instructional technology and distance education services

Workshops

We provide opportunities for faculty to learn how to use instructional technologies in their distance learning courses and in their research. We offer a full range of support, maintenance, and training for both instructional services and course development, including:

• Workshops and hands-on training are offered at no cost.
• Training and assistance are provided at OIT, designated training rooms, or instructor offices.
• Personal consultations in rooms with equipment for instructors to use.
• Technical support for LMS and other instructional software.
• Workshops for entire departments and LMS orientations for students.
• Informational handouts and other online resources, such as:
  • Creating Accessible Content
  • How to Make an Accessible PowerPoint
  • Accessibility Checklist

Our training topics emphasize instructional design and multimedia development that facilitate distance learning. Supported software and instructional devices include, but are not limited to:

• Learning Management System (LMS)
  • Blackboard (Current TAMIU LMS)
  • LMS workshops include but are not limited to Navigation, Assessments, Rubrics, and Gradebook.
• Class Collaborate
  • Class Collaborate Overview
• Camtasia & Snagit
  • Camtasia Overview
  • SnagIt Overview
• CourseArc
  • CourseArc is a content authoring and management system that facilitates the collaborative creation of engaging and accessible online learning.
  • Learn More >>
• Echo360
  • Echo360 captures class lectures and converts them into podcasts, videos, rich media, and more for anytime, anywhere playback. If you would like your lecture captures transcribed, contact us at elearning@tamiu.edu to request transcriptions.
• Portfolios
  • "Portfolios collect and organize pieces of work completed over time. They are compilations of work with a general purpose or goal to showcase progress and achievement." - Portfolios.
• Turnitin
  • Turnitin is an easy-to-use Web-based application that can be used to help detect and prevent plagiarism. Best of all, TurnItIn is integrated into the eLearning LMS.
  • Learn More >>
• VoiceThread
  • "VoiceThread bridges the gap between real-time discussions and standard video lectures or online presentations. This makes VoiceThread the platform for teaching, learning, training, and collaborating, on-demand." - VoiceThread website.
  • Learn More >>

Sign Up for Our Workshops

Consultations

The staff from the Office of Instructional Department & Distance Education Services (eLearning) is ready to assist faculty in the design and delivery of instruction. Support services include training on the eLearning platform, software applications, graphics and design, and video editing. Support services are available to faculty during our office hours. To send us a request for services, contact us by sending us an email at elearning@tamiu.edu or by calling our office at 956.326.2792.

Faculty members teaching at a distance will be contacted before the beginning of the semester with information about Quality Matters (QM), TAMIU’s Quality Assurance Program, and other available technology tools. Additional information about QM, is found in https://www.tamiu.edu/qm. Training schedules are available at https://trainings.tamiu.edu/ and are publicized on the eLearning, Office of Information Technology (OIT), and Uconnect (TAMIU’s Portal) pages. Aside from scheduled training, faculty may request training in various formats: individual face-to-face, individual virtual through web conferencing, and small or large group.

Faculty members who teach using video or web conferencing products, such as Blackboard Collaborate, may obtain training on the use and manipulation of these tools. Training also includes instructions and information on how to prepare their lesson materials for this type of delivery. If requested, technical assistance may be provided before the beginning of every class meeting. To prevent technical difficulties, we recommend that a connection should be established at least 15-30 minutes before the beginning of class.

Although walk-ins are welcome, instructors are encouraged to set up appointments to ensure that necessary resources, materials, and training staff are available for assistance. To request an appointment, email us at elearning@tamiu.edu or contact us at 956.326.2792.

Request an Appointment

In-Class Orientation Sessions

At the faculty's request, orientation sessions are scheduled with his/her class at the beginning of the semester. These sessions may take place on campus or at a distance and cover a number of topics including basic navigation of the eLearning Management System, access to class materials, participation in communication and discussion forums, and technical support. Sessions are scheduled on campus at convenient times for both faculty and students.

Schedule an Orientation

Proctored Exams

Face-to-Face Proctoring

Faculty seeking assistance with proctoring of exams for students who cannot test on campus should contact the director of the Testing Center at 956-326-2888 or at ZSC 201C. Requests for reservations of computer facilities for proctoring of exams should be made by writing to the Student Success Manager or by calling extension 956-326-2247. Special arrangements for proctoring of exams at a distance will be provided by the Testing Center in cooperation with the Office of Instructional Technology and Distance Education Services.

ONLINE PROCTORING

For online classes, faculty should require the use of an online proctoring service or solution for online testing. Faculty should list the information on the proctoring requirements on their syllabus so students become aware of the expectations for the exams.

For more information on test proctoring, visit our Test Proctoring and Security page.

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