Central Queensland University is giving Year 11 students in the region a taste of IT (Information Technology) at a four-day residential program titled Do IT @ CQU.

Do IT @ CQU coordinator Olive Mallory said the University wanted to inspire students about IT and give them a taste of university life.

“We are wanting to give students first-hand experience at studying IT courses at CQU,” Ms Mallory said.

The program is geared up for students who are interested in studying Information Technology, Multimedia, Electronic Journalism, WWW Design and Development, Informatics and Internet Communication.

“Through this residential program we aim to make the transition from secondary to tertiary study easier for students,” she said.

Do IT @ CQU 2002 will be offered on the Rockhampton, Mackay and Bundaberg campuses from 2 to 6 December. Students will attend the campus closest to their home region.

The program will give students the opportunity to be involved in simulated lectures and tutorials, meet University lecturers, tutors and support staff, discuss career options with the University career counsellor, discover IT industry use and applications from IT professionals, experience university residential college life and participate in an interactive learning environment. Students will also benefit by building networks with other potential university students from schools throughout Central Queensland.

DO IT @ CQU is cost-free, with participating students and schools incurring no expense for travel, accommodation or meals. Students may need spending money for incidentals. Do IT @ CQU is organised and jointly funded by the CQU Faculty of Informatics and Communication, CQ Connections, The Informatics Industry Branch, the Department of Communication & Information, Local Government, Planning and Sport through the iSTAR project.

Students wishing to apply for Do IT @ CQU must complete an application form which can be obtained from the school guidance officers, Information Technology teachers or school principals. The application form should be completed and signed by a parent or guardian and returned to the University through the school guidance officer by Tuesday 5 November. Students requiring travel arrangements should indicate on this form.

For further information contact Olive Mallory on 4930 9691 or email o.mallory@cqu.edu.au.