Nov. 13, 2024
Ferris State Computer Information Technology students repair watches to build skills while helping local shelter transform lives
A Ferris State University professor says students learn a great deal about Computer Information Technology by repairing wristwatches, but their classroom project has a far greater impact.
Ferris State University students worked on watches below for repairs and ultimate donation. (Photo courtesy Brendan Bender)
Associate Professor Jimmie Joseph said students learn about the intricate workings of watches and apply those skills to computers that are increasingly essential – and smaller. Once repaired, the watches are donated to the Our Brother’s Keeper shelter in Big Rapids, an organization that helps guests become more self-sufficient.
“I wanted them to work with a digital device that is very precise and very small in its scale,” Joseph said. “They learn intentionality in their work as they perform maintenance on these watches.”
Students earning Computer Information Technology degrees gain hands-on experience and knowledge to manage the hardware, software, databases and networks on which many organizations depend.
Joseph said the student volunteers open the watches, diagnose the problems and get them back in working order.
He then brings them to the shelter, which collects materials to help clients begin new lives.
Our Brother’s Keeper, 405 S. 3rd Street, works with clients to be strengthen self-sufficiency and teach important life skills that guests can utilize once they transitioned into permanent housing. The watches help clients stay on time for work when they gain employment.
“The staff at Our Brother’s Keeper were very happy to have them available for their guests,” he said.
Zack Vanderzanden from Walkerville is a senior in the Computer Information Technology program and a member of the Bulldog Computer Professionals club. The recent repair project was the second he had taken part in this year.
“We had a group of about five students come in on a Friday and work together on the watches, which was a really good learning exercise and opportunity for collaboration,” Vanderzanden said. “After our spring semester efforts were completed, I told my family about it and my grandfather said, ‘I have a watch that is not working, it may just need a battery.’ I was able to get his watch running, which was a great feeling.”
Joseph intends to continue with this watch maintenance project in the semesters to come.
“We know it provides an opportunity for Ferris’ CIT/CIS students to do what they do best, which is to help others,” Joseph said.
Ferris offers Associate of Applied Sciences, Bachelor of Science degrees and the option to minor in Computer Information Technology and Computer Information Systems, through coursework in the College of Business.