How are you using technology in the classroom?

I use a variety of technologies.  First, as a broadcast instructor I use audio and video segments extensively in class; some are streamed from the web and some are created for the class.  When I teach production courses (radio, television and web) I use instructional modules that I developed to let students work through the software process in a step-by-step method.  Depending on the course, I use a large number of PowerPoint lectures and links to the world wide web.  In my Brc 200 and 300 classes, I’ve developed chapter summaries from the text with links to the Web that enhance the material covered in the chapters. In the past, I’ve used computer conferencing where student groups go online and use conference technology to solve problems.  In my media law course, I’ve developed research links and research methodology pages for students to use.  Finally email is an important tool for students to ask questions and keep in contact.

How do you integrate technology into the classroom?

To integrate technology into the class, I need to work through the technology first to make sure that I am comfortable with it.  I find that there are varying levels of technology usage among students and you need to be able to lead some students while letting others move ahead. 

I don’t believe in using technology in place of lecturing.  Technology should support the instructional mission and should be used appropriately.

How are you using technology as a tool to achieving your teaching goals?

Since I teach in a highly technological curriculum, I must teach students how to use the technology they will experience in the field.  I also use technology to allow students the opportunity to take better notes and to explore the subject beyond the classroom.

How do you see technology improving learning?

Technology can facilitate learning by providing students with experiential learning.  It can assist the lecture process by allowing students to download lecture outlines and it can provide an enhancement to the classroom experience by allowing students to explore the resources of an electronic library and the web.

How have your students responded to your use of technology?

Most students appreciate it when you provide them with tools for learning.

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

For broadcast students, the opportunity to use tools that are standard in the industry.

What new goals do you have for using technology in teaching?

Not sure.  One of the interesting things about teaching is that often a lightbulb goes off and you get an idea about facilitating learning that you hadn’t thought about before.  I’m waiting for the next lightbulb to go on!

How could the University better facilitate the use of technology in instruction?

We are a teaching university and that means that learning new technology is often done when you have a few spare minutes.  I think it’s great that we do Winter Breakout session, but I’d like modules that might last several sessions and go in more depth.

What is your biggest challenge in using technology in the classroom?

Developing learning modules takes time and energy.  My area requires that you constantly work to stay abreast of the latest technology.

How are you using technology to transform your teaching?

No. Technology has transformed broadcasting.  I’m trying to keep up!

How are you using technology in interesting or unique ways?

I think that using technology to show students that they can go beyond the classroom is empowering for the student.  I think that the most interesting things we can do as faculty is to create sparks of interests for our students.

Is there anything that you love about technology?

I love music.  Apple’s iPod and satellite radio are real boons to us music lovers.  Computers allow us to manipulate images in ways that were unheard of 10 years ago.  I think digital photography is great.  Technology can be empowering.

How are you using technology in your daily life?

YES. I bought my first computer in 1980 (an Apple II) because I couldn’t type well enough to make handouts.  Technology (like computers) has always been useful in allowing me to teach. I use it daily.  At home, music and other forms of entertainment are provided through the wonderful electronic inventions.

If you had to pick one technology item that you couldn't live without what would it be?

Electricity. 

(By the way, I think that we COULD live without cell phones!)