500X330_Microsoft_IntroThe University of St. Thomas is offering a free, Microsoft FAST class giving students critical practice of virtual engagement in a digital world. The Critical Praxis in Virtual Engagement is taught by technology expert Dr. Cesare Wright who designed the course to develop today’s digital essentials that include communication and interpersonal skills. Students develop adaptability and project management best practices for a digital workplace.

UNIV 4393 (class number: 2321)

  • Video and audio production equipment – cameras, microphones, digital mixers, capture devices, etc.
  • Artificial and natural lighting strategies and equipment
  • Technical troubleshooting for virtual platforms and software
  • Audio/video enhancement software and apps – OBS Studio, Snap Camera, Blackmagic Desktop Video
  • Microsoft Teams and Teams Live
  • Set decoration, visual storytelling, and creating personal branding/atmosphere
  • Event registration, advertising, and social media engagement
  • Event management and producing – scripting, content integration, multi-session strategies, event logistics
  • Engagement strategies and pedagogy for online learning and virtual experiences
  • AI and the Future of Virtual Engagement

This course is a new compressed track format starting Dec. 19 and ending Jan. 16. This multidisciplinary course is open to undergraduate and graduate students and will be held Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 2 – 5:15 p.m.
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4.66 BILLION PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD USE THE INTERNET Source: Internet World Stats
4.66
BILLION PEOPLE AROUND

THE WORLD USE THE INTERNET

Source: Internet World Stats
51% OF PEOPLE WORLDWIDE HAVE A MOBILE DEVICE Source: DataPortal
51%
OF PEOPLE WORLDWIDE

HAVE A MOBILE DEVICE

Source: DataPortal
3.6 BILLION PEOPLE USE SOCIAL MEDIA WORLDWIDE Source: Statista
3.6
BILLION PEOPLE USE

SOCIAL MEDIA WORLDWIDE

Source: Statista
Accelerate Houston’s Workforce

500X330_Microsoft_Accelerate​Dr. Cesare Wright is in partnership with Microsoft, the software giant who has teamed up with Mayor Sylvester Turner and the city of Houston on a groundbreaking digital alliance to innovate in big data, artificial intelligence and the digital economy. Microsoft brings “Accelerate,” a new program to address economic recovery by skilling underserved communities and re-skilling the many Americans impacted by COVID-19. The collaboration aims to create new economic opportunity, close equity and digital skills gaps, and prepare a workforce for the 21st century.
Accelerate Houston’s Workforce

500X330_Microsoft_Leading​Dr. Cesare Wright has created and led a variety of technology and outreach courses. He earned his undergraduate degree from Rice University and taught there for seven years. While at Rice, he co-developed and launched the RCEL Certificate Program in Engineering Leadership. He has also created the internationally acclaimed Rice Drone Camp and Rice ELITE programs for K-12 students. His research interests center on the intersection of technology and culture, including such topics as digital media, artificial intelligence, drone technology, e-sports gaming and virtual and augmented reality. Dr. Wright also holds an MFA degree and is an award-winning documentary filmmaker.