Computer work is a fact of life for all MHCC students, and the Learning Assistance Center has brought Lance Lannigan on board to answer computing questions and provide training for faculty and students alike.

Lannigan is the first full-time technology skills specialist, a position previously staffed on a part-time basis, and converted to full-time after Title III funding was made available to the department. The Title III Strengthening Institutions Program is a competitive grant program that was established by Congress as part of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Because of this grant, Lannigan has been able to compile a comprehensive list of computer skill seminars that begin Sept. 27 and continue through Oct. 28. These seminars cover a variety of topics, including: computer basics for students, creating and effectively using e-mail, and word processing time savers. Help in these areas is also available on a walk-in basis.

Students can also receive help on all Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) along with many other software titles and browsers. Keyboarding Pro4 and Mavis Beacon are two of the programs available for students who want to improve their keyboarding skills.

Web CT (Web Course Tools) is an online learning system that is now being used extensively on many campuses across the United States and in thousands of colleges and universities in more than 70 countries worldwide.

In response to this trend, Lannigan is conducting four Web CT orientation seminars: two in the first week of classes and two in the second week, in addition to one-on-one tutoring throughout fall quarter.

The LAC offers tutoring to all students on a variety of subject areas beyond computers. Besides a long list of academic, personal, and career success seminars, the LAC provides drop-in and group tutoring on specific courses ranging from writing to math. For a complete schedule and course list, students can visit the LAC’s interactive website at http://www.mhcc.edu/academics/student_services/lac/main.htm. One of Lannigan’s goals is to make the LAC “a welcoming place for students seeking help.” 

The Learning Assistance Center is located in AC3300, above the newly renovated library.