EHS Technology Initiatives
Among the initiatives:
• The EHS digital backpack project provides student teachers with access to high-tech equipment such as Smartboards ™, videocameras, etc., to use in classrooms where this technology is not available. The project, introduced in the 2009-10 academic year, has been used successfully in schools throughout Ohio as well as by students doing their student teaching internationally.
• Chalk and Wire is an e-portfolio mechanism adopted fall semester 2009 by Miami and piloted in EHS and three other academic areas. Chalk and Wire is being used by EHS as a portfolio to collect key assessment data for accreditation purposes. Additionally, workshops are being offered to students so that they can learn to set up and use portfolios for job interviews and job applications.
• The Digital Learning Initiative pilot project equips students with 21st century knowledge and skills. Future teachers, using wireless laptops, will learn to integrate technology into their classrooms.
• While the shortage of Special Education teachers has been acute for years, it has been difficult for working teachers to get the additional certification needed to fill the gap. Miami offers an Alternative Special Education Licensure Program that lets teachers get certified online. The program is the first of its kind in Ohio.
• Digital Learning Lounge. An innovative project where students, faculty and staff can meet where information about technology can be exchanged, enhanced and learned.
• Today’s students receive much of their information and ideas from the Web. Eleven EHS professors are piloting a means of tapping into that lifestyle by posting audios and videos on iTunes U. The EHS experience will be used to help launch iTunes U at Miami.