VIII.1 LEARNING SUPPORT SERVICES

L&S Learning Support Services (LSS) is available to assist your department in meeting its instructional objectives by providing equipment, labs, training, and services using current educational technology. The following is a brief description of some of these LSS services. Current information on LSS services, facilities, and its media collection is available at the LSS website: http://lss.wisc.edu.

Instructional Technology Consulting

LSS has a staff of highly qualified professionals who are well versed in the use of technology as it applies to university level teaching and learning. Consultation is always free, and recommendations are always tailored to your specific needs. Whether you have need for simple delivery of audio or video materials, for use of AV equipment, or for exploring the latest tools for collaborative learning, LSS staff can help. Although we are located in Van Hise Hall, our mission is to the entire College. If you have a need, or an idea you’d like to explore, give us a call (262-1408, or contact us via the web at http://lss.wisc.edu/directory/staff)

LSS Facilities (available to all L&S instructors)

LSS schedules its facilities primarily on an ad hoc basis for those needing occasional computer or mediated classroom instruction.

The Learning Lab in Van Hise Hall provides a library setting where students can work with LSS’ large media collection or with media placed on reserve by any L&S instructor. All L&S courses (not just foreign languages) can use this facility. Materials include an extensive video/DVD collection including many feature foreign films as well as audiotapes, slide/tape sets, and printed matter such as foreign-language dictionaries. A large portion of these materials are also available on our Digital Learning Lab where students can download materials to work with on their own. See http://lss.wisc.edu/digital-learning-lab for currently available materials.

LSS also has three special labs, all equipped with laptop computers and networked lab control software, software for language learning, and other standard computer applications. Each room can accommodate approximately 24 students. In addition, LSS has a number of laptops and handheld PCs that can be used with wireless networking anywhere in Van Hise Hall. By special arrangement, these may be used elsewhere on campus.

LSS has two rooms used for video and computer projection, both of which are scheduled on an ad hoc basis by calling 262-1408. These rooms can accommodate up to 35 students. One of these rooms is equipped with a (Polycom) videoconferencing unit. A smaller videoconferencing room which can accommodate up to five participants is also available.

The InfoLab in 464 Van Hise provides PC and Mac computers along with word processing and course-related instructional materials.

A/V Equipment Pool

LSS maintains a complete pool of audio-visual equipment, including overhead, slide, and movie projectors, TV/VCR carts, multimedia computer projection carts, DVD players, tape recorders, video projectors, laptop computers, and other equipment, which can be used by anyone teaching in Van Hise Hall. Most portable equipment can be used elsewhere by permission. Long term loans are available for some equipment such as professional field recorders which can be used for research projects.

Media Production

LSS can assist in the production of media materials. This can include creation of new materials in the audio recording studio or the video production studio. In addition, LSS can help convert existing materials to digital formats for use in computer programs or on the web.

A Special Projects Lab is available for self-service, short term special projects such as scanning text, or preparing multimedia presentations or materials for the web. A PC and Mac, along with text and slide scanners, CD-ROM burners, and printers are available. LSS also provides web servers for instructional materials for any L&S course.

LSS Video Services

LSS video services include classroom taping for teacher evaluation, performances, lectures, and telecourses. Taping can take place in LSS studios or on site. The VRC can duplicate tapes (with appropriate copyright clearances), and can convert foreign format video (PAL, SECAM) to the U.S. (NTSC) standard. Materials can also be converted into digital formats for classroom presentations or for use on the web.

Emerging Technology Services

If you’ve heard about new technologies for teaching and learning and would like to explore their use, give us a call. Some recently added services include:

• Videoconferencing (individuals or groups)
• Software for Blogs
• Software for Wikis (collaborative online editing)
• Podcasting
• Online Chats
• Course management software (Moodle) that supports foreign language characters and scientific notation
• Streaming media services

Updated 8/26/09.
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