Nicolet College's IT Program Converts to the Highly Flexible Nicolet My Way Format This Fall

PR2021SB0103

Rutlin, Terry

Nicolet College

Text/Image

English

Information Technology students at Nicolet College will set their own schedules and determine their own pace as the program converts to the Nicolet My Way format. The program features a combination of online instruction and open labs staffed by expert instructors. The combination allows students to learn skills at times best suited to their schedules. “Nicolet My Way opens up the possibility of college for people who thought college wasn’t an option,” said Nicolet IT Instructor Scott Biscobing. “It really puts students in the driver’s seat. It makes it possible for them to hold jobs to make money and take care of their children and families while earning a college education that will help them get ahead in life.” Nicolet’s IT program will officially convert to the Nicolet My Way format this fall. Not only will students decide when they complete coursework, they’ll also control how fast they move through the program. Instead of traditional quizzes and tests in set classes that meet specific days of the week, students progress at their own pace through a series of competencies. When they prove they have mastered one, they move on to the next. “If they have experience with a given skill, they’ll be able to move through that competency fairly quickly,” Biscobing explained. “If they hit another that’s more challenging, they can take the time necessary to master that skill. It’s not like a traditional class where everyone moves forward together at the same pace.” When all competencies are mastered, students become graduates and are awarded a college credential. Students first earn one of three technical diplomas: IT Virtualization Technician, IT Network Technician, or IT User Support Technician. They can then use the diploma as a stepping stone on the path to earn an associate’s degree as a Computer Support Specialist or Web Software Developer. If students want to learn only specific skills, say for their current job in IT, the option exists to enroll only in the competency that teaches the specific skills needed. With the freedom that comes with such a self-paced education, Nicolet will assign each student an Academic Coach who will regularly check in and help students stay on track with their plan. The program will also offer multiple start dates throughout the year, instead of just at the beginning of Fall and Spring semesters. Enrollment is now open and students can register by calling (715) 365-4493, 1-800-544-3039, ext. 4493; TTY 1-800-947-3529 or 711 relay. For more information, visit nicoletcollege.edu or call the numbers above. Photo cutline: Instruction in Nicolet’s Information Technology program will switch to the highly flexible Nicolet My Way format this fall. Here, Nicolet IT student Cody Droes, St. Germain, foreground, works through a networking exercise with IT Instructor Scott Biscobing.

Nicolet College News Release - IT Nicolet My Way

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Rutlin, Terry; trutlin@nicoletcollege.edu

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