The Valdosta State University campus features a number of technologies to improve the educational experience for both professors and students. There are many devices to which professors have access that supplement the classroom and the ways the students in the class learn. These devices, which include computers, projectors, and programs such as PowerPoint, are available in most of the classrooms, and websites such as BlazeView are available for many classes.
Classrooms equipped with these technologies are called “Smart Classrooms.” “Technology is a really good investment and by using technology in the classroom, we are helping to prepare our students to be more marketable for future employment opportunities,” Dean of Students Russell Mast said.
Technology seems to some people (particularly the earlier generations) to be a foreign concept that they would rather not take the time to grasp. This is understandable, considering older generations did not grow up with computers and cell phones at their fingertips, and require more of an explanation instead of an assumption that they already know how to use the technology. However, this does present problems for both older, nontraditional students and for professors.
Students see some of their professors using a variety of different technologies for lectures, and others sticking to the dry erase board. However, there is a concern among some VSU professors and administrators that some professors may incorporate too much technology into their classrooms. Troubleshooting and working out the technological kinks can be not only a pain, but a waste of time. If professors find themselves at a loss of technological know-how, it is best to go with what they know, to save themselves and the students time.
However convenient and potentially helpful to students, technology should not become the main concern in a classroom, over the professor doing their job well, said Dr. Louis Schmier, VSU history professor. “Technology is not a synonym for ‘good teaching.’ Technology is little more than a tool box. And, it contains useful tools. But, a person has to learn how to use each of them.”
Several resources are available on-campus to instruct faculty, staff, and students in educational technology. The Student Success Center offers help in Microsoft Office, BlazeView, and web programming, and the Education program includes an Educational Technology course. The Division of Informational Technology offers online training in basic computer skills and popular computer programs, as well as training workshops for faculty and staff in Smart Classroom basics, the Vision Software for computer labs, and Microsoft programs.