technology in the hearts of the faculty
How do we, as technology professionals, get the technology near and dear to our hearts into the hands of the faculty?People like to stay where they are comfortable, therefore faculty stay immersed in academia, and we stay immersed in technology. Can we expect faculty to visit our world? Or do we intrude upon theirs? If the goal is to get technology tools into the hands of the faculty, the answer is yes to both.At Lewis & Clark College we have taken this dual approach. We present ourselves to the faculty by sending them Technology Guides and New Computer Packets. We also invite them into the world of technology with our annual Institute and Showcase. The Faculty Technology Guide is updated and delivered to faculty every year. In only 20 pages it introduces faculty to the IT department, the resources available, how to get training and help and to their Divisional Liaison - the Consultant they can always turn to if they don't know where else to go. The New Computer Packets are delivered with every new computer and cover not only the specifications of the equipment but a list of software installed and tips on using the computer, especially when an OS upgrade is involved. These are subtle ways of letting them know that we don't expect them to be experts at everything.The Showcase, where faculty display what they're doing with computing technology, is designed to show possibilities to other faculty. A few weeks later we follow the Showcase with the Faculty Technology Institute, bringing the faculty into our world and allowing us to guide them through the confusion of technology to find tools that are useful for them.All of these forms of contact allow us to form relationships with faculty based on mutual respect. These are partnerships in which we bring our respective experience and expertise together.
training workshops support faculty development collaboration marketing training options outreach