Projectors, laptops, and remotes, oh my!: taming the lions and tigers and bears of classroom technology-the UWF model

Research, teaching, and learning are the principle characteristics of higher education. The acquisition of knowledge in the researcher's laboratory and dissemination of knowledge in the classroom typify modern teaching and learning spaces; in other words, faculty research must be translated into pedagogical techniques that result in student learning. While selection of the most appropriate pedagogical technique is a fundamental component of student learning, instructors can use technology in the classroom to present multimedia that clarify concepts, teach students how to manage information, and help students develop higher-order, critical thinking skills.At The University of West Florida, the Academic Infrastructure Services group, which is part of the central Information Technology Services department, is responsible for managing more than forty "hi-tech" classrooms, twelve recently conceptualized "eClassrooms," and four Interactive Distance Learning studios; this group is also charged with providing instructors with tools that facilitate commonly used teaching methods. This presentation focuses on standardizing the classroom environment from design and development through end-user support. Key features of this process include: (1) support from the University Planning Council; (2) documentation and adherence to standards; (3) collaboration with other departments, including Facilities, Academic Affairs, and the Registrar's Office; (4) working with vendors and contractors; (5) and availability of a user-friendly support mechanism.