Case studies in developing and teaching continuing education courses at a university

Purdue University Calumet is a community based university located in an urban environment (greater Chicagoland region). It proclaimed itself a "partnership University", a university that promotes strong ties with the surrounding community, its institutions, and businesses. The administration of the University is very supportive of the continuing education activities and stresses the importance of courses for professional training that enhance the competitiveness of Indiana businesses and enterprises. The university has established a resource center for small business development and created excellent special facilities for continuing education and outreach activities. This paper describes experience in developing three continuing education courses. This experience spans a six year period. It is ongoing, and it the intention to invest more time and effort in this type of activity in the next few years.