Learning opportunity to expand technical skills from the classroom to the real world
This course combines real world experience with a process and methodology resulting in analytical and communication skills. The instructor evaluates your ability to analyze and make meaningful connections between what is taking place in your consulting partnership and what is being taught in class. This evaluation consists primarily of reading reports that you write. In these reports, you provide your analysis and best thinking on the situation. At the end of the class, you will analyze the outcomes accomplished by your Community Partner and make a set of useful recommendations intended to help sustain and improve their efforts.
Service opportunity to work with non-profit organizations in the Pittsburgh region
In increasing numbers, non-profit community organizations are providing access to computers and the Internet, to their staffs as well as their constituents. Some of these organizations can hire technically trained staff, but most do not have the resources to do that. Those without resources, learn as they go. A testament to the process of learning and the power of technology is that many of these centers are accomplishing a lot with a little. Still, the gaps in knowledge and the resulting problems hold these organizations back from exploiting the full power that technology holds for them.
Mentorship opportunity from former CEO-level consultants
The course’s professional mentors are retired professionals with extensive careers in various fields that provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the impact that technology can have organizations, staff, and business processes. Their experience renders them very effective in helping students connect their consulting tasks with the organizational "big picture"--the mission of the organization and how technology can enable the organization to carryout its mission.
Consulting opportunity to add experience to your resume and to feature in employment interviews
Individuals who understand the significance of software systems within complex social environments rise to leadership positions. Such an understanding results largely from experiences in which their computer science, information systems, and information technology knowledge is brought to people and organizations. Out of these experiences, these individuals develop their ability to solve problems, analyze complex situations, manage projects and communicate effectively to diverse audiences. This course gives you such an experience.