Online Learning and Instructional Technology Services (OLITS) at the Nelson Poynter Memorial Library offers a variety of professional development training to support the online faculty of USF St. Petersburg. The framework for professional development is based on two distinct yet inseparable categories: pedagogy and technology.
All sessions are open to full-time and adjunct faculty and staff. They are located in POY 219 unless otherwise specified. Some workshops can also be attended virtually through Microsoft TEAMS. If you have any questions, please contact Steph James (stephjames@usf.edu or 727-873-4437).
Pedagogy Workshops
Pedagogy workshops focus on best practices in online learning using adult learning theory. Topics range from improving academic integrity, increasing levels of student engagement, to creating valid assessments that align with course objectives. The workshops emphasize grounded, research-based theories to improve the students’ learning experiences and improve outcomes.
Technology Workshops
Technology workshops concentrate on the software used to enhance the delivery and engagement of online learning. Topics include alternatives to PowerPoint, interactive polling software, and iPad apps for education just to name a few.
OnDemand Training
Can't make it to one of our scheduled sessions listed below? No problem! Contact your OLITS Instructional Designer to arrange a training session on any topic at a time that is convenient for you.
Online Tutorials
Through Lynda.com, faculty have access to tutorials on many instructional technology tools such as Microsoft Word, Gmail, Canvas, and much more. To access these videos, use these instructions to log into Lynda.com.
Additionally, the OLITS YouTube Channel offers short tutorials of technology and instructional strategies designed specifically for USF St. Petersburg.
Major Events
OLITS collaborates with the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) to coordinate two major annual professional development events for faculty and staff.
The Bay to Bay Learning Symposium is a full-day workshop on the second Friday each February. It features a keynote speaker from the field, faculty presentations, and workshop sessions.
The CITL Week of Teaching, conducted the week before the start of each Fall semester, provides a variety of workshops focused on enhancing teaching and learning, as well as, new faculty orientation and an all faculty reception.