Mission: Supporting Technology & Learning

The mission of Academic Computing is to:

• develop teaching and learning environments through innovative use of technology in support of the Wheaton curriculum
• provide services that enhance educational effectiveness through the use of instructional technology
• assist faculty and students in the use of technology applications in their specific disciplines.

Approach to Learning

Our approach is to address students as individuals and move them from their current level of competence to a higher one. At a minimum, we help students achieve general familiarity with computers and networks, and with computer applications specific to their major. Wheaton has well-equipped computer and multimedia labs, and is rich with state-of-the-art resources. Many students take advantage of these resources to gain professional-level experience with computing in their field.

Underlying the College's investment in computing is the commitment to have students and faculty use technology to do the work of the discipline. Although introductory courses often incorporate software built primarily for learning activities, students are more likely to use state-of-the-art technology to do work typical of professionals in that discipline. Astronomy students use Starry Night Pro. Spanish students publish their research on the College's Intranet.

The Role of Electronic Communication

Much of the process of teaching and learning depends on communication. Simple ideas can be conveyed using simple communication channels. To communicate a rich body of knowledge requires richer channels. Small classes and faculty relationships are key elements of the Wheaton experience. The College uses technology in numerous ways to enhance those valuable elements.

• Email and on-line discussions with faculty and peers extend discussions beyond the classroom
• Students create and submit assignments electronically
• Many classrooms are equipped with computers, VCR's and high-quality projection, to enrich lectures with visuals
• Faculty members frequently include assignments that utilize computers for research or for communication purposes.

Wheaton's campus-wide network links all faculty and staff computers, and all dormitory rooms are wired with one port per student.

Access to Information Resources

The College subscribes to many electronic databases and journals, making diverse information resources available to all students. The Library offers workshops and classroom sessions on Internet research. See the Library web page for more information.

Although the College is committed to providing access to large and diverse information resources, it is also a goal to make the information accessible. Faculty members often find it important to filter the information, to make Internet research fruitful and approachable, particularly for the younger students. Academic Computing supports faculty members' efforts to create learning resources and teaching resources that will make the most of the learners' time.

Supporting Faculty Commitment

Wheaton's faculty is committed to incorporating educational technologies into their teaching. Click here to see the faculty resolution endorsing the College's commitment to preparing students for life and work.

The Learning and Teaching Committee is run by faculty and supported by Academic Computing and the Provost's office. In recent years, the Committee has supported development efforts across the entire curriculum, enhancing learning experiences and expanding student exposure through the wise application of technology to teaching.

Content by Academic Computing
Last Modified: September, 2001