Zamorano E Learning Center (Ze-LC)
Zamorano innovates by implementing on-line continuing education.
In recent decades agricultural production and agroindustrial processes have undergone many changes with new discoveries and practices that take technological, market and even environmental aspects into consideration. However there are few opportunities for continuing education available for agronomic engineers that don’t involve attending an international university in person for specialization. Zamorano created the E Learning center (Ze-LC) in 2005, a virtual classroom for those who wish to continue learning with the purpose of providing an opportunity to broadening and update Zamorano graduates’ knowledge in key areas, taking into account aspects like time availability.
Zamorano develops and promotes learning by the use of information and communication technologies through the Ze-LC. It offers multimedia resources that strengthen and update the skills of its teachers with the purpose of constantly improving the quality of the academic program and outreach activities.
The Ze-LC also works to strengthen knowledge on a regional level. In 2008 it produced fifteen educational modules for use in four agricultural schools in Honduras and El Salvador.
The consolidation of Ze-LC through the Continuing Distance Education Program (PAC@D)
The Ze-lC currently successfully runs the Continuing Distance Education Program (PAC@D). This is an on-line program to share the Zamorano excellence and experience with that of its partners, both corporate and individual. The PAC@D seeks to improve the professional and business capabilities of the actors in Latin American agribusiness and agroindustrial sectors.
The courses are backed up by the vast international experience of Zamorano’s professors and researchers. The professors provide training specially orientated toward increasing competitiveness and sustainability in light of current economic models and international market trends.
“Most of our courses focus on the administrative field with emphasis on quality management, cost management, export management, processes and human resource administration. There are also courses on food safety, industrialization of raw materials, water resource management, alternative energy sources and business management for milk production,” said the Director of the Zamorano E learning Center and of PAC@D, Dr. Antonio Flores.
