Teaching, Learning & Technology in Higher Education : webinars & HP Online Speaker Series

Revolutionizing Instruction With Tablet PC's - Interview with Clemson U (in Second Life!)

jgvanides — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:50:00 GMT

The tablet pc project at Clemson University continues to grow. With grants provided from the HP Technology for Teaching initiative, teaching and learning is taking on new forms - with measurable improvements in student success. Marilyn Reba, Lisa Benton, and Barbara Weaver (all from Clemson) took the time to tell their story during a recent ISTE Eduverse Talks "show" in Second Life....

...(read more)

Join us for an Environmental Education Celebration of Earth Week!

jgvanides — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 21:19:00 GMT

ISTE and HP are collaborating on a special celebration of Earth Week on April 23rd. Would you like to participate in the virtual poster session...? ...(read more)

New! ISTE Eduverse Talks, hosted in Second Life

jgvanides — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 23:43:00 GMT

Looking for innovative ideas for using technology to create engaging learning experiences for your students? HP is pleased to sponsor the brand new ISTE Eduverse Talks series hosted in Second Life. The first show was "Building Higher Education Campuses in Second Life"......(read more)

I'm officially sold on Second Life for Educators

jgvanides — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:24:00 GMT

OK, I admit I was a doubter years ago when I first heard about Second Life. No more. Having just participated in tonight's "ISTE Speaker Series" event held on ISTE Island, I have to say that the experience was FAR more fun and "human" than most "slide sharing" webinars I've attended - even with the dinosaur and fairies in the audience......(read more)

"Technology in Practice" Webinars from ISTE - 2nd Life, Gaming, etc...

jgvanides — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:23:00 GMT

The International Society for Technology in Education (www.iste.org) has been hosting a series of "Technology in Practice" (TIP) webinars (www.iste.org/webinars). The topics look quite interesting... ...(read more)

Tablets & Math – Clemson Univ Talk Available Online

jgvanides — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:33:00 GMT

We just had a fantastic HP Online Speaker Series presentation by Marilyn Reba and Roy Pargas of Clemson University, discussing "Using Tablet PCs and Web-based Software to Enable Active Learning in Mathematics Classrooms"...

If you missed the session or want to share it with your colleagues, the University of Wisconsin has kindly posted their recording of the event online at http://www.uwex.edu/ics/stream/uwc-rock/hp/.

If you have any followup questions for Marilyn or Roy, feel free to submit it as a comment to this blog.

Thanks, Marilyn and Roy – the “emerging evidence” of how your redesigned math courses are DEMONSTRABLY assisting lower-performing students is very encouraging…

Jim Vanides, B.S.M.E, M.Ed.
Program Manager - Worldwide Higher Education Philanthropy
Hewlett-Packard

For information about the HP Technology for Teaching philanthropy initiative in higher education, visit www.hp.com/go/hpteach-hied

Special Math Edition - HP Online Speaker Series

jgvanides — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 20:30:00 GMT

HP Online Speaker Series
Higher Education Technology for Teaching

24 July 2007
10:00 – 11:00 am Pacific Time

“Using Tablet PCs and Web-based Software to Enable Active Learning in Mathematics Classrooms”

I am pleased to announce our next online webinar!

Please join us on Tuesday, 24 July, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Daylight Savings Time for a live presentation and discussion featuring Dr. Marilyn Reba (Department of Mathematical Sciences) and Dr. Roy Pargas (Department of Computer Science), Clemson University.

Abstract: The Department of Mathematical Sciences at Clemson University brought Tablet PCs and a projector, obtained through a 2006 Hewlett-Packard Teaching-for-Technology Grant, into multiple sections of two large-enrollment freshman courses--Calculus and Liberal Arts Math. Students use the pen feature to submit solutions anonymously via two web-based software systems, MessageGrid (Clemson University) and Ubiquitous Presenter (UCSD). The instructor projects, annotates, and saves these submissions. Communication now occurs in the classroom with students who would otherwise be reluctant to participate, and active learning is enabled because all students are working and primed for instructor feedback. This presentation will show examples of tablet use via both software systems, and discuss initial assessment results in performance, behavior, and satisfaction.

To attend, please RSVP at http://www.hpwebgen.com/questions.cfm?id=8828&pass=99222 so we can send you login and phone details. All you need is a phone and an internet-connected web-browser. However, space is limited, so registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge for this event.

I hope you can join us!

Jim Vanides, BSME, M.Ed.
Program Manager - Worldwide Higher Education Philanthropy
Hewlett-Packard

HP Online Speaker Series (28 March) - "Using Tablet PCs and Pen-based Technologies for Mapping & Teaching Earth Science"

jgvanides — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 22:35:00 GMT

HP Online Speaker Series
Higher Education Technology for Teaching

28 March 2007
10:00 – 11:00 am Pacific Time

“Using Tablet PCs and Pen-based Technologies for Mapping; Teaching Earth Science applications throughout an undergraduate curriculum”

I am pleased to announce our next online webinar!

Please join us on Wednesday, 28 March, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Daylight Savings Time for a live presentation and discussion featuring Mark Manone, HP Technology for Teaching grant recipient and Research Associate/Instructor at the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences Geospatial Research and Information Laboratory, Northern Arizona University.

Abstract: The Department of Geology at Northern Arizona University uses tablet computers and mobile wireless technology in introductory courses as well as throughout our core curriculum. We have developed modules using tablet PCs for 5 introductory classes and 6 core classes. Examples for implications in these introductory classes are: drape geologic maps over digital topographic images to explore relations in 3D; use satellite images of planets to map craters and lava flows on Mars and the moon; view geologic disasters such as volcanic eruptions and hurricanes with satellite images of the same area before and after the event. In all of these examples, the pen is significant in the mapping and delineation portion of the exercise, as using a pen to show the barrier between gravel and bedrock is more accurate and more closely mimics traditional analog mapping techniques. This presentation will show examples of tablet use in mapping at the introductory, core course and field based levels. Results of assessment of learning will also be presented.

I hope you can join us!

Jim Vanides, BSME, M.Ed.
Program Manager - Worldwide Higher Education Philanthropy
Hewlett-Packard

For information about the HP Technology for Teaching philanthropy initiative in higher education, visit www.hp.com/go/hpteach-hied

Need Examples? Faculty share their experiences using technology to teach

jgvanides — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 21:52:00 GMT

In an effort to share best practices among faculty around the world, I have the privilege of hosting the HP Online Speaker Series approximately once a month. Many of you have joined me in these meetings, which are synchronous 60 minute webinar discussions that feature interesting projects led by faculty and researchers who are using technology to enhance teaching and learning. Thanks to the University of Wisconsin, these events are recorded and archived for everyone to enjoy…

If you’d like to view the archives, visit http://www.uwex.edu/ics/stream/uwc-rock/hp/, where you will find links to the following presentations:

“Adaptive Book Project”, Dr. Ananda Gunawardena, Carnegie Mellon
“Using Classroom Presenter to Promote Interaction in the Classroom”, Dr. Richard Anderson, University of Washington
“Mobility and Ink Writing in Undergraduate Engineering”, Dr. Uriel Cukierman, UTN, Argentina
“Improving Learning with DyKnow Tools: Support for Varied Pedagogies”, Dr. Dave Berque, DePauw University
“Ubiquitous Presenter: Freedom for Instructors, Empowerment for Students”, Dr. Beth Simon, University of California, San Diego
“The One-Tablet Classroom: Methods, Student Attitudes and Learning Gains”, J. Ricky Cox & James Rogers, Murray State University
“Innovative Learning in Experimental Classrooms: Initial Experiences from Stanford's Wallenberg Hall”, Dan Gilbert, Stanford University
“Medicine’s New Tablet: Thirty Days of Reflection and Experience”, Michael Karr and Dr. James L. Fishback, University of Kansas Medical Center School of Medicine
“Survey Software: Probing student understanding and encouraging active learning with open-ended questions and tablet technology”, Frank Kowalski, and Susan Kowalski, Colorado School of Mines
“GroupScribbles: A tool for highly interactive Tablet PC classrooms”, Jeremy Roschelle and John Brecht, SRI International, Center for Technology in Learning
“A Mobile "Smart Classroom" for Local and Remote Presentation”, Joan H. Brenner, Bunker Hill Community College, and John F. (Jeff) Brenner, Space Time Links LLC

If you have any comments or questions for the speakers, please feel free to post a comment and I will forward the information to the presenters.

Enjoy!

HP Online Speaker Series (26 January) - A Mobile "Smart Classroom" for Local and Remote Presentation

jgvanides — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:31:00 GMT

I am pleased to announce my first online webinar for 2007!

Please join us on Friday, 26 January, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Time for a live presentation and discussion featuring Joan H. Brenner, Professor of Physics and Astronomy, Bunker Hill Community College, Boston, Massachusetts and John F. (Jeff) Brenner, PhD, Founder and CEO, Space Time Links LLC, Reading Massachusetts. Their presentation is entitled:

A Mobile "Smart Classroom" for Local and Remote Presentation

ABSTRACT: The "Mobile Smart Classroom" system employs a tablet computer and projector for presentations with live, in-class annotation, and adds a "cluster" of tablets to allow students to edit documents and work problems individually, in class, then share the results with others under the control of the instructor. All annotated materials are quickly made available on a server for later student access. They system can be used in a wide variety of teaching scenarios: e.g. classroom presentation, distance learning, virtual office hours, and in-class interactive sessions aimed at problem solving, document editing, and science laboratory exercises. We will share our experience and the student responses we have received over the last two years from using the system in freshman physics and astronomy.

I hope you can join us!

SRI “GroupScribbles” presentation archived and viewable online

jgvanides — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 22:48:00 GMT

As I mentioned in a previous blog posting, approximately once per month I am honored to host an online webinar related to teaching and learning through the effective use of technology. The most recent presentation featured Jeremy Roschelle and John Brecht from SRI International, speaking about “GroupScribbles: A tool for highly interactive Tablet PC classrooms”.

Thanks to the University of Wisconsin, you can view this, and previous presentations, by visiting http://www.uwex.edu/ics/stream/uwc-rock/hp/.

I found the presentation to be quite interesting, as Jeremy explains the Learning Sciences foundational thinking that led to the design of the classroom interaction software. Using a “sticky note” metaphor, students collaborate together by dragging their sticky notes from a “private space” onto the public “classroom whiteboard” that all the participants can edit.

A host of activities are possible, from brainstorming, organizing research or writing, discussion ways to solve math problems, and so forth. It actually reminded me of a “K-J” group process I experienced, where participants organize their ideas silently, but collaboratively. Of course in a face-to-face classroom, using GroupScribbles would be a combination of “silent reflection” and verbal dialog – with GroupScribbles adding a new dimension to discussions and formative assessment.

The software is “beta”, developed with NSF funding, and is available free of charge at http://groupscribbles.sri.com/.

I highly recommend that you check it out. If you use it, come back and post a comment to let us know what you think!

Jim Vanides, M.Ed.
Program Manager - Worldwide Higher Education Philanthropy
Hewlett-Packard

For information about the HP Technology for Teaching philanthropy initiative in higher education, visit www.hp.com/go/hpteach-hied

HP Online Speaker Series - 6 December 2006 on "GroupScribbles" from SRI

jgvanides — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 23:04:00 GMT

Approximately once per month I am honored to host an online webinar related to teaching and learning through the effective use of technology. While most of the presentations to date have been by higher education faculty who have received a grant from HP, this time I am pleased to host Jeremy Roschelle (Director, Center for Technology in Learning) and John Brecht (Project Lead), both from SRI International. Their presentation is entitled:

“GroupScribbles: A tool for highly interactive Tablet PC classrooms”

6 December, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Time

ABSTRACT: "Our goal in designing GroupScribbles was to develop a simple tool that would enable educators to design and enact a variety of interactive activities in a wireless Tablet PC classroom without the burden of programming. In practice, GroupScribbles (which is a free download) takes just a few minutes to learn, in part because it is based upon a familiar sticky note metaphor. Like Classroom Presenter, GroupScribbles can be used to gain students input. Going beyond Classroom Presenter, educators can use GroupScribbles to organize collaborative and cumulative knowledge-building activities and to coordinate the involvement of students in taking roles in a team. We have found that when educators see GroupScribbles they rapidly generate new applications of the basic capabilities to their specific teaching situation.”

To attend, please RSVP at http://www.hpwebgen.com/questions.cfm?id=7930&pass=4230 so we can send you login and phone details. All you need is a phone and an internet-connected web-browser. However, space is limited, so registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge for this event.

I hope you can join us!

More Ways to Know What Your Students Know - Join the Upcoming HP Online Speaker Series Event!

jgvanides — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 01:00:00 GMT

Knowing what your students know (or think they know) is powerful stuff for a teacher. Because of this, I get very excited when I see innovations in "real-time, formative assessment". The next HP Online Speaker Series event will feature yet another approach to tablet-enhanced classroom response systems.

On Friday, 6 October, 10am Pacific , Frank Kowalski, Professor of Physics, and Susan Kowalski, Coordinator & Classroom Communicator at the Colorado School of Mines will be discussing the web-based graphical response system they developed with the help of some talented students. It's simple. It's elegant... and it's powerful.

Their web system supports multiple question types and automatic graphing of multiple choice responses. What I find unique and powerful are two specific features:

A simple, web-based way to ask open-ended questions whose response is a drawing
The inclusion of "certainty" scale, so students can indicate to what degree they are confident of their answer, or simply guessing

I won't steal all their thunder, so I'll stop here and simply invite you to join us. Like all previous HP Online Speaker Series events, the discussions are hosted in an HP Virtual Meeting Room, where participants join by phone and web-browser. They are free of charge to educators, and you are welcome to join us!

“Survey Software: Probing student understanding and encouraging active learning with open-ended questions and tablet technology”

DATE : Friday, October 6th, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Time
PRESENTERS : Frank Kowalski, Professor of Physics, and Susan Kowalski, Coordinator Classroom Communicator - Colorado School of Mines
ABSTRACT : The next leap forward in classroom communication technology is to utilize open-ended questions to which students can respond with words, diagrams, etc. What are the problems and advantages when using this technology in teaching? We discuss some of our results and show you how you can use this approach with your tablet-equipped students. HP has generously provided a server so that you can use free web-based software to collect real-time responses in your classes. Join us to learn how!

To attend, please RSVP at http://www.hpwebgen.com/questions.cfm?id=7930&pass=4230 so we can send you login and phone details. All you need is a phone and an internet-connected web-browser. However, space is limited, so registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge for this event.

I hope you can join us!

HP Online Speaker Series - Presentations by Faculty for Faculty

jgvanides — Fri, 11 Aug 2006 19:58:00 GMT

Approximately once per month I host an HP Online Speaker Series event - short, informal and interactive presentations by our community for our community, sharing the successes and challenges associated with transforming teaching and learning through the effective use of technology. These discussions are hosted in an HP Virtual Meeting Room, where participants join by phone and web-browser. They are free of charge to educators, and you are welcome to join us!

This is a great opportunity to hear what other faculty are doing and directly ask your own questions. Coming up this month:

“Medicine’s New Tablet: Thirty Days of Reflection and Experience”

DATE: Monday, August 28th, 10:00am – 11:00am Pacific Time
PRESENTERS: Michael Karr, Senior Coordinator of Technology, and Dr. James L. Fishback, MD, Curriculum Director for the University of Kansas Medical Center School of Medicine.
ABSTRACT: What happens when you mix a new curriculum and Tablet PCs? How do you deploy over 200 Tablet PCs to faculty and first year medical students? The University of Kansas Medical Center shares experiences and lessons learned with mass deployment, electronic textbooks and online course management.

To attend, please RSVP at http://www.hpwebgen.com/questions.cfm?id=7694&pass=34117 so we can send you login and phone details. All you need is a phone and an internet-connected web-browser. However, space is limited, so registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge for this event.

I hope you can join us!

One Tablet Classrooms @ Murray State University

jgvanides — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 15:09:00 GMT

There has been a lot of interest in 1:1 computing in the classroom, where every student has their own computer. While I think 1:1 and even 2:1 (pairs of students sharing a computer) can support an active learning environment, I have been reminded lately that even ONE tablet PC in a classroom can make a real difference in instruction.

One example comes from an HP Technology for Teaching grant recipient team at Murray State University, in Murray, Kentucky (USA). Dr. Terry Derting (Bio Sciences) and Dr. Ricky Cox (Chemistry) have been using HP Tablet PCs since 2004, and were recently awarded an HP Technology for Teaching Leadership award to continue and expand their work. They are using Tablet PCs to support active learning exercises that included opportunities for students to be presenters. This, combined with the enhanced lecturing and lecture notes that can be easily incorporated with a Tablet PC, is creating some positive results. From their project website, they describe that:

“…before tablet implementation, students in an introductory chemistry course were scoring in the 53rd percentile in the nation on a standardized chemistry exam. This course is now taught using the one-tablet model and students score in the 70th percentile and report that this instructional model promotes teaching effectiveness and student learning.”
reference: http://www.cfkeep.org/html/snapshot.php?id=59947744253974

You can also hear and view a presentation & discussion with Dr. Cox describing his experience with the “One Tablet Classroom” at a recent HP Online Speaker Series conference call that has been recorded and archived by the University of Wisconsin, at http://www.uwex.edu/ics/stream/uwc-rock/hp/. According to Dr. Cox:

"Our experience has shown that the one-tablet model can enhance the process and product of a lecture-style classroom while providing opportunities to adopt a more student-centered environment through peer-led activities. For some faculty, the one-tablet classroom may be the appropriate teaching model while other faculty may use this model as a starting point for an expanded integration of tablet PCs in a multi-tablet classroom."

The take-home message in my mind is that Exemplary Instruction combined with the right technology are critical factors that drive student learning improvements.

So what are the characteristics of “exemplary instruction”, especially in higher education? I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts…