Interdisciplinary Studies

IST Advising

      This summer I will complete my degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.  My concentration is Professional Development with an emphasis in Information Technology Support Services.  My disciplines are information technology, communication, and interdisciplinary studies.

      Information Technology (IT) addresses the application of computer software, rather than programming, and software development and the management of information.  IT is a new and exciting area in the computer industry, concerned with the real-world application of computer software.  In the last ten years, the computer industry has produced smaller, faster, simpler and less expensive equipment.  With these changes, both first time and long-time users have seen the need for assistance with the new and more powerful programs used in the new computers.  My goal is to help individuals, small businesses and larger corporate users maximize their understanding and productivity by helping them understand the potential of these new applications.

      The communication courses in my concentration focus on interpersonal communication and the computer as a communication medium.  I have taken Interpersonal Communication and Advanced Interpersonal Communication to strengthen my skills in dealing with people.  To improve my understanding of the computer as a communication tool I have taken Electronic Communication Media.  This course was developed to teach the application of communication theory to the development of web sites.  These courses helped me gain an awareness of how messages are delivered and the meaning messages try to convey so that I can create communications that are easily understood and accepted, using the computer.

      Courses in the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies have focused on adult learning, cultural diversity and the use of computers to serve the community.  These courses contributed to my understanding of the concerns adults have about their continued educational development.  In particular, they helped me to gain insight into ways of lessening the fears and misgivings adults face when confronted with the unfamiliar concepts and materials occasioned the use of new software.   In addition, my internships permitted me to use my knowledge of advanced computer applications to enhance community services and awareness through the use of web site editors, graphics editors, desktop publishing programs, and their associated developmental tools.

 computer communication systems, have prepared me for a career in the computer industry. 

 Additionally, my education has broadened my perspective and enriched my life beyond my

career aspirations.

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