Leisure learning classes made available

By: Amanda Duncil

Posted: 2/3/10

An assortment of non-credit courses will be offered in February through the Office of Electronic and Continuing Education.

"Continuing Education is pleased to be able to offer non-credit courses to members of the community who may already have a degree or do not require a degree, but need to continue life-long learning, which is required in today's society," said Hedy Pinkerton, director of the Office of Electronic and Continuing Education.

The courses are "leisure learning" classes offered as a service to the community, said Melanie Bedgood, administrative assistant of non-credit programs.

They are self-generated and require a fee in order to participate.

Students can register by calling (800) 376-2422 or (318) 357-6355.

Some of the classes that will be offered include "Instant Piano for Hopelessly Busy People," "Let's Dance the East Coast Swing" and instructional courses for Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 and Photo Story.

"Northwestern's Continuing Education courses impact adults who are required to stay current in their occupational skills by providing Continuing Education Units (CEUs)," Pinkerton explained.

Continuing Education also offers Driver's Education and ACT preparatory courses as well as leisure classes such as dance, aerobic swimming, karate and scrap booking.

"We also offer certification prep courses in several areas which help the citizens of our community acquire new skills to aid in getting new employment or retain their existing positions," Pinkerton said.

"Then as new technologies emerge, classes are provided to permit adults ready access to update their knowledge in different areas such as computer technology which is vital for today's workforce."

More information on upcoming classes can be found at http://ece.nsula.edu/non-credit.