Computer Academy. Western Michigan University: Summer 1985-Present

The Computer Academy at Western Michigan University (Kalamazoo) is a series of intensive, one-credit-hour workshops to assist professionals in increasing their level of computer competence. At the time they were initiated, in 1985, the workshops targeted elementary and secondary school teachers and administrators, were offered on Apple IIe microcomputers, and focused on specific software. Following the success of these workshops, the program was gradually expanded to include workshops on the IBM compatible and Macintosh microcomputers. The Computer Academy is a joint project of the College of Education, Project EXCITE, a campus-wide program to expand university community computer competence, and the Division of Continuing Education. Classes are held in campus microcomputer laboratories or at a regional center. In summer, courses meet for 2.5 consecutive days; during the academic year, they meet on 2 consecutive weekends. One Hundred forty-four workshops have been offered on 38 topics, training over 800 professionals. Although PROJECT EXCITE no longer involved, the other two partners continue to offer the highly successful program. Course topics are expanded frequently to meet student needs. (Author/MSE)