What This Course Is About

This course explores the use of the computer as a tool for learning. Students experience the computer as a "guide" to communication and research, an "organizer" for the presentation of knowledge, and as a "mediator" in the construction of knowledge. Students explore the internet, evaluate web sites, create PowerPoint presentations, construct web pages, and author interactive programs/lessons. While developing skills in a "hands-on" project-based environment, students experience the computer as an "assessor" in the teaching/learning process and reflect on its implication for education.  Exceptional projects will be featured online as part of DANTE (Dallas Area Network for Teaching and Education).  This course meets and/or exceeds the educational technology foundations for teachers as defined by NCATE and ISTE. 

Because the use of technology and computer networks has become commonplace for competitive professional work in education, this course will utilize and develop materials for the World Wide Web ("WWW" or "the Web") and/or multimedia environments. Time will be devoted to WWW exploration and experience with appropriate multimedia tools both in and out of class. Students should regard Web exploration as part of the research that would support any course. In addition to reading from the Web, more traditional reading will also be used to frame course work and discussion. No prior knowledge of the WWW or computers is presumed, but experienced students should support their less experienced peers in learning the basics of computing and the Internet.

Students will be collectively and individually responsible for class projects. Small team preparations of minor projects and presentations will also be required throughout the course (schedule to follow).

Getting Help: Course Assistance, General Information, Teacher Certification, Access to Campus Resources, Printing

Ms. Stephanie Cain, a UD graduate and teacher, is the Summer 2008 lab assistant. Stephanie took the Computer Problem Solving course in Fall 2005 and has outstanding computer and tutoring skills. She is available to provide email and/or face-to-face, on campus help with course assignments. Stephanie will post information about both general and assisted lab hours at http://dante.udallas.edu/assist  In addition, you may reach Stephaine at stephaniedcain@gmail.com

Mrs. Terri Randall, Department of Education Administrative Assistant, is available Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  On Fridays, she is available until 1:00 p.m.  Call her at 972-721-5389, or email her at randall@udallas.edu . Mrs. Randall can help students who have questions regarding tuition, registration, access to campus resources, etc.

Mrs. Kay Haaser, Certification Officer, is also available in the Department of Education Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Fridays until 1:00 p.m.  Contact Mrs. Haaser if you have questions regarding teacher certification programs available at the University of Dallas.  Call her at 972-721-5184, or email her a khaaser@udallas.edu 

Ms. Jan Burk, Registrar, is available in the Registrar’s office located on the first floor of the Braniff Building Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Fridays until 1:00 p.m.  Students who decide to add or drop classes from their schedule after the first day of class MUST fill out required paperwork in the Registrar’s Office.  Contact the Registrar by calling 972-721-5221 or email her at jburk@udallas.edu

Computer Lab facilities will be available where students may complete and/or practice skills and assignments for the class.  Students may contact the course lab assistant for information regarding both general and assisted lab hours.  Students who would like to use resources in the Department of Education Mediacenter during times when the Department of Education is closed may submit a request to Mrs. Terri Randall.

The University is perpetually in the process of installing, experimenting with, and field testing new network tools and procedures. Some of the tools described in the syllabus/website may or may not be available during the course.

Textbook and Course Resources

There is no required text. Most of the resources that students will need are "hyperlinked" in the course website, or they will be made available as the course progresses. Internet features, protocols and resources change and grow by the minute. For this reason, students may discover that some of the resource links are outdated. Students may need to search for new URL's or even new resources.

Required Course Fee

Students enrolled in this course are required to pay a $25.00 course fee. This fee covers the use of course resources, including software, handouts, printing, on-campus assistance, Media Center, etc. This fee also entitles students to print judiciously on the printer located in the Media Center. All paper and supplies are available through Mrs. Randall, Administrative Assistant.

General Printing at UD

Use of the printers in UD general-access labs is available at a minimal charge.  Students may purchase a printing card in the library.  Printing is $0.10 per page. Printers are located in the general access labs in the Science Bldg.  More information for printing accounts can be obtained in the library.