This page outlines resources available to instructors considering using additional technologies outside of UVic’s Learning Technology Environment or interested in recommending a tool for adoption by UVic.
Using non-UVic Technology
If you are considering asking students to use an additional learning technology outside of UVic’s Learning Technology Environment, the following approach is recommended to ensure the tool aligns with UVic’s requirements for privacy and security and aligns with desired instructional requirements and learner needs.
In this approach, the Division of Learning and Teaching Support and Innovation (LTSI) is available to review the tool and work with you to determine if it meets your needs. Some factors the LTSI can review include the following:
Functionality. Is the tool user-friendly, is campus-based or other support available to students and instructors (how many users can it accommodate)? Are there UVic technologies already available that meets these needs?
Accessibility. Does the tool meet accessibility guidelines (i.e. W3C WCAG 2.0 standards). Is the tool supportive of universal design for learning (UDL) and needs of diverse learners? Is there a cost to students that may be prohibitive?
Technical. Does the tool work with most common equipment and browsers. Does it integrate with Brightspace or other UVic technologies? Is it mobile friendly? Is offline access available? Is specialized equipment required? (e.g. beyond UVic’s minimum technology requirements <link>).
Privacy and Information. Does the tool require students to create an account? Does the tool store student information outside of Canada? Can students retain ownership and control of their material?
Learner-centered. Does the tool provide opportunities for learning centered teaching practices? Does the tool suit the classroom context and targeted learning outcomes?
Based on the tool and review, the LTSI can provide recommendations for next step in adoption the tool. If required (e.g. if the tool collects personally identifiably information), the LTSI can work with the Privacy and Security offices to obtain privacy and security reviews.
Technology Adoption Requests
If you would like to recommend a technology for wider institutional adoption into UVic’s Learning Technology Environment, contact LTSI Support to request a meeting or suggest a tool for future consideration. Some key considerations for adoption, integration and support of new learning technologies include:
Impact. degree of impact (numbers of users / faculties that will benefit) and/or uniqueness of functionality (differentiation with other tools within the Learning Technology Environment that are currently supported). A pilot may be conducted with instructors and students to evidence value before consideration of institutional adoption. Evaluation reports may also be reviewed by the Learning and Teaching Technology Committee.
Alignment with principles for learning technologies including whether the tool is easy to use, accessible, flexible, reliable and secure, and supportive of learner centered instructional practices, active and interactive learning, innovative and high impact practices and strategic priorities.
Privacy and security standards. In order for any technology to be considered for institutional adoption (and integration), it must undergo and privacy impact assessment and be able to integrate into the Learning Technology Environment in a FIPPA-compliant way. All technology must also comply with UVic security standards.
Resources and central support. In most cases, technology that is adopted and integrated into UVic’s learning technology environment requires resources and central support be available to sustain its use. In exceptional cases, technologies may be integrated with only best effort support provided.
For additional support
To learn more or access additional support on technology adoption, please contact us or visit the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) for students with accommodation.
