While teaching music and sound recording courses during the mid 80s, Jay Partlan found a fascination with the potential of computers that led him to teach himself programming and Computer Graphics. Working as a Computer Operator at New England Medical Center in Boston exposed him to aspects of large mainframe systems, while his home Amiga computer introduced him to the useful and creative potential of small systems.

He started teaching computer applications, programming and graphic design at the University of New Hampshire in 1992, and presently teaches courses at UNH, Granite State College, Northern Essex Community College, and New Hampshire Community Technical College, with occasional forays into Boston to teach courses at Newbury College.

His Granite State College courses include Software Tools, Advanced Software Tools, Graphic Design & Desktop Publishing, GUI Programming in Visual Basic, and Web Sites that Work. He also designed and teaches a series of non-credit seminars at the Portsmouth campus including the Microsoft Office applications, Using a Scanner, Adobe Photoshop, and Computer File Management.

Though occasionally teaching courses aimed at traditional college students, he enjoys the courage and focus displayed by adult learners returning to college while living in the "real" world of career, family and life experiences. He feels that online courses represent a viable solution to many of the dilemmas faced by learners trying to balance all aspects of very diverse lifestyles.

Jay also runs his own computer consulting service providing technical help and training to individuals and companies in the seacoast area. His degree is in Psychology from Beloit College in Wisconsin, a discipline he finds useful in all areas of his teaching experience.

When he is not working with learners or on computers, Jay enjoys drumming and plays for Miraj, a Portsmouth area band.

For more information about this course, contact the Granite State College Regional Center closest to you or send an email to: jpartlan@cisunix.unh.edu