Pat Monteith

Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology Proficiency

Pat Monteith

When Pat Monteith began volunteering her time to help K-12 students in her community with their science fair projects, she realized quickly she was going to need to get up to speed with new technology.

“I was previously in a whole different career,” says Monteith, who volunteers at Brockton Public Library. “After I started working with the students, I realized I needed some credentials.”

So Monteith signed up for Framingham State University’s Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology Proficiency, which is designed for school personnel who want to further their knowledge and skills in the use of technology in teaching elementary, middle, and high school students.

“I can’t say strongly enough how much all these courses really brought me up to speed on technology, which was crucial for me to be able to do what I am doing,” says Monteith. “The program gets an A plus in my book. Every instructor I’ve had through the process has been stellar.”

For her final project in her Technology and Infrastructure Course, Monteith wrote a comprehensive proposal to install a makerspace at Brockton Public Library. A makerspace is a collaborative work space inside a public school, library or other facility that provides the community with shared tools for exploration and learning.

“It provides kids an opportunity to have access to materials, games and other learning tools their parents may not be able to afford,” says Monteith.

Library officials were so impressed with the proposal, that they provided Monteith with a budget of $1,500 to implement it. A grand opening ceremony for the makerspace was held in April.

“This project was something I could never have imaged doing prior to the certificate program,” she says. “I think it’s going to be a big benefit to the community in terms of getting kids off the street and into the library.”