Innovating in Your Course
Innovating in Your Course
Introduction
Innovation looks different for instructors based on their pedagogical goals, proficiency with technology, available resources, time to explore, and desire to try something new. The intent behind incorporating a new tool or approach in your course should be to enhance students’ ability to learn, whether helping them comprehend new ideas, practice concepts, or participate more fully. TLOS wants to share resources and guidance to support you in trying new things in your course, whether you are new faculty or have years of teaching experience.
TLOS Tool Finder
Virginia Tech has a robust digital learning ecosystem with many tools available. You can find and learn about new tools using the TLOS Tool Finder (tlos.vt.edu/tools). Here you will find an overview of selected tools’ features, guidance on incorporating tools, information about when a tool may not be a great fit, accessibility analysis and tips, plus resources for students. We hope you’ll use this resource to select new tools or find new ways to leverage the tools you are already using in your course.
Responsibly Innovating
Since sharing students’ names and email addresses with an unapproved third-party vendor may violate their FERPA rights, you may wonder how to safely try out a new learning tool. After you get your department head’s approval and input, TLOS can help you navigate the Low-Risk and Lost-Cost Software approval process. While this process has restrictions on use of the tool in your course and Canvas integration, we can help you explore the options and test ideas.
Technology-Enhanced Learning Grants
Do you have an idea for enhancing student learning with the help of technology, but need a little help getting started? Technology-Enhanced Learning Grants provide seed funding—typically up to $5,000—to support exploration of innovative approaches to teaching and learning with technology in for-credit courses. These small grants are designed to help you move from idea to implementation and evaluation. The application process opens in August each year, with recipients being notified in October.
XCaliber Award
Are you already doing creative and original work in teaching with technology and want to share your good work? Consider applying for the Office of the Provost’s XCaliber award. This peer-reviewed award is granted yearly in recognition of courses and projects that demonstrate exemplary use of technology and student-centered pedagogy resulting in high-impact student learning.
The nomination process opens each fall semester, with recipients being notified in the spring. See tlos.vt.edu/xcaliber-award for more information.
Connect with Us
Have an idea, but aren’t sure how to get started? Let’s have a conversation.
Contact us at tlos@vt.edu.