MOUSECORPS
An Overview of the MOUSECORPS Program:
Information and computer technology (ICT) is radically altering the way we work and the types of work we do. In order to succeed in this constantly changing landscape, the workers of tomorrow must be adaptable, facile with the tools of technology, able to work cooperatively with a team of colleagues, and to think analytically and solve complex problems. Furthermore, he or she must be a lifelong learner, continually refining knowledge and skills to keep up with shifting demands. In reaction to that reality, MOUSECORPS is a youth development program designed to support the growth of leadership and career readiness and create opportunities for students to gain experience leading in real world contexts related to and reliant on ICT and other 21st Century skills.
* Leadership: To support students’ growth as leaders, MOUSECORPS provides a framework for students to: better understand themselves and others; communicate effectively and work as an productive member of a team; develop technology skills and specialties; think critically and conduct themselves respectfully; and participate in a variety of opportunities to gain experience leading in real world contexts. To provide them with hands-on practice, each student will be required to lead at least one of the planned workshop sessions for their peers.
* Career Awareness: To support students’ expanding career awareness, MOUSECORPS supports students as they develop: self-confidence in their ability to contribute to a team; communication and marketing skills to sell themselves to potential employers (including such things as networking, appropriate dress, interviewing, and other ways to make good first impressions); an education plan defining certifications and/or degrees they must pursue to achieve their career goals; and shadowships where they can gain firsthand experience with potential career pathways.
* ICT Specialization: Each MOUSECORPS student selects from at least one area of Advanced ICT Skills to become certified as a MOUSECORPS specialist. The specialization areas are: Senior Technician; Software Application Specialist; Information Analyst; and MOUSE Squad Trainer.
Read about what MOUSE Corps participants had to say about their job shadowships.