The University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has annually hosted the Faculty Summer Institute on Learning Technologies (FSI) since May of 1997. Begun as a HECA Grant initiative, this four-day institute focuses on issues related to various aspects of implementing instructional technologies into the traditional and virtual classrooms. FSI provides a forum for faculty to work with colleagues from other departments across NIU as well as with faculty members from the 12 participating state institutions.
FSI offers both presentation and hands-on opportunities throughout the week. The presentation/discussion sessions provide participants with information about important issues that impact teaching and learning with technology. The mix of hands-on workshops, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities provide an opportunity for attendees to explore a variety of topics, including pedagogical issues of online teaching and practice with specific software that augments teaching with the Internet.