Hands-on Vocational Learning in Computer Networking
Dr. Alexander Mikroyannidis of the Open University UK developed the Open Networking Lab to address the significant technical skills gap in the computer networking industry. The lab aims to (i) develop simulation software for practical networking learning on any internet-connected platform, (ii) provide high-quality online experiential learning resources for teaching networking to novices, and (iii) promote lifelong learning resources in networking to help more people get skilled jobs. PT Anywhere offers network simulation that can be accessed from any web browser or as a widget in an eBook. It is based on Cisco's Packet Tracer simulator. PT Anywhere can be embedded in online courses, learning management systems, or interactive eBooks. Current piloting
Hands-on Vocational Learning in Computer Networking
- 1. Dr. Alexander Mikroyannidis The Open University, UK Hands-on Vocational Learning in Computer Networking
- 2. The Open Networking Lab Key objectives: – (i) to develop and pilot world-leading, industry- based simulation software for the practical learning of computer networking on any internet-connected platform; – (ii) to address the significant technical skills gap in industry by providing high quality online experiential learning resources for teaching computer networking to novice learners; – (iii) to provide and promote lifelong learning resources in a key industry area, in order to help more people into skilled employment, thus addressing the significant technical skills gap in the industry.
- 3. PT Anywhere PT Anywhere offers a network simulation environment via a web interface that can be accessed from any web browser or as a widget inside an interactive eBook. PT Anywhere is based on the Packet Tracer network simulator for Windows and Linux developed by the Cisco Networking Academy.
- 4. PT Anywhere PT Anywhere is available as a widget that can be embedded inside an online course, a Learning Management System (like Moodle or Sakai), or an interactive eBook (like Apple’s iBooks).
- 5. Interactive learning resources Facilitating the development of introductory practical networking skills without using hardware, through the provision of PT Anywhere integrated into learning resources and activities.
- 6. Next steps Currently piloting and evaluating our learning resources with vocational education providers within the UK Cisco Networking Academy. In the next phase of the project, our learning resources will be rolled out through the Open University’s award-winning OpenLearn open education platform.