USC Aiken- McGrath Learning Center Partnership Benefits Community
Monday, September 19th, 2016
The McGrath Computer Learning Center and the University of South Carolina Aiken celebrated the next milestone in their longstanding relationship, when George Heh, chairperson for the learning center’s board of directors, and USC Aiken Chancellor Sandra Jordan signed the memorandum of understanding formalizing their collective purpose of “developing a strategic alliance.”
The learning center provides adults in Aiken and the surrounding community the opportunity to learn – or improve -- skills and knowledge in using personal computers, tablets, and smartphones.
“We are pleased and proud to be associated with you,” said USC Aiken Chancellor Sandra Jordan.
“Technology is integrated into our lives so much. The work you do is so important in our community. Thank you for that and for the opportunity to partner with you.”
Offering classes on the USC Aiken campus for the last 17 years. the learning center was once associated with the national SeniorNet organization. Since 2015, it has been an independent 501(c)(3) organization. The learning center is affiliated with the Office of External Programs and Continuing Education of USC Aiken.
As part of the agreement, the university will provide classroom space; administrative sand technical support; and will coordinate opportunities for USC Aiken undergraduate and graduate students to collaborate with the McGrath Computer Learning Center.
“We are grateful for the university and all it does for us,” said Wayne Rickman, steering committee coordinator for the McGrath Learning Center.
Additionally, the McGrath Computer Learning Center will develop its own faculty of volunteers to conduct the instruction; develop its curriculum, and make a $6,000 contribution to the university.
The learning center is managed by local volunteers and classes are taught and coached by volunteer instructors. McGrath offers a low-cost, friendly introduction to using computers, tablets, and smartphones. The curriculum features beginning to advanced courses on general and more specific technology and devices.
Class sizes range from 12-18 students. In addition, the learning center holds open lab time where registered students can use computers to practice their skills or to work on individual projects.
For more on the classes offered, go to: http://www.mcgrathclc.com/pmwiki.php/Main/CourseSchedule