University Times

Computer-based resources are helping pull the plug on computer training classes for Pitt employees.

Technology training classes offered to Pitt faculty and staff through the College of General Studies are being eliminated May 11.

The classes, typically one- or two-day sessions, provide training in various computer software programs including Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Dreamweaver and others. Courses are coordinated and taught by two contract employees.

However, according to CGS Associate Dean Kelly J. Otter, declining enrollments and the availability of online tutorials have decreased the need for formal training sessions.

“Enrollments within the technology center have decreased significantly over time and it is no longer an appropriate use of valuable space and salary resources,” Otter said.

Class sizes had declined to an average of fewer than four people per session.

The CGS technology training center is the descendant of Pitt’s Downtown Computer Learning Center, which was established in 1984 and closed in 2003.

No decision has been made about what will become of the training center’s classroom space on the fourth floor of the Cathedral of Learning, but Otter said several reconfiguration plans are being considered, with the work to be done over the summer.

A list of remaining training classes may be found at www.cgs.pitt.edu/technology-training-courses.cfm.

—Kimberly K. Barlow