Lance Barber, lead instructor of the Computer Information Technology and Healthcare Business Informatics programs at Richmond Community College, has completed training to become an Oracle Academy Certified Java Instructor. This is in addition to the Oracle Academy Certified Database Instructor certification he completed last year.
“Oracle is a leading developer of database technology and is the largest business software company in the world,” said Barber. “In 2010, Oracle acquired Sun Microsystems and along with it the Java programming language, one of the most popular languages in the world. RCC is an Oracle Academy, which means we have access to many free teaching resources directly from Oracle. Students taking relevant courses will not have to purchase textbooks or software, unless they wish to have personal copies. As with all courses utilizing Oracle Academy resources, course materials are available online for them to use.”
For Java coursework, students working from home will download and install free software. For database coursework, students will access the Oracle software through a Web-based interface called APEX. This means they do not have to install software on their personal computers and only need an Internet connection and a Web browser to access APEX. Students completing the courses can also apply for Oracle industry certifications at a discounted cost.
“I am excited about the teaching resources provided by Oracle,” said Barber. “Their training is top notch and provides teaching tools that make a positive difference in our classes. These tools make it easier for students to comprehend these technical subjects, improving retention and better preparing them for industry. We are using the database materials to teach HBI 250 this fall, and we will begin using the Java materials next year.”
“Oracle Academy is beneficial to students in Computer Information Technology, but the database aspect is especially beneficial to students in our newest program, Healthcare Business Informatics,” Barber said. “This program focuses more on database administration. The Healthcare Business Informatics program is for students wishing to become key members of health care teams by providing information technology support unique to health care facilities. This includes storage and retrieval of sensitive patient information. Being familiar with the latest software used by a majority of industries is a definite plus for our students.”
Some of the areas students study include designing and creating databases, effectively managing databases, systems design, networking and network security, and computer infrastructure support.
Even amidst this economic recession, businesses need computer professionals. The skills taught in RCC’s Computer Information Technology and Healthcare Business Informatics programs can be the first step to a successful career.
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