eLearning Champion: Byron Hutchins

Byron Hutchins proves that not all history students are stuck in the past with his focus and passion for science and technology. As a rising fifth-year student in the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences, Hutchins also works as a researcher in the Office of Entrepreneurial Affairs and Technology Commercialization.

“eLearning increases our ability to reconnect with a diverse audience, thus amplifying the learning experience,” Hutchins said. “Its potential is only limited by our own imaginations and determination.”

Hutchins actively finds innovative uses for technology in the many projects he is involved in, including creating a coalition between the departments of computer science and history, and creating a historical social network and interactive mapping for Civil War gun powder manufacturing.

“We use 3-D printing to prototype robotic models and print replacement parts,” Hutchins said. “What I like about the 3-D printing is that it increases accessibility to experiential learning.”

According to Hutchins, another resource that increases accessibility with eLearning technologies is the Student Technology Resource Center (STRC) in Langsam Library.

“The STRC helped me learn to better use digital media creation tools allowing me to translate my creative ideas into content, which an audience would aesthetically enjoy while still conveying a message and transferring information,” Hutchins said.

The lab can be used to edit digital content, to record with Chroma Key Live (green screen technology) and to learn how to be engaging with content delivery.

“I’ve used the STRC to edit interviews and promotion videos for student organizations, and even learn how to better use Adobe Premier,” he said.

Along with school and work, Hutchins is also involved in multiple student groups that collaborate with eLearning, including the UC Robotics Team, Student Government, the Association for Computing Machinery at UC, UC Invents and the IT Governance Research and Development Committee.

“eLearning at UC means using digital tools to come together and accomplish our goals,” he said. “Through collective ideas and collaborative efforts, we can create wonders. Together.”