Ultra Online Training Program
Welcome to HCC's Ultra Online technology training for 2009-2010. Like all skills and knowledge, mastery of technology skills takes time and persistence. This year's Internet-based training is brought to you via VTC.com and Lynda.com.
Limited Participation
The number of participants taking these courses is very limited; however, the number of classes that each person takes and completes is unlimited within the courses offered. A minimum of 3 classes is required for participation.
Account usage will be monitored. If an account is not used for more than 2 months the account may be re-issued to someone else (a notice will be sent).
Enrollment
When you enroll, via the "form" below, you will be asked to choose one of these companies:
VTC.com, which offers over 600 classes in 13 different areas (especially suited for IT and Office professionals) or
Lynda.com, which offers over 400 courses (especially suited for instructional technology and design professionals)
The enrollment process can take a few days to complete. Once your account is set up you will receive an email, which will contain a Welcome message and your initial password.
To enroll, complete the Ultra Online Enrollment Form: http://imc06.hccs.edu/ultraOnline/default.htm
Requirements
Some of the courses require free "plug-ins" (Flash, QuickTime, & Shockwave), which may need to be downloaded and installed on your computer in order to view these videos.
If you cannot load some of these plug-ins on your office computer, call the IT HelpDesk at 713-718-8800 during regular HCC office hours Monday -Thursday 8:00 - 4:30 & Friday 8:00 -6:00. E-mail: information.center@hccs.edu
Benefits
- Enhance computer skills
- Learn the “latest and greatest” software programs
- Meet CIT (Certificate in Instructional Technology) prerequisites
- Satisfy COPP (College Office Professional Program) electives requirements
- Improve performance and contribute to PEP professional development
Program Requirements
- HCC employee
- Receive his/her manager's approval to complete the courses during work hours.
- Complete at least 3 classes over a one-year period (program ends June 30, 2010).
- Complete a self-assessment at the end of each course.
- Complete an on-line evaluation of the entire program.
Computer Labs
If you would prefer to take these online courses in a computer lab, the following Curriculum Innovation Center (CIC) labs will be available:
Central College - J. Don Boney building (garage level), Room 100
Contact: Charlotte Hamilton 713-718-6087
Coleman College - Labs vary
Contact: Ernest Reynolds 713-718-7308
Northeast College - Northline Campus, Room 417
Contact: Linda Comte 713-718-8046
Northwest College - Town and Country Campus, Room 707
Contact: Tom Haymes 713-718-5813
Southeast College - Eastside Campus, Felix Morales Building, Room 240
Contact: Sandra Lebron 713-718-7110
Southwest College - West Loop Campus, Room 266
Contact: Doug Rowlett 713-718-6768
ACT Center Lab - Please call for current hours - 713-718-5149
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What browser do I need to take the courses?
A: You need to use a current version of Internet Explorer or Firefox or other supported browser. Before starting your courses you will need to carefully follow the computer/browser setup instructions.
Q: Will I be tested?
A: Some courses have a short generalized test for each course for your personal self-assessment.
Q: Do I have to complete a survey for each course that I complete?
A: We may ask you to participate in a program review survey in April 2008. You may send VTC.com or Lynda.com an online survey at any time during the year.
Q: What if I forget my userName or password?
A: You may email the administrator -Vin.Hennessy@hccs.edu and explain the problem.
Q: Why do we have this online training?
A: Early in 2003, the HCC Executive Team, asked the Learning and Organizational Development (ELOD) Department to form a committee of HCC representative individuals with the goal of determining both short-term and long-term training priorities for HCC. In response to one of the committee's recommendations, the Instructional Media Center (IMC), ELOD, and HCC ACT Center-Online Continuing Education department, in collaboration, developed a package of on-line courses designed to meet the training needs for employees, faculty and staff, who have not been able to attend technology training courses due to their schedules, and for others who have asked for more advanced courses, which could not previously be addressed. These courses are interactive, self-paced, and taken via the Internet.
