The innovative use of technology in higher education continues to provide new possibilities for enhancing teaching and learning.  The Learning Technology Center (LTC) Spring 2014 “Snackable Series” showcases three current approaches to leveraging technology to promote active learning and improve student learning outcomes.  Feel free to bring a lunch and join us!

Gamification, February 19 – 20, 2014

Gamification is the application of game elements and game-like thinking to course materials to encourage active learning and deepen student engagement.  Gamification can improve student motivation, inspire increased interactivity in your classroom, and allow you to reward successful completion of learning outcomes in new ways.  Models of gamification, along with simple yet creative ways to add gamification techniques to your D2L course, will be discussed.

Gamification Sessions:
Wednesday, February 19, 2014 from Noon to 1 p.m
Thursday, February 20, 2014 from 11 a.m. to Noon
Location: iCIT Training Center, McGraw 112

Digital Badging, March 19 – 20, 2014

A digital badge is an earned credential, which validates a person’s specific accomplishment, knowledge, or skill.  “Badging” can be used to supplement letter grades, combat grade inflation, instill motivation to advance their level of competency, and showcase learning outside of the formal classroom.  Badges are currently awarded by Purdue University, Carnegie Mellon, the Smithsonian, Intel, Disney-Pixar, and some MOOCs as well.  In this snackable, the basic principles of badging, models of badging, and ways you can use badging in your course will be considered.

Digital Badging Sessions:
Wednesday, March 19, 2014 from Noon to 1 p.m
Thursday, March 20, 2014 from 11 a.m. to Noon
Location: iCIT Training Center, McGraw 112

Challenge-Based Learning, April 16 – 17, 2014

Challenge-based learning is a model for achieving learning outcomes, similar to project- or problem-based learning.  The students work together to solve “challenges,” while the instructor serves as a guide and mentor through the process.  Normally leveraged through digital whiteboards, asynchronous discussions, and presentations, challenge-based learning is collaborative, “hands on,” and oftentimes multidisciplinary.  Examples of challenge based learning and approaches for adding these elements to your course, will be examined.

Challenge-Based Learning Sessions:
Wednesday, April 16, 2014 from Noon to 1 p.m
Thursday, April 17, 2014 from 11 a.m. to Noon
Location: iCIT Training Center, McGraw 112

To register for one or all of these “Snackable Series” sessions, please sign up at: http://signup.uww.edu Seating is limited.

If you have any questions regarding the Snackable Series and its sessions, please contact the UW-W Learning Technology Center.