Technology in the College of Education intersects with each of us in many ways in our varied roles. Carrara Educational Technology Center (CETC) is dedicated to providing information technology help for teaching and research. Along with the staff of CETC, I have sought to provide maximal flexibility and positive user experiences, given constraints of technology and Penn State policy. New policies about administrative rights, energy saving and encryption impose constraints on users. In each case, we sought to optimize the experience of technology users, while adhering to necessary requirements. This sometimes entails pushing back on policy and requesting exceptions as needed.
In 2014, I conducted a review of the Information Technology (IT) system through a survey to departments and college officers. I used this to re-organize priorities and workflow in CETC. Results show much improved reviews from users about competence, timeliness and customer service from CETC.
CETC has taken initiative to implement an online ticket system for IT services; transferred servers to the co-location; purchased space on virtual servers; implemented enterprise software to provide remote updates and service to users; and implemented the Managed Software System for MacOS — the first college at Penn State to do so.
The college has invested in uses of technology for research and teaching, including new technologies in the CEDAR Clinic and multiple teaching laboratories. Along with the faculty council technology committee, I implemented a new process for uses of the students’ technology fees to support innovation in teaching and research. Together we put in place a new system for recruitment and evaluation of proposed projects.
Along with the staff of the CETC, I welcome suggestions for improving service and opportunities for uses of technology in the college. Priorities for support of research include:
- Continue to build systems that support faculty, staff and students through high-quality and timely help from CETC.
- Assess and put in place personnel and ability sets across staff to address ever-changing needs of technology in the college, including the development of a new college website.
- Support professional growth opportunities for CETC staff to develop knowledge.
- Conduct a review of researchers’ needs for technology and propose new strategies to address these needs.
- Continue to work with faculty, college staff and architects on the installation of new technologies in teaching labs.
- Support faculty development through initiatives such as the EDUCATE initiative.
Technology poses new opportunities and challenges. I welcome suggestions for innovation. Across research, outreach and technology we have the potential for continued success. I am honored to serve the college as associate dean and hope to continue to work with you.