The iFisher Story

From early ideas to implementation.

Using a strategic and data-driven approach, St. John Fisher University has successfully implemented Apple technology across campus. We started exploring a campus-wide approach for using Apple technology in the 2018–2019 academic year, with discussions on the possibilities for a mobile technology ecosystem on campus. This is our story.

  • 2019–20

    Students working on iPads in a classroom.

    Pilot

    During the 2019–20 academic year, Fisher piloted Apple technology across campus to investigate the impact on the teaching and learning experience. Over 100 students and 7 faculty were involved across 8 courses.

  • 2020–21

    Faculty Deployment

    Fisher moved forward with the iFisher Next Generation Learning Initiative in the 2020–21 academic year with a phased rollout. All faculty and staff with teaching responsibilities who agreed to complete training received an Apple iPad.

    Fisher faculty work together on iPads.

    Faculty Fellows

    Some pilot participants became iPad champions on campus. As faculty fellows within the DePeters Family Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence, they helped train faculty, offered 1:1 consultations, and hosted Appy Hour sessions.  

    Fisher Apple Academy

    As a requirement to keep the Apple technology, faculty and staff were required to complete professional development offered by the DePeters Family Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence and the Apple Faculty Fellows. 

    Appy Hours

    To promote continued learning, Appy Hours took place monthly. Faculty and staff presenters shared best practices and other tips they found most useful with their iPad that impacted their teaching and learning in a positive way. 

  • 2021–22

    Students receive their iPads in an iFisher Next Generation Learning Initiative bag.

    Student Deployment

    Fisher moved to fully deploy iPads to all undergraduate students in the fall of 2021.

    A group of students explore their iPads during Great Beginnings orientation.

    Great Beginnings

    Fisher distributed more than 600 iPads over four days in June 2021. Students received an orientation session during Great Beginnings to help them get started with the software and tools so they could begin connecting with their advisors.

    A student scans a QR code with his phone during iPad deployment.

    Returning Student Deployment

    Returning students got their iPads in August. All students received access to self-service resources and tools to support their iPad use. Students and faculty received weekly videos with helpful tips for digital literacy skill development.

  • 2022–23

    Open Educational Resources

    Fisher was accepted into a year-long Institute on Open Educational Resources offered by AAC&U to support the development of a framework to expand the use of free and affordable course materials across campus.