In an effort to keep up with the ever-evolving world of technology, Information Technology Services partnered with the Academic Computing Advisory Committee to develop multiple technological solutions to suit faculty needs.
Last semester, Associate Professor of Psychology Kari McArthur, a member of ACAC, sent out a survey about the technological needs of the faculty members here on campus. Almost 80 percent of the faculty responded that there was a need for newer technology, and ITS went to work to satisfy that need.
“ITS is great,” McArthur said. “They bring attention to new technology on the market, provide training for new products, and are willing to give a variety of options, which is wonderful.”
The main focus of the ITS in response to classroom technology is “simple and unobtrusive devices that will make for an efficient learning experience,” Executive Director of ITS David Zenz said.
One way they are achieving this goal is making devices universal. Professors can bring in their own laptop, iPad, or iPhone and pull up presentations, audiovisual aids, and music selections simply through wireless connection.
This drastically decreases set-up time that is wasted on technological difficulties during class, and also allows the professor to have the comfort of using their own device.
Recently, Heidi Bargerhuff, end-user training & support specialist for ITS, organized a “keyboard fair” for the professors to try out different classroom keyboards. Two types were preferred, and ITS made it possible to place both options in all classrooms.
“Both are in rooms now, and it’s great because they meet different needs for different folks,” McArthur said. “There is a freedom that comes from having multiple options to create a dynamic learning experience for students and a convenient setup for professors.”
Kendall Hall has new projectors, computers, and the two different keyboards in each classroom. Classrooms in Lane Hall all have new projectors, and new computers with the preferred keyboards have been ordered this week. Dow Science Building and Strosacker Science Center have also improved their technology with Apple computers and new projectors. ITS has also been experimenting with Apple TVs and other wireless devices.
McArthur denied that the upgrades were about solving technological problems.
“I certainly would not say problems,” she said. “This is about continued growth, rather, since technology is constantly changing.”
Zenz had a similar response, saying that the project is a “work in progress.”
Zenz’s dream is for faculty, students and visitors to walk into a class and achieve what they want to achieve, with the technology operating without a hitch.
