The STAC celebrates Digital Learning Day, provides new space for online learners

The eLearning Studio provides a space where students "can take an online course with the confidence that the technology and support they need are at their fingertips," says STAC Coordinator Will Davis (far right).

Wright State University’s Student Technology Assistance Center, or STAC, will showcase its new space for online learners when it celebrates Digital Learning Day on Wednesday, Feb. 5.

Last semester, the STAC, in the Paul Laurence Dunbar Library, opened the eLearning Studio to provide a comfortable place and support for online learners.

The studio includes three workstations and can accommodate up to six students at one time. Its software and hardware, including microphones, headphones and webcams, were specifically selected to meet the needs of students taking online classes.

STAC Coordinator Will Davis designed the eLearning Studio to fill a need on campus.

“Not all students are able to take an online course in a dorm room or at home,” he said. “Online learners need adequate technology, a reliable Internet connection and a comfortable environment to learn.”

“I’ve met students who do not have the equipment or the environment to successfully engage in online learning,” he said. “In the eLearning Studio, Wright State students can take an online course with the confidence that the technology and support they need are at their fingertips.”

STAC staff provides support for online learners. “We set students up and get them started with their course,” Davis said. “And if they have a problem or need help, we’re here for them.”

Students have used the eLearning Studio to take a myriad of online classes. Some students use one of the studio’s workstations until they get comfortable taking their course on their own, while others have standing reservations to use the equipment regularly.

Though students often choose take online courses independently, Davis has found that the studio helps the students have a shared experience and build community.

Since opening the studio has become a popular and reliable resource for students. “We’ve been testing it for a semester and everything is working as it should,” Davis said.

Students can make reservations to use a workstation or can drop by during the STAC’s regular hours. To reserve a workstation, call 775-2656.

Learn more at the Digital Learning Day in the STAC

Students and faculty can learn more about the eLearning Studio and the STAC during an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The STAC will give away a $15 iTunes gift card every 15 minutes (limited to Wright State students).

Faculty are invited to see the new eLearning Studio and learn more about how the STAC can serve their students.

The open house is part of Digital Learning Day, which “celebrates the effective use of technology to improve education for all students,” Davis said. “I want to set aside Digital Learning Day to reflect upon the best that our technology has to offer and look to the future.”