SITT '97

Impressions of SITT 97

A: My experience with computers and information technology before the conference was, for the most part, relatively basic, sporadic and problem-driven. I decided to attend SITT for personal and departmental reasons. On a personal level, I wanted to have more information and insight regarding the multiple pedagogical (and research) possibilities that have been put to use by my colleagues in different programs. I didn't have a specific project in mind other than learning how to create Web pages, for myself and my students. On a departmental level, I was interested in the general overview because one of our immediate intentions in Native American Studies is to come into present time with these new technologies. My main concern was that the technical language might lose me.

Q: What was your SITT experience? Did you learn what you'd hoped to learn? What frustrations did you face? What were the strengths/weaknesses of the program? Did you make valuable contacts? Engage in informative, provocative discussions? Would you recommend SITT to a colleague?

A: My actual SITT experience was very positive. I learned enough of what I wanted, although sometimes the technical language did frustrate me. (I don't really see how that can be helped, though.) The hands-on exercises were the most powerful for me, because I learn best by doing. I was quite excited to "demystify" projects such as power-point demonstrations and creating Web pages. I thoroughly appreciated the work of my colleagues who gave us demonstrations of their own work and their own "takes" on how to create, how to balance, how to integrate these new technologies with their overall teaching plans. In the same regard, I was thankful for all the reference information we were given to "take home" with us (the binder, the hand-outs, updates). Yes, I believe I made valuable contacts, and yes, our discussions were informative and provocative. I would definitely recommend SITT to a colleague.

Q: What are your plans now for incorporating what you learned into your work, either in the classroom or in research? How has SITT helped you accomplish your project?

A: I plan to develop my own Web page and keep it up to date. From now on I will probably do a Web page for each of my undergraduate classes as well. I will experiment with the PowerPoint demonstrations this fall. I've also decided to use the automated class list option. The information I received through SITT will help me accomplish these projects and more. I intend to continue to refine my understanding and use of information technology in the classroom and in my research.