installation in an education institution? According to education specialist Gerald Haigh, it’s one where technology experts provide the installation and teachers promote the “uptake.” Haigh advises:
Read the post on the Microsoft UK Schools Blog.
Video: 10th Microsoft Innovation and Education Conference in Vienna
Watch a recap of this meeting of 200 educators from diverse education organizations, including Innovative Teachers, School IT Administrators and others, on Microsoft VP of Worldwide Education Anthony Salcito’s “daily edventures” blog.
Get Tips on Professional Development—Sign Up for December’s Webinar!
Professional development is top-of-mind for today’s educators, especially those whose job is to teach the latest technologies. Tune into the next ITA Webinar, December 12th (8-9 A.M. Pacific Time) to hear firsthand from educators on strategies and resources for staying ahead of the technology curve, even with limited time and on fast-changing technology terrain.
Missed November’s “Cloud-based Learning” webinar? No worries—sign up to view the broadcast, or, if you've already registered, click here to access the presentation.
Washington’s Joint Base Lewis-McChord Celebrates First Graduates of Military ITA
U.S. Senator Patty Murray today congratulates 22 service members completing the inaugural Microsoft Software & Systems Academy program at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Lacey, Washington. Graduates of the pilot ITA-powered program for military service members will be offered entry-level roles as software testers by either Microsoft or Launch Consulting, the technology consulting firm administering the program. Senator Murray, a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, will deliver a keynote address at the ceremony.
Infographic: How to Implement Blended Learning, Version 2.0
How much do you know about blended learning—the fast-popularizing concept that calls for shifts in roles, structures, schedules, staffing, and budgets? Find out with this second-edition infographic from Digital Learning Now, and provide your two cents on the topic, on Anthony Salcito’s “daily eventures” blog.
Interested in Deploying Office 365 in Your School? Read This Q&A
The Microsoft UK Schools Blog shares this useful Office 365 “Ask the Expert” Q&A with Microsoft in education specialist Alex Pierce. Learn about Office 365 deployment (including how long it takes), administration and configuration, compliance, and more.
Windows Technology Gaining Popularity in the Classroom
With growing needs to inspire and motivate students while easing the classroom and curriculum management responsibilities of educators, schools are looking to Windows technology. Chester County School District in South Carolina is working with Microsoft to deploy tablets to all faculty and students, and Seton Hall University in New Jersey is providing Windows 8 and Windows Phone. Both schools aim to increase productivity, improve network security, and bolster students’ professional skills. Read the Microsoft in Education article.
Register Today for the December 12th IT Academy Webinar
Staying ahead of the technology curve is critical to delivering current and compelling lessons. With limited time outside the classroom and an ever-evolving technology landscape, how can educators keep their skills and knowledge current? Don’t miss our next webinar on December 12th (8-9 A.M. Pacific Time) to hear firsthand from educators on how best to polish your skills and where to find professional development resources to help you stay current, on your own time.
“Cloud-based Learning” Webinar Available on Demand
If you missed November’s ITA Webinar, “Delivering cloud-based, immersive learning experiences,” you can now watch it online, anytime. Get expert views on cloud-based training delivery methods and how Microsoft is creating a more immersive learning experience. Sign up to view the broadcast, or, if you've already registered, click here to access the presentation.
More News from Microsoft Education
Under Discussion: Britain’s Computer Science Skills Gap
Earlier this month the Association for School and College Leaders and Microsoft co-hosted the first Importance of Computer Science in the Curriculum Conference in the Microsoft London offices. The aim was to highlight the importance of computer science education and to advise schools on implementing relevant curricula. Read this post on the UK Further Education Blog to see how tech industry and education leaders are working together to curtail the skills gap, and what their next steps will be.
BBC News: Teachers First, then Technology
Last week Anthony Salcito, Vice President of Worldwide Education for Microsoft, sat down with BBC News to discuss why he believes schools should focus more on learning how to use technology in the classroom vs. acquiring more, new technology hardware.
We all know about IT Academy’s huge benefits for academic institutions, providing fundamental technology skills curricula and certifications for today’s evolving technology world. For educators and staff, this has meant professional development and the courses and tools to teach; and for students, technology skills and certifications to bolster their higher education and career readiness.
What’s newer—and now flourishing—is ITA’s extension into realms beyond the conventional classroom, into libraries, military bases partnering with local colleges, and workforce development offices. What began as a program for educators and students is now being looked to as a pivot for skills advancement for individuals on a broader career continuum.
“Technology is everywhere, and one out of two jobs today requires some degree of technology skills,” says Carrie Francey, Senior Director of Sales, Marketing and Programs for Microsoft Learning. “In less than 10 years, this number will increase to 3 out of every 4 jobs requiring IT skills.”
Adult technology education needs a boost, Francey says. “Many adults face the challenge of having never learned many of the technology skills that are present in some of the fastest-growing industries.”
Hawaii: The First Statewide Library IT Academy
Hawaii, the first state to initiate a statewide ITA, opened its HI Tech Academy in 2011. At the time, the program was expected to reach nearly one million State Public Library System cardholders and, according to the system’s website, “equip Hawaii’s library patrons with the technical skills needed to become more employable and successful in the 21st century workplace.”
Coursework that could be accessed online either in libraries or remotely gave participants the tools to build skills needed for 90% of the nation’s fastest growing jobs and relevant certifications, as well as advanced expertise in programming, web development, and database development. The implementation brought free access to 250 e-learning courses in English and multiple other languages.
Washington State joined Hawaii last week and is now geared up to serve cardholders at 385 libraries. (Read about it here.)
Arkansas: Pioneer in Workforce Development-based IT Academy
Another avenue for ITA expansion has been public workforce development. Arkansas led the way in 2012 with a statewide IT Academy program piloted in 20 high schools, 24 adult education centers, and 25 workforce centers.
Funded jointly by the Department of Career Education, the Department of Education, and the Department of Workforce Services, the program is poised to provide curricula, lab resources, teacher training, and certification materials for an anticipated 343 sites.
The program is customized to align with the state’s STEM Works program, aiming to improve STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education for K-12 students and equip Arkansas higher education institutions with the tools needed to better educate future K-12 teachers in STEM.
Importantly, with the expanded statewide program, individuals of all ages and at all career stages can acquire skills to enhance their employability.
“In this time of high-stakes exams, economic hardship, and changing demographics, it is more important than ever for students to understand how education or training beyond high school means a brighter future not only for themselves, but for their families and communities,” says the Arkansas Department of Career Education website.
In the Spotlight: Arkansas ITA Graduate Dawn Harris
When Dawn Harris lost her job, she did what many in her position would do: She turned to her state’s Department of Workforce Services.
Harris knew she could get trained to earn state workforce certificates in basic job skills, like résumé preparation, but she had an inkling she would need more to secure a stable job. That’s when she heard about ITA and “jumped at the opportunity.”
“I knew this could help me immensely, in both my search and in my proof of skills,” Harris said.
Soon she completed her Microsoft Office Specialist certification in Word, and then earned five Adult Education workforce certificates.
“Just a few days after passing my Word 2010 certification, I was referred by the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services to apply to Serco—an international service company that improves the quality and efficiency of essential services that matter to millions of people around the world,” Harris explained. “I was offered and accepted a position of General Clerk 3,” she said.
Thrilled about her success, she still wasn’t ready to stop training.
“While waiting for my start date, I have continued on in the Microsoft IT Academy,” Harris said. “I am now a Certified Office Specialist in both Word and Excel 2010. I hope to obtain my PowerPoint certification by the end of the week.”
And from there? “A supervisory role and eventually a management role,” she says.
Harris thanks IT Academy for providing access to resources otherwise hard to come by—“some of which I wouldn’t have access to from a financial standpoint,” she explained. “I found the opportunities and made the time, so onward and upward.”
Read more about ITA workforce development programs:
Microsoft’s Allyson Knox Makes the Case for STEM Education, to Congress
Microsoft Education Policy and Programs Director Allyson Knox testified before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade November 15th, regarding the critical role of STEM education in the U.S. for ensuring continued innovation and economic growth across industries—not just high tech.
Knox pointed out that the U.S. will soon generate more than 120,000 new jobs annually that require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and that last year our nation’s universities graduated just 52,000 students with such a degree. Microsoft’s youth and education-focused initiatives, such as IT Academy and YouthSpark, including TEALs, were examples of the sort of public-private partnerships needed to begin to alleviate the shortfall. Watch the testimony and find the script here.
If you missed last week’s ITA Webinar, “Delivering cloud-based, immersive learning experiences,” you can now watch it online, anytime. Get expert views on cloud-based training delivery methods and how Microsoft is creating a more immersive learning experience. Sign up to watch the webinar now.
Anambra, Nigeria IT Academy Breaking Ground
The Nigerian state of Anambra has launched an IT Academy as part of its Secondary Schools Microsoft Connectivity and Education program. The initiative will provide approximately 25,000 laptops, 1,400 color printers, and Internet connectivity to 450 secondary schools. The laptops are programmed with the national curriculum in all subjects. WaveTek Nigeria Limited will provide teachers the training and tools to run the program, which aims to boost students’ self-reliance and ultimately the state’s IT skill levels. Read more.
Microsoft Honors Expert Educators, Mentor Schools
Every year we recognize educators and schools leading the way in education innovation and in using technology to improve learning and student outcomes. This year we selected Expert Educators from more than 22,000 educators in 158 countries, and Mentor Schools from nearly 250 schools in 75 countries.
“We at Microsoft are deeply committed to doing whatever it takes to effect a holistic transformation of learning. This isn’t transformation for the sake of change. Rather, it’s about making a real impact on educational outcomes and offering young people—regardless of circumstance—a chance at a promising future,” said Anthony Salcito, vice president of Worldwide Education, on this TechNet blog post.
In the Spotlight: Canadian Expert Educator Jessie Mann
Jessie Mann is not only a high school teacher but a school technology coordinator and an Aboriginal Mentorship coordinator—overall a prime example of what it takes to be named an Expert Educator. While integrating technology seamlessly in her classroom and helping colleagues do the same, Mann also embraces new teaching tools such as social media. Above all, she applies passion and focus to her work. Read more on Anthony Salcito’ “daily edventures” blog.
Girls and Computer Science—The Story and How You Can Change It
It’s true, girls are holding themselves back from pursuing computer science, and the trend is on an upward tick. View this infographic for a glimpse of the situation and how you can change it.
Education Offers from Microsoft
Help Boost Student Success with Second Shot
Available now through June 30, 2014, the Second Shot exam offer allows students to retake a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam at no cost if they don’t pass the test the first time.
Second Shot is a prepaid voucher, limited to all MCP (073 series) exams. Second Shot is attached to all single exams and Volume Licensing. Offer expires June 30, 2014 for single Second Shot exams; the standard 12-month expiration applies for Volume Licensing. Get more details.
Student Advantage Offer: Office 365 ProPlusStarting December 1, 2013, Microsoft will be providing Office 365 ProPlus to students at no additional charge if all of their faculty and staff are already licensed for Office 2013 Professional Plus via an EES agreement or an Office 365 ProPlus subscription. More than 35,000 institutions worldwide will automatically qualify to deliver the Student Advantage benefit to their students. Learn more.
Youth are not the only U.S. population that commonly faces employment challenges. Along with them are members of the armed services transitioning to civilian life. A new IT Academy-based program, Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA), announced November 4, aims to ease service members’ transitions.
Currently being piloted on Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State, MSSA utilizes an IT Academy-powered curriculum developed by St. Martin’s University. The training focuses on high-demand skills, such as software testing, web development, database administration and IT administration, and takes place over 16 weeks, on the base. Participants train and prepare for Microsoft Certification exams—and they can pay for it using Department of Defense tuition reimbursement.
After successfully completing the training, qualified participants of the pilot program are granted entry-level jobs as software testers by either Microsoft or Launch Consulting, the technology firm administering the program, or they can pursue employment elsewhere.
MSSA was inspired by a bill signed into law in 2011, the “VOW to Hire Heroes Act,” which allows service members to begin the employment process before leaving duty. Washington Senator Patty Murray, who sponsored the bill, said she saw parallels between skills learned in the military and those needed in technology fields.
“The technology industry is a particularly great fit,” Senator Murray said. “This new program demonstrates that more employers see the value of what veterans offer, especially in jobs that require hard work and collaboration.”
MSSA merges well with the winding-down phase of military service—a time that can be stressful for service members who aren’t clear on how their military training applies to civilian jobs. It’s not unlike the uncertainty felt by students facing their first forays into the workforce.
The pilot program is slated to expand to bases in California and Texas in the near future, with other states to follow.
A Green Beret’s Story of Success-in-Progress
Staff Sergeant Adam Citterbart is one story of success in the making. Citterbart is a member of the elite U.S. Green Berets, and has training in Korean language and culture, survival, and radio/computer communications systems. Altogether, his training gives him leadership, technical, and problem-solving skills well suited for a career in technology.
Halfway through his most recent deployment in Afghanistan, Citterbart heard about MSSA. Then, while home for the birth of his daughter in summer 2013, he applied to the pilot program. That initiated his journey to launch a new career while still in active service.
“To get into this career, you couldn't ask for a better offer,” said Sergeant Citterbart. “The best thing about this program is that it’s 16 weeks training for a new job rather than searching for one, as service members usually need to do.”
Read more about MSSA:
MSSA in the News:
By Carrie Francey, Senior Director of Sales, Marketing & Programs, Microsoft Learning Experience
Today, November 12th, Microsoft announced a partnership with the Washington State Library to bring Microsoft’s IT Academy online training to more than 385 libraries statewide. The industry-leading technology training will be available to Washingtonians to help prepare them for success in a global workplace that grows more tech-dependent each day.
Technology is everywhere, and one out of two jobs today requires some degree of technology skills. In less than 10 years, this number will increase to three out of every four jobs requiring IT skills. Meanwhile, among 18- to 34-year-olds who are employed, less than half say they have the education and training necessary to get ahead in their job or career, according to Pew Research Center.
Washington is one of 10 states that has adopted Microsoft IT Academy to help students develop these important skills. It began offering IT Academy in Washington public schools across the state in September 2011. Since that time, more than 16,000 certifications have been earned by Washington public school students and teachers, with nearly 11,600 of those earned in the 2012-13 school year.
Many adults face the challenge of having never learned many of the technology skills that are present in some of the fastest-growing industries. With the launch of the Washington State Library Microsoft IT Academy, Washington becomes the first state to offer the IT Academy program through both its high schools and its libraries.
Through IT Academy, Washingtonians have access to free training in three levels of technology courses: basic digital literacy proficiencies, Microsoft Office training and advanced skills for IT professionals. There are 15,000 IT Academy institutions in 133 countries around the world, reaching 8.5 million students and educators every year.
Over the last twelve months, we issued 1.4 million certifications, and we are seeing daily examples of success. At a time when everyone needs these types of skills to succeed in their economic future, Microsoft’s IT Academy provides a vital path to employment, and we are proud to make this available to everyone in Washington.
Learn more:
Free Microsoft IT Academy Webinar this Thursday (11/14): Cloud-Based Learning for Your Classroom - Register Today!
Join us this Thursday, November 14 from 8-9 A.M. Pacific Time for the fourth webinar in our monthly series. Keith Loeber, Director of the Microsoft IT Academy, and cloud-based learning experts will discuss how you can enhance technology training with cloud learning tools and resources available to you today.
Highlights will include:
Don't miss this informative and engaging discussion. Sign up today!
IT Academy Teacher Review: William Goldsmith, Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School
Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School is a co-educational grammar school in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. Last week, the Microsoft UK team sat down with William Goldsmith, Head of ICT, to discuss how the IT Academy Program has had an impact on the school and its pupils. Read the interview.
Announcing the 2014 Microsoft Office Specialist World ChampionshipQualify for a chance for your students to represent your school, district and country at the next Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championships in Anaheim, California, USA from July 27 – 30, 2014! The Certiport Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship is an excellent opportunity for your students to showcase Microsoft Office Word, Excel and PowerPoint skills, have some fun, impress student colleagues and gain recognition.
Learn more about this fantastic opportunity!
Student Advantage Offer: Office 365 ProPlus
Starting December 1, 2013, Microsoft will be providing Office 365 ProPlus to students at no additional charge if all of their faculty and staff are already licensed for Office 2013 Professional Plus via an EES agreement or an Office 365 ProPlus subscription. More than 35,000 institutions worldwide will automatically qualify to deliver the Student Advantage benefit to their students. Learn more.
November Webinar Coming Up! Explore Cloud-based Learning for Your Classroom
Just how is technology training delivery evolving with the capabilities of cloud? Find out during November’s webinar, Thursday, November 14 (8–9 A.M. Pacific Time). Sign up to see firsthand Microsoft’s take on a more immersive learning experience.
STEM for the Ages: New Infographic Shows STEM Facts to Teach By
Over the past 10 years, growth in STEM jobs has outpaced growth in other areas by 300%—and STEM workers enjoy higher earnings, regardless of their occupations. See these and other STEM facts illustrated on Microsoft VP of Worldwide Education Anthony Salcito’s daily edventures blog. The long and short of it: STEM matters, and educators can inspire students to pursue STEM careers.
Microsoft “DigiGirlz” Alumna Abril Vela Hailed as STEM Mentor
Seventeen-year-old Abril Vela, from Chicago, went from participating in DigiGirlz, a Microsoft YouthSpark program for high school girls, to mentoring. Passionate about getting more young women involved in STEM, Abril also manages Chicago Girls in Computing and has led two all-girls robotics teams and helped create computer science curriculums for middle and elementary school students.
In the Spotlight: Alabama’s First Student MOS Master Bryan Keenum
Decatur High School sophomore Bryan Keenum has gained local celebrity after becoming the state’s first student to achieve MOS Master Certification in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access, through IT Academy. The Alabama Department of Education launched its IT Academy program during the 2012-13 school year and tapped Decatur High to pilot.
Outside of school, Keenum moonlights as a technology tutor. He hopes to go into web design or technology management someday. “This just puts me one step ahead,” he says. Read more.
Q&A with Children’s App Innovator Umesh Shukla
“While designing apps and the embedded experiences within them, I realized that a new way of teaching children has arrived,” explains Umesh Shukla, the founder of Auryn, Inc., a digital publisher that creates children’s interactive stories for tablet devices (available for download on the Apps for Windows Store). “The potential that these new devices offer can unleash a boundless expansion in education, affecting every aspect.” Read the interview.
Can Technology Change Education? Yes!
Hear tech industry veteran Raj Chingra’s speech at TEDxBend. Dhingra has a decades-long history of pioneering leadership roles in new and emerging categories. In this TEDx talk, he share three stories about inspiring education leaders—dreamers and doers, all. See the talk.
At the IT Academy October webinar, we shared new trends in technology hiring, and why the workforce is experiencing a "technology skills gap" that's keeping critical job openings unfilled. Joining us for engaging insight and discussion was Maureen Majury, director for the Center of Excellence for Information and Computing Technology at Bellevue College in Bellevue, Washington. Maureen shared up-to-the-minute insights from her work in supporting successful outcomes for students in technology training.
The following Q&A with Maureen includes excerpts and infographics from the webinar, now available to view on-demand.
What is the Center of Excellence for Information and Computing Technology (CoE for ICT)?
The Center is a statewide resource for community and technical colleges in the State of Washington and “a statewide liaison to business, industry, labor, and the state’s educational systems for the purpose of creating a highly skilled and readily available workforce critical to the success of the industries driving the state’s economy and supporting Washington families.”
We work hand in hand with the IT industry to inform and keep our IT programs across the state up-to-date and to anticipate emerging trends and new technologies.
How would you describe the technology skills gap and employment demand in Washington State?
The top 10 IT occupations Washington State employers currently have the most trouble recruiting for are:
The chart below compares demand for these occupations.
Source: Center of Excellence for Information & Computing Technology March 2013 IT Skills Gap Forum
The Washington State Department of Labor indicates that by 2020:
In all these instances, in Washington State, our number of job openings is higher than the national projections for these same occupations.
How do your findings compare to national and global IT employment trends?
The Center sees the same demand for IT jobs internationally that it sees in Washington State. This is from Georgetown University, a June 2013 white paper on job growth and educational requirements:
You can compare the in-demand IT skills from 2013 and 2014 below… and you see there is not a lot of difference between 2013 and 2014.
Source: Computerworld
The chart below, showing the top eight in-demand IT skills for 2014, reflects a small re-ordering of the skills, but they are consistent with 2013. Again we see programming and application development, helpdesk, and technical support...then moving on, networking, mobile applications and device management, project management, database administration, security, business intelligence and analytics. So globally, IT skills demand is just as strong.
And here’s a snapshot of other countries' demand for IT workers, by occupation and country.
Source: Careerbuilder
The following job creation numbers are from the Global Information Technology Report 2013 by the World Economic Forum and INSEAD, an International graduate business school:
And then moving onto trends, you can refer the infographic below to learn about some of the trends to pay attention to. Many of these focus on the big four technology business drivers: mobile technology, business analytics or big data, cloud computing and social businesses.
For mobile devices, the days of forcing customers to use particular solutions is over. Successful companies will now have to put content and services on the devices consumers have, where and when they want them. This integration will continue to provide growth opportunities within IT.
Moving to the cloud, Juniper Research has indicated:
As for cloud services, there will be an increased need for security as well as the ability to leverage the technology. Moving to business analytics and big data, obviously there is an overwhelming amount of data that needs to be handled appropriately, that's why it's called big. Big data has taken off and will continue to grow, and data warehousing and BI (business intelligence tools that are not based on SQL or Structured Query Language) will grow even more in the next few years.
And finally, social businesses. With social media site use, including retail and news, smart advertising and user data collection is being incorporated into every website and most apps. Technology pros need to understand how to use and leverage technologies to make products profitable as hardware margins continue to decline due to the competition.What are the soft skills that are key to landing jobs in today's economy?
The following chart shows a breakdown of soft skills most in demand among employers worldwide. In short, these skills include: communication, interpersonal, analytical/problem solving, team playing, organization, independent working, flexibility, creativity, learning ability.
Source: IEEE Computer Society
What guidance do you have for institutions on how best to ensure their graduates are on a path to successful careers? Students can find valuable resources on a Center-sponsored website called Your Future in IT. It contains a number of good tools and resources such as an IT career survey, tips for preparing for a technology career, help with finding college and university programs, and other resources.
Along with academics related to a specific technology path, we encourage students to participate in relevant extracurricular activities. These not only add to understanding but also increase their ability to advance in academic and career pathways. Microsoft has an especially strong and broad array of certifications. Washington State has worked with Microsoft to have Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) and the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) programs offered through IT Academy.
Maureen Majury was a featured panelist at Microsoft Insights this past Tuesday--an online event designed to help both technology newcomers and veterans chart their technology training path. Encourage your colleagues and students to register to view the broadcast on-demand. The event featured a wealth of technology trends and career tips from leading experts in the technology career field.
North Carolina Hits 100,000 Microsoft Certifications Through IT Academy
After launching the country’s first statewide Microsoft IT Academy program three years ago, North Carolina has hit another remarkable milestone: 100,000 Microsoft Certifications.
State Superintendent of Public Schools June Atkinson celebrated the success with Microsoft, teachers and students this week at last week’s Microsoft YouthSpark Connections event at North Carolina State University in Raleigh.
Atkinson credited IT Academy with both refining students’ technology skills and making North Carolina a leader in technology education. “Thanks to this partnership, our state is a national leader in providing students and teachers the opportunity to earn industry-recognized professional certifications, boost their résumés and become more competitive for jobs in today’s economy,” the superintendent said.
High schools in 29 counties piloted the IT Academy program in fall 2010. The following spring, 72 counties started IT Academies, and by fall 2011 the program went statewide.
Currently 51,000 students are enrolled in IT Academy courses—one in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, and one in Excel and Access. These courses recently replaced Computer Applications I and II, among the state’s largest electives in Career and Technical Education. A new course in Microsoft SharePoint and Outlook is scheduled to launch in spring 2014.
Many counties are cheering their own successes under the statewide program. Here are some student and teacher certification totals that have made the news waves.
The map below shows number of certifications by school district (click to enlarge):
Source: Public Schools of North Carolina
More information:
Pay Rising for Technology Occupations, Study Shows
A new study by Robert Half Technology shows that technology salaries are increasing. While salaries are expected to rise an average of 3.7 percent in 2014 across accounting/finance, technology, legal, creative and administrative jobs, the positions with the highest increases will be engineering, software development, and programming. Pay increases for mobile app developers and software developers are expected to top 8 percent.
Read more.
Surface 2, Windows 8.1: Noted Benefits for Students and Educators
Wondering how the Surface 2 stacks up against the older generation Surface, for education? Read this post from Higher Innovation detailing top three ways.
The Microsoft UK Schools blog has also published an infographic on the benefits of Windows 8.1 for educators, such as support for BYOD initiatives. See the full infographic.
T Minus 1—Microsoft Insights Is Tomorrow, October 29th!
Attend Microsoft Insights tomorrow, October 29th (9 A.M. Pacific Time) to zero in on your next career move and enter a sweepstakes to win a Microsoft Certification exam pack. A panel of industry experts will provide tips on emerging opportunities in technology fields and relevant training—useful for technology newcomers and veterans alike.
Sign up and attend, and you’ll be automatically entered into a sweepstakes to win a Certification exam pack for your choice of MCSA: Windows Server 2012; MCSA: SQL Server 2012; MCSA: Windows 8; or any MCSD Certification. Check out the rules for more details.
Did you know that 50% of today’s jobs require technology skills, and that percentage is expected to increase to 77% in the next decade? (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) Or that among 18- to 34-year-olds employed in 2012, less than half (46%) said they had the education and training necessary to get ahead in their job or career? (Pew Research Center, February 2012) These findings, along with a clear upward trend in technology hiring, show we’re experiencing what’s commonly known as a “technology skills gap.”
Missed the October webinar? No worries—you can watch it on demand. If you’re registered, log in here. If you’re not yet registered, sign up now.
If you missed our October 10th webinar—“The skills gap in the technology workforce, and how educators can guide students toward a successful career”—you missed a fantastic overview of the situation and training that can help us collectively overcome it. By detailing the skills gap locally (in Washington State) and globally, and presenting entry level Microsoft Certifications for students, guest speakers Peggy Hayes and Maureen Majury essentially led us to a solution.
The Solution Is Training
Here are some more eye-opening technology hiring facts our guests shared:
Peggy M. Hayes, Product Marketing Manager for Certiport, provided background on our two Microsoft entry-level certifications designed to help students on their career path:
Download the Study The State of the IT Industry PowerPoint presentation focuses on technology trends and their impact on nine in-demand IT career pathways, as well as technical knowledge and skills of prospective employees identified with associated ratings of importance and difficulty in finding.
Download the study and supporting research.
Underpinning the need for exactly this type of training was the plethora of facts presented by Maureen Majury, Director of the Center for Excellence for Information and Computing, headquartered at Bellevue College. Along with figures highlighting the worldwide technology skills gap, Maureen detailed the technology skills most in demand. She shared the following:
Here at IT Academy, we know that to some extent we’re preaching to the choir: You’re reading this because you have a vested interest in your students’ futures and the overall well-being of your regional or national economy—or perhaps beyond that, the global economy. And you know that training can provide needed support for success.
With that in mind, why not share the recorded webinar with your connections on Facebook and Twitter? And be sure to join us for our next monthly webinar November 14th—“Delivering cloud-based, immersive learning experiences for your students.” You can sign up here.
Kind regards,
Keith Loeber
Chance to Win an Exam Certification Pack! Attend Microsoft Insights October 29th
Here’s a fantastic opportunity for students to hone professional goals and win a free certification exam pack. Microsoft Insights—October 29th (9 A.M. Pacific Time)—is a free online event designed to help both technology newcomers and veterans chart their technology training path. A panel of industry experts will provide tips on emerging opportunities in technology fields and relevant training and resources. And they’ll answer these questions:
Encourage your students to sign up and attend, and they'll be automatically entered into a sweepstakes to win a certification exam pack for their choice of MCSA: Windows Server 2012; MCSA: SQL Server 2012; MCSA: Windows 8; or any MCSD Certification. Check out the rules for more details.
IT Academies in the News
Jamaican Vocational School “VTDI” Opens Second IT AcademyThe HEART Trust Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI) has launched its second Microsoft IT Academy, in Gordon Town, St. Andrew, Jamaica. The first one opened in Montego Bay, St. James. Approximately 200 students are expected to benefit from the new program. Read the article.
Education News from Microsoft
Webinar: Understanding the Learning Strategies of the 21st Century Learner
Microsoft Partners in Learning is hosting a free online event, October 23, 7-8 A.M. or 5-6 P.M. Pacific Time, featuring guest speakers Pat Wyman, Bonnie Terry, and Susan Kruger. The panel will discuss the top strategies 21st-century learners for succeeding in school and the workplace, and technology strategies that enhance learning.
During the webinar, copies of Amazing Grades will be given away to the first three attendees who ask questions. Amazing Grades is a book with contributions from 101 authors from 13 countries and a special bonus chapter by Nasha Fitter, Worldwide Lead of Microsoft Innovative Schools Program.
Sign up now.
Microsoft launched its "Workforce Readiness Campaign" in conjunction with EDUCAUSE last week in Anaheim, California; and IT Academy participated in both events. Two pieces of news followed us home. First, a new IDC white paper study—Skills Requirements for Tomorrow’s Best Jobs: Helping Educators Provide Students with Skills and Tools They Need—has identified 20 of the most common skills in demand for the top 60 high-growth, high-salary jobs of the future. These jobs are expected to account for 11.5 million new hires and 28% of job growth by 2020. Skills cited in the report include:
Not surprisingly, Microsoft Office skills rank high. The study also makes clear that tomorrow’s jobs are going to require both hard and soft skills—a message we try to signal often on Born to Learn but can be lost in the mix when covering the critical and growing technology skills gap. The study highlights how education leaders need to consider the value of technology for building skills required in the workplace versus acquiring technology to check it off a list. In other words, educators need to put the technology to full use. We were thrilled that an ITA graduate from Utah was featured in this campaign, as highlighted on the Microsoft on the Issues blog in an article by Cameron Evans, chief technology officer, U.S. Education.
Where IT Academy Comes In
With 15,000 programs in 130 countries, IT Academy reaches 8.5 million students and educators every year. In the past 12 months, we’ve issued 1.4 million certifications including Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), which covers the universally applicable Microsoft Office skills cited in the IDC study.
Triumphs come to the fore every day. One recent story comes from Utah, where Dallas Pederson landed a technical job with American Red Cross after receiving certification in high school. A year later he took a job with Executech as a network administrator/IT Consultant.
“Experience is everything in IT and certifications are the quickest way to get you on your way,” Dallas says.
Read more about the study:
Watch the October 10th Webinar—“Guiding Students Toward a Successful Career”—On Demand
Did you miss the second webinar in our monthly series? No worries—watch it now, on demand. Hosted by Keith Loeber, Director of Microsoft IT Academy, this hour-long discussion features special guests Peggy Hayes, Product Marketing Manager for Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) for Certiport, and Maureen Majury, Director of the Center for Excellence for Information and Computing, headquartered at Bellevue College. Keith and guests shared new research on technology career opportunities and recommendations on how educators can help propel students toward their first career.
Sign up to view the broadcast, or, if you've already registered, click here to access the presentation.
Penn State IT Academy to Help Ease Professional Development Budget
Penn State has teamed up with Microsoft IT Academy to provide free e-learning courses to all university faculty, staff and students. The new online training enables faculty and staff across the university to obtain free vouchers to test for Microsoft certification. Penn State Director of ITS Training Services Chris Lucas calls IT Academy an extremely valuable resource “in a time when professional development budgets are a very real concern.” Read the article.
Rasmussen College School of Technology Allied with IT Academy
Rasmussen College School of Technology has also started an IT Academy and other technology career-prep programs. Together the new programs will provide access to more than 20 industry certifications as well as opportunities for faculty professional development and certification in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Read more.
Microsoft to Participate in EDUCAUSE: Anaheim, October 15-18
Microsoft will be at EDUCAUSE 2013, October 15-18, in Anaheim, California. Join us in Booth 1201 to try out some of our latest products, including Microsoft Surface, or come meet us at the following sessions.
Learn more about EDUCAUSE.
Ontario’s Workforce Skills Gap Costing Billions
In Ontario, Canada, what workers do on the job doesn’t always match what they’re trained to do, and it’s costing the region and workers up to CA$4.1 billion in foregone GDP and $627 million in provincial tax revenues annually, according to a report by the Conference Board of Canada.
The report lists critical thinking/problem solving and computer use among top skills needed to fill the workplace skills gap. And it calls information and network technology professional the third most difficult position to fill. Read more.
Q&A with Lucas Moffitt, Education Technologist
Lucas Moffitt is a Newcastle, Australia-based software developer who created Lesson Plan Manager, one of a series of connected apps designed to support educators. Lesson Plan Manager enables teachers to create fully customized lesson plans, share them with students and colleagues, and monitor lesson timing while data is synchronized to the cloud. Learn more about the app and Lucas’ perspectives on innovation in education on Anthony Salcito's “daily edventures” blog.
Youth unemployment is rising. For educators, this begs the question: "How can I best equip students for a competitive hiring landscape?" For tech educators, the challenge may seem tougher, since they're dealing with such fast-evolving terrain.
Join us October 10th (8-9 A.M. Pacific Time) for our second webinar—“The skills gap in the technology workforce, and how educators can guide students toward a successful career—to get a holistic view of the situation. Our panel of experts will discuss worldwide trends in technology hiring and the value of training and certification in face of these trends. And they’ll zero in on ways that educators can counsel students toward success.
Unemployment Is Rising, but So Is Tech Hiring
The good news, amid rising unemployment, is that tech skills continue to be in demand. During our discussion we’ll look at global technology employment projections and what they mean for technology educators. Here’s a sampling:
Our Guest Speakers Have Their Fingers on the Pulse
Joining us for the webinar will be Maureen Majury, the Director of the Center for Excellence for Information and Computing, headquartered at Bellevue College. The Center for Excellence is an information resource and solutions-provider that promotes best practices for ICT education and training as well as K-20 faculty professional development.
Also joining us will be Peggy Hayes, Product Marketing Manager for Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) for Certiport. Peggy’s background includes 25 years of marketing management in high tech and online companies.
Maureen will draw from her extensive research on career opportunities for students in technology, and she'll share tips for educators on counseling students down a successful career path. We’ll look at some real-world examples of how Microsoft Certifications such as MOS and MTA are giving career-ready students a leg up into their first technology job and a competitive advantage, overall.
As always, everyone affiliated with an academic institution—IT Academy members and others—are invited to attend. We hope you’ll take a moment to register (if you haven’t already) and sign up for this valuable discussion on how you can guide students toward success.
By signing up, you’ll gain access not only to this live program, but to prerecorded webinars such as our September 2013 program, available on-demand. View the monthly webinar agenda to see what’s in store this academic year. It’s a full program!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.
Microsoft Certification Gives High School Students an Edge—Meet a Store Employee Who Got an Early Start
Note: This article was originally published on the Microsoft JobsBlog.
Young technology enthusiasts are discovering the value of Microsoft Certification for launching a career. Training programs such as Microsoft IT Academy—one of several options for high-school students—provide knowledge, resources and inroads right out of the gate.
Ryan Miguel is a case in point. Ryan is a Microsoft retail store employee who started on his certification path while looking for electives to fill his high-school schedule. He happened upon two Microsoft Office Specialist courses—one in for Microsoft Word and another for Excel—and he was off! We asked Ryan to describe his experience.
What is the value of Microsoft Certification?
I liked technology but I didn’t realize I had an aptitude for Microsoft Office programs until I took these courses. I competed at the Microsoft Office Specialist World Championships. It’s the largest international competition in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint.
Winning a medal in the MOS championships built my confidence and showed me I was really good at using these programs efficiently—one of the best in the world. For me, finding this strength guided the path I took after high school.
Are you seeing a direct translation between certification and employment?
I enrolled in college at Western Connecticut State and majored in Management Information Systems. A few years later, a Microsoft store opened in my hometown of Danbury, Connecticut. I was hired as a part-time employee, and every day I put my Microsoft Office knowledge to good use as a product advisor at the Danbury Microsoft retail store.
I am lucky my high school offered this type of learning opportunity. Mastering Microsoft programs in high school put me one step ahead of my peers as I graduated and looked for a job. Now I have a clear career path.Have you signed up for the free Microsoft IT Academy Webinar series? Sign up now! On October 10th, a panel of technology education and career experts will discuss “Guiding Students Toward a Successful Career in Technology.”
The IT Academy 2013-2014 Webinar Series got off to an exciting start in September, with “Training with Technology: Using technology within the classroom to engage and motivate students.” Among our featured speakers was Peter Sigmund, CIO of La Salle College High School in Pennsylvania. Peter shared how the school is using Surface devices to improve student performance. We got the sense there was more to his story—and in it, an inspiration for other teachers. So we followed up with some more questions. Here are his answers.
The Technology program at La Salle College High School has been recognized as a model for Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Certification. What’s unique about your program?
At La Salle, we aim to be one of the most successful Microsoft IT Academies by combining our high certification rate in advanced MTA server and development certifications with our unique Lab Manager program. Our students receive hands-on experiential learning by working as a team, side-by-side with our network administrator and CIO, running a 1,600+ user network. For example, our entire email move to Office 365 was entirely student-run.
Currently, we are working with Data Protection Manager 2012 to back up all of our systems to the Microsoft Azure Cloud. To provide redundancy for our Office 365 deployment, the Lab Managers and I are discussing moving some of our critical servers as well.
How many students achieve MTA certification each year?
Over 100.
Your program offers a strong focus on experiential learning. What aspects are in place to support this objective?
The Lab Manager Program at La Salle is one-of-a-kind in combining the official IT Academy Server classes with real-life experiential learning. This hands-on approach makes La Salle one of the most innovative schools in the country and perhaps the world. The program is based on the principles of a sports team, but applied to the world of technology. Through it, the students themselves help run the school network by solving everyday technology issues and fixing critical technical problems.
The administration was initially hesitant about giving students full permissions to the network, but [we] assured them that by placing [the students] in a real-world scenario, they could utilize their talents fully and gain real experience in running a 1,600 user network. To this day, the Lab Manager Program remains one of La Salle’s proudest student programs.
How has the Lab Manager Program prepared students for successful careers?
Our IT Academy classes and Lab Manager Program are focused on preparing students to enter IT leadership classes at major universities. We see our students making a difference in the IT world as experienced members and strong leaders. Although they may believe otherwise, we warn our students about the temptation of entering the industry right after high school, and the so-called “glass ceiling” that they will face without a college degree. On a positive note, colleges and universities are incredibly impressed with our unique program, and many a lab manager has been recruited by high-level universities for technology.
Educators are always looking for ways to present curricula in an engaging, immersive way. What tools and technologies have you implemented to provide students with the highest quality experience?
When it comes to the Lab Manager program, there’s nothing like real-world experience, and our lab managers work with the latest in cutting-edge technology. Once again, we have been invited to work with Microsoft to deploy and validate Windows Server vNext prior to the public beta release of the product. La Salle is the only academic institution participating in the Windows Server vNext Microsoft Technology Adoption Program (TAP), joining a place among some of the largest companies and government agencies around the world.
Looking forward, tell us where you and your school want to take the Surface RT program. How do you and your school plan on growing the program?
Interesting changes are already in effect at La Salle College High School. Our Surface RT deployment program has been so successful this year that we are already considering issuing devices to the class of 2018. With the students using laptops and Surface tablets more often during the school day and in class, we have begun to rethink the conventional computer lab design.
In the coming years, we hope to retire many of our existing computer labs and use them solely for our high-level server classes, which require the use of virtual machines for training. Our faculty also remains up-to-date on the newest technology, as we will continue to train them to use Windows 8.1 and integrate student devices in the classroom.
The La Salle student of the future will be mobile and informed by having constant access to the resources of the Internet. By relying more on easily portable electronic textbooks, we will reduce the need for heavy book bags, and through the use of OneNote and the cloud, students will have access to all their notes on-the-go without having to carry around bulky notebooks. It’s an exciting time to be at La Salle College High School!
IT Academy member institutions are sometimes limited by resources or budget to grow technology programs as rapidly as they’d like. What are a few ways that a school can rapidly and economically implement programs that improve the teaching of 21st century skills?
[At La Salle], while the students gain great experience in running an advanced network, the administration is able to maximize efficiency while minimizing cost. In this way, a two-person adult IT staff can function like a 30 person team.
Peter R. Sigmund, MCSE ‘85 is the Chief Information Officer for La Salle College High School which is located just outside of Philadelphia. Peter has been at La Salle 22 years and, prior to becoming the Chief Information Officer, he was the head rowing coach for the La Salle Rowing Program. He has been certified in Microsoft networking technologies since 1999. Currently Peter serves as the “head coach” of the Student Lab Manager Program that has been featured as one of the top innovative school programs in the country by the Microsoft Partners in Learning Network. Peter is the professor of IT Academy classes for the Microsoft Technical Associate and Microsoft Certified Professional courses.
Braden Bonner, MCP ’07, who helped answer these questions, is the Network and Website Administrator for La Salle College High School. Braden is an alumnus of the Student Lab Manager Program and, since he returned to La Salle in 2011, has been a key figure in teaching networking technology to the student team. Braden works side by side with Peter Sigmund as an “assistant coach” to the Student Lab Manager Team, and provides core technical teaching on the production La Salle IT Network.
Did you miss the September webinar? Sign up and view it on demand now.
When Eric Franz started teaching Microsoft IT Academy courses three years ago, he “saw the opportunity and just jumped in.” The same go-getter stance underlies his advice to students: “Don’t be afraid of taking the test. Study up and, chances are, you will pass.”
Eric is a 16-year CTE instructor and IT Facilitator for the Yakima School District in Washington State. After an impressive show of dedication—offering preparation for Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification to approximately 400 teachers, staff, and others at 24 schools—he recently earned the 2013 Washington IT Academy Outstanding Achievement scholarship from the Washington Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE).
The award recognizes an achievement in testing success, certification success, certification ratio to student population, or progression of student certification to Microsoft Office Expert or Microsoft Technology Associate.
Along with offering twice-a-week, hands-on training, both one-on-one and in groups of up to 30, Eric helps teachers with proctoring exams.
“I love doing professional development, especially when they say, ‘I wish I knew that about five days ago,’” he said.
Way to go, Eric!
Is there an IT Academy instructor at your school who you think deserves recognition? Send us a note!
The October Webinar Is One Week Away—Register today!
Join us next Thursday, October 10th from 8-9 A.M. Pacific Time for the second webinar in our monthly series. Keith Loeber, Director of the Microsoft IT Academy, and certification industry experts will discuss the skills gap in the technology workforce, and how educators can guide students toward a successful career.
Special guest Maureen Majury--Director for the Center of Excellence for Information and Computing Technology (CoE for ICT) hosted at Bellevue College—will share job growth trends and ways to optimize curriculum and training to the needs of employers today.
Watch the September Webinar—“Training with Technology”—On-demand
If you missed September’s event, “Training with Technology,” you can watch it on-demand by registering or, if you’ve already signed up, by logging in here.
Second Shot Is Back to Help Students Succeed
Available now through June 30, 2014, Second Shot allows students to retake an exam for free if they don’t pass the first time.
Second Shot is a prepaid voucher, limited to all MCP (073 series) exams. Second Shot is attached to all single exams and certifications purchased through Volume Licensing. Offer expires June 30, 2014 for single Second Shot exams; the standard 12-month expiration applies for Volume Licensing.
Don’t delay—get more details and take advantage of this offer while it lasts.
New Zealand Students Reap Rewards from IT Academy
In March 2013, the New Zealand Ministry of Education rolled out a nationwide IT Academy pilot program by inviting schools to apply for free access to the IT Academy program. Ten schools were selected to participate in the pilot based on criteria that included potential to accelerate progress for priority learners. Since then, the schools that have launched classroom programs have reported early successes, including a strong increase in information technology literacy.
As reported in the New Zealand Education Gazette, students have achieve hundreds of certifications, and an IT Academy student at Tauhara College, Taupo, represented New Zealand at the 2013 Microsoft Office World Championships—an achievement earned by outscoring thousands of others in the Microsoft Office Specialist certification exam—where he placed 8th overall.
Congratulations to all participants in the New Zealand pilot program. We’ll continue to report achievements across the country as the program expands to new schools.
Windows 8 Deployment Planning—A Guide for Education
If your school is considering adding or upgrading devices running Windows 8, be sure to download the Windows 8 Deployment Planning Guide. Designed for IT pros, school administrators, and other faculty members, this guide covers the key considerations and questions that should be answered as a part of a typical Windows 8 deployment.
This guide contains advice on how to deploy Windows 8 in education—covering the technical aspects that an IT team will need to know to easily and securely deploy Windows 8 to existing and new computers in a school or university. Download the guide today.
Europe Taking a Hard Look at How to Empower Youth, Increase Competitiveness
The challenge of youth unemployment isn’t just Europe’s problem. The worldwide youth unemployment rate is expected to click upward to 12.8 percent by 2018, according to the International Labour Organization’s report, Global Employment Trends for Youth 2013.
On the Daily Edventures blog, Anthony Sacito shares a new video interview with Maria Badia I Cuchet, MEP, discussing how government, businesses, and education in the European Union need to adapt to the demands of a global, digital society to empower youth and improve Europe’s economic outlook. Technology, skills and training lead the list of ways to jumpstart innovation, sustainable growth, and workers’ employability.
Microsoft Event Sparks Commentary on Importance of STEM Education
On September 25th, Microsoft hosted a discussion among policy makers, educators, and industry leaders to address approaches to modernize and elevate the teaching profession to meet the demands of a globally competitive world, at the Microsoft Innovation & Policy Center in Washington, D.C. Programs such as Microsoft’s TEALS and Partners in Learning initiatives, the CityBridge-NewSchools Education Innovation Fellowship, TLINC, UMUC’s teacher certification programs and TEACH.org drew attention as examples of strong, forward-looking programs.
Code.org’s Pat Yongpradit, a former computer science teacher, spoke about the need for better STEM education in order to keep the United States competitive. Watch the video and read more about the event.
Register Today for the October 10th IT Academy Webinar
Will your students have the workforce-ready skills for a career after graduation? Join Keith Loeber, Director of the Microsoft IT Academy, and certification industry experts at the next IT Academy webinar on October 10th (8-9 A.M. Pacific Time) for an engaging discussion on the value of training and certification to guide students toward a successful career. Panelists will discuss how the shift to cloud computing is creating a skills gap that certified students are well suited to fill, and real-world examples of how Microsoft Certifications are giving career-ready students a competitive advantage.
Watch the blog for more details and sign up today!
New Book: MOS 2013 Study Guide for Microsoft Excel Expert
You and your students can prepare to demonstrate expertise with Microsoft Office using this all-in-one study guide. Designed to prepare for the 2013 Excel Expert Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exams, it features:
Announcing Imagine Cup 2014—Registration Now Open
Microsoft’s premier global student technology competition is back! Your team could win US$50,000 and a trip to Seattle in July for the World Finals. Learn about the new challenges and register today.
U.K. Student Video Highlights Value of MTA Certification, Microsoft Apprenticeship
The Microsoft Apprentice Program is designed to give high school students the opportunity to develop the skills, experiences, and networks that are critical to any professional career. Teens gain invaluable skills and experience as they work with teams on projects that directly impact the partner company they work for.
One recent participant, U.K. student Tom Davis, offered a video testimonial of his experience in the program. Watch the video to hear about the “truly great experience out in the working world” Tom has had while serving as an apprentice for Microsoft partner Adatis Consulting, Ltd.
Microsoft Announces Expanded Resources Through YouthSpark Initiative
After a successful first year of building opportunities for youth around the world, Microsoft YouthSpark is increasing access to computer science education through expansion of TEALS (Technology Education And Literacy in Schools) and providing an enhanced digital literacy and technology skills curriculum through YouthSpark Hub.
In the U.S., TEALS expansion will more than double the number of high schools where software engineers are voluntarily partnering with in-service faculty to teach basic and advanced placement computer science courses. The expansion now includes 70 schools in 12 states, with 280 volunteers that will teach 3,000 students during the 2013-2014 school year. Learn more.
Since its launch in September 2012, YouthSpark has created new education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities for 103 million young people around the world.
Students Become Proud Programmer’s at App Day
App Day is a volunteer-run “DIY” programming event, where students come together to program their first apps using their own phones, tablets, or laptops. The goal is to promote computer science literacy from an early age and within the context of public education. Read more, and watch this video featuring App Day at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle.
IT Academy is pleased to introduce the first of a series of guest bloggers, Randy Richards. Randy is Senior Director of Marketing at Certiport, a 20-year veteran of high technology, and a pundit on the value of technology certification in education. Welcome, Randy!
Achieving college- and career-readiness is always a challenge for students. It’s to be expected. What’s different now is the daunting task that many IT-focused businesses face—even in an employer’s market—of finding enough qualified job prospects in the field of computer science (CS). And the challenge isn’t just in facing future demand, it’s in facing demand now. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that the immediate need for qualified job candidates, compared to the number of college graduates in CS, is almost overwhelming.
Contributing to this challenge is the growing trend of K-12 educators focusing more on basic computer literacy than on advanced CS courses designed to prepare students for careers in the industry. This trend is noted in the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) publication Running on Empty: The Failure to Teach K-12 Computer Science in the Digital Age. According to the publication, no other subject has the potential to prepare students for job opportunities in an increasingly technology-centric world, regardless of their chosen field of study or occupation.
In a recent report, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan emphasized the need to transform career and technical education (CTE) to prepare students to successfully pursue post-secondary education and employment in a high-growth industry. “CTE programs must offer a streamlined and structured sequence of courses that … lead to an industry certification or license and a post-secondary certificate or degree,” Duncan says. One way this transformation is already taking place is through co-curricular integration of industry certifications, such as those offered by Microsoft, Adobe, Autodesk, and HP.
Microsoft has focused on attracting students who want advanced certification but also need an entry-level, industry-focused starting point. The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification provides essential CS training that exposes students to development fundamentals in software, web, Windows, database, system administration, networking, and security design. This broad-range approach does not provide the depth of some of Microsoft’s more advanced certifications. But MTA students who complete certification gain associate-level distinction and essential CS skills.
Getting Certified Can Help Students Prepare for the Future—and They Know It
Through basic certification, students can prepare for advanced certification and future careers involving software development, HTML5 application fundamentals, mobile app and game development, networking and security fundamentals, and database administration. MTA certification, designed for academia, is gaining popularity among institutions that recognize the benefits of augmenting existing curricula with certification.
Students themselves view certification as a launch point for exploring and later pursuing technology-based education—and ultimately building a skill set that will help them stand out in a competitive job market. When Florida’s Career and Professional Education (CAPE) program implemented technology certification, it found that students with certifications graduate at a significantly higher rate (23%), have a higher GPA (17%), and are more inclined to enroll in college-level courses (61%) than their non-certified peers.
La Salle College High School in Pennsylvania is another example of a successful technology education program that has integrated certification. This school implemented an innovative, hands-on learning experience in conjunction with MTA certification, offering MTA-certified students the opportunity to help maintain the school’s IT infrastructure. Responsibilities range from setting up printers to troubleshooting the network. The overall goal is to help students gain valuable, real-world experience, validated by MTA certification.
For more than 10 years, Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) has offered industry certifications with their degree programs. Students were having trouble achieving a recognizable CS or technology credential in a two-year timeframe. By integrating the MTA exam into their SQL Server Database course, the school experienced immediate success. Keith E. Kelly, the MTA program coordinator at NMC touts the introductory certification as a way for students “to prove they have the capacity to go on and earn other, more challenging certifications in the future.”
Certification is a real differentiator in today’s computer-intensive world. A graduate with industry certification, such as MTA, is certainly more college and career-ready than a peer who simply knows how to engage in social media. As Kevin Bozung, Principal of Michigan-based Safety Net, Inc., put it: “Certifications really do stand out. We’ll often look at a stack of résumés and bring in the candidates with certifications, since it tells us they have the base skills that have been set by the industry.”
The objective of CS education is to provide knowledge and experience to effectively prepare students for college and career success. Embedding industry certification within classroom curricula piques students’ interest and provides tangible credibility that transforms classroom education into real-world opportunity. As instructors adopt and promote this holistic approach, the benefits will continue to attract the attention of school administrators and discerning parents.
Randy Richards, Senior Director of Marketing at Certiport, has spent more than 20 years in the high-tech industry. As husband to a technology instructor and father to five children at various phases of secondary and postsecondary education, Randy is attuned to the challenges and opportunities facing today’s students. He’s also keenly aware of the education/skills gap technology-industry managers face. Randy received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Brigham Young University and his Juris Doctorate from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU.
Additional Reading
Duncan, Arne and Brenda Dann-Messier. “Investing in America’s Future: A Blueprint for Transforming Career and Technical Education.” United States Department of Education; Office of Vocational and Adult Education. P.5. April 2012.
US-BLS Employment Projections, 2008-2018, National Science Foundation Division of Science Resource Statistics, and National Center for Education Statistics.
Wilson, Cameron, and Leigh Ann Sudol, Chris Stephenson, Mark Stehlik. “Running on Empty: The Failure to Teach K-12 Computer Science in the Digital Age.” ACM and CSTA. P.9.
Free Training Resources
Student Study Guides for MTA exams
Learning Plans and Preparation Guides for MTA exams