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The McCormick Educational Technology Center (METC), a division of the Library of Rush University Medical Center, is a media and microcomputing center designed to facilitate independent study and self-enrichment through use of audiovisuals (AV) and computer software. The METC also provides support to faculty in the use of technology as a part of their curricula.
The METC houses a large collection of videocassettes, DVDs, CD-ROMs, computer software, videodiscs, slide/tape programs and audiocassettes, which are available for student and faculty use. Students may request, in advance, media materials for use in course presentations.
Included at the METC are 10 group viewing rooms, a 40-workstation computer classroom, a 10-workstation computer classroom, and a computer/AV lab which houses 45 computers, VHS player/monitors for individual use, and three scanning workstations. All computer workstations run Windows XP, XP Office 2003 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access) as well as over 100 programs covering a wide range of specialties. Group viewing room reservations may be made in person at the METC circulation desk, or by calling (312) 942-6799. During hours of operation, AV viewing and computer aided instruction (CAI) software use has first priority over all other viewing room uses, including individual or group study. Faculty may reserve computer classrooms online at mrm.rush.edu.
The METC is a major Internet access point at the University, providing World Wide Web and e-mail access to all Rush University students. Students have access on a first-come, first-served basis to the computer lab 24 hours a day (with a valid Rush University I.D.). The department also offers tablet PCs, laptop PCs, and audiocassette recorders to students for limited checkout.
METC staff assist faculty in locating, previewing, and acquiring commercially produced software and media for use within their courses. Help with data collection research forms (e.g., surveys) is available through consultation with METC staff. The METC provides access to a series of Survey Monkey accounts, allowing students and faculty to easily facilitate online survey projects.
The METC provides guidance and assistance in providing technology support to faculty who wish to provide more advanced materials to students. Using products such as Wimba and Camtasia, the METC provides access to methods of both creating lecture files to post in WebCT, but also to virtual classroom software which allows distance education students to communicate with their instructors, and each other, in real time. The METC is collaborating with Information Services to provide WebCT support for both faculty and students.
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