As a regular service of Academic Computing, we can visit your class for a demonstration or workshop on a wide range of technology topics. Recent topics include building PowerPoint presentations, creating Podcasts, getting set up with Blogs, and working with Digital Images.
Recently, we have had an increase in the number of requests for this service. In order to streamline the process and insure that these events meet your instructional goals, we have formalized our process (see below).
Classroom Workshop Policy:
If you are interested in having us come to your class, contact the Instructional Media Lab at 545-2823 or instruct@oit.umass.edu. We have a limited number of slots available each semester, so the sooner you make your request, the better (before the semester begins is best). We typically can’t schedule demonstrations with less than two weeks notice.
The first step after you make your request is to come in for a consultation. We will discuss your instructional goals and make sure that what we are demonstrating fits with your course or assignment. We typically only do demonstrations of software or technologies for which we already have workshop materials. Next, if you are not familiar with the technology involved, we ask that you attend a hands-on introduction with us before we come to your class.
We ask that you be present when we do the demonstration or workshop for your class. This ensures that you are familiar with what has been demonstrated to the students. This is also important so that you are present when students inevitably ask questions that have more to do with how the technology relates to the assignment than with the technology itself.
If the demonstration is to become a regular part of your course (for two or more semesters), it is our goal to help you become self-sufficient and capable of doing the demonstration yourself. If this is the case, we will help you learn what you need to know. Having a faculty member demonstrate technology boosts students’ confidence and makes for a much more effective demonstration.