University of Wisconsin - Extension

A Web site developed by UW-Extension received its one millionth hit in April after just over eight months of online service.

Launched in August 2001, the IDEAS Portal Web site, http://www.IDEAS.Wisconsin.edu">www.IDEAS.Wisconsin.edu, is a collaborative project sponsored by UW-Extension Continuing Education Extension, TEACH Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin System. In addition to these sponsors, educators from more than 50 K-12 school districts and UW institutions have partnered to create, maintain and continue building the site.

Database aids K-12 educators

The IDEAS Portal Web Site is a searchable database that saves Wisconsin educators time by focusing on educational resourcesthat have been evaluated for quality and are aligned with the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards. IDEAS has attracted and maintained a repeat user base of more than 5,500 educators, and statistics indicate the average IDEAS user stays with the Web site for more than 13 minutes per visit.

The response by Wisconsin teachers and educators to the Web site has been overwhelmingly positive. ¿This is a great site that I found very useful as I was rewriting my ethnic groups unit,¿ comments Kathleen Nicholson, a fourth grade teacher from Amherst Elementary School. ¿I wanted to incorporate technology into the unit, and this site did just that.¿

Links provide additional support

In addition to finding cataloged resources and lessons in English, math, science, social studies, literacy and information technology, educators searching IDEAS will find a news-and-events section and a links page that puts educators in touch with agencies and organizations dedicated to improving education in Wisconsin.

Expanding IDEAS

According to project director John Fischer, IDEAS will expand soon to include many more partners and agencies interested in sharing their online resources with Wisconsin educators. ¿This is an exciting time for the IDEAS project,¿ says Fischer. ¿This summer we expect IDEAS to launch an online discussion forum that will allow teachers from across the state to discuss issues, ask questions, and stay in touch with colleagues and peers. We also will be working closely with Wisconsin Public Television to bring indexed streaming video to the site, and the Wisconsin Arts Board is providing funding to begin cataloging online resources in art and music.¿

In 2002 - 03, the IDEAS Portal will also allow agencies and organizations throughout the state to catalog their materials for educators. The pilot project will be completed by the School Services Division of the Wisconsin Historical Society this spring. IDEAS educators will evaluate those cataloged items and align them with the state education standards.

For more information: John Fischer, (608) 262-3340, or fischer@conted.uwex.edu"> fischer@conted.uwex.edu