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A point in the right EI direction

October 25, 2012 By Käri Knutson

Educational Innovation is an opportunity for faculty and staff to build upon the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s long history of innovation by finding ways to do what we’re already doing — just better.

Not only will innovation help us better educate students, it will set the university on the path to greater self-sufficiency and a stronger future, as Interim Chancellor David Ward explains in this video.

If you’re needing help getting started or have questions about resources, look to the team of EI Point People, all of whom were identified by deans in each school and college and serve several important roles.

“They are a great source of ideas and help the EI Core Team to think through issues,” says Chris Olsen, interim vice provost for teaching and learning. “They work with their school/college colleagues to develop plans for innovation.”

Point people regularly meet to share best practices and innovations from their units with others across campus and also bring back things they learn from others around campus. The exchange of ideas is key to carrying out Educational Innovation. Much is learned after hearing from others.

“They have been vitally important in identifying approaches and challenges in  advancing educational innovations and will continue to play that role going forward,” Olsen says. “As an EI Core Team, we always leave meetings with the EI points energized and challenged to investigate new ideas.”

The team was assembled to ensure that each school and college had an internal point of contact to not only spread the word about EI but to be a resource for those looking for ideas and direction.

If you have questions, contact your EI point person for help. Also, visit the Educational Innovation website to learn more or share your own innovative ideas.

See the complete list of point people here.