BUILDING A BETTER IUP UNDERGRADUATE:

TEACHING INFORMATION ACCESS, PART II

(October 25, 2003)

 

PRESENTATION: 

DEVELOPING INTERNET RESOURCES FOR COURSE SUPPORT

 

Presented by:                                     Graduate Researcher:                        Undergraduate Researcher:

Richard J. Lamberski, Ph.D.                                Ann Fife                                                                Trey Davenport

Professor – Communications Media                 Graduate Assistant – AECT                              Undergraduate - Research Assistant

Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania                          Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania                          Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania

724-357-3771                                                         724-357-2469                                                         724-357-3771

rjl@iup.edu                                                           qrlk@iup.edu                                                        bwlj@iup.edu

 

We would like to give special thanks and credit to IUP Faculty members Mary Ann Cessna, Director of Center for Teaching Excellence; Samuel Puleio, Director of Technology Services Center; Brian Carothers, Instructional Design Specialist; and Rick McFerron, Director of Academic Technology Services  for their assistance in the creation of this list of resources.

 

BACKGROUND

 

Given the informational needs of new faculty and the expressed interest of current IUP faculty seeking additional teaching perspectives, we have selected a variety of websites that we found most interesting or useful for the various missions of teaching faculty.  We provided a brief annotation to express what we feel is the most pertinent aspect of each website to aid faculty in the most productive use of this resource.

 

Below you will find our research of web-based sites primarily located on IUP’s servers.  We have also identified a few sites that are publicly accessible off-campus.  If you find this a useful tool, you may download this document from http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/resources/onlinefacultyresources.htm.

 

BASIC TOPICS

 

  1. How do I create a web page?

Many teachers have turned to technology and the web as a supplementary resource for their classes.  The following links may act as an example and a guide for creating a web page:

 

Dr. Richard Lamberski’s Webpage

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl  

Of academic interest on Dr. Lamberski’s personal webpage is the posting of all of his course materials under a topic heading called “Instruction”; the development and use of a virtual advisor, the development and use of an internship sub-page, and recruitment of students through an opportunities button.  

 

  1. How do I go about developing a syllabus for my courses?

Every course taught at IUP is required to have a syllabus outlining the semester’s goals, objectives, activities and grading protocol.  The following links may provide you with valuable information on how to write a successful syllabus:

 

University of Minnesota Center for Teaching and Learning Services

            http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/teachlearn/syllabus/index.html

This website offers a variety of services pertaining to syllabus creation. It includes a complete tutorial on devising a syllabus and even offers feedback on a completed syllabus.

 

University of Alaska Fairbanks Faculty Resource Guide

            http://www.uaf.edu/provost/test/syllabus.html

This page, provided by the Faculty Development Office of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, offers a basic outline for syllabus construction. 

 

            Kansas State University IDEA Center “How to Write a Syllabus”

                        http://www.idea.ksu.edu/papers/Idea_Paper_27.pdf

This link is an in depth paper written for the IDEA Center at Kansas State University. The paper goes into great detail on syllabus creation techniques.

           

  1. Where might I find information about email services and other related questions?

Email has become the most prominent form of communication between individuals and groups, teachers and students.  The following links are information about IUP’s email services and how to use them along with an example of “Email Etiquette” that should be followed when writing an email:

 

IUP Email-Related Information and Services

            http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk/email/index.shtm

The Academic Technology Helpdesk supplies useful information on IUP E-Mail services including how to obtain an account, how to access e-mail, and an overview of I-Mail.

 

IUP Email Services

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/email/

This site provides access to IUP Web-based E-mail clients, IUP E-mail On-line Help, and a directory of IUP E-mail addresses.

 

Changing Your IUP E-mail Password

            http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk/Documentation/email/

This site includes details on how to reset IUP E-mail passwords.

 

            Creating Course-Section Email Lists

                        http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk/csel/index.shtm

This is a website with instructions on how to send e-mail messages to all students in a class or section using one email address.

 

Dr. Richard Lamberski’s “Email Etiquette” Website

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/resources/email_suggestions.htm

Over the years Dr. Lamberski has encountered poor email etiquette from students. In response, he has provided a web site directing students in proper email etiquette. This involves proper headings and closings, what files are appropriate to send, what email addresses are appropriate to send mail, and more.

 

  1. Where might I find information about faculty advising?

Most teachers are assigned as faculty advisors to students at some point during their careers.  The following links may provide advice on how to advise students along with examples of two “Virtual Advisors” currently being used by IUP faculty as online resources to student advisees:

 

IUP Advising and Testing Center

            http://www.iup.edu/advisingtesting/

The IUP Advising and Testing Center is an excellent resource for students and advisors alike. The Center provides disability support services, a major and career exploration center (for students who may be unsure of what career they want to pursue), and they deal with total university withdrawals for personal or medical reasons. Furthermore, they also supply training on advising issues and serve as a liaison to other advisement on campus.

 

Dr. Richard J. Lamberski’s “Virtual Advisor”

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/advising/advising.htm

Dr. Lamberksi’s Virtual Advisor serves as a resource for his advisees and general students. It provides solutions to frequent problems that may arise in scheduling, answers to frequently asked questions by students, career orientations, and explains how to register and set up an advising session. It also includes an array of other materials discussing internships, graduate school information, plus scholarships and awards.

 

IUP Health and Physical Education Department “Virtual Advisor”

            http://www.hhs.iup.edu/hped/advisement/virtual_advisor.htm

Similar to Dr. Lamberski’s Virtual Advisor, this Virtual Advisor serves as an excellent resource for Health and Phys Ed students to understand the advising process and aid in their course registration. 

 

            Penn State’s Division of Undergraduate Studies Navigator

                        http://www.psu.edu/dus/navigate/

The DUS Navigator is an elaborate and in depth aid for educational planning. The Navigator answers student questions such as: Why am I taking these courses? How do I know if a major is right for me? How can I find out more about a major? What courses should I take next semester? The Navigator also includes additional resources and information which is useful for advising.

 

  1. Where might I find information about faculty internship supervising?

Faculty may be assigned as a supervisor to a student out on an internship.  The following link will provide an example of information you may need to know as an internship supervisor:

 

Dr. Richard Lamberski’s “Internship” Website

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/internships/internships.htm

This site provides detailed information for students seeking an internship and helping them understand the internship program in the department of Communications Media. The Internship site also includes details on how companies can become an internship site and become affiliated with the program. There are also links to Career Services which also aid in finding internships and employment.

 

  1. How do I develop a student staff?

Having a skilled and knowledgeable student staff is one attribute of a successful teacher.  The following link is an example of the opportunities that may be offered to students interested in working with a faculty member:

 

Dr. Richard Lamberski’s “Opportunities” Website

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/opportunities/opportunities.htm

Dr. Lamberski provides an easily accessible website that invites students to be employed by him as part of his office staff or to participate in a practicum.  Also, a link is provided for a general student newsletter and employment at IUP.

 

  1. Where would I find information about using the library and obtaining media support?

The library at IUP houses a wealth of information for students as well as faculty.  Unfortunately, libraries are sometimes overwhelming and even scary at times to those who do not use them on a regular basis.  The following links are information about the library and its services along with an example of a “Virtual Library Toolbox” that may help guide faculty and students through using library resources successfully:

 

IUP Libraries

            http://www.lib.iup.edu/

The main IUP Library website provides students and faculty with an online catalogue, an array of search databases, library services such as computer labs and technology support, instructional services such as an instructional design center and a WEBCT center for online courses, and a number of research guides.

 

IUP Media Resources Department

            http://www.lib.iup.edu/depts/media_resources/media_resources.html

Media Resources owns a substantial amount of audio-visual collections. They also provide group viewing rooms for faculty and the public, video editing suites, viewing and listening carrels, and a large library of videos.

 

Dr. Richard Lamberski’s “Knowledge Mining:  A Virtual Library Toolbox”

            http://www.coe.iup.edu/rjl/projects/Knowledge_Mining/flashindex.htm

This site provides detailed information on how to enhance your library experience during research. There are a number of features which include examples of researchable topics in Communications Media, a downloadable form to keep track of your research progress, and directions on how to consult with a librarian to aid in your research.


IUP Library E-Reserve Form

                        http://www.lib.iup.edu/depts/circulation/reserve_form.htm

This link allows faculty to have printed materials scanned and placed on virtual electronic reserve.  The advantage of this resource is that it can be accessed on or off campus for students enrolled in specific instructor courses.

 

  1. How would I or my students use WebCT?

Many teachers are turning their courses toward WebCT where they can administer testing and provide students with information about the class and assignments online.  Many faculty have hybrid courses using both WebCT elements and classroom instruction, while a few have developed total independent or distance learning courses.  The following links are information about WebCT and how it might be used as a teaching aid:

 

IUP’s WebCT Website

            http://www.iup.edu/webct

The main IUP WebCT website is the main point at which you can log onto the WebCT server. The site also includes information on how to obtain your username, how to identify a forgotten password, and detailed information on how to log onto your account. In addition, it provides a link to the IUP Student Computing Help Desk which handles student computing problems.

 

            Instructional Services WebCT Course

                        http://idcs0400.lib.iup.edu/public/Instructional_Services/index.html

The Instructional Services WebCT course provides a secure area for faculty and staff to receive support concerning WebCT and other technologies.

 

About WebCT

            http://www.webct.com/

The main WebCT website provides information for faculty in the areas of course content, multimedia integration within courses, faculty growth, and also offers resources for your students using WebCT.

           

Faculty WebCT Resources at Colorado State University

            http://www.colostate.edu/webct/fac_res/

This site is another resource for faculty using WebCT. It supplies a faculty frequently asked questions (FAQ) section, general services and information, help in managing your course on WebCT, workshops, and online resources.

 

ADVANCED TOPICS

 

  1. Where might I find tech support for my computer or other related questions?
    Computers and software can be very confusing and downright irritating at times.  The following links are to locations where you might find technical support or information about computers and software when questions or problems arise:

 

IUP Computer support for faculty and academic support staff

            http://www.iup.edu/ats/

This site provides a wide range of services and support for students, academic faculty, and staff on campus. The ATS site also includes the Academic Technology Help Desk geared toward faculty, and the student help desk that is useful to both faculty and students.

IUP Academic Technology Help Desk

                        http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk

The Academic Technology Help Desk includes an array of information and services that aid faculty. The services include explanation and use of the P: Drive (Project Directory Service), help on documentation, assistance with IUP Web Services, help with Network Services, the ability for you to submit a question online, and much more.

 

IUP Web Services for academic personnel

            http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk/http/index.shtm

The IUP Web Services site supplies information on setting up personal web pages on IUP’s server. 

 

IUP Administrative Help Desk PC Support

            http://www.iup.edu/helpdesk/service/pc/

This is a resource and support page for PC users on campus. It includes help with PC software, hardware, and networks.

 

IUP Administrative Help Desk PC Related Documentation

            http://www.iup.edu/helpdesk/docs/

This page is a help site for PC related documentation including Microsoft Office, Windows XP, and other documents.

 

IUP Tech support for administrative units, library, and infrastructure

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/

This is a tech support page for administrative units, the library, and the technical infrastructure of the university.

 

IUP Database access

            http://www.iup.edu/banner/

The banner site provides faculty information on creating an e-mail distribution listing for specific students, entering midterm grades, and entering final grades on the web.

 

IUP PC Purchasing Information

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/

            This site contains information on purchasing a PC.

 

IUP Internet Service Provider Agreement

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/services/isp/

This page contains information on YourInter.net ISP access for the IUP community.

 

IUP Password Survival Guide

            http://www.iup.edu/ats/sts/

            This is a site that deals with frequently asked questions about IUP passwords.

 

  1. How do I install computer virus protection?

Virus protection for personal computers has become a very important issue in present times.  The following links are for information about the IUP network and virus protection information, along with a link to information about current viruses that may infect your computer:

 

IUP Network Associates - McAfee VirusScan Information

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/mcafee/

This site includes information on McAfee Virus Scan such as what it is, how it is licensed, how to obtain a copy, how to keep it updated, and how to install it.

           

IUP Technology Services Center Tech Alerts

            http://www.iup.edu/tsc/alerts/

This site provides current alerts to possible security problems facing the network computers and how to properly defend against any incoming computer viruses. 

 

SPECIAL TOPICS

 

  1. Where might I go to enhance my professional development?

There are many offices, institutes and centers at IUP that offer workshops, seminars and conferences for faculty and staff to enhance their professional development.  The following links are for some of these locations and the programs they offer:

 

IUP Grants and Sponsored Research Office  

http://www.iup.edu/graduate/cs/index.htm

The IUP Grants and Sponsored Research Office aids in seeking contract awards to support and develop university scholarly activities and programs.

 

IUP Instructional Design Center        

            http://idcs0100.lib.iup.edu/

This website and center focuses upon helping faculty design, implement, and evaluate learning activities that incorporate information technology.

 

Faculty and Staff Workshops Hosted at the IUP Instructional Design Center

            http://idcs0100.lib.iup.edu/workshop/site/currentworkshops.asp

This page supplies a listing of workshops currently available that are hosted by the Instructional Design Center. The workshops range from working with Java script to an introduction to Dreamweaver web design.

 

IUP Teaching Excellence Center

            http://www.iup.edu/teachingexcellence/

The IUP Teaching Excellence Center provides assistance to promote faculty growth and excellence. They provide workshops, new faculty orientation, faculty consultations, mentorship opportunities, books and videotapes on teaching and learning, teaching portfolio development assistance, and teaching excellence awards.

 

IUP Frederick Douglass Institute

            http://www.chss.iup.edu/fdi/

This site serves as a resource on issues relating to cultural diversity at IUP. The Institute concentrates on acting as an advisory body of importance to historically underrepresented groups in higher education, particularly as they affect faculty. It also focuses on the recruitment of minority and women faculty, plus it celebrates the academic excellence in minority students.

 

IUP ATS Training

             http://www.iup.edu/ats/helpdesk/training/index.shtm

This site provides training guides on PC programs such as Windows XP, Windows 2000, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Access, E-mail, MS Word, and Microsoft Excel.

 

IUP Applied Research Lab Workshops

            http://www.arl.iup.edu/Work.html

            The IUP Applied Research Lab offers workshops on a variety of statistical topics.

 

University of Iowa Teaching Goals Inventory Online

            http://www.uiowa.edu/~centeach/tgi/background.html

The Teaching Goals Inventory is a self-assessment of teaching goals. The test enables faculty to become more aware of what they want to accomplish in individual courses. The self-assessment also aids in locating classroom assessment techniques and providing a starting point for discussion among faculty about learning goals.

 

            International Alliance of Teacher Scholars (IATS)

                        http://www.iats.com/

IATS is an organization that conducts meetings and seminars to join faculty of all disciplines together for presentations and discussions on what works in the classroom.

 

            Penn State Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT)

                        http://www.psu.edu/celt/

CELT promotes the understanding of the teaching and learning process by offering a variety of programs and resources for faculty.

 

  1. Where might I find information on how to perform research and obtain grants?

Many faculty members may not know exactly how to perform research, or they may decide that they need to acquire additional money to fund their research or special projects in the form of grant money.  Information on how to perform research, where to find prospective grantors, how to write a grant, etc. can be found on the following websites:

 

IUP School of Graduate Studies and Research

            http://www.iup.edu/graduate

The School of Graduate Studies and Research encourages and assists research among the faculty. Typical services include policy analysis for local governments, needs assessments, survey research, computer projects, software development, archaeological services including Phase I and Phase II surveys, specialized census and economic data reports, and proposal and project development.

 

IUP Applied Research Lab

             http://www.arl.iup.edu/

The Applied Research Lab assists in hypothesis formulation, instrument design, data collection, data organization, data analysis, interpretation of statistical results, and will give class presentations on basic survey research methods and the use of the SPSS.


SELECTED TEXTS

 

Given a search on several text distributors, we have identified several top resources on University teaching.  They are as follows (in alphabetical order by Author/Editor):

 

Boice, Robert (January, 2000).  Advice for New Faculty Members.  Publisher:  Allyn & Bacon, Inc.

 

Crosling, Glenda (Editor); Webb, Graham (Editor); Bean, Martha (Contributor); Beasley, Colin J. (Contributor) (July, 2002).  Supporting Student Learning:  Case Studies, Experience and Practice from Higher Education (Case Studies of Teaching in Higher Education Series).  Publisher:  Kogan Page, Ltd.

 

Edwards, Helen (Editor); Webb, Graham (Editor); Smith, Brenda (Editor) (October, 2001).  Lecturing:  Case Studies, Experience and Practice (Case Studies of Teaching in Higher Education Series).  Publisher:  Kogan Page, Ltd.

 

Fink, Dee L. (February, 2003).  Creating Significant Learning Experiences:  An Integrated Approach to Designing College Courses (Josey-Bass Higher and Adult Education Series).  Publisher:  Wiley, John & Sons, Inc.

 

Fry, Heather; Ketteridge, Steve; Marshall, Stephanie (March 2003).  A Handbook for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.  Publisher:  Kogan Page, Ltd.

 

Hannan, Andrew; Silver, Harold (December, 2000).  Innovation in Higher Education:  Teaching, Learning and Institutional Cultures.  Publisher:  Taylor & Francis, Inc.

 

Jenkins, Alan; Lindsay, Roger; Brew, Angela; Breen, Rosanna (February, 2003).  Reshaping Teaching in Higher Education:  Linking Teaching with Research (Staff and Educational Development Series).  Publisher:  Kogan Page, Ltd.

 

Macfarlane, Bruce (October, 2003).  Teaching with Integrity:  The Ethics of Higher Education Practice.  Publisher:  Kogan Page, Ltd.

 

Ramsden, Paul (May, 2003).  Learning to Teach in Higher Education.  Publisher:  Taylor & Francis, Inc.

 

Zull, James E.; Zull, James (July, 2002).  The Art of Changing the Brain.  Publisher:  Stylus Publishing, LLC.