1. The Effective Use of Laptops in Active Learning Ideas for Involving More Faculty with Computer Enhanced Learning UAEU April 19, 2005 By David G. Brown Wake Forest University http://www.wfu.edu/~brown brown@wfu.edu

2. Basic Training provided by Library Professionals, in two-hour segments and groups of 5-15, usually around Course Management System routines Discipline-Specific Training provided by Computer Specialists within Each Discipline, in groups of 1-5. Highly sophisticated programs taught by Campus- wide computer experts, in three-hour segments to “the same” highly motivated group of about 15 faculty members Other one-on-one training is done by departmentally based specialists, by specially training students, and by the staff of our multi- media center (in the library) Types of Workshops

3. Getting Faculty to Attend Use respected faculty as instructors Garner the sponsorship of the Teaching- Learning Center (not the technology center) Hold sessions in the library (or a location equally respectable even to reluctant adopters) Limit the aspirations of each session, so that faculty leave with a sense of achievement Be prepared to take the workshop to a particular department, if asked

4. Focusing Upon Meaningful Content Start from Teaching Strategies, not educational theory & not specific software Emphasize first the strategies that are best supported by technology--- i.e. interactive, collaborative, customized learning that is presented in a controversial format with assistance from adjuncts & consultants Teach and support the low hanging fruit Stress just-in-time sessions centered around the use of a Course Management System (e.g., Blackboard or WebCT) KISSKISS

5. Running the Workshops Always coffee, soda, and cookies Lunch for all day sessions Roving support staff who enable the “podium instructor” to keep moving, even when a particular individual needs special help Printed material that accompanies presentation Computers that are “identical” to the ones faculty will actually be using Note to each faculty member’s department chair and dean regarding his/her participation

6. Other Tips Form learning pairs, so that each person has a “buddy” in the group Identify an expert who will be ready to assist workshop participants after workshop day Ask each department chair to name a faculty member within the department to serve as liaison to the technology training effort Recognize that different disciplines use the computer in very different ways, and therefore require different training and help- desk support

7. David G. Brown 439 Vanderbilt Road Asheville, N.C. 28803, U.S.A. 828-274-0828 email: brown@wfu.edu http//:www.wfu.edu/~brown