Academic Minor in Information and Communication Technologies

Introduction

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is a broad subject concerned with (information and communication) technology and other aspects of managing and processing information, especially in large organizations. For a more detailed definition of ICT, read the OECD Information Technology Outlook, Chapter 6, ICT Skills and Employment (see page 219 -- page 3 of the PDF).

The following items support the value of the ICT minor for University of Wisconsin-Stout students:

As computers and the internet have continued to transform the economy and society, the role of information and communications technologies (ICTs) in fostering development has become more generally recognized. In August of 2000, leaders of the G8 countries requested a Digital Opportunities Task Force (DOT) to develop new, innovative strategies for using information and communication technologies to spur social, economic and civic development. In its report the task force stated: "Creating digital opportunities is not something that happens after addressing the "core" development challenges; it is a key component of addressing those challenges in the 21st century." 2

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with computer skills (ICT) are in demand. "Of the top 10 fastest growing occupations, the top five are computer related." 3

The ICT minor is a natural fit with UW-Stout's eStout program. Goals of the eStout program "…include utilizing technology to create a student-centered environment where active learning is the core approach to acquiring concepts, processes and attitudes that become lifelong habits in each student's life. Through the eStout program, UW-Stout plans to continue to improve the quality and promote excellence of teaching and learning at undergraduate and graduate levels." 4

1  Definition of "Information and Communication Technologies" (ICT) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_technology

2  "Using Information and Communication Technology to Achieve the Millennium Development Goals" prepared for by United Nations ICT Task Force, 2003.

3  Working in the 21st Century. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/opub/working/page8b.htm

Objectives

Students will:

  1. Understand information and communication technology systems and their effect on society.

  2. Evaluate and implement a variety of components of information and communication technologies for personal, educational and professional growth.

  3. Analyze and assist in selecting and using information and communication technology resources for presentation and communication in various subject areas.

  4. Understand and use information and communication technologies to expand and expedite the services used in a global economy.

  5. Integrate different information and communication technology methods in an effective and efficient manner to facilitate learning.

  6. Develop personal and social responsibility in the digital world regarding privacy, protection against violation of intellectual property, social and economic value of information.

Curriculum

For more information, contact

Evan Sveum, Minor Adviser
148 Communication Technologies Bldg.
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, WI 54751-0790

Phone: 715-232-5265
E-mail: sveume@uwstout.edu