You’ve probably seen ads for products that are “smart” and allow you to control functions in your home or dorm room with your cell phone or other Internet-connected device. Those products are part of what is called the Internet of Things (IoT).
During 2017-2018, the Duke Digital Initiative (DDI) is exploring the opportunities and challenges of IoT and how this massive connectivity of devices might impact Duke inside and outside the classroom. As part of DDI’s exploration, a number of programs are planned:
- up to 500 students will be given an IoT kit with which they can experiment. Later in the fall, there will be a showcase of projects students have created with the kit.
- a variety of consumer-level IoT devices have been installed in the Technology Engagement Center (TEC) in the Telecommunications Building on Telecom Drive. DDI, CIT, OIT and the Duke Co-Lab are co-sponsoring an Open House on October 17 if you want to learn more about them.
- DDI is offering two Roots Classes solely for Duke faculty to learn about and practice with the IoT kit mentioned above, and to discuss with other faculty the possibilities of IoT for teaching and learning. Classes are September 11 and October 12. Space is limited so sign up early – email ddi-requests@duke.edu to register for either date.
- on October 18, OIT is offering a Learn IT @ Lunch session about the security of IoT, called “Smart Devices Need Smart People: Learn How to Be Smart!” More information is at this link, but registration is not required.
IoT is here to stay, and understanding at least the basics is an important piece of digital literacy for faculty and students. We encourage faculty to take advantage of one or more of the Fall offerings.