New York University Steinhardt Information Technology Group's New Methodologies for Developing Student Worker Skillsets

Abstract

In light of resource constraints and the strong push for new university technology initiatives, an increasing number of Information Technology (IT) and Academic Technology (AT) teams must create more efficient ways to support staff, faculty, researchers, and students. This demand affects IT/AT professionals and student technicians alike. While hiring student technicians can be a cost effective alternative to retraining and/or hiring more IT/AT professionals, expecting efficient quality work from this population creates its own set of unique managerial challenges. Such challenges demand a new, integrated methodology that both trains and develops student talent. Using his experience as a student leader and Resident Assistant in NYU's Office of Residential Life and Housing Services (ORLHS), the author has fostered his student technicians' skills while creating a pervasive culture of customer service and support. This paper will discuss how student-focused development plans, modular trainings, and goal setting has positively impacted the NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development IT group's ability to fulfill its mission: "To empower members of Steinhardt to efficiently and effectively incorporate technology in their academic and professional work". The author will also discuss measures of the training method's effectiveness, as well as future challenges of the student development model at NYU and the higher education community at large.