The mission of the Tech Scout team is to scan the techno-sphere to research and identify cutting-edge learning technologies and/or to identify innovation applications of existing technologies, all which would improve and enhance student learning and engagement, and to share these findings with the college. These activities can include reading reviews of new learning technologies, researching how the technology impacts student learning and engagement, contacting vendors, acquiring review copies of software/applications, identifying licensing options and costs, and interviewing current users of the software or application.

Tech Scouts are appointed to a three-year term and will receive a $300 stipend per year. The Tech Scout team is facilitated by Bonnie Cackoski and Rich Edwards.

Tech Scout expectations:

• The Tech Scouts will report directly to the Learning Technology Advisory Committee. This committee may also direct research assignments toward the Tech Scouts. Each semester, the Tech Scouts will be required to update the Committee on a project they have been working on, software/hardware they have been beta testing, or findings they have gathered from research. Scouts may attend any meetings of the Committee.
• KCELT Technology Teaching and Learning Institutes are offered at the end of fall and spring semester, generally the week after finals. Each Tech Scout will be required to teach a session in at least one of these Institutes in order to share what they have learned with other faculty.
• Tech Scouts will also asked to present findings once each semester in an open session offered through KCELT.
• Tech Scouts will be required to maintain an updated web page of research activities on the Tech Scout web site.
• Regular attendance will be required at Tech Scouts meetings. These are generally scheduled at least six times during the regular school year. For the convenience of members, meetings will be made available through the KTS system or conference calls.
• In order to receive the $300 stipend, Tech Scouts should submit a written report at the end of spring semester each year summarizing activities and research findings to Bill Lamb, Vice-President of Instruction. Copies of the report should also be sent to Bonnie Cackoski and Rich Edwards.
• For newly appointed Scouts, the requirement to conduct an open session through KCELT the first semester will be waived, but all other expectations should be met.

For more information, or to request a physical copy of the application for the Tech Scout team, please contact Bonnie Cackoski (bonnie.cackoski@kirkwood.edu) or Rich Edwards (rich.edwards@kirkwood.edu). Click here to fill out an online application to join the Tech Scout team!