System Center is technological 'paradise'

The UNT System Center at Dallas features the first virtual library in the Metroplex, videoconference rooms and state-of-the-art computer classrooms to create a premier learning environment for students enrolled in junior- and senior-level or graduate classes. Several programs of study offered at the System Center are grounded in the use of technology, including computer science, information science, information management, business, and occupational training and development. In addition, programs are provided to help teachers improve the classroom learning environment through the effective use of technology.

The virtual library is the cornerstone for the technology-based curricula offered at the System Center. The library relies primarily on the electronic delivery of services, although it will maintain a core print collection of 1,500 to 2,000 titles. Examples of the computer-based information and services available at the virtual library include electronic reference materials such as almanacs, encyclopedias and style guides; online journals and books; citation and full-text databases; online catalogs; full access to the Internet; and reference assistance from the librarians at the Denton campus via two-way video, online reference chat rooms, e-mail and telephone.

The virtual reference desk is designed for people who need ongoing assistance or who have little experience with computer technology. The system provides high-quality face-to-face interaction between a reference librarian and a student who can ask questions, see reference materials in print from other locations, or see documents as they are being described. Workstations and computers in the computer lab adjacent to the library provide access to electronic information resources, standard and advanced computer applications, and web-based resources. Check out additional library information at www.library.unt.edu/scd.

The videoconference classrooms allow professors to instruct individuals at multiple locations simultaneously. Through the use of video and audio technologies, course material presented in the local classroom can be sent to a remote classroom virtually anywhere in the world. The equipment allows lectures, computer presentations, printed material and videotaped material to be presented in multiple locations. Students also interact with the professor and other classmates via two-way video.

One visitor labeled the System Center at Dallas "a teacher and student paradise for learning." Visit in person at 8915 S. Hampton Road, three blocks south of I-20, or visit the System Center web page at www.unt.edu/unt-dallas.

Virginia Wheeless (wheeless@unt.edu) is associate vice president for planning and special assistant to the chancellor and serves as interim director of the UNT System Center at Dallas.

Other featured articles in this issue:

• Policy manual is now online
• City of Dallas helps UNT secure funding
• English language program receives national accreditation
• Preparing football stadium for season is no easy task
• UNT stages summer opera
• Eubank to fill interim post in graduate school
• Ferring named chair of geography department
• Housing department wins national diversity award
• Uswachoke grants distributed to faculty
• New director of UNT Press named
• Researchers study teams, leadership
• Outreach program teaches sewing skills
• Wells serves as naval school superintendent for summer

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