New website makes it easier, faster for Purdue instructors to find and use instructional technology tools

A new-look instructional technology website includes filtering and category options to help Purdue instructors find tools, access resources for getting started with tools, and request new tools. The instructional technology site covers Purdue’s centrally funded and supported tools, as well as integrated third-party vendor tools.

To view the complete collection of instructional tools, select the Tools & Resources menu on the Innovative Learning homepage and click on Instructional Technology, or use this direct link.

The new instructional tools website has been curated by staff members from Purdue Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT), part of Purdue University Online, and the Purdue Libraries.

Among the features of the new site:

• A search bar to search for specific tools that are in Purdue’s technology portfolio, allowing instructors to find a certain tool quickly.
• A category option to help find tools that fit criteria the instructor sets.
• A filtering option that allows instructors to discover more about what tools can do.

Each tool also includes a small description under its logo to save instructors time in determining the tool’s purpose. Once an instructor clicks into the tool, they will find a more detailed overview, a getting started section, links to resources, and contact information for support.

“Instructors can view a walk-through tutorial of the new features and how to navigate the site by watching this short video clip.”

Centrally supported tools

A list of all of Purdue’s centrally supported tools appears on the tools site homepage by default. Centrally supported tools have black trim on the top of the tool’s box and a “Centrally Supported” label in gold at the bottom.

TLT regularly holds workshops and drop-in virtual help sessions on using centrally supported tools and can provide instructors with day-to-day guidance.

Third Party Tools and Integrations

The new website also hosts third-party tools. Instructors work with the vendors when they need support for these tools, but TLT can help integrate them with Brightspace. Buttons to make new Brightspace integration requests and new tool requests are located on the tools site homepage. (Integration requests can also be made by clicking the Integrations tab on the Brightspace Resource website.)

Instructors should use a new Brightspace integration request if they need additional functions or software to enhance the classroom experience that are not provided by centrally supported tools.

Instructors should use a new tool request when they discover a useful tool that is scalable; promises to impact multiple courses and be used in multiple departments, schools and colleges; and enhances the value of courses taught at the Purdue.

For more information on Purdue’s instructional technology and the new instructional technology website, contact TLT@purdue.edu.