Tools of Engagement Project (TOEP): On-demand Discovery Learning Professional Development (Phase 2)

Abstract

The SUNY Tools of Engagement Project (TOEP) is an on-demand discovery learning professional development model. The goal of TOEP is to encourage faculty and staff across SUNY to explore and reflect upon the use of emerging technology tools to expand tech-infused pedagogy. Self-directed activities encourage faculty to be lifelong learners, as they become familiar with blogging, wikis, podcasting, online collaborative, and the latest web-based instructional technology tools.

In Phase 2 TOEP merged with Empire State College’s 2012-13 IITG project. The six-partner collaborative expanded to 11 campuses in phase 3. Phase 4 has 19 collaborative partners and is a SUNY-wide available resource. The multi-campus project has served more than 700 faculty/staff. Each participating campus recruits faculty and staff to “learn by exploring and doing” via the project’s on-demand web-based venue. The project is extended via TOEP Fellows (campus-based mentoring teams). A badging system tracks participant’s progress and mastery.