We are pleased to announce that the Ontario government is funding the development of five augmented reality and virtual reality healthcare Micro-credentials being created by IBT College. IBT College will be designing Microcredentials include: Dementia Care, Palliative Care, Safety and Mobility, Assisting with Feeding and Measuring Height, Weight and Vital Signs. The Micro-credentials will utilize IBT College’s XR-Platform which provides them with a 24/7 virtual learning environment complete with online lessons, assignments, and practical exercises.
“Our college is uniquely positioned to employ digital technologies to create relevant, contextual, and up-to-date learning experiences that will be easily replicated and scalable across other higher learning institutions. The learning approach enabled by XR technologies is well suited to the style of Generation Z students, who are visual, participative, and co-creator learners to a much greater extent than previous generations,” said Joe Shokour, President of IBT College.
This milestone is an important part of Ontario’s micro-credentials strategy, helping Ontario’s internationally recognized postsecondary institutions offer learners opportunities to gain the skills they need for in-demand jobs.
“Our government continues to prioritize quick, flexible training opportunities that will prepare Ontarians for the in-demand jobs of today and tomorrow,” said Minister Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “These micro-credentials will be developed in collaboration with industry to respond to regional labour market needs and will strengthen partnerships between postsecondary institutions, training providers and employers.”
The focus of IBT College’s Microcredentials are to provide upskilling to employees offering Home Support Care that will be stackable towards a Personal Support Worker Diploma. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, more and more home support care is required in the province. Providing the additional theory and Virtual Hands on training, students are well prepared to care for our vulnerable sector, in a caring and safe manner.
“Much like the use of the Learning Management System leveraged in every course and utilized by every faculty member, AR/VR learning experiences will be a standard expectation in schools,” said James Rice, Vice-President of IBT College.
Micro-credentials are rapid training programs that help people retrain and upgrade their skills to find new employment. Alongside degrees, diplomas and certificates, micro-credentials offer a new postsecondary option for learners. By offering Microcredentials, students have the option to complete the full-time PSW Diploma or study part-time on a schedule that meets their needs.
“As we look to the future, it’s clear the way we work is changing, and many jobs are not going back to the way they were before. That is why our government is investing in programs that help people upgrade their skills to earn bigger paychecks at work or start new careers.”– Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development
