VCN Full Speed Ahead!

Janet Whitaker, ITS, DO

Ed. Note: The Video Conference Network (VCN) is an interactive, multi- site, multi-media communication system that "links" several district locations: CGCC, GCC, MCC, PC, PVCC, RSCC, SCC, SMCC, and the District Office. Audio only connections are available to EMCCC, GWCC, and Maricopa Skill Center.

The VCN provides motion/full color video and sound from all locations and the availability of close-up camera to show written work, visuals, and real objects. Participants can be seen and heard by other participants at all locations. The system allows for the exchange of ideas, discussion, demonstrations, and presentations similar to in- person classroom experiences.

The VCN began its Spring 1993 course offerings on January 15. The seven classes this semester are:

CHM 220 Analytical Chemistry: Lab students attend at GCC in person on Tuesdays and take their lecture on Mondays and Fridays on VCN. Mesa students organized a car pool to save on gas and air pollution!
ECN 263 Economics of Natural Resources, Population, and the Environment: Reports are that this course has attracted some terrific students to work with a terrific teacher, Charles Pflanz (SCC).
GBS 175 Professional Development: Norma Johansen (SCC) and Ed O'Brien (SCC) are team teaching this course. I understand one of their students is a very active 84 year old!
GBS 222 Qualitative Methods in Business: Richard Shortridge (GCC) is getting a workout teaching this course both as a day course on M/W/F and on Monday evenings.
RBT 100 Industrial Robots: I wonder if the class projects will be to build a new car to transport goods and people between these extreme corners of the Metro area?
SBS 218 Establishing an Import/Export Business: This is one of the most popular courses this semester with a total of 37 enrolled for the four week series of meetings.
WWM 201 Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection: This course is a continuation of the Water/Wastewater Technology series that has been running for the last year. Computer graphics have a been successfully used to enhance this program.

If you or a colleague are interested in learning more about VCN and how you can participate, contact your Dean of Instruction or VCN Central at [602/73]1-8822. The network is also available throughout the week for meetings, staff development, and almost any other communication need you can think of! Give it a try!

Maricopa Center for Learning & Instruction (MCLI)
The Internet Connection at MCLI is Alan Levine --}
Comments to alan.levine@domail.maricopa.edu