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Utilizing CPTOnline to upgrade the computer and information technology curriculum

A common problem for the keepers of computer and information technology curriculums is the blending of e-commerce courses into the core curriculum. Certainly some of the core principles of technology-based programs hold up reasonably well regardless of the environment but the emergence of the Web as a development environment has created both new opportunities and new challenges for educators at all levels. Compounding this challenge is attempting to upgrade curriculum in a cost-effective manner.The Computer and Information Technology Department (CIT) found an answer to both of these dilemmas through the creation of CPTOnline, the on-line branch of CIT. CPTOnline has packaged the department's Web-based offerings into two online Certificate programs. For the 2002 calendar year, CPTOnline generated over 3200 credit hours. This represents almost 20% of all credit hours offered by CIT. CPTOnline has become an attractive option as both a standalone program and as a mechanism to upgrade the CIT curriculum.One of the reasons that these programs have been so popular is that they have found a way to meet the needs of a variety of audiences. These Web-based programs are very attractive to corporate clients, individual application developers and CIT majors. A second and compelling aspect to these programs is that they are delivered over the Web in an asynchronous format. This provides the educational flexibility that is so desperately needed by many students. Finally, CPTOnline has been a pioneer in the area of on-line innovations through the utilization of Web-based tools such as remote labs and instant messaging.This paper will highlight the best practices utilized by CPTOnline and how CPTOnline enabled the process of "webifying" the CIT curriculum.