Dr. Alexander Mikroyannidis of the Open University UK developed the Open Networking Lab to address the significant technical skills gap in the computer networking industry. The lab aims to (i) develop simulation software for practical networking learning on any internet-connected platform, (ii) provide high-quality online experiential learning resources for teaching networking to novices, and (iii) promote lifelong learning resources in networking to help more people get skilled jobs. PT Anywhere offers network simulation that can be accessed from any web browser or as a widget in an eBook. It is based on Cisco's Packet Tracer simulator. PT Anywhere can be embedded in online courses, learning management systems, or interactive eBooks. Current piloting

1. Dr. Alexander Mikroyannidis
The Open University, UK
Hands-on Vocational Learning in
Computer Networking

2. The Open Networking Lab
Key objectives:
– (i) to develop and pilot world-leading, industry-
based simulation software for the practical learning
of computer networking on any internet-connected
platform;
– (ii) to address the significant technical skills gap in
industry by providing high quality online experiential
learning resources for teaching computer networking
to novice learners;
– (iii) to provide and promote lifelong learning
resources in a key industry area, in order to help
more people into skilled employment, thus addressing
the significant technical skills gap in the industry.

3. PT Anywhere
PT Anywhere offers a network simulation
environment via a web interface that can be
accessed from any web browser or as a widget
inside an interactive eBook.
PT Anywhere is based on the Packet Tracer
network simulator for Windows and Linux
developed by the Cisco Networking Academy.

4. PT Anywhere
PT Anywhere is
available as a widget
that can be
embedded inside an
online course, a
Learning
Management System
(like Moodle or
Sakai), or an
interactive eBook
(like Apple’s iBooks).

5. Interactive learning resources
Facilitating the
development of
introductory practical
networking skills
without using
hardware, through
the provision of PT
Anywhere integrated
into learning
resources and
activities.

6. Next steps
Currently piloting and evaluating our learning
resources with vocational education providers
within the UK Cisco Networking Academy.
In the next phase of the project, our learning
resources will be rolled out through the Open
University’s award-winning OpenLearn open
education platform.

7. onl.kmi.open.ac.uk