Beyond the technology

Abstract

In this paper the authors discuss the accumulated incremental changes fostered by IT and how they change campus culture and life for all members of the campus community. This presentation is a user-centered perspective looking not at how infrastructure and resources have changed, but rather how IT changes make a differences (positive or negative) in teaching, learning, working and living on campus. A better understanding of the impact UCCs (University Computing Centers) have on all aspects of campus life can improve planning and training. This challenge arises from the ubiquitous presence of IT on campus affecting all aspects of campus life - learning, teaching, working, and living. Technology's capability, availability, reliability, and ease of use lead to changes in roles, responsibilities, expectations, access and relationships among and between faculty, staff, students and administrators. Computer center services play a significant role in identifying and addressing these issues as users' adoption or rejection of these resources is determined not by the power of the technology, but by user perceptions of how IT's power facilitates their accomplishing their objectives.