Tag Archives: UIS

Welcome Back!

We would like to take the opportunity to welcome you all back! We hope you enjoyed a nice, relaxing summer and are as excited for the new school year as we are!

The beginning of a new semester is always a great opportunity to try something new, so check out our blog for some ideas that you can use in your classroom. This summer, we introduced a new series, “5 ways you can use…” Be sure to stay updated on the blog and check out past posts to get some new and creative ideas on ways to use the tools we offer.

Our weekly workshops will begin at the start of the semester. Check out the Workshops we will be offering and their scheduled times. These are a great opportunity to learn some new software or get some new tips on software you may already use!

Feel free to contact us whenever you need assistance or have any questions.

Showcase your work!

I’ve spent a lot of space on this blog encouraging faculty to get their students involved in using multimedia tools through their class projects and assignments. Not only does it get them using some of the great tools offered by UIS, but it also enriches their learning experience and makes the class and material more effective and memorable.

So, instead of telling you more about how wonderful projects like these can be, I would like to show you. Check out our Student Showcase page to see some of the great projects students have completed for various classes. From recording videos to creating websites, these are great examples of the type of projects that your students are capable of doing.

Think about all the ways projects similar to these could be incorporated into your classes next fall. And remember, we are always looking for new projects to showcase the wonderful work of our students, so be sure to let your students know! As always, feel free to contact with any questions or suggestions on incorporating projects like these into your curriculums!

Your “Summer Bucket List”

Summer is quickly approaching which for many means sun, fun, and relaxation. It also is a great opportunity to further explore educational interests that may have been put aside during the busy school year. I am presenting you with a “Summer Bucket List”, if you will, to get more familiar with the great technologies available to UIS faculty that can be utilized during the school year. All of these resources can be used to greatly enhance the educational experience for students and educators alike.

Establish new ways to communicate

This spring, UIS launched WordPress Blog Service. Faculty, staff and students are now able to create their own blogs. This summer, dabble into the blogging world and try creating a blog for your fall courses! Blogging is a great way to maintain communication with students throughout the semester, and can be integrated into several aspects of course material. Upload lecture notes, create discussions about topics, post updates frequently, and share current news related to class materials.

Learn how to use an Interactive White Board

Remember that big whiteboard behind the screen in your classroom? It’s not just a whiteboard-it’s Interactive, and everything about it is just that. This summer, check out everything these boards can do, and get familiar with using them. They are simple, and a great way to increase involvement in the classroom with students.

Get familiar with TurningPoint

TurningPoint is another tool that can be very valuable to your courses. It is software that integrates with your PowerPoint presentations or other lectures that allows you to “poll” your class. Through clickers, your students can respond to your questions and you are able to receive instant feedback. Stimulate discussions, conduct quizzes or tests, take attendance, or receive general feedback on students’ understanding of the lecture material. This easy yet innovative tool will be sure to keep students focused and on track.

Be sure to get in some good R&R this summer, but to also check out these great tools! Questions? As always, feel free to contact us!