Kevin E. Smith

kesmith@mtsu.edu

Edward Kick

Sociology/Anthropology

Master Classroom

Peck Hall 318

New Technology

N/A

Sociology/Anthropology requests conversion of PH318 into a master classroom. PH318 is the single anthropology program classroom (14-16 courses/semester). Anthropology is a highly audiovisual and technology-oriented discipline, but faculty rarely have the ability to take advantage of that technology. Our current textbooks are frequently equipped with CDs and/or web supplements designed for use in the classroom. While students can access these on their own or lab computers, instructors are unable to effectively use these resources in the classroom. Additionally, all anthropology faculty have extensive 35mm slide collections from across the globe in constant use (and wear) in many courses. While the department has the capability to translate these into digital media, we lack to capacity to use Powerpoint to preserve the (often irreplaceable) originals. Web access with audiovisual projection capabilities would enhance all of our courses - extensive and growing on-line collections of images, audio, streaming video are available for these discipline. Approximately 450 students enrolled each semester in anthropology courses (approximately 30% of whom are fulfilling General Studies requirements) would benefit from conversion of PH318. This number includes approximately 100 majors in Anthropology and over 150 minors in Anthropology, Archaeology, Asian Studies, Latin American Studies, Native American Studies, and Sociology.