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EDITORIAL
Trish Brimblecombe |
2000 has been an interesting year - for most of us the predicted Y2K problems generally turned out to be a fizzer, but our institutions had to cope with other challenges including financial difficulties and mergers, and some difficulty in both holding experienced IT staff and filling new positions. Paul Swain opened the NACCQ annual conference in July with an optimistic look at our sector's role in the development of a knowledge economy in New Zealand. Various e-commerce offerings and online options appeared to top the list of new IT-related courses, with wireless and mobile Internet developments also under consideration. Overall, it seems our institutions are attempting to come to terms with the government's indication that more cooperation and collaboration is expected, together with differentiation of purpose and scope, although existing funding models still encourage a more competitive approach.
During the year NACCQ continued to provide support for tutors and other staff involved in teaching various computing and IT programmes at polytechnics, institutes of technology, and two universities. Mechanisms for curriculum review and updating, input from SIGs, moderation, and development of new awards are now well established. NACCQ also provides support for research activities through its NZ-wide links, the annual conference, a refereed journal, research workshops and funding for appropriate research projects. This year, various seminars on hot topics and industry-sponsored scholarships have also been organised. NACCQ's ongoing ability to adjust its role and support activities to reflect the inevitable changes in industry and educational provision has been crucial to remain effective, as is its ability to attract commitment and input from the people working in this area. 2001 looks like it will be a great year - make sure this is the year you get involved in NACCQ.
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