Cross Connections
The School of Information Studies (iSchool) recognizes the pervasiveness of information technologies in all areas of society—from business and communication to entertainment and medicine. The very nature of the information field requires multiple perspectives and must incorporate theory and research as well as practical applications.
Through interdisciplinary programs, academic initiatives, and world-class research centers, our students gain hands-on experience working through problems faced by businesses, organizations, and communities across the globe. Our faculty members investigate the ways individuals interact with information and communication technologies and find innovative solutions to improve those processes.
It takes more than bold ideas, however, to have a positive impact on the world. It requires significant financial resources that will enable the iSchool to seize collaborative opportunities when and where they arise.
Here are a few ideas from our faculty and staff members on projects they'd like to see supported. Your gift can be designated toward one of these or to the general Dean'S Fund in support of other collaborative initiatives.
“Beam Me Up, Scotty”
Purchase equipment needed to strengthen the wireless signal installed by iSchool students in IST 466 to benefit residents of the South Side community. (Murali Venkatesh)
“Once Upon a Time…”
Create a web-based competition for young children that guides them through the research of a curriculum-related science topic, allows them to create an electronic storybook based on their research results, and provides opportunities for publishing their books on the Center for Digital Literacy’s “Curiosity Creek” web site.
(Ruth Small and Marilyn Arnone)
“Lights, Camera, Action!”
Develop an interactive component to an innovative, multimedia magazine for K-12 and college librarians and classroom teachers called “Educators Spotlight Digest,” a project of the Center for Digital Literacy, which allows the reader to provide input and feedback to the editors and other readers on various topics and issues.
(Ruth Small and Marilyn Arnone)
“Use Your Imagination!”
Develop and evaluate a suite of easy-to-use web-based tools for the Center for Digital Literacy’s “Curiosity and Imagination Digital Lab” web site that children can interactively and collaboratively use to conceptualize, organize, and report the results of their research projects.
(Ruth Small and Marilyn Arnone)
“Enriching Literacy Through Technology”
Provide an opportunity for all local K-8 students who submit projects to the Enriching Literacy through Information Technology (E*LIT) competition at the Center for Digital Literacy to come to the Syracuse University campus to participate in the culminating event, a presentation by a well-known children’s author.
(Ruth Small and Marilyn Arnone)
“Learning in Disguise”
Sponsor gaming initiatives that bring together multiple disciplines to show how gaming creates a new way for people to learn skills and knowledge. (Scott Nicholson)