Learning Resources: Instructional Multi-Media Services
2002-2004
Currently each classroom has an overhead projector, television monitor or data projector and a VCR. Recent technology has allowed for more efficient and effective instructional design by using computer-based systems. The goal is to equip all classrooms with a basic Visual and Audio Learning System consisting of computer with DVD player, VCR, document camera, and data projector all controlled from a smart podium or smart cart. Currently there are not enough of these SmartRooms to meet the demand. As part of the installation of new technology white boards need to replace the use of the traditional black boards (chalkboards). Chalk dust is very harmful to new technology. Classrooms are equipped and upgraded according to faculty/curriculum requirements and requests.
The SmartRooms have become so important and so basic to instruction that they need to be upgraded (i.e., rolled over) on the same schedule as computer labs: every three years. This kind of systematic upgrading will insure consistent high quality in all campus teaching environments.
In addition to the permanently installed classroom learning systems, IMS makes other technology available to faculty including lap top computers, portable data projectors, document cameras, video cameras, slide projectors, and tape recorders/CD players.
An increasing number of faculty are interested in developing their own multi-media materials. In order to support this effort, IMS can provide the faculty with technical support as well as production equipment which includes slide scanner, CD-R & DVD-R writers, video editing, portable video equipment (camcorders), video cameras, digital (still) cameras.
Because of an inadequate hourly personnel budget, IMS is very dependant on work-study students. However, many work-study students are not available during the times they are most needed: mornings, evenings, and Saturdays.
Curriculum Impact
The use of technology in the classroom enhances the instructor’s ability to present materials visually and to encourage interactivity with the students. Incorporating technology into the curriculum can have a positive impact on learning.
Approximate Number of Students Served
Campus wide.
Year 1 (2002-2003)
Objective
· Upgrade workstations for staff members: hardware and software.
· Place standard SmartRoom equipment into a minimum of 4 additional classrooms.
· Replace outdated Pentium 2-233 computers that are installed in Smart Carts throughout the campus.
· Replace existing 36” Gateway Monitors with Data Projectors.
· Replace existing instructional equipment that is damaged and not repairable.
· Purchase new instructional equipment as required by faculty.
· Purchase computer components and software to extend the usability of present systems.
· Provide more support to evening faculty and students.
· Fully utilize technology available to staff.
· Install and repair more instructional equipment between semesters.
Action to Meet Objective
· Replace the IMS Scheduler position with an IMS Technician, Sr. position.
· Purchase 50 computer systems, 28 data projectors, and 15 computer podiums plus associated peripherals.
· Purchased 19 VCRs for new installations and 10 additional VCRs to replace those that are due for replacement.
· Install 35 Video Presenters (document cameras) in selected rooms where requested by faculty.
· Purchase 100 instructional equipment carts to replace un-reparable units.
· Hire additional temporary staff to help with the installation of equipment.
· Larger part-time personnel budget. (This will be used to reduce dependence on work-study students.)
· Increase staff development opportunities, especially in the technology areas.
· Upgrade all IMS staff workstations.
· Obtain approval and hire an IMS Technician, Sr. position for the evening shift.
Year 2 (2003-2004)
Objective
· Equip 8 additional classrooms with standard SmartRoom learning systems packages.
· Replace Pentium 3-500 and slower computers that are installed in Smart Carts throughout the campus.
· Replace existing 36” Gateway monitors with data projectors.
· Replace existing instructional equipment that is damaged and not repairable.
· Provide new instructional equipment requested by faculty.
· Upgrade current systems (computer components and software) in order to extend the useful life of present systems when possible.
· Increase repair, modification and installation of instructional equipment.
Action to Meet Objective
· Complete any 2002-03 Technology Plan action and objectives
· Sufficient budget to:
o Purchase 50 computer systems, 28 data projectors, and 15 computer podiums.
o Purchase 19 VCRs for new installations and 10 additional VCRs to replace those that are due for replacement.
o Purchase 100 instructional equipment carts to replace un-reparable units.
o Replace “black boards” with white boards in all SmartRooms.
o Hire additional temporary staff for the installation of equipment.
o Provide necessary staff development.
· Install 35 Video Presenters (document cameras) in selected rooms where requested by faculty to support their instruction.