How are you using technology in your job?

As a desktop support tech, I am responsible for hardware and software issues for faculty and staff, support of public access labs, help desk support, and technology needs within the School of Education. So my job revolves around everyone else's use of technology on campus.

In what way has technology transformed your job?

It has not really transformed my job, but it is more a matter of adapting and learning as new technology (hardware and software) is brought to and used on campus for enhancing the learning of the students.

What does technology add that would not be possible without it?

Technology adds the ability to get tasks accomplished quickly (most of the time!), and provides a variety of methods that can be used to teach in a classroom. It provides for more networking and communication as well, both professionally and personally.

How do you see technology improving learning?

Having both a Bachelors and Masters in Education, I am very aware of the variety of learning styles that can benefit from the use of technology. My Masters thesis studied this topic - I looked into teacher and student preferences for technology use in a classroom. Both groups support a larger integration of technology into learning through the use of the internet for research, web demos and interactive sites, and communication. Teachers also like the additional instructional methods it provides, with the ability to use programs like PowerPoint for teaching.

In what ways do you find technology frustrating?

The rapid advance and changes in even mainstream computing can make it seem hard to keep up. A computer I bought a year and a half ago is considered outdated by more recent releases. The proliferation of spyware and phishing also makes for some challenging cases that I witness often in my position.

How are you using technology in interesting or unique ways?

One of my hobbies is photography, and I enjoy taking pictures of gatherings, events and trips with friends and family. With the internet and the use of my website host, I'm able to share those with everyone via an online gallery.

How are you using technology to develop and deliver staff development?

On many technology support calls, I often will provide some supplemental instruction to faculty and staff on matters relating to their particular issue or problem. I've found that most individuals are curious to know how to solve their problems and further their own knowledge.

How are you applying technology in your personal life?

Every day I keep updated on news, sports and politics via various websites. I also communicate with friends on instant messenger services and social networking sites like Facebook.  

Is there a single technological item you can't imagine living without?

It's cliché, but my computer! I love having the ability to get online, communicate with friends, and even just relax with a simple card game.

Is there a particular technological item that you plan on learning and/or purchasing in the near future?

At this time, I'm not looking to buy or learn anything in particular. It would be great to get a new LCD tv though compared to my regular one.