The University of Massachusetts Amherst has implemented various resources to support faculty development, particularly with the integration of technology in the classroom. One such tool is the iClicker, a student response system that facilitates engagement and assessment. As of 2024, UMass Amherst offers the following 12 resources for supporting faculty development in relation to iClicker and other educational technologies:
Introduction to iClicker and Faculty Support
The iClicker system is designed to enhance student participation and understanding through real-time feedback and interactive quizzes. To ensure faculty members can effectively utilize this tool, UMass Amherst provides comprehensive support. This includes workshops on how to integrate iClicker into curriculum design, pedagogical strategies for maximizing its educational impact, and technical support for resolving any issues that may arise during use.
Faculty Development Programs
UMass Amherst offers a range of faculty development programs aimed at enhancing teaching practices with technology. These programs include:
- Teaching with Technology workshops, which cover topics such as using iClicker for formative assessments and creating interactive lectures.
- Peer mentoring programs, where experienced faculty members share their strategies for effectively integrating iClicker and other technologies into their courses.
- Faculty learning communities focused on innovative teaching methods and the role of technology in student learning outcomes.
These programs are designed to foster a community of practice among faculty, encouraging the sharing of best practices and collaborative problem-solving around the use of educational technologies like iClicker.
Technical Support and Resources
For faculty looking to integrate iClicker into their teaching, UMass Amherst provides dedicated technical support. This includes:
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| iClicker Guides | Step-by-step manuals on setting up and using iClicker in the classroom. |
| IT Help Desk | Assistance with technical issues, including hardware and software support for iClicker devices. |
| Online Tutorials | Video and text-based tutorials on using iClicker, covering topics from basic setup to advanced features. |
These resources ensure that faculty have the technical knowledge and support needed to effectively use iClicker and other educational technologies.
Assessment and Evaluation Tools
UMass Amherst also offers tools and support for assessing the effectiveness of iClicker and other technologies in enhancing student learning. This includes:
- Access to learning analytics tools, which help faculty understand how students are engaging with course materials and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
- Survey and evaluation tools to gather student feedback on the use of iClicker and other technologies in their courses.
- Workshops on assessment strategies, focusing on how to use data from iClicker and other sources to inform teaching practices.
By leveraging these tools and resources, faculty can make data-driven decisions about their teaching practices and continuously improve the educational experience for their students.
How do I get started with using iClicker in my classroom?
+To get started with iClicker, faculty should first contact the UMass Amherst IT department to arrange for the necessary hardware and software. Then, attend a Teaching with Technology workshop or schedule a one-on-one consultation to learn how to integrate iClicker into your curriculum.
What kind of technical support is available for iClicker?
+UMass Amherst offers comprehensive technical support for iClicker, including online guides, IT help desk assistance, and on-campus workshops. Faculty can also reach out to their department's instructional technology specialist for personalized support.
In conclusion, UMass Amherst’s commitment to faculty development, particularly in the area of educational technology like iClicker, underscores its dedication to enhancing the teaching and learning experience. By providing a robust set of resources, from technical support to faculty development programs, the university empowers its faculty to leverage technology in innovative and effective ways, ultimately benefiting student outcomes and the academic community as a whole.
