The Individual Professional Partnership Program was launched in the fall of 2001 to provide faculty with technology tools and training that will enhance teaching methods in both the traditional classroom and the online environment. As of spring 2004, almost two-thirds of The University of Findlay faculty has participated in the program.

The products of the partnerships are as varied as the faculty members who engage in them. For example, after attending discipline-specific meetings, a faculty member might bring back the tools and strategies needed to use videos and still images in their own classroom. Faculty may also learn to employ CD-based resources as supplemental material for their students.

Other partnerships have been established to purchase specialized software and/or hardware unique to the faculty member’s discipline. All materials and products provided by the TLTC aim to help faculty improve their pedagogy.


















Through the TLTC, the classroom becomes a media-enriched environment where teaching employs technology-enhanced angles in addition to the traditional format. Faculty will not depend on software/hardware just “to get by,” but to reshape the delivery of their teaching. And, since the opportunity for improvement is widespread, faculty members can apply for multiple partnerships as teaching strategies evolve.

Application Procedure

The goal of the Individual Professional Partnership Program is to continue existing partnerships as well as create new ones with individual faculty members. The TLTC provides a safe environment for faculty to enhance the skills they already have or experiment with new ideas and strategies related to teaching and technology.

The implementation of an Individual Professional Partnership is established using a three-fold process.

• First, the faculty member will discuss their ideas, formulating a written action plan including the necessary technology tools or funding to be provided by the TLTC.
• Second, with the help of TLTC staff and student coaches, training sessions, and a well-developed level of self-directed education, the faculty member will learn the essential functions of their desired technology tools or attain new teaching methods through workshops and conferences.
• Third, the underlying expectation of the TLTC is that the faculty member will then possess both the physical and conceptual tools to inspire their students and fellow faculty members.

The result is an enhanced learning experience for the students.

All full-time faculty members are eligible for IPPs and need only to fill out an application. The provision of training opportunities and/or technology tools will be considered if the applicant can show how such assistance will enhance teaching methods, student learning, and the ability to reach the major’s identified student learning outcomes.

If you have interest in obtaining an Individual Professional Partnership, draft your ideas for a proposal and fill out this PDF application form (for Word version click here). Schedule a consultation with a TLTC staff member and come prepared to talk about your project methods and costs. The TLTC staff will work with you to develop a plan to provide you with training, support, software and hardware as appropriate.

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What do UF faculty members say about their Individual Professional Partnerships?

“My partnership has gone well. I prepared a set of video clips…[and] also used the Impactica software to add more verbal explanation to my PowerPoint slides for this online class. That is a major problem with online classes; [they] traditionally only present material in a format that is good for visual and physical learners”. 

                                                                            —Judy McCrory, COS

“I encountered a very positive experience with a most enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and dedicated staff”. 

                                                                            —Kay Ericson, COHP

“Really the miracle is that I know and understand technology at a level that I did not dream I could attain. I also continue to look for new ways to enhance my teaching with technology. [Also] I have been extremely well supported by the staff at the TLTC”. 

                                                                            —Mary Cameron, COE

“I’d never have the incentive or the opportunity to do such technologically savvy procedures without my professional partnership! The Individual Professional Partnership is a true jewel on The University of Findlay campus. The resources provided have stretched my meager technological abilities, provided the opportunity and luxury to think out-of-the-box regarding my role as an educator, and has truly raised the bar regarding my students’ learning”. 

                                                                     —Louann Cummings, COB

“This technology can be used in any subject area to increase participation in the online presentation of projects”. 

                                                                                 —Ann Digilio, COS

“The grant process was very simple and hassle free”. 

                                                                            —Doug Switzer, COLA

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Contact Information

If you have an idea for an Individual Professional Partnership, even if it is in the early stages of planning, please contact:

Ms. Cheryl Cape
Faculty Liaison & Academic Technology Specialist
Teaching, Learning & Technology Center
ext. 4817
cape@findlay.edu

Ms. Beth Stewart
ATS Resource Manager
Teaching, Learning & Technology Center
ext. 4538
stewart@findlay.edu