Monday, January 13, 2025
CVTC releases new online textbooks
Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) has released two new open educational resources developed as part of the Wisconsin Technical College System’s open press, WisTech Open, titled “Using Computers in Healthcare.”
The textbooks, titled “Using Computers in Healthcare” and “Innovative Business Mindset,” are available at no cost online through WisTech Open.
“Using Computers in Healthcare,” developed by CVTC medical assistant instructor Brigitte Niedzwiecki, aims to equip healthcare students and lifelong learners with essential digital skills. The text covers topics such as online privacy, cybersecurity, digital communication, and critical thinking in the digital landscape.
Vince Mussehl, WisTech Open Project director, said the projects are impactful and will save thousands of students money over the years.
“ ’Using Computers in Healthcare’ has the potential to save 1,546 Wisconsin students, including 140 high school students, nearly $300,000 annually,” Mussehl said. “Other states and educational systems are free to use this resource as well and customize it for their specific needs.”
“Innovative Business Mindset,” has been designed to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in students and was developed by CVTC Marketing Instructor Stephanie Pohnl.
The online textbook offers a comprehensive introduction to entrepreneurial concepts, covering topics such as entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial mindsets, business models, creativity, and the development of business plans. It integrates adaptive learning activities to engage students through interactive scenarios.
“Our goal with Innovative Business Mindset was to create a resource that simplifies complex entrepreneurial concepts, making them accessible and engaging for all students. The content covers entrepreneurship and addresses intrapreneurship, allowing students to see how these mindsets apply whether they’re starting their own business or innovating within an existing organization.” Stephanie Pohnl, editor.
Mussehl said this is the first in the College’s line of business-related textbooks.
“This project alone has the potential to save 487 Wisconsin students, including 349 high school students, nearly $80,000 annually,” he said. “We also know that, from previous projects, the textbook will likely be used in other states and countries, furthering the impact of this work.”
Designed with accessibility and relevance in mind, both online textbooks are free to use and are adaptable by instructors, reinforcing CVTC’s commitment to reducing textbook costs and increasing access to quality education. Wisconsin Technical College faculty and partners peer-reviewed both texts in the summer.
Printed bound copies of both texts will be available in the summer of 2025. Digital audiobook versions will be available by fall 2025.
To view the “Using Computers in Healthcare” or “Innovative Business Mindset” text or for more information about the WisTech Open project, visit www.cvtc.edu/WisTech.
