Pilot technology courses launched

High schools in Jackson, West Point, Winona, and Senatobia, as well as several community colleges, are among those testing a pilot technology program introduced by the state Department of Education.

Developed by the Research and Curriculum Unit at Mississippi State, the courses focus on current and emerging technology in the physical and biological sciences.

The research unit, a joint program of the DOE and the university, also developed the state's Tech-Prep initiative to help prepare Mississippi students for an increasingly technological workplace. High school students will test a two-year course in technology applications.

Community college students are testing a new course in science and technology. Courses will include segments on computer-aided design, computer-integrated manufacturing, microcomputer assembly, laser and fiber optics, and bio-technology.

Once fine-tuned, the programs will be expanded throughout the state.

Test sites for the high school program are the secondary school at Hinds Community College's Rankin Center, West Point Vocational Complex, Winona Vocational Complex, Senatobia-Tate County Regional Vocational Center, Choctaw County Vocational Complex, and the secondary school at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College-Long Beach Center.

Test sites for the community college program include Holmes Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Northeast Mississippi Community College, Mississippi Delta Community College, Pearl River Community College, and East Central Community College.