This Week

This week has got me started on 3 different projects related to the technology field.

1. Tech Council

A couple weeks ago I was chosen to participate as a member of UMD's Technology Council for the College of Education and Human Service Professions. Last Monday brought the first meeting of the semester, where we were able to discuss changes within the University (specifically the change to Google Apps) and some of the staff proposals for new equipment this year.

It was interesting to me because every year as students we pay over $100 in "technology fees." I learned that a quarter of this money goes to maintenance (think ITSS), a quarter goes to staff equipment, and the majority (about 40%) goes to special proposals put forth by faculty each year. Some examples include adding more computers/equipment to already existing labs, new photocopiers for certain departments, and new additions such as computer programs, laptops, and iPads.

All of the proposals put forth support very interesting goals and needs of the college. The bottom line however is that if you would like to get involved in influencing the dean's decision on funding you are able to talk to me or another Tech Council member (roster available online), your Department Head, the Dean, or any student organization you are involved with. My goal with the council is to be able to get suggestions from other education students via the Early Childhood Student Association and ACEI groups on campus and relay those ideas back to the faculty.

2. Grant Writing

After a recent experience in a special eduation high school classroom I volunteer at, I have decided to make an effort to get that school some new technology. Specifically iPads. What they have currently for students with disabilites is outdated and far from user-friendly. It either was very expensive or was something purchased with the teacher's own money, and I want to do something to help. It might just be one school, but I think that children will be a lot more motivated and able to succeed if they have the adaptive supplies they need.

There is one child in particular who has trouble writing, but can read and spell perfectly well. The device he uses allows him to type his answers instead of writing them, but like I said it is pretty outdated. I'm working on a way that I can get donations from a company (or possibly individuals) or even start looking at grants I could apply for for them.

3. Module 5: Photo Sharing and PowerPoint Lessons

This week's module focuses on copyright issues (pretty interesting if you wanted to look them up), photo editing, and creating a PowerPoint to share with the class. The photo editing/re-sizing can get a little frustrating, but I am done with that part now. I am currently working on a presentation on the world's water supply, a topic I am slightly familiar due to my volunteer work with the Great Lakes Aquarium. Presenting in front of my peers though? Not sure if I'm a fan...wish me luck :)