Photo by Chris Meyer

With online course systems and wireless networks making access pervasive, IU faculty now will have the opportunity to connect anytime and anywhere.

Indiana University has launched a new Faculty Notebook Computer Program that gives faculty on all IU campuses the potential to turn virtually any space into a learning space. The program is an extension of IU's strategic classroom technology plan and is being led by the university's technology support organization, University Information Technology Services. As part of the plan, IU is able to provide notebook computers to eligible faculty.

The program is intended to make it easier for faculty to use technology in classrooms that don't have permanent computers or presentation equipment installed.

"Instructors may have desktop computers at home or in their departments, but when it's time to conduct class or attend a meeting, their fundamental productivity tools are left behind. With a notebook computer, an instructor can be connected virtually anywhere," said Elizabeth Van Gordon, director of learning technology operations for IU.

Information technology is a staple of today's learning environments. Nearly all IU faculty frequently use E-mail to communicate with their students, do online research and access online resources. Approximately 90 percent use IU's online course management system extensively. With online course systems and wireless networks making access pervasive, faculty need to be able to connect anytime and anywhere.

"Having a notebook computer would enable faculty to communicate more frequently and readily with their students, they can carry it to the classroom, work at home or do presentations in the community." —Michael Patchner, dean of the IU School of Social Work, IUPUI

"I think this is a great idea," said Michael Patchner, dean of the IU School of Social Work on the Indianapolis campus. "Having a notebook computer would enable faculty to communicate more frequently and readily with their students, they can carry it to the classroom, work at home or do presentations in the community. They are going to have the tools they need with them all the time. Our lives are so much more productive if we are able to stay connected."

Applications are now being accepted to participate in the Faculty Notebook Computer Program. Go to this Web site to access information and eligibility requirements on each of the IU campuses:

http://facultynotebookcomputer.uits.iu.edu/