Extension and Applied Research Offers Distance Learning to the Textile Industry

By Wade Carter, Associate Program Director for Extension Education

           Extension and Applied Research at the College of Textiles has long been the leader in providing onsite textile education classes for the textile industry. These classes are part of the In-plant Education Program which assesses the training needs of a company and then customizes the  instruction in order to focus on the company’s specific materials, processes and products. Now such instruction can be computer-based and be delivered on CD to companies or to individuals. The first such Distance Learning offering is the very popular Textile Fundamentals course which historically has been offered as part of the Professional Development Program or taught as an in-plant class. The CD-based instruction encompasses a video presentation by the lecturer with synchronized graphics, animations, texts, and video to enhance the knowledge transfer. Textile Fundamentals Distance Learning contains 13 different training modules totaling 26 hours of instruction with topics ranging from textile fibers all the way to dyeing and finishing.

          Distance Learning CDs can also be developed with more advanced content and focus on individual processes or multiple processes in the manufacture of textile products. A company can have their processes digitally captured and incorporated into a presentation on CD with process parameters and quality issues all tailored to its needs.

          This instructional technology will provide an enhanced learning environment and allow companies to train their associates in a shorter time frame, at a lower cost, with increased comprehension. Associates can access valuable textile education at their convenience. There will also be the option of utilizing assessment tools to monitor the progress of associates as they proceed through a sequence of topics. Another option will provide forum sites where associates can ask questions to individual instructors. This will simulate, as much as possible, the interaction common to a live classroom environment.

           In addition to the CD format, extension courses will also be offered on the internet in the future.

           For more information, please contact Wade Carter at 919-515-6536 or email Wade_Carter@NCSU.edu          

           For information on technical requirements, please contact Mike Ferguson at 919-515-3721 or email Mike_Ferguson@NCSU.edu