Polytechnic-Focused Dixie State University to Offer Technology Skills Training to All Students, Faculty and Staff
Dixie State University in Utah has partnered with technology workforce development company Pluralsight to help boost students' technology-based skills. The deal will give all DSU students, faculty and staff free, unlimited access to Pluralsight Skills, a collection of online courses and hands-on learning experiences on topics such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI and machine learning, data science and software development. University alumni will also have access to the training at a discounted price.
DSU is in the midst of rebranding itself as Utah Tech University, a name meant to represent its comprehensive polytechnic academic mission. The new partnership will further its goal to "establish the university as an institution where students can advance their future career opportunities before even graduating," according to a news announcement.
"We're excited to partner with Pluralsight to provide all our students, faculty and staff with unlimited access to the entire library of technology courses available on Pluralsight Skills," said Michael Lacourse, vice president of academic affairs, in a statement. "Through this extraordinary partnership, all DSU students are now able to supplement their primary degree program with specialized tech skills."
Pluralsight will also establish a Center of Excellence that will provide additional support and training for faculty. The center will help "ensure students are receiving the latest and best technology instruction from faculty that supplements their experience with Pluralsight Skills," the announcement said.
"Pluralsight is thrilled to partner with DSU as an important part of the school's evolution as they prepare to transition to become Utah Tech University in the coming months," commented Gary Eimerman, general manager of Pluralsight Skills. "With access to on-demand assessment and training including hands-on learning experiences taught by the world's leading experts, students and faculty will have the necessary tools to develop crucial technology skills in an increasingly tech-driven world."
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Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at rkelly@1105media.com.