Sabbatical Plan

Larry Krieg, 2005

2005-03-17
The latest version of this document is on the Web at:
http://courses.wccnet.edu/~krieg/xml/pdf05-03.htm

Trends in Computing Technology

Looking at the flow of development and technology in the computing and Internet fields, we see these trends:

• Increasing use of the Web as front-end of choice for computing operations
• Increasing use of data-based Web sites
• Interactive rather than static pages
• Use of XML as the basis for exchanging information
• Vision of the "Semantic Web" transforming the "World Wide Web"

Information backing up this summary can be found at:

Topics for Development

In order to position computer instruction at WCC to movewith these technological trends, it is important to emphasize XML as the basis for most computerized information interchange. The Computer Instruction and Internet Professional Departments should work together to establish an advanced certificate in XML developers. For this, we should seek the advice of area XML experts and employers. ProQuest is one example of a major user of XML and SGML technology, with great expertise and many employees in this field. We are also fortunate that this area hosts Arbortext, one of the leading developers of SGML/XML based systems. Paul Grosso, Vice President for Research at ArborText, is co-chair of W3C's XML Core Working Group, the organization that sets the standards for XML. He and his company are in a position to advise us on employer needs and areas of training focus for both entry-level students and returning professionals.

Professional Development Needs

My background in programming would suggest that coding is an area in which I could teach effectively. For me to be able to participate fully in moving WCC in the direction outlined, I would need additional training in these areas:

• XML: I have had basic XML training, and need more hands-on training and experience using XML for a variety of practical applications.
• Server-side programming: the data sent and received using XML coding is stored and manipulated using programs on the servers. Many languages and database systems are used for this, but PHP and MySQL are a combination used by many organizations in this area. I have taught myself basic PHP, but would like to learn it in more depth, along with MySQL or similar SQL-based database access system.

Sabbatical Goals

To incorporate this professional development into the curriculum, I would like to work toward the following goals:

1. Obtain additional training in these areas:
   1. XML: I have had basic XML training, and need more hands-on training and experience using XML for a variety of practical applications.
   2. Server-side programming: the data sent and received using XML coding is stored and manipulated using programs on the servers.
2. Developing an advanced XML certificate with the Computer Instruction Department.
3. Determine potential for on-campus and “College On Demand” delivery modes.
4. Use XML and PHP to develop Web-based learning modules for the new program