Photo: A screenshot from one of CTN Instructor Paolo Banzon’s virtual classes
With the pandemic shifting the focus of most employment to the virtual space, it has become imperative for most people to have a basic understanding of how to write a resume and to know what resources are available to them. Because most of CTN’s courses have had a primary focus on digital literacy, we launched a virtual training program focused on developing skills related to job hunting and resume writing.
CTN digital literacy instructor Paolo Banzon led a small group of five students from Lutheran Social Services (LSS) Sacramento youth. Each of them had a level of proficiency beyond the basics of their device, as well as a general understanding of what a resume was and where to look online for employment. This round of students met virtually through Zoom twice a week in the afternoon. They covered the use of Google Drive and Docs, where to conduct job searches, and how to format and design a resume using Canva. They ended the final session with activities related to preparation for the interview process.
Because this class was more focused on its content beyond just digital literacy, one of our challenges was creating a relevant curriculum that gave our students a head start in their attempts to seek employment. We worked closely with LSS’s Patrice Carpenter to get feedback about each lesson and to incorporate her suggestions into activities or topics that would best fit our students’ needs. All of our materials were created with the intention of being taught in an online setting. Some activities were successful despite not being in-person; however, virtual engagement has always required a different understanding of presence. Despite these drawbacks, the class was still able to participate to the best of their ability and were a wonderful group to teach.
“Teaching in either a virtual or in-person environment still presents me the opportunity to learn more about what our students need and how we can transform our lessons to best support their endeavors,” reflects Paolo. “I hope that someday we’ll have the opportunity to offer these courses in person, as the virtual talks only reminded me of how much more engaging in-person instruction can be!”
We would like to appreciate and extend our thanks to everyone who helped make these classes happen. Here’s what Patrice Carpenter of LSS had to say about our mutually beneficial partnership:
“With our staff and youth slowly adjusting to returning back to the office, our partnership with Community Tech Network has been a great addition as we increase engagement. The past year has emphasized our youths’ need for technology and skills to build job readiness. CTN has been a great support in meeting this need. Sabrina and Paolo have been with us every step of the way, providing guidance on how to build the best learning environment. Paolo as an instructor has been great! We have watched as he has built rapport with the participants and created an environment where the learners are both eager and excited to discuss the material. Thank you CTN we appreciate all you do!”
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