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Developing a Student Technology Support ProgramVicky MantorWangui NjugunaInstructional Support ServicesTexas Woman’s UniversityFebruary 22, 2007

TWU Demographics Total enrollment for 2006 – 2007 is

11,353 More distance education students every

semester Four campuses: Denton, Dallas Parkland,

Dallas Presbyterian and Houston Main campus located in Denton, Texas Top rated programs in Nursing, Dental

Hygiene and Occupational Therapy Over 2,000 graduates in all levels in 2006

TWU Fall 2006 Enrollment

Age Distribution of Enrolled Students by Level Chart Fall Semester, 2006

Source: TWU, Office of Institutional Research and Planning, Fact Book 2007

Analysis of Student PerspectivesNontraditional Students Did not grow up with

technology Most are eager to

learn, to be in control Self-reliant, and

willing to work to get exactly what they want

Some fear technology

Traditional Students View technology as

integral to their lives – don’t see need for help

Less patient – expect everything to happen now

Helicopter parents syndrome – children are not as independent

Just because they grew up with it doesn’t mean they can use it critically

ISS Outreach to Students In 2005, committee was formed to

identify need and solution ISS was not providing assistance to

students – anything outside of class was on their own time

Lab assistants constantly asked for help – environment not conducive to that service

Conducted research – other universities offered thorough training programs to entire student body

Orientation CDs First CD offered in summer of 2005 Has since grown - new information added

every semester Method to reach out to all students to

advertise existing services In-depth PowerPoint that details each lab,

intro to online services (Portal and Blackboard) and ResNet

Some departments have asked for the CD to provide more information to their students

Sample CD

Student Technology Empowerment Program (STEP) Student-oriented program

led by students Mission is to

technologically empower students

Three student trainers with non-technical majors

Web site, email and Blackboard account, forum in future

Information sessions, one-on-one tutoring, and online documentation, hands-on classes in future

Possible night classes, dorm meetings and class visits

STEP Difficulties

Our unique demographics impact attendance Advertising Scheduling conflicts

“Identify the need, appeal to the choice” 5 minute handouts – most essential concepts Gradually incorporate other services already

offered Build on existing skills

Wangui – Student Perspective Reflections

As staff Learning opportunities Access to learning resources Conducting training sessions is good experience

for my career Chances to broaden my horizons

As student Knowledge of student technology needs First-hand experience or professors expectations

of students International student experience Research

Future Plans Working with faculty Hands-on classes Technology forums (town hall/fair) to

discuss in non-stressful environment Online forum Resources page on web site (issues

beyond homework skills) Sustainability

Thank You for Coming!Instructional Support Services

Texas Woman’s University

Contact Information:Phone: (940)898-3288

E-mail Address: step@twu.edu