Netscope`s iCampus ushers in a new paradigm in applied learning

Today Netscope announced the unveiling of its Mastering Information Technology (MIT) 2001 iCampus program. Through the introduction of AAL (Anytime Anywhere Learning), the CLC (Connected Learning Community) and the use of Laptop Learning, Netscope has pioneered arguably the most progressive and advanced learning model in Southern Africa. The yearlong IT course merges the best of both instructor-led training and e-learning to deliver a powerful, effective and accountable hybrid education on a 24x7 basis.

In a world in which knowledge is the number one asset, the benefit of Netscope`s MIT2001 iCampus program with its information-rich, technology-enhanced, collaborative learning environment not only empowers students and teachers, but also parents to participate in a learning environment without limits. In the USA, the idea of a Connected Learning Community has taken root and is generating results. Technology has helped launch a new era of education that simultaneously fosters academic excellence and the practical experience needed to succeed in life and work in the growing knowledge economy.

Intranets, the Internet and anytime, any place access to computer technology will allow Netscope as educators to provide the necessary input, as well as capture, analyse, and report institutional performance information in previously impossible ways. Through the utilisation of Laptops, Internet access and the secure Netscope Learning Portal (NLP), trainers, students and parents have the ability to collaborate on educational issues.

"Imagine for a moment the following scenario", says Jason Perthel, Netscope`s Managing Director, "You as a student come to class, armed with your Netscope Laptop. You "plug-in" and connect to the Learning Portal. You have access to the Learning Portal`s on-line library, learning resources, study aids, course schedules, special events, assessment tools and on-line educational content. You are able to "plug into" any class in the facility, including workshops and recreation areas and be instantly "connected" to the Learning Portal. After class has closed "officially" for the day, you take your Laptop home and by virtue of your built-in 56K modem connect to the Learning Portal via an Internet connection. You are able to access all resources and to collaborate with fellow students in "virtual" study groups, irrespective of each student`s location. Meanwhile, the Learning Portal is tracking all your access times, activities, recording your exam results as well as your trainer`s comments. As a parent, you are given logon credentials to access the Learning Portal. You are able to see your child`s progress, exam scores, and trainer comments and be able to communicate directly with the trainer on key learning issues at any time." Jason goes on to say, "all those age-old traditional parental questions such as; Was my child at class today, How is he doing, What is he doing, How is he doing relative to the class average, What homework or projects does he have, What does the teacher think, will be available to each parent instantly with just a click of a mouse."

"The thing that really excites me about the MIT2001 program is the ability to leverage technology for educational purposes. We are currently developing our software to upgrade simple collaborative text-chat to voice-chat. As each student receives an identical laptop as part of their course, we are able to structure our technology specifically to harness the full power of technology, the Internet and streaming audio and video. We are going to turn learning into a "cool" experience!", concludes Jason.

The MIT2001 program is predominantly aimed at individuals new to the IT industry. The course not only covers IT basics, but also includes a significant emphasis on both life and business skills. Individuals are exposed to the industry`s many facets and in the last 6 months, get the opportunity to specialise in Networking, Solution Development or Web and E-Commerce development. All courses are based on internationally recognised certifications and accreditations. Students build upon their theoretical knowledge by partaking in practical exposure placements at the end of their course. All of Netscope`s MIT2000 students have already been placed within the industry and according to Netscope`s MIT Director, Carel Pretorius, Netscope has been inundated with requests for students. It would seem that companies are more likely to employ an up-and-coming IT professional who has a solid year of education behind them, rather than a quick month long certification.