Future Uses of Technology in Economics Instruction Ten Lessons Learned So Far

1. Future Uses of Technology in Economics Instruction TenLessons Learned So Far David G. Brown, Dean and VP Intl Center for Computer Enhanced Learning Professor of Economics Wake Forest University http://www.wfu.edu/~brown ASSA Meetings Washington, D.C. January 5, 2003

2. Lessons for Individual Faculty • Use the computer between classes, not during class • Use CHUNKS, not whole electronic textbooks http://www.aplia.com/index.html http://www.merlot.org/Home.po Muddiest Point

3. Lessons for Individual Faculty • Emphasize five teaching strategies: • Interaction • Collaboration • Different Strokes for Different Folks • Controversy and Debate • Use of Assisting Instructors

4. Lessons for Individual Faculty • Emphasize Communication • Avoid expensive multimedia, Chat sessions, and virtual only courses

5. Lessons for Econ Departments • Explicitly assume that all students have reasonable, daily access to the Internet • Explicitly identify “departmentally preferred” software • Arrange staff support via student employees or an econ CAI advisor • Market the use of CAI to the Dean and Central Administration • Commit the entire department to consider Computer Enhanced Learning during the same term

6. David G. BrownWake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem, N.C. 27109336-758-4878email: brown@wfu.eduhttp//:www.wfu.edu/~brownfax: 336-758-5012 ICCEL -- Wake Forest University, 2003