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One of the significant challenges to widespread use of information
technology in higher education has been the inability to provide faculty
with adequate training and easy-to-use software.
While many UMBC faculty use a variety of software tools in their
courses now, the focus of FaCT is on utilizing Microsoft software
because it is the most widely used among faculty, and is very affordable
under the new Microsoft License
Agreement with the University System of Maryland. In January
2000, all UMBC students will also share in the site license privilege.
Faculty using other packages will still be able to do so. However,
for faculty who are not using technology in their courses now, or
would like to try another approach, FaCT training will emphasize
techniques that support pedagogy, assessments of skills needed to
utilize the pedagogical techniques, and courses that guide a faculty
member to mastery of the skills. Through a shared vision, a standard
platform, and concerted action, FaCT will help expand the use of
technology in teaching and learning at UMBC.
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