We work to increase the retention of IT students, particularly women and students of color, and to ensure all graduates possess both the technical and non-technical skills required for further IT education and career success.

Initiatives:

• Complete Project-based Learning – The Curriculum Adaptation Team (CAT) and other MCIT faculty complete training in project-based learning provided by Dr. Ruth Loring, professional development specialist at Nashville State Community College.

• Develop Case Studies – The CAT creates, implements and evaluates at least 10 new case studies, using real business problems, identified, in part, through the student-run call centers and by each college’s business advisory committee.

• Develop Bridge Program – The CAT develops a one-semester (two-quarter) bridge program for women entering IT programs to:

• Provide a support group.
• Deliver a strong foundation in IT, math, and problem-solving skills.
• Introduce students to the myriad of opportunities in the IT field.

• Complete Assessment Process – The MCIT colleges, in partnership with the Council for Adult and Experiential learning, completes an assessment to identify gaps and weaknesses in instructional and student support services that are barriers to student recruitment and retention in the targeted IT programs. Each MCIT college develops and implements a plan, using internal resources, to address any gaps and weaknesses identified through the assessment process.