George Mason University

Each semester, faculty teaching ENGL100/101 are required to spend the equivalent of one week of class, in sequence or spread over the term, teaching computer/information technology skills, which should include word processing (as needed), e-mail, library databases, and the research capabilities of the Internet.

The following links cover procedures for booking computer labs. to fulfill this requirement, and guide faculty to other technology-related resources available in the department, on campus and on the Internet.

On-Campus Resources

Instructional Resource Center - IRC offers faculty computer, video, audio and multimedia instruction, holds workshops on new technologies and disseminates on-campus research in the use of technology in the classroom through regular presentations. Its Finding Aids for Instructional Resources offers how-to, software, and teaching with technology guides.

STAR (Student Technology Assistance & Resource Center) - The STAR (Student Technology Assistance and Resource) Center's mission is to provide opportunities for students to develop their information technology skills, presently to include Multimedia, Internet Connectivity, Video (digital and analog), Desktop Publishing, Presentation, and Web Authoring. STAR brings together technology training, skills, equipment, software, and experienced students creating a one-stop shop for students interested in learning about technology.

Electronic Classrooms

The university's interactive classrooms offer specialized venues for computer and multimedia teaching. The Division of Instructional Technology & Support Services (DOIT) provides a list of all electronic classrooms on the Fairfax Campus. To schedule an electronic classroom on an ad hoc basis, go to http://www.classtech.gmu.edu/, select the appropriate campus, and select Classroom Reservations.

Teaching with Technology Sites

The Web Site of Virginia Montecino

This extensive site provides guidance on the use of technology in the classroom, interactive syllabi, research on computers and writing, and precise, neophyte-friendly "How-To" guides. This site repays careful scrutiny of its many links. See, in particular:-

• Using the Internet in the Classroom - A basic guide to internet terminology, with many useful links
• How to Create your Own Web Page - Step-by-step instructions to opening your own site on the World Wide Web. This document also introduces all the HTML code necessary to build a site which includes links, pictures and basic graphics.
• TownHall
• Instructions for a guided tour of the web-crossing application that allows faculty to set up discussion folders, post notices to students, conduct online workshops, circulate assignments, etc. The site also includes advice for faculty
• Moderating Townhall discussion forums.
• Guidelines to Evaluating Internet Sources - A thorough guide produced by the University Libraries at John Hopkins University. The site is useful to faculty who need more information on evaluation strategies but is so clear that most students will be able to follow its advice.

Plagiarized Essays and the Internet

Eduscape's Learning Resources - Plagiarism and the Internet - A selection of resources and cites that help you identify and discourage web-plagiarism.