West Virginia instructional technology program design for economic development

Hong Kong Conventional & Exhibition Centre

The expansion of technology throughout the entire technical education spectrum is linked to the successful implementation, integration and support of the new educational paradigm. Education must build on a strong technical infrastructure. Common strategies in physical infrastructure connectivity, philosophies, training and support will build the firm foundation upon which all other advances can be successfully sustained. West Virginia technical education must move in a sound collaborative mode that improves workforce preparedness. No matter where the company is located, workforce development is a vital component of the overall strategic economic development plan and must occur concurrently with development efforts, distance learning may be a key to training delivery. Industry consistently indicates that certification is much more important than college degrees. College and universities should look to inclusion of these certification skills into their degree programs. The formation of this delivery model will involve a cooperative effort of the State Colleges, Universities, Community Colleges and Technical Education Centers.