CCUMC: The Consortium of College and University Media Centers

College & University Media Review:
A Look at Practices, Trends & Research
Fall 1997 Volume 4, Number 1

• Through the editor's lens,
  Michael J. Albright, Iowa State University
• Media centers in transition: Results of a 1997 CCUMC member survey,
  Lynn K. Milet, Kutztown University, and Michael J. Albright, Iowa State University

  In early 1997, CCUMC constituent member centers were surveyed to determine the degree to which they had undergone organizational change during the decade of the 1990s. The questionnaire asked for information regarding external change related to reporting relationships, as well as internal change involving service agendas, and the perceived outcomes related to either. Of 292 potential respondents, 191 usable responses were received. Results indicated that 82% of the responding centers either had experienced significant organizational change in the past seven years or anticipated significant change by the year 2000. A distinct trend toward organizational relationships with information technology units was noted, particularly at smaller institutions. Change thus far has had generally positive outcomes, with extremes on each end of the results scale. Center directors/managers have had little or no influence on decision-making in about two-thirds of all reorganizations.

• Improving faculty use of technology in higher education,
  Marsha King, Douglas M. Harvey, and Leslie Moller, Pennsylvania State University

  Higher education institutions are dedicating more resources to educational technologies than ever before. That is, more institutions are encouraging the use of technology in the classroom. However, the question remains whether faculty are using technology enough to support such increases. If that is true, what can be done to encourage faculty to use technology? In this study, the authors surveyed 300 instructional technology support professionals working in higher education. Respondents were asked for their perceptions of which strategies worked best for increasing faculty use of technology, and which strategies proved ineffective. In addition, respondents were asked about other factors, such as institutional support, which may contribute to faculty attitudes toward technology. This article discusses the relevant research and theory literature and reports the results of the study. Several strategies and guidelines for facilitating faculty use of technology are suggested, based on the findings.

• Moving computers with software tools: An exercise in visual planning,
  Barry O. Williams, Pennsylvania State University Harrisburg

  The consolidation of three graduate programs located in different buildings in different communities presented a daunting logistical challenge. The problem was to move people, furniture, computers and peripherals, fax machines, telephones, office memorabilia, and an entire computer lab efficiently and accurately to minimize down time. Filemaker Pro was employed for comprehensive labeling, and Interiors was found to be an excellent tool for creating and revising virtual office layouts during pre-move planning. The result was a smooth move with minimal disruption. The procedures followed and lessons learned are easily applicable to the relocation of media center facilities.

• Center Focus: Educational Media at Pace University, New York,
  Martin A. Hoffman and James F. Stenerson, Pace University
• Video reviews: Engaging Students in the Large Class, Marking Larger Classes Work, Making Large Classes Interactive,
  Kim Sando, Ursinus College