Communication Technologies and Terminology

Students learn about the technologies and approaches used by Emergency Services Communications Centres to assess and dispatch requests for service from the public in an effective and expedient manner. This course assesses areas such as Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, 9-1-1 systems, radio communication, common terminology, mapping systems and communications employment testing. During call simulations, students will operate communications tools such as radio and telephone systems using a variety of languages and codes. Current and emerging technological trends will be examined such as NextGen 9-1-1, texting/video to 9-1-1, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, Teletypewriter devices, and Telematics technology. The value and drawbacks of these tools will be surveyed while students also learn to troubleshoot challenges as they arise. Students will also work with industry experts over the course of the semester to deliver a group presentation and training facilitation in the final weeks of the course.