Century Paramedic Program Finds Success with iPads

Century Paramedic Program Finds Success with iPads

The Century College Paramedic Program has successfully transitioned from books to iPads.

After a year of required iPad use, both students and faculty members say they prefer iPads because they are more mobile, comprehensive, environmentally responsible and cheaper in the long run.

“The iPads are very convenient,” said second-semester Paramedic student Jessica Mauritzen of Roseville. “I can study whenever and wherever I want. Even waiting in line to get my oil changed, I can pull out my iPad and review the course material.”

Electronic books on the iPad can take the place of about 22 more-expensive textbooks. Plus, the iPad can hold the electronic version of stacks of paper forms required for field work in the Paramedic Program. As part of the college’s commitment to sustainability, it is estimated that the iPad initiative saves the college about $650 per semester in paper expenses.

First-semester student Joseph Ghobrial of Hopkins noted that the $400 iPads are cheaper than $600 worth of required textbooks. And the iPads go with the students once they leave college. Students who qualify for financial aid may use some of those funds for the iPad purchase.

Paramedic instructor Kim Schmitzer said iPads make it possible for students to take their exams online, saving paper and lessening test anxiety and stress in preparation for the national certification exam. Also, assessments of student performance in the field can be quickly sent to the instructor, eliminating the uncertainty of regular mail. This is an important step that leads to a student’s success and timely graduation.

“The use of the iPad has reinvented how students access and interact with educational material,” said Schmitzer. “It is very user-friendly event for the technologically challenged student.” Schmitzer recently created an iBook for students entering the healthcare field, and is working on creating others.

Schmitzer noted that the requirement of iPads in the Paramedic Program is fully endorsed by the EMS Advisory Committee, and the educational redesign was made possible by the Perkins Foundation.

Century’s Paramedic Program trains students over a 14-month period. It has been accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs for EMS Professions since 1987.

Photo: Joseph Ghobrial, Kim Schmitzer, Jessica Mauritzen