"Today everyone, regardless of major, needs these skills to reach their academic as well as career goals," said University Provost, Louanne Kennedy, who announced the program. "Cal State Northridge is committed to preparing students for the world of the future and we see this program as essential."
As part of their writing classes, freshmen will learn how to teach themselves these electronic tools in a series of two or three classes at the university's Learning Resource Center. New transfer students, who do not necessarily take writing classes, can take "The Technological Now" workshops as early as this May, when they report for advisement.
"The basic technological skills are so easy that people need only a minimal introduction and then a chance to use them," said John Hertzog, Director, Learning Resource Center.
Students can practice at the university's computer laboratories, which are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. The six labs are equipped with 140 computers. At the Learning Resource Center lab, trained assistants will help students solve problems they encounter.
All Cal State Northridge students are eligible for a computer account, which includes access to e-mail and the Internet, so they can use the skills they acquire in the workshop.
Contact: John Kroll, Public Information Writer (818) 885-2130.