Welcome to EdTech Commons, a new UC Davis-focused resource on teaching with tech

UC Davis faculty and graduate instructors now have a new resource to support them as they teach with technology, whatever their level of experience. It's called EdTech Commons.

The online hub debuted in mid-May. Academic Technology Services (ATS) and the Center for Educational Effectiveness (CEE) worked with faculty to create a resource that's clear, direct, easy to navigate, and focuses on meeting the requirements of UC Davis instructors.

The site grew out of a need, expressed at the 2013 Joint Senate/Administration Retreat for Online Education, for resources on teaching with technology that are specific to UC Davis.

UC Davis focus

EdTech Commons has four sections: Getting Started, Teaching, Community, and Resources. Each section focuses on UC Davis.

The Community section, for example, offers short interviews with UC Davis faculty, including a video on "Re-Designing Face-to-Face Courses" with advice from instructors who teach in the University Writing Program, Plant Sciences and Spanish. The Resources section includes a list of recommended tools and technologies, and uses logos to identify ones that are compatible with UC Davis Canvas (the incoming learning management system that's replacing SmartSite) or supported by ATS staff.

EdTech Commons helps UC Davis instructors "learn about new methods and best practices for teaching with technology from one another, and explore options for making classroom work outcomes-oriented, engaging, and accessible for our increasingly diverse student population," said a letter to faculty from Carolyn Thomas, Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education, and Viji Murali, Chief Information Officer and Vice Provost for Information and Educational Technology. ATS is part of IET, and CEE is part of the Office of Undergraduate Education.

Please take a look at this new resource, the letter suggests, "and learn from others who are exploring how technology can create more student-centered teaching and learning experiences." Send feedback or comments to edtech@ucdavis.edu.