Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

The purpose of Cooperative Education is to help the student develop career objectives by linking their Portland Community College course work with out-of-classroom learning experiences in computer  information systems of the private and/or public sector organizations. Participation in the course can be beneficial for students who want on-the-job experiences which are related to their computer information systems career goal. The student may be paid depending upon the policies of the employer. This course is not intended to be a job placement class.
The field experience offered by CIS280D takes place in an on-the-job learning environment on or off campus. Arrangements are made with the employer regarding the student's job description and experiences the student is to have while on the job.
The student may enroll for 1, 2, 3, or 4 credits. The ratio of hours to credits is 4 to 1:12 hours of work per week for one academic term earns 4 credits.
Cooperative Education is an elective option for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Information Systems.
This course may be transferable to a four year institution and is applicable toward an Associate of Applied Science Degree or an Associate of Science Transfer Degree.

Upon successful completion of course students should be able to:

• Prepare a written contract which includes expected work performance, time commitments and attendance records.
• Perform duties outlined in a written contract.
• Adhere to time commitments.
• Negotiate an employment package.
• Inform employer of progress on assigned projects.

The student, coordinator/instructor, and employer develop a work experience plan which will meet the learning needs of the student. This plan provides a definition of on-the-job learning activities.

Evaluation procedures will be discussed during preliminary meetings between the student, coordinator/instructor and employer. At least one site visit a term is done by the coordinator and/or instructor.
EXPECTED STUDENT COMPETENCIES:
 

• Evaluate his/her strengths as compared to the employer's needs
• Apply job acquisition techniques
• Negotiate a training package
• Promote linkages between the employer, student, and coordinator/instructor
• Participate in the preparation of a written contract which details: expected work performance, anticipated time commitments, and maintenance of student attendance records
• Maintain a good work relationship by: performing duties outlined in the written contract, adhering to agreed-upon time commitments, keeping employer informed of progress on assigned projects.
• Participate in a midterm and/or end-of-term meeting of student, employer, and coordinator/instructor to discuss student progress.