Blended e-Learning: Fall 2008

Workforce preparation in the knowledge economy: a blended e-learning approach

Invitation

(Using e-blended educational methodologies to educate Extension professionals about workforce preparation and encourage the adoption of innovative technology tools)

Twenty Extension professionals will be selected this fall to participate in a program to gain knowledge and understanding about the Workforce Preparation in the Knowledge Economy. Course content will be delivered using blended methods over a 8-week span starting October 9, 2008.

Call for Applications:  Workforce preparation in the knowledge economy

1.) Develop and deliver an educational program about the knowledge economy and workforce preparation internally to Extension professionals. These professionals will have a better understanding of what the Workforce Preparation Initiative is, key issues regarding the current situation in Ohio, implications for youth, and how to enhance local programming.

2.) Provide equipment, software and hands-on technical training to Extension professionals in order to develop skills needed to learn and teach using new technology. This will also enhance Extension professional’s ability to interact and prepare youth for jobs in the 21^st Century.

Instructors

David Boulay, Management Specialist

OSU Extension Center at Piketon

Tricia Callahan, Co-Leader, Workforce Preparation Initiative

County Director

OSU Extension, Miami County

Kim Catchpole, Extension Educator

Adventure Central, Dayton, Ohio

Leader - New Personnel Development

OSU Extension Human Resources

Jerry Thomas, Director, OSU Extension Center at Lima

Course delivery

The program will involve one face-to-face meeting on campus in Columbus and four section modules delivered by a portfolio of media including interactive video, web-based discussions, and podcasts. Participants will be expected to actively participate in self-directed learning and program activities. A class project, using technology tools, must be completed by small groups. Projects will synthesize learning and create a product for use statewide use with local clientele.

Participant attributes

Participants should have the following attributes:

• An opportunity to integrate key concepts of the Knowledge Economy and Workforce Preparation into Extension work they are currently conducting or plan to conduct in the near future.
• An inclination and ability to work with communication and information technology. Web-based tools form the basis for most of the course delivery and communication. Specific knowledge of the tools is not required, but the ability to learn and opportunity to incorporate use of the tools in program delivery is expected.
• Change and adaptability skills. This is a  program that uses several new technology tools. Things will not go as planned, so participants are expected to view changes as an opportunity to create new possibilities for OSU Extension.
• Pioneers in adapting and spreading new ideas and concepts. We hope that participants will serve as leaders in diffusing key knowledge economy and workforce preparation concepts in addition to finding new ways of using the teaching tools.
• Participants must be an A&P or faculty OSU Extension professional.

What will participants get out of the course?

Each participant will gain:

• Cutting-edge information and resources related to key concepts of the Knowledge Economy and Workforce Preparation.
• A new peer support network.
• New programming ideas built around key concepts of the Knowledge Economy.
• Advanced skills in working with technology tools.
• Firsthand experience with new software with relevant application to other programming and research projects.
• Hardware and software. Specifically a headset/microphone, web cam, and software used for the course.

Course timeline

Applications will be accepted electronically through July 18, 2008. The first physical meeting for the course will be October 9, 2008, with the final meeting taking place online during the week of December 4.  Four learning modules are conducted beginning October 9 and ending December 4.

• Module 1 – Introduction to the Knowledge Economy and Technology Tools - Oct 9-17
• Module 2 –Workforce Issues and Workforce Preparation - Skills Gap – Oct 20 – Oct 31
• Module 3 – Implications for Ohio and Extension programming) - Nov 3 – Nov 12
• Module 4 – Synthesis of the Knowledge Economy, Workforce Prep and Technology – Nov 13– Dec 4

Course cost

Cost for the course is $40. The course is supplemented by an Ohio 4-H Foundation grant, Ohio State University Extension Venture Funds and in-kind contributions. Instructors are also providing in-kind services.

Application process

All OSU Extension Professionals (Program Assistants, Support Staff, Educators, Specialists, Program Leaders, State Team Leaders, Key Volunteers) are eligible to apply by the July 18 deadline. Up to twenty will be accepted. It is important to have broadband or DSL connectivity to participate (check with your systems professional if you don’t know your level of connection). Selected participants will be notified by August 1, 2008.  Participant payment is required by October 9, 2008. Please complete the online application.

Questions or more information

Please contact Tricia Callahan at 937-440-3945; callahan.149@cfaes.osu.edu or Kim Catchpole at 937-278-2601; catchpole.2@cfaes.osu.edu. Or feel free to talk to any member of the instruction team.