The Technology Awareness Program (TAP) is a major event co-hosted on July 10 - 15 by the ITRI, Walton College of Diversity Programs, and the Information Systems department designed to introduce high school students from underrepresented groups, especially women and minorities, to the field of information technology and the lifestyle of a college student.  TAP is a vital program in fostering one of four parts of ITRI’s mission: promoting interest in the study of information technology.

This week long event acquaints high school students with college life while they stay on campus in Yocum Hall and dine in the University’s North West Quad dining hall.  Students are divided into groups the first day, and throughout the week they work on projects with the instruction of several faculty members.  Groups are assigned a company and are asked to use technology to strategize a method to improve their chosen company.  At the end of the week, the groups present their project proposals to representatives from ITRI board member companies, faculty, and staff.

TAP continues to promote student’s interest in information technology by hosting a Technology Fair where ITRI board member companies present equipment that is currently being implemented throughout their respective industries.  Students are also exposed to new, innovative technologies that companies hope to implement in five to ten years through touring the Wal-Mart Innovation Center.  By introducing teens to the ever changing environment of this technology, the ITRI hopes to spark a continued interest in information technology in these students.