Technology is becoming increasingly significant in academia. The expanding use of such devices as Smartboards, which are essentially high-tech whiteboards that allow professors to access the Internet, documents, and videos, emphasizes that a working knowledge of technology is more than ever a requirement of being an effective teacher. (Image courtesy of: http://bit.ly/bnWsM9)UMassOnline, the online learning consortium of the University of Massachusetts, recently appointed Patrick Jay Masson as its Chief Technology Officer. Previously, Mason held the position of Chief Information Officer at State University of New York (SUNY). Masson brings with him a strong history of hands-on experience in information technology, specifically in regards to the education, research, and healthcare industries.
“He, like all of us on the team, believes we can build on our commitment to learner and faculty success through the use of a variety of technologies that serve as catalysts that enhance access and improve learning experiences and outcomes,” said UMass Online’s CEO, Dr. Ken Udas, about Masson.
It is particularly impressive that Masson has risen to several executive technology positions in his career when considering that he has no formal schooling in Information Tech
nology. Mason holds only a BS in Environmental Design from the University of California. Presently he is working towards a MA in Management and Policy at State University of New York’s Empire State College to augment his experience.“UMassOnline is one of the leading few in online education which clearly appreciates technology’s impact on higher education, particularly in support of the institutions’ mission to exte nd access while advancing teaching and learning outcomes,“ said Masson when accepting his new position. (Image courtesy of: http://www.umassonline.net/)
UMassOnline’s formal mission is to “enable students, professionals, and lifelong learners to receive the highest quality of education offered by UMass systems, anywhere, anytime.” The online college offers 90 different degree and certificate programs and more than 1500 online courses.
Masson seems to be the ideal candidate to spearhead UMassOnline’s efforts to fully embrace new technologies. With Masson on its team, UMassOnline is sure to cement its position as a frontrunner in exploring the educational applications of developing technologies.
[Source: http://bit.ly/aOYZgj, http://www.umassonline.net/]
