Next, it's time to work with the individual professor on a small technology project. About 40 or 50 faculty already use VAXNotes for classroom discussions. This technology takes interactive classroom discussions to the next level. Since the software is available 24 hours a day and the computer labs are open 24 hours a day, students can add their thoughts on a subject covered in class at any time the thoughts hit them. Sanford says information shared by Guilford faculty members, which consistent with the literature on such technologies, indicate students become more involved with their courses and the topics discussed.
Students seem to be better prepared for class.
Although Guilford College has a number of successful applications of information technology in the learning environment, Sanford acknowledges it is not always the best forum for learning. Faculty need to remember that they shouldn't use it if they don't need it. We build from simple beginnings to something bigger, and do whatever is necessary to reach the students.