What's the "technology culture" in your department

I've learned in my time at UGA that every department has a "technology culture." Most departments have their fair share of innovators, early adopters, and laggards, but there are some that have more than their share in one of these categories. Those often set the tone for others in the department to follow. In the case of the departments with more innovators, those who tend to be laggards are more likely to try new things anyway. On the other hand, departments with more laggards can be frustrating places to be for those who like to try new things. What is the culture in your department? How has it affected you and the way you think about teaching with technology in your discipline?

Can't make the conference? Follow the tweets!

This week in DC, many of my colleagues will be gathering at the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative Annual Meeting. The theme this year is "Educating in the Open: Philosophies, Innovations, and Stories." Although I am unable to attend, I hope to learn a lot during the meeting via the #ELI2011 Twitter stream. Following tweets from a conference is a great way to get involved and get ideas, even if you are not physically there. What conferences are coming up in your field? Visit the conference Web site to see if there is a designated hashtag, and prepare to follow it!

The Joy of Goals

I was delighted this week to work with two faculty members in the vet school who are revising the curriculum for their program. I was showing them the learning modules and assessment tools, and they asked about linking their content to learning objectives. Blackboard Vista (eLC) has a terrific tool called "Goals" that is perfect for them. Using this tool, you can link from almost any content or activity to the appropriate goal or goals. Students can then see the content and activities that help them accomplish each of the goals listed. It's great for designers, too. When adding an activity, if it does not align with any of the listed goals, it becomes obvious that something is amiss. Either she has an unwritten goal in mind, or the activity is not appropriate for the course.