Rae Montgomery
University of Minnesota Extension Service
448 Coffey Hall
1420 Eckles Ave
St Paul, MN 55108
(612) 624-2773, (612) 625-1955 fax

Dick Senese
University of Minnesota Extension Service
467 Coffey Hall
1420 Eckles Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612) 625-7779, (612) 625-1955 fax

Since 1998, the University of Minnesota Extension Service has been creating and delivering AccessE.info—a suite of online guides and hands-on workshop materials on e-commerce for small business, e-government, materials for nonprofit organizations, and beginning internet and broadband education for communities and workforce development organizations.

While the content is available to the public online, hands-on computer workshops provide learners who do not have the motivation, time or discipline to learn online with the opportunity to explore the topic. Local workshops also provide an opportunity for community members to come together and share their rich knowledge and experiences with each other, thus building the knowledge base of the community as a whole.

The problem? Limited Extension resources to deliver programs throughout the state.

The solution? Develop a network of knowledgeable and skilled instructors from partner organizations to deliver technology literacy programs.

In 2004, a network of partners was created to extend the reach of the Extension Educators. We developed simple ways for community colleges, tribal colleges, nonprofit organizations and other educational organizations to partner with us and use the AccessE.info educational programs to develop an e-future for their communities. The partnerships are invaluable, not only for delivering current programming, but for collaboration on future information technology education and opportunities.

This session will showcase the AccessE.info programs and demonstrate how strategic partnerships are extending Extension’s reach in rural communities.

PowerPoint Presentation (PDF format, 1,639 kb)