October 13, 2014
Knackendoffel creates electronic modules
A College of Education faculty member has developed new resources for preservice teachers, saving roughly 60 students more than $6,600 per year.
Ann Knackendoffel, assistant professor of special education, counseling and student affairs, developed electronic modules for future teachers in her course Characteristics of Cognitive Disabilities.
Her materials are on Canvas in modules and Wiki content pages. The modules replace a $55 textbook.
"As an instructor, I'm excited when something relevant and timely comes to my attention, and I can add information instantly," Knackendoffel said. "E-source materials allow me to customize and update material in real time."
Knackendoffel believes the time has come to leverage technology in the classroom. "Students are coming to campus with a variety of digital devices," she said. "As faculty, we need to take advantage of these devices by showing our students and future educators how to maximize their potential. Another advantage is the students have their materials with them at all times."
The Open/Alternative Resource initiative is part of the college's technology plan — a key component to achieving its K-State 2025 objectives and philanthropic goals. In 2013, Dean Debbie Mercer provided all full-time teaching faculty with an iPad along with professional development opportunities. In 2014, the college provided iPads for all preservice teachers in their professional courses.