Category Archives: Technology

Businesses, organizations, and government agencies rely on information technology professionals to keep their computer networks and systems functioning and protected. An information technology master's degree can help IT leaders advance their careers in a booming industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 13% job growth for 2020-30 and average salaries of $91,250 for computer and information technology occupations. That category includes database administrators and architecture, information security analysis, and network and computer systems administration.

Explore our school rankings to learn more about online information technology master's programs and opportunities in this dynamic sector.

ZDNet's ranking methodology employs expert curation and rigorous editorial review to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Schools and programs can't pay for inclusion on our lists, which safeguards the integrity and impartiality of our data.

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, College Scorecard, and each program's website.

About the program: FSU's master of science in information technology online program requires 32 credits, including core courses in information behavior, information systems management, management of information organizations, and usability analysis.

Accreditation: Florida State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: The 30-hour, non-thesis master of science in information technology curriculum at USF integrates technology with operational and strategic organizational applications.

Accreditation: University of South Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: Students can select among six concentration areas and gain experience through learning labs while pursuing an online master of science in information technology degree at Purdue.

Accreditation: Purdue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

About the program: OSU online offers a 33-credit, STEM-designated master of science in management information systems that trains graduates to provide solutions for business data, information systems, and security.

Accreditation: Oklahoma State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

About the program: CMU students with three years of professional experience can earn a master of science in information technology while continuing to work. The interdisciplinary curriculum focuses on skills needed to lead organizations' digital transformations.

Accreditation: Carnegie Mellon University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

About the program: The 30-credit online master of science in management information systems at UArizona admits qualified applicants with two years of work experience and focuses on the advancement of management and complex technology skills.

Accreditation: University of Arizona is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

About the program: Working professionals can complete TU's master of science in applied information technology online. Students earn 33 credits through graduate certificates and six elective courses.

Accreditation: Towson University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

About the program: Murray State's online master of science in information systems with a concentration in business analytics requires 30 credits and emphasizes data-driven decision-making and statistical modeling.

Accreditation: Murray State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: Distance learners at WGU can pursue a master's in information technology in cybersecurity, IT management, or data analytics. The curriculum targets IT professionals ready for the next level.

Accreditation: Western Governors University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

About the program: The 30-credit online master of science in information technology administration and security program at NJIT prepares leaders in IT, database, network, security, and web services administration.

Accreditation: New Jersey Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

About the program: Mason online offers a 30-credit master of science in applied information technology with concentrations in cyber security or data analytics and intelligence methods.

Accreditation: George Mason University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: TESU's online master of science in information technology requires 36-39 credits. It prepares IT professionals for leadership roles in cyber security, data management and analytics, health information, information assurance, network management, and software engineering.

Accreditation: Thomas Edison State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

About the program: Graduate students enrolled in MGA's master of science in information technology program online can concentrate on cyber security and forensics, data analytics, health informatics, homeland security, social media, or software development.

Accreditation: Middle Georgia State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: The 33-credit master of science in information technology, applied IT at Montclair emphasizes communication, IT project management, and business.

Accreditation: Montclair State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

About the program: Remote learners enrolled in UMass Lowell's master of science in information technology complete 10 courses focused on computer networks and learn practical skills in Apple, UNIX/Linux, and Windows platforms.

Accreditation: University of Massachusetts Lowell is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE).

About the program: The 30-credit master of science in information technology program at KSU provides job placement services for graduates and features 100% online internship and capstone projects.

Accreditation: Kennesaw State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

About the program: UMaine online's 30-credit master of science in information systems program emphasizes the managerial, policy, and technical aspects of building and maintaining computer-based information systems.

Accreditation: University of Maine is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE).

About the program: Designed for working professionals, Endicott's master of science in information technology offers concentrations in software engineering and programming or health and medical informatics.

Accreditation: Endicott College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE).

About the program: At Lutheran-affiliated CUW, distance learners can earn an MBA in management information systems that prepares professionals to manage complex database management and earn Oracle Database SQL Expert certification.

Accreditation: Concordia University Wisconsin is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

About the program: Walsh's 33-45 credit master of science in information technology degree welcomes students with at least two years of professional experience. This STEM-designated program offers concentrations in cybersecurity or data science.

Accreditation: Walsh College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Information technology master's programs' online curriculums target IT professionals with several years of experience who plan to work full-time while studying. Coursework delivery tends to be asynchronous and focused on practical skills, IT certification, and business aspects of IT.

Learners hone skills in information technology leadership and management. They may specialize in cyber security, database architecture, network administration, or software development. Some programs culminate in a thesis and others in a capstone project.

Information technology master's programs require online students to be organized and internally motivated. Some schools offer accelerated learning for those who can handle the fast pace or part-time study for those with extensive work or family responsibilities.

The information technology master's curriculum emphasizes advanced level skill development, leadership role preparation, and IT specialization areas like database management, health informatics, and systems administration.

Most programs require 30-36 credits, and online students typically complete coursework on their own schedules. The list below includes courses that IT master's students will likely encounter. Depending on the program, remote learners may develop their own projects or participate in experiential learning like online practicums or internships.

Advanced information technology

In this introductory graduate course, enrollees learn about databases, hardware management, telecommunications, and web software development.

Data analytics

This course covers data identification, data set analysis, and data analysis software. Participants often learn to use programming languages to solve data analytics problems.

Database design

Students preparing for careers in database management or architecture learn about data modeling, diagramming tools, and functional dependencies. This course may also cover database management and leadership roles.

Network security

Graduate students explore cyber security methods, encryption, and file security. They learn to protect networks and computer systems from threats using firewalls and other information assurance tools.

Are you a high school student interested in an entry-level IT position, a seasoned professional looking for a next-level management role, or an industry veteran transitioning to an academic or research career?

Different degrees suit different learners. Choose the IT degree level that best fits your goals, schedule, and budget.

Length: 12-18 months

Cost: $160-$648 per credit

Post-grad careers: Computer support specialist; computer systems analyst; network administrator

IT certificates offer targeted opportunities for students at all levels, including those entering the industry, IT professionals expanding their skills, and career or specialization swappers. A certificate can quickly qualify new entrants to the field for entry-level jobs.

Coursework covers topics in computer programming and analysis, cyber security, databases, network support, and business software. Tracks may include hardware and software support, routing and switching, and software development.

Length: Two years

Cost: $70-$540 per credit

Post-grad careers: Data center operations support; desktop support technician; web developer

Associate in IT degree programs comprise approximately 60 credits that teach cyber security and defense, internet applications, networking, operating systems, and programming skills. Curriculums also include general education courses that foster critical thinking and problem-solving.

Online class delivery tends to be asynchronous, and graduates emerge prepared for entry-level IT positions or to apply their credits toward IT bachelor's degrees. Many schools offer accelerated or part-time learning options.

Length: Four years

Cost: $186-$913 per credit

Post-grad careers: Computer network architect, information systems manager, software developer

Undergraduates interested in an information technology degree often pursue a bachelor of science in information technology. The 120- to 125-credit programs include IT courses and general education classes, capstone projects, and often internships.

Core IT courses cover applied, managerial, and technical aspects, along with fundamentals of cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, programming, and web systems. Students graduate with the computer, math, and business skills required of the IT workforce.

Length: One to two years

Cost: $255-$2,196 per credit

Post-grad careers: Database administrator; IT project manager; network security manager

Information technology master's programs emphasize specialization, with an eye toward IT careers in areas like data analytics, digital forensics, and healthcare informatics. Most require 30-36 credits and may culminate in a thesis, exam, or capstone project. Master's students hone decision-making and management skills.

Online programs typically tailor their curriculums for experienced IT professionals interested in career advancement and leadership roles. Course delivery is usually asynchronous, allowing for full-time work, internships, or parenting responsibilities.

Length: Three to five years

Cost: $500-$1,000 per credit

Post-grad careers: Data scientist; IT researcher; postsecondary professor

Students often pursue a doctorate or Ph.D. to attain academic and research positions. This terminal degree program attracts industry professionals with on-the-ground experience.

The curriculum involves coursework but also focuses on preparing and defending a dissertation, passing comprehensive examinations, and building on experience in a specialization. Graduates find employment at universities, government agencies, business organizations, and government agencies.

If you're ready to research and select an information technology master's program, our rankings list will help find the one that fits your academic and career goals. If one catches your eye, reach out to the school to learn more.

If you're not sure which path to take, the information and links included on this page can inform your decisions about degree options, concentration areas, and information technology scholarships.

Excerpt from:

Best online master's in information technology 2021: Top picks - ZDNet

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE Fla. (WMBB) Hurricane Michael gave the air force a blank canvas to rebuild Tyndall Air Force Base.

The plans call for the most modern, technologically advanced base in the world.

Thursday, tech experts were on-base showing airmen the new capabilities that will make up the base of the future.

Part of that is the digital twin. Tyndall Air Force Bases Installation of the Future Science and Technology Advisor, Lance Marrano, said the digital twin will be a virtual model of the entire installation.

We were able to model different scenarios and from that, we were able to show if we implement certain technologies if we change the way security forces prepare and respond to protect the installation they can reduce the likelihood of a threat, Marrano said.

Weather-resistant safe rooms will be built across Bay County

The digital twin will allow people to measure spaces and see how things fit for the specific mission.

The Installation Resilience Operation Center or IROC will be the real-life nerve center of the base.

We could be talking about a particular security incident and being able to coordinate all the different first responders on the installation, Marrano said.

IROC will be used as a communication device for events like a hurricane or an active shooter situation.

Marrano said these make up the two cornerstones of the base of the future.

The cutting-edge technology will allow personnel to have real-time awareness of everything happening on base and the know-how to correctly respond.

By rebuilding as the base of the future to really be that pathfinder, Marrano said.

Each day on Tyndall Air Force Base developers is working to update the digital twin technology to the point where it is ready to be deployed. Events like this technology expo are very important to make sure everyone on base is aware of its capabilities.

Local family sells seven McDonalds locations

At Thursdays tech expo, airmen had the opportunity to see product demonstrations and learn how the technology will enhance their jobs.

Senior Master Sergeant Darius Harper said this is crucial to the understanding of the rebuild.

So it is important to immerse ourselves into some of the modernized technology so that we can get an advanced outlook on how to best support and build out this base, Harper said.

Tyndall hopes to have the digital twin and IROC technology fully functional by 2023.

All of this advanced work at Tyndall will eventually become the norm at other U.S. bases around the world.

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Tyndall technology expo shows off base of the future capabilities - WMBB - mypanhandle.com

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Executive Vice President and General Manager of Wolters Kluwers Finance, Risk & Regulatory Reporting (FRR) business has been recognized for his executive leadership. Claudio Salinardi is the 2021 Risk Technology Executive of the Year, according to CEO Monthly magazine.

The global award is the latest in a record year for Wolters Kluwer FRR when it comes to independent industry recognition for the business, with 35 awards recognizing excellence and innovation in the fields of regulatory reporting, risk management and RegTech. All awards won by Wolters Kluwer FRR are in free-to-enter programs and are based on merit and client feedback.

CEO Monthly is published by AI Global Media, founded in 2010, and circulated to more than 60,000 C-suite executives across a wide variety of industries, including financial services firms, globally.

Salinardi joined Wolters Kluwer FRR in May 2018 from ICE Data Services where he was Global Head of Strategic Alliances, responsible for managing the firms relationships with its largest and most influential partners. Prior to ICE, he spent over 10 years with Thomson Reuters in progressively senior roles, ultimately leading its Fixed Income business globally. Salinardi started his financial markets career working in Equity Research Sales, holding positions at JP Morgan and ABN AMRO among other financial institutions. He reports directly to Richard Flynn, CEO of Wolters Kluwers Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) division, and is tasked with helping financial institutions address their integrated regulatory compliance and reporting challenges.

Last month Wolters Kluwer announced that it has enjoyed its most successful year ever in the widely followed Chartis RiskTech100 report. The company has been named this year's Category Winner in four areas - Regulatory Reporting Banking, Liquidity Risk, Regulatory Intelligence and OpsTech Tax Processing. This comprehensive and independent study of the worlds leading risk and compliance technology companies is compiled by Chartis Research, part of Infopro Digital, publishers of Risk.net and Waters Technology.

The other banking and regulatory compliance business of Wolters Kluwer GRC is Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions - a market leader and trusted provider of risk management and regulatory compliance solutions and services to U.S. insurers, banks and credit unions, and securities firms. The divisions legal solutions businesses are Wolters Kluwer CT Corporation and Wolters Kluwer ELM Solutions.

About Wolters Kluwer Governance, Risk & Compliance

Governance, Risk & Compliance is a division of Wolters Kluwer, which provides legal and banking professionals with solutions to help ensure compliance with ever-changing regulatory and legal obligations, manage risk, increase efficiency, and produce better business outcomes. GRC offers a portfolio of technology-enabled expert services and solutions focused on legal entity compliance, legal operations management, banking product compliance, and banking regulatory compliance.

Wolters Kluwer (AEX: WKL) is a global leader in information services and solutions for professionals in the health, tax and accounting, risk and compliance, finance and legal sectors. Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The company, headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands, serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries and employs 19,200 people worldwide.

Read the rest here:

Wolters Kluwer FRR Leader Wins Risk Technology Executive of the Year Accolade - Business Wire

ST. LOUIS, Dec. 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Engagedly Inc., a leader in performance management and employee engagement software, won five Brandon Hall Tech Awards announced on 9th December 2021. Brandon Hall Technology Awards conducted by Brandon Hall Group, is a leading independent Human Capital Management Research and Analyst firm.

Engagedlywon: Goldin 'Best Advance in an Integrated Talent Management Platform' and 'Best Advance in Performance Management Technology', Silverin 'Best Advance in Rewards and Recognition Technology' and 'Best Advance in Technology Innovation for the Remote Workforce', and "Future of Work" Bronzein 'Best Advance in Social Talent Management Technology'.

Engagedly helps organizations digitize their performance management and improve employee engagement. Engagedly's cloud platform is built to enable your teams, execute your strategies, and engage your employees. It offers an easy-to-use and comprehensive set of features to ensure that people's reviews are effective and easy, so that employees stay engaged and productive.

"It's an immense honor to be associated with a passionate team at Engagedly to help other organizations build a better, more fulfilling workplace. Winning these awards is a testament to the vision of our team and our client partners, who share in that vision," said Sri Chellappa, President/Co-founder of Engagedly.

"Technology has never been more critical for success in human capital management than it is today. We were thrilled to see many new innovations in all areas, but especially related to the future of work," said Brandon Hall Group Chief Operating Officer and awards program head Rachel Cooke. "Thanks to the many innovations from our Excellence in Technology winners, organizations have many compelling options as they make important decisions on how to leverage technology to drive their people strategies."

"HCM solution providers must be experts and visionaries in technology, but they also must have the ability to anticipate the diverse needs of employers as they work to adapt to ongoing change," Brandon Hall Group CEO Mike Cooke said. "This requires a blend of curiosity, empathy and agility that is difficult to achieve. We have seen an extraordinary level of insight and creativity from our Excellence in Technology winners that has been exciting to see."

A panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, and Brandon Hall Group senior analysts and executives evaluated the entries based upon the following criteria:

View the complete list of winners here.

About Engagedly

Engagedly is a fast-paced growth provider and an award-winning talent management solution provider. Built upon best practices and decades of research, Engagedly's People + Strategy platform is evolving performance management, development and engagement to drive successful organizational outcomes across the globe. Engagedly's E3 unified platform combines the power of business strategy execution, talent enablement, and employee engagement into one easy-to-use software solution.

To learn more about Engagedly, visit:https://engagedly.com/

About Brandon Hall Group, Inc.:

Brandon Hall Group operates the largest and longest running awards program in Human Capital Management. As an independent HCM research and analyst firm they conduct studies in Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Talent Acquisition and HR/Workforce Management. These benchmark studies help organizations by providing strategic insights for executives and practitioners responsible for growth and business results.

Brandon Hall Group has also launched professional certifications for business and human capital management professionals to upskill themselves and gain credentials for career advancement. (www.brandonhall.com)

Press contact: Press/Marketing TeamEngagedly Inc.+1-650-4851642[emailprotected]

SOURCE Engagedly

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Engagedly Inc. Wins Big with Six Brandon Hall Group Excellence in Technology Awards 2021 - PRNewswire

2. Amazon set to ramp up online grocery delivery efforts in 2022

Amazonis planning to launch a new grocery delivery service in the US next year and expand its current offering in Europe,according to a report by The Information.

While the e-commerce giant has been making deliveries through Whole Foods and from Amazon warehouses for a number of years, this latest move brings in third-party retailers, supermarkets and vendors.

In the UK, Prime subscribers are already able to order same-day deliveries of groceries from Morrisons and Co-op, using the Amazon app and website.

Amazon didn't respond to a request for comment, but a spokesperson told The Information that "partnerships with other grocers enable more customers to shop online and allow us to provide Amazon Prime members with more choice, value and convenience."

Asda was among the companies who emerged victorious at RTIHs 2021 retail technology awards.

The awards, sponsored by PMC, StoreSpace, Critizr, Marxent, QVALON and Selazar, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

We received a record number of submissions this year across 14 categories (you can find a full rundown of the 2021 shortlists here).

Our winners and highly commended companies were announced during an exclusive event that took place in central London last week and was attended by retailers, members of our judging panel, and sponsors.

The rest is here:

The five biggest retail technology news stories of the week - Retail Technology Innovation Hub

The Autoblog 2021 Technology of the Year winner is Fords Pro Power Onboard generator system found in the F-150. Its a remarkably useful and thoughtful piece of technology that will surely influence other manufacturers to follow Fords lead.

We started with a long list of potential technologies introduced over the past year, but whittled the podium finalists down to three. Mercedes augmented reality head-up display and infotainment interface tested in the EQS placed second, while the Android Automotive infotainment system tested in the Polestar 2 was third.

Per usual for our Technology of the Year award, three main questions are asked, and editors assign point values based on how well the technologies fare in testing. What is its purpose? Does it work? Does it advance the industry?

No technology this year answers those questions more thoroughly and emphatically than Pro Power Onboard does in the Ford F-150.

Ford takes the basic concept of an onboard generator and puts it on steroids, Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore said. Pro Power Onboard is the highest evolution of a technology that helps people do their jobs and have fun. Its a common-sense solution that illustrates Fords practical ethos that dates to the Model T.

The basic idea behind Pro Power Onboard is relatively simple; plugging electric items into your truck or vehicle is nothing new. That said, any vehicle having the same work power as a mega-powerful generator is new, and thats just what Ford offers with this technology in the F-150. If you have the top-of-the-line 7.2-kilowatt system available on the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid, the capabilities are mind-boggling. You can plug in a 120V plasma cutter, 120V TiG welder, chop saw, 1.5-horsepower air compressor, angle grinder and work light. All at the same time. Plus, you can run the system at full tilt for up to 32 hours straight, assuming you have a full tank of gas in your F-150 PowerBoost.

In addition to all of those work-related tasks and additional recreational capabilities you can run one hell of a tailgate from the F-150s bed Pro Power Onboard has already proven itself invaluable in the real world. This years energy crisis in Texas showed that you can use Pro Power Onboard to power the vitals of your house when the power goes out. Its arguably more effective than going out and purchasing an equivalent generator. With those, you have to lug it out of the garage, keep it fueled and then deal with the noise and deadly emissions. Beyond the pickups ability to run for longer periods of time (outside of your home), its also going to emit fewer emissions than any small gas generator would.

Heres where some nuance comes into play for Pro Power Onboard. There are technically three different systems you can opt for. A basic 2-kW system is optional ($995) on gas-only F-150s. This one is the least powerful Pro Power Onboard setup, and it runs off a unique 24-volt electrical system that is separate from the trucks regular electrical system. It comes with dual 120V/20A outlets in the bed, and even though its much less powerful than the 7.2-kW system mentioned earlier, you can still get a lot of work/play done. Ford says the wattage is good enough to run a TV, portable speakers, mini fridge, blender and electric heater at once, so epic tailgates can still happen with this base system.

If you get the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid, a slightly more powerful 2.4-kW output comes standard. This one runs off the hybrids 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack, and the optional 7.2-kW version ($750) of this operates the same way. The 2.4-kW Pro Power Onboard system provides you with the same outlets as the 2.0-kW, but the upgraded 7.2-kW system adds another pair of 120V/20A outlets and one NEMA L14-30R 240V/30A outlet. Adding the 240V outlet is what makes this truck so powerful at handling nearly any task you throw at it. You could power a whole RV trailer for nights on end, recharge electric recreational vehicles and much, much more.

Those are the semi-complex nuts and bolts of the system. Youll be happy to learn that using it is a simple task. We tested it with a wide array of our editors electronics, filling the bed with TVs, game consoles, Halloween lights, mini fridges, popcorn makers and more. To use Pro Power Onboard, all you need to do is turn the truck on and press the dedicated generator button above the infotainment screen. After that youre good to go. The screen will give you a readout of how much power youre drawing and how much more power you have in real time, so you can keep track of the load this can also be done via the FordPass smartphone app. But also, once you switch into generator mode, you can turn everything else in the truck off to make sure youre not using precious energy for anything other than what youre attempting to power.

Our testing of the 7.2-kW system in an F-150 PowerBoost led to flawless results. Senior Editor James Riswick found it impressive in his testing.

This is absolutely a game-changing feature for truck owners, especially those who plan to use it for work purposes, Riswick notes. Besides the likelihood of something similar almost certainly showing up on other trucks, the enhanced electrical system it requires sure seems like something that can be applied to plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. Basically, we could be seeing this throughout the automotive industry as it goes electric.

That future potential is another reason that this tech wins our award this year. Its almost a certainty that other manufacturers introduce similar systems in their pickups. Meanwhile, EVs launching soon like the Ioniq 5 are going down the same road. Fords F-150 Lightning will be equipped with an even more advanced version of Pro Power Onboard that brings power up to 9.6 kW. Plus, youll be able to power your home even more easily using Fords Intelligent Backup Power capability that, when wired into your homes electrical system, will allow your home to simply run off the F-150 Lightnings battery. Ford suggests that the power inside a fully-charged Lightnings battery (the long-range model) would be enough to power an average house for about three days, or 10 days if rationed. Clearly, Pro Power Onboard is just the start of even better things to come.

No tech in this competition was as flashy or eye-popping as Mercedes new augmented reality (AR) head-up display. Its a totally new piece of technology that we havent seen implemented in any previous production car, which is one of the reasons it was nominated as a finalist.

The big draw here are its navigational abilities as they relate to augmented reality. Through a combination of GPS and cameras, Mercedes is able to project turn-by-turn directions such that they appear right on the road in your field of view. Say youre approaching a right turn, but there are multiple streets back-to-back, and the distance to turn metric makes it difficult to decide which is the right option. This augmented reality head-up display will make that decision easy by seeing and pointing to the correct street. Its almost impossible to get it wrong. The arrow directions work in any kind of navigational situation, too, whether youre trying to find the right highway exit or the correct lane when there are multiple interchanges.

Mercedes is able to do this thanks to the absolutely enormous size of the head-up display a diagonal size of 77 inches consisting of 1.4 million individual mirrors alongside GPS and camera integration. In addition to the head-up display, Mercedes uses augmented reality on the central touchscreen infotainment system. It functions the same as the head-up display, but now the arrows are projected directly onto a live camera feed of the road ahead. The camera feed pops up onto the screen a few moments before you need to make your move, and theyll give you the same precise navigational directions as you get on the head-up display.

Our testing found that Mercedes augmented reality system works like a charm, as the majority of testers found it both helpful and well-executed in practice. There were, however, some dissenters.

Does it make directions more obvious by putting the arrows more directly in your line of sight and in front of where you want to turn? Yes it does, Riswick says. Unfortunately, I found the HUD to be terribly distracting the rest of the time. It's enormous and, as designed, more in your line of sight than other HUDs. I found myself looking at it more than where I was going.

Others made the point that although this new navigation tool is new and novel, its still a redundant offering layered on top of multiple other aids in the car that help you determine where you need to go next. That said, it will be interesting to see where Mercedes can take augmented reality beyond this first level as a navigational helper. Projecting active notifications in a drivers field of vision is a novel idea that could lead to the highlighting of all sorts of things for a driver. Plus, its a technology we already know is going to spread to other manufacturers. Audi and Genesis have touted AR systems of their own that should see the light in production cars soon.

There are a load of cars coming that will be packing Android Automotive for their infotainment systems. The Polestar 2 the car we chose to use for this test was the first production car to ship with Android Automotive. Theres been much hubbub made for Google fully entering the car space, but nailing down exactly what Android Automotive is can be difficult. Quick hint: Its not Android Auto, not even in the slightest.

Googles definition is as follows: Android Automotive is a base Android platform that runs pre-installed in-vehicle infotainment system Android applications as well as optional second- and third-party Android Applications. Android Automotive offers openness, customization, and scale to automotive infotainment systems and head units. Openness enables new efficiencies by providing basic automotive infotainment features in a free and open source codebase.

If youre familiar with the Android phone landscape, thatll sound rather familiar. Android provides the basic OS to build around, then phone makers like Samsung, OnePlus, Sony and more customize it to their hearts content. The idea is the same for Android Automotive, except instead of phone makers, its companies like GM, Volvo, Honda and more who will be building their own customized interfaces using the Android platform as a starting point. That means even if many manufacturers are using Android Automotive infotainment, there will still be lots of varied experiences for the end users.

However, there will also be a number of consistencies, and we got to experience many of them in the Polestar 2. For one, Google Maps is your native navigation system. Its built into the infotainment system as opposed to being run from your phone, and there is no traditional built-in satellite navigation to be found. Some editors expressed a distrust in the systems ability to navigate in areas without cell reception Google Maps requires a data connection to function. Polestar answers that by telling users that the car automatically downloads and stores map data based on where you set the navigation to or your current location. You can also manually download large swaths of a region to ensure turn-by-turn navigation is always available. All that said, it does introduce another element of human work into an equation that didnt require it at all before.

One big plus to Android Automotive is deep Google Assistant integration. Instead of a random voice assistant built by a car company, you get the best voice assistant in the business. This makes voice commands much easier to use and better executed than essentially any other car out there. All cars with Android Automotive will also feature the Google Play Store. For Apple users, thats Androids version of the App Store. Here, youll be able to download lots of different apps, whether they be music players or other items you might want to access in a car. The selection is limited for the time being, but the number of apps is expected to increase in time.

Our testing saw the infotainment system work smoothly most of the time, but Google Maps hit us with some occasional buffering issues, highlighting the initial fears about the data connection issue. Theres also a deep lack of apps available on the platform at this point. For example, you cant download Waze or Apple Music to the car, which are a couple big omissions for many users. In the Polestar 2 that doesnt have Apple CarPlay functionality yet (Polestar says its coming), the lack of available apps hurts even more. That said, other Android Automotive applications from companies outside of Polestar will feature smartphone mirroring capabilities from the outset, so its a Polestar problem for now.

The potential of Android Automotive already looks like its there with the number of manufacturers committed to it.

Having a common architecture with basically different skins for brands and car companies could mean all those resources that previously went to developing in-car tech can go elsewhere, Riswick says. It could mean consumers not dealing with a cornucopia of different tech interfaces. It could make for cleaner communication between phone and car, if it's even necessary at all.

Everybody on staff is fairly convinced: Were still in the early days for Android Automotive. The system could be a huge winner one day, but its not quite there yet. Until its fully-baked on both the Google and OEM side, this wont be the magic bullet to infotainment nirvana were searching for.

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UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. A global company doing more than $1.3 billion a year in revenue is looking to expand its workforce in Upper Macungie Township.

"Essentially what our company does is build high-powered processors to power the network, the fiber optic network, that interconnects your 5G phones, your high-definition television sets, your gaming consoles," said David Heard, Infinera CEO and director.

You probably never knew Infinera has been in Lehigh County for about 20 years. It's one of the only companies building fiber optic semiconductors in the U.S.

"We service the big web scalers like the Amazons and Facebooks and others of the world, as well as service providers you might think of like the AT&Ts and Verizons of the world," said Heard.

The company is so busy that it needs to expand, Heard says. It would like to double its 200-person workforce in the Lehigh Valley in 2022.

"Traffic is growing across the network at 35% per year," Heard said, "and we're looking to continue to grow."

On top of that, the federal infrastructure package allocates $65 billion for universal broadband.

On Wednesday, the Pennsylvania State Senate passed a bill creating the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, which will manage the $100 million the state is getting from the package.

U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA 7th District) toured Infinera on Thursday. She's working on a bill that would ask the administration to create an office devoted to dealing with supply chain issues.

Wild said job security doesn't seem to be a concern for employees in one industry that's in high demand and growing.

"If anything, they just need to ramp up as much as they possibly can," she said, "and they're facing all the same concerns that other industries are and other people are with supply chain."

"If we use it in America, we should be making it in America," Wild added, "and to know that it's right here in our own backyard in Pennsylvania (District) 7 is just fabulous."

Still, the company acknowledges that coming across enough labor to fill 200 positions will be a challenge another topic discussed with the congresswoman during her visit.

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Rep. Susan Wild visits Upper Macungie broadband technology company looking to double workforce - 69News WFMZ-TV

Stacy Godfreey-Igwe sat in her dorm room at MIT, staring frantically at her phone. An unprecedented snowstorm had hit her hometown of Richardson, Texas, and she was having difficulty contacting her family. She felt worried and frustrated, aware that nearby neighborhoods hadnt lost power during the storm but that her family home had suffered significant damage. She finally got a hold of her parents, who had taken refuge in a nearby office building, but the experience left her shaken and more determined than ever to devote herself to addressing climate injustice.

Godfreey-Igwe, the daughter of Nigerian immigrants, has long been concerned about how marginalized communities can shoulder a disproportionately heavy environmental burden. At MIT, she chose a double major in mechanical engineering with a concentration in global and sustainable development, and in African and African diaspora studies, a major she helped establish and became the first student to declare. Initially seeing the two fields as separate, she now embraces their intersectionality in her work in and out of the classroom.

Through an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) project with Amah Edoh, the Homer A. Burnell Assistant Professor of Anthropology and African Studies at MIT, Godfreey-Igwe has learned more about her Igbo cultural heritage and hopes to understand what the future of climate change poses for the cultures sustainability. Godfreey-Igwe herself is the Ada or eldest child in her family, a role that carries a responsibility for keeping her familys culture alive. That sense of responsibility, to her community and to future generations, has stayed with her at MIT.

For Independent Activities Period during her first year at the Institute, Godfreey-Igwe traveled to Kazakhstan through MITs Global Teaching Labs. As a student teacher, she taught Kazakh high school chemistry students about polymers and the impact plastic materials can have on the Earths climate. She was also an MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) Identity X Ambassador during her time there, blogging about her experiences as a Black woman in the country. She saw the role as an opportunity to shed light on the challenges of navigating her identity abroad, with hopes of fostering community through her posts.

The following summer, Godfreey-Igwe interned for the Saathi Biodegradable Sanitary Napkins Startup in Ahmedabad, India. During her time there, she researched and wrote articles focused on educating the public about the benefits eco-friendly sanitary pads posed to public health and the environment. She also interviewed a director for the citys Center for Environmental Education, about the importance of uplifting and supporting marginalized communities hit hardest by climate change. The conversation was eye-opening for Godfreey-Igwe; she saw not only how complex the process of mitigating climate change was, but also how diverse the solutions needed to be.

She has also pursued her interest in plastics and sustainability through summer research projects. In of the summer of 2020, Godfreey-Igwe worked under a lab in Stanford Universitys civil and environmental engineering department to create and design models maximizing the efficiency of bacterial processes leading to the creation of bioplastics. The projects goal was to find a sustainable form of plastic breakdown for future applications in the environment. She presented her research at the Harvard National Collegiate Research Conference and received a presentation award during the MIT Mechanical Engineering Research Exhibition. This past summer, she was awarded a grant through the NSF Center for Sustainable Polymers at the University of Minnesota to work on a research project seeking to understand microplastic generation.

Ultimately, Godfreey-Igwe recognizes that to propose thoughtful solutions to climate issues, the people hit hardest must be a part of the conversation. For her, a key way to bring more people into conversations about sustainability and inclusion is through mentorship. This role is especially meaningful to Godfreey-Igwe because she knows firsthand how important for members of underrepresented groups to feel supported at a place like MIT. The experience of coming to an institution like MIT, as someone who is low-income or of color, can be isolating. Especially if you feel like there are people who cant relate to your background, she says.

Godfreey-Igwe is a member of Active Community Engagement FPOP (ACE), a social action group on campus that engages with local communities through public service work. Initially joining as a participant, Godfreey-Igwe became a counselor and then coordinator; she facilitates social action workshops and introduces students to service opportunities both at MIT and around Boston. She says her time in ACE has helped build her confidence in her abilities as a leader, mentor, and cultivator of inclusionary spaces. She is also a member of iHouse (International Development House), where she served for three years as the housing and service co-chair.

Godfreey-Igwe also tutors one-on-one for Tutoring Plus in Cambridge, where since her first year she has provided mentorship and STEM tutoring to a low-income, high school student of color. Last spring, she was awarded the Tutoring Plus of Cambridge Unwavering Service Award for her service and commitment to the program.

Looking ahead, Godfreey-Igwe hopes to use the skills learned from her mentorship and leadership roles to establish greater structures for collaboration on climate mitigation technologies, ideas, and practices. Focusing on mentoring young scientists of color, she wants to build up underprivileged groups and institutions for sustainable climate change research, ensuring everyone has a voice in the ongoing conversation.

In all this work, Im hoping to make sure that globally marginalized communities are more visible in climate-related spaces, both in terms of who is doing the engineering and who the engineering works for, she says.

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Expanding the conversation about sustainability | MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology - MIT News

Katherine Cross, who researches online harassment at the University of Washington, says that when virtual reality is immersive and real, toxic behavior that occurs in that environment is real as well. At the end of the day, the nature of virtual-reality spaces is such that it is designed to trick the user into thinking they are physically in a certain space, that their every bodily action is occurring in a 3D environment, she says. Its part of the reason why emotional reactions can be stronger in that space, and why VR triggers the same internal nervous system and psychological responses.

That was true in the case of the woman who was groped on Horizon Worlds. According to The Verge, her post read: Sexual harassment is no joke on the regular internet, but being in VR adds another layer that makes the event more intense. Not only was I groped last night, but there were other people there who supported this behavior which made me feel isolated in the Plaza [the virtual environments central gathering space].

Sexual assault and harassment in virtual worlds is not new, nor is it realistic to expect a world in which these issues will completely disappear. So long as there are people who will hide behind their computer screens to evade moral responsibility, they will continue to occur.

The real problem, perhaps, has to do with the perception that when you play a game or participate in a virtual world, theres what Stanton describes as a contract between developer and player. As a player, Im agreeing to being able to do what I want in the developers world according to their rules, he says. But as soon as that contract is broken and Im not feeling comfortable anymore, the obligation of the company is to return the player to wherever they want to be and back to being comfortable.

The question is: Whose responsibility is it to make sure users are comfortable? Meta, for example, says it gives users access to tools to keep themselves safe, effectively shifting the onus onto them.

We want everyone in Horizon Worlds to have a positive experience with safety tools that are easy to findand its never a user's fault if they dont use all the features we offer, Meta spokesperson Kristina Milian said. We will continue to improve our UI and to better understand how people use our tools so that users are able to report things easily and reliably. Our goal is to make Horizon Worlds safe, and we are committed to doing that work.

Milian said that users must undergo an onboarding process prior to joining Horizon Worlds that teaches them how to launch Safe Zone. She also said regular reminders are loaded into screens and posters within Horizon Worlds.

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But the fact that the Meta groping victim either did not think to use Safe Zone or could not access it is precisely the problem, says Cross. The structural question is the big issue for me, she says. Generally speaking, when companies address online abuse, their solution is to outsource it to the user and say, Here, we give you the power to take care of yourselves.

And that is unfair and doesnt work. Safety should be easy and accessible, and there are lots of ideas for making this possible. To Stanton, all it would take is some sort of universal signal in virtual realityperhaps Quivrs V gesturethat could relay to moderators that something was amiss. Fox wonders if an automatic personal distance unless two people mutually agreed to be closer would help. And Cross believes it would be useful for training sessions to explicitly lay out norms mirroring those that prevail in ordinary life: In the real world, you wouldnt randomly grope someone, and you should carry that over to the virtual world.

Until we figure out whose job it is to protect users, one major step toward a safer virtual world is disciplining aggressors, who often go scot-free and remain eligible to participate online even after their behavior becomes known. We need deterrents, Fox says. That means making sure bad actors are found and suspended or banned. (Milian said Meta [doesnt] share specifics about individual cases when asked about what happened to the alleged groper.)

Stanton regrets not pushing more for industry-wide adoption of the power gesture and failing to talk more about Belamires groping incident. It was a lost opportunity, he says. We could have avoided that incident at Meta.

If anything is clear, its this: There is no body thats plainly responsible for the rights and safety of those who participate anywhere online, let alone in virtual worlds. Until something changes, the metaverse will remain a dangerous, problematic space.

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The metaverse has a groping problem already - MIT Technology Review

The Government has given the green light for a new 13m East Midlands Institute of Technology (IoT).

Loughborough University, Loughborough College, the University of Derby, and the Derby College Group (DCG) will work together on the new Institute, which will create the highly advanced workforce needed to lead the digital revolution otherwise known as Industry 4.0.

The East Midlands IoT will focus on levelling up the critical engineering, manufacturing and digital skills needed by employers to address the grand engineering challenges of clean growth by embracing the advanced skills required for AI and a data-driven economy.

Its pioneering graduates will be part of a net zero carbon workforce needed to lead the UKs green and digital revolution and support the UKs post-pandemic recovery and journey to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Based in the heart of the East Midlands, the IoT will specialise in programmes such as Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies; Information and Communication Technology; Science and Mathematics and Construction, Planning and the built environment.

The IoT will be working closely with global powerhouse employers, including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, National Grid ESO, Alstom, Fujitsu, Uniper and Bloc Digital, to ensure programmes level up the workforce with the right skills.

Students will have access to a new IoT centre in Loughborough, as well as partner sites, including world class training environments in Derby at the University of Derbys Enterprise Centre and DCGs Roundhouse technical and professional skills college.

Speaking about the announcement, Professor Rachel Thomson FREng, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Teaching at Loughborough University, said: We are truly delighted that our bid has been successful and look forward to continuing to work with our Further and Higher Education and employer partners to deliver an outstanding Institute of Technology. This will provide much-needed digital and engineering skills for industry and business across the region, supporting our local community to access the right training and skills development at the point of need.

Professor Nick Jennings, Loughboroughs Vice-Chancellor and President, added: The University has always enjoyed great partnerships with industry, and they remain a key a priority as we move forward with our new strategy. The Institute will play a vital role in strengthening our partnerships even further, and I would like to congratulate all those involved in this important initiative. It will be a great asset to the region.

Jo Maher, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: We are absolutely thrilled to have been successful in our bid to createthe East MidlandsInstitute of Technology.

This presents us with an exciting and inspiring opportunity to deliver world class programmes which will lead the UKs green and digital revolution and form the beating heart of the countrys post-pandemic recovery.

It is a privilege to collaborate with such exceptional partners and anchor employers to create a pathway which will accelerate the UKs journey to a net zero carbon economy,whilst providing incredible training and employment opportunities for people throughout the region.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: We are delighted that our application for an Institute of Technology in the heart of the region has been selected.

Through our strong industry links, business experience and experience offering placements and apprenticeships in the engineering and technology sector, we understand the importance of ensuring graduates are ready to meet the regions skills needs.

As an applied university, with specialisms in areas such as data science, advanced manufacturing, architectural technology and low carbon business support, we are well equipped to help deliver the Institute alongside our further and higher education partners from Derby and Loughborough, and within industry.

Mandie Stravino, CEO of Derby College Group (DCG): By working together across the FE and HE sectors, the development of the IoT will broaden opportunities for both young people entering the world of work and adults looking to re-train or upskill mid-career.

It will also open up more accessible routes to higher education for students who may not have previously considered this route to expand their immediate and future career options.

The IoT will work in close partnership with its anchor employers to develop the right skills and programmes, from T-Levels through to postgraduate degrees, required for those industries.

Find out more about the successful bid for the East Midlands IoT here.

Press release reference number: PR 21/265

Loughborough is one of the countrys leading universities, with an international reputation for research that matters, excellence in teaching, strong links with industry, and unrivalled achievement in sport and its underpinning academic disciplines.

It has been awarded five stars in the independent QS Stars university rating scheme, named the best university in the world for sports-related subjects in the 2021 QS World University Rankings and University of the Year for Sport by The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2022.

Loughborough is in the top 10 of every national league table, being ranked 7th in The UK Complete University Guide 2022, and 10th in both the Guardian University League Table 2022 and the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

Loughborough is consistently ranked in the top twenty of UK universities in the Times Higher Educations table of tables and is in the top 10 in England for research intensity. In recognition of its contribution to the sector, Loughborough has been awarded seven Queen's Anniversary Prizes.

The Loughborough University London campus is based on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and offers postgraduate and executive-level education, as well as research and enterprise opportunities. It is home to influential thought leaders, pioneering researchers and creative innovators who provide students with the highest quality of teaching and the very latest in modern thinking.

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New Institute of Technology will lead the UK's digital and green revolution - Loughborough University