New tools, technology to help faculty teach anywhere

As hybrid teaching becomes the norm at universities, faculty are doing more to integrate online learning with on-campus instruction. To support this transition, UB has launched the Teach Anywhere initiative, a comprehensive guide to the university’s vast suite of teaching resources and technologies.

A one-stop shop for teaching resources, Teach Anywhere helps faculty identify and use technology for their courses, from HyFlex classrooms across the university equipped with cameras and microphones to recording studios in Silverman Library.

The initiative was formed through a collaboration between UB Information Technology (UBIT), the University Libraries and Academic Affairs.

“Teach Anywhere brings together the instructional technology services provided by UBIT, UB Libraries and Academic Affairs in a way that simplifies access by our faculty,” says J. Brice Bible, vice president and chief information officer.

“Over the past two years, faculty have become significantly more comfortable using educational technologies to improve student learning, and more faculty are integrating educational technologies into traditional, in-person courses,” says Graham Hammill, vice provost for academic affairs. “When we developed Teach Anywhere, we wanted to create a one-stop environment where faculty could easily discover the tools that are available to them, as well as resources for best using those tools.”

Through Teach Anywhere, faculty have access to:

• A video training center and written guidelines on the use of Zoom, Panopto, UB Box, UB Learns, UB Clicks and other technology.
• Tips to improve the delivery of remote, hybrid and HyFlex courses (classes that are simultaneously in person and remote).
• Support from UB librarians to use recording and editing studios in Silverman Library to create videos and podcasts; borrow webcams, mobile technology carts and other equipment; or reserve books and course materials.
• Training to provide an accessible and inclusive educational experience.
• Guidance and tools for remotely monitoring tests and exams, and recording attendance.
• Swift support from a Teach Anywhere expert.

“Teach Anywhere is about making it easier for instructors to utilize all the resources available to them and guiding them through the process of finding the best technologies and teaching practices for their courses,” says Evviva Weinraub Lajoie, vice provost, University Libraries. “Whether you are looking to get started with online teaching or you require advanced resources to enhance existing courses, this guide will help ensure your success in teaching anywhere.”

To learn more about available teaching resources and technologies, visit the Teach Anywhere website.