Training and workshops

Royal Society of Chemistry Roadshow on campus April 26

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Crerar Science

Logo for RSC roadshow events

Faculty, students and research staff are invited join me and  the Royal Society of Chemistry this Thursday, April 26 for a Library hosted RSC Roadshow event.    Join us at the John Crerar Library for one or more events listed below.  No need to register, please just drop in. 

University of Chicago RSC Roadshow schedule
Thursday, April 26, 2012
John Crerar Library

 

10-11:30 am  Kathleen A. Zar Room, 1st Floor Crerar Library

Morning coffee/tea mixer featuring a ChemSpider webinar
Come and learn more about ChemSpider, a free chemical structure database providing fast text and structure search access to over 26 million structures from hundreds of data sources. 

 

12:00-1:30 pm  Crerar Boardroom, 1st Floor Crerar Library

Lunch and a conversation
Come and join us for a free lunch and an opportunity to talk with RSC and myself about how you currently interact with the chemical literature and opportunities for new interactions in the 21st century

 

2:00-3:00pm  Crerar Boardroom, 1st Floor Crerar Library

All about scholarly publishing
Find out more about the process of scholarly publishing from RSC experts, including tips on how to get published in high impact journals.

Persons with disabilities who need an accommodation in order to participate in this event should contact Andrea Twiss-Brooks or 773-702-8777 for assistance.

MATLAB seminars at the University of Chicago

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Crerar Science

Two free seminars on using MATLAB, a programming environment for algorithm development, data analysis, visualization, and numerical computation, will take place on Thursday, May 3, 2012 in the Kathleen A. Zar Room in the John Crerar Library. Join MathWorks engineers as they demonstrate how MATLAB and Simulink can be used as a flexible platform for technical computing and application development in engineering, math, and science curricula and research. The seminars will be led by an application engineer from Mathworks, the parent company of MATLAB.  There is no cost to attend one or both sessions.

Pre-register at http://mathworks.com/seminars/UCHI2012

9:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Registration and sign-in. Walk-ins are welcome. 

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Session 1: Optimizing Performance and Memory in MATLAB

This session will focus on techniques for developing efficient MATLAB programs using best coding practices. We will demonstrate simple ways you can improve and optimize your code to boost execution speed by orders of magnitude. We will also address common pitfalls in writing MATLAB code and explore the use of the MATLAB Profiler to find bottlenecks. Other topics include strategies for handling large amounts of data in MATLAB and avoiding “out-of-memory” errors. We will provide you with an understanding of the causes of memory limitations in MATLAB and a set of techniques to increase the available memory in MATLAB. You will gain an understanding of how different MATLAB data types are stored in memory and how you can program in MATLAB to use memory efficiently. We will also show techniques for minimizing memory usage in MATLAB while accessing, storing, processing, and plotting data.

 Highlights include:

  • Leveraging the power of vector and matrix operations in MATLAB
  • Identifying and addressing bottlenecks in your code
  • Understanding memory and its constraints
  • Minimizing your memory footprint in MATLAB 

12:00 – 12:30 p.m.

 A light lunch will be served.

12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Session 2: Parallel Computing with MATLAB on Multicore Desktops and GPUs

During this session you will learn how to solve computationally and data-intensive problems using multicore processors, GPUs, and computer clusters. We will introduce you to high-level programming constructs that allow you to parallelize MATLAB applications and run them on multiple processors. We will show you how to overcome the memory limits of your desktop computer by distributing your data on a large scale computing resource, such as a cluster. We will also demonstrate how to take advantage of GPUs to speed up computations without low-level programming.

 Highlights include:

  • Toolboxes with built-in support for parallel computing
  • Creating parallel applications to speed up independent tasks
  • Scaling up to computer clusters, grid environments or clouds
  • Employing GPUs to speed up your computations

 –Register now–

Register at http://mathworks.com/seminars/UCHI2012

Deepening Student Learning with Library Research Skills: workshop

Posted on April 17, 2012 by The University of Chicago Library

Photo of Library Instruction Program at Crerar Library

Photo by Lloyd DeGrane

Have you found that your students aren’t using the academic sources you expect for their assignments? Do your students seem to lack basic library research skills?

TAs, instructors, and faculty are welcome to attend the Library’s upcoming workshop:

Deepening Student Learning with Library Research Skills
Monday, April 23
2:00 – 3:30 pm
Regenstein Library, Room 523

In this program, University of Chicago librarians will highlight ways you can integrate library research instruction into your courses to promote the acquisition of the skills necessary to complete research assignments. We’ll demonstrate ready-to-go online tools that can be integrated into your Chalk site, and discuss the different types of in-class instruction the Library can provide. At the end of the session, we’ll work together to create some sample assignments designed to help students learn how to use the Library’s collections and online resources.

Presenters:
Julia Gardner, Head of Reader Services, The Special Collections Research Center
Rebecca Starkey, Librarian for College Instruction and Outreach, Regenstein Library
Debra Werner, Librarian for Science Instruction and Outreach, Crerar Library

We hope you can attend.  Registration is recommended.

Persons with disabilities who need an accommodation in order to participate in this event should contact Rebecca Starkey at 702-4484 for assistance.

Get Help with EndNote, RefWorks, or Zotero

Posted on April 13, 2012 by The University of Chicago Library

Photo of a librarian helping a student

Photo by Jason Smith

University of Chicago librarians now offer weekly office hours to help RefWorks, Zotero, and EndNote users at the TECHB@R in Regenstein Library.  Feel free to drop by on Mondays from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. if you need assistance, or if you would just like to learn more about these tools.  Below are a few examples of the service we can provide:

  • Expert advice on how citation managers may be used for your research
  • Guidance on selecting the best citation manager for your needs
  • Instruction on each tool for individuals or small groups (2-3 people)
  • Assistance diagnosing problems and finding solutions

Support for citation managers is just one of the “Ask the Expert” services offered at the TECHB@R.  To learn more, visit: itservices.uchicago.edu/techbar. 

More information about RefWorks, EndNote, or Zotero is available online at the Library’s guide to citation management. 

Chalk for TAs: TECHB@R Event

Posted on March 31, 2012 by The University of Chicago Library
When: Thursday, April 5, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Thursday, April 12, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Where: TECHB@R
Regenstein Library, Room 160
Description:
This overview session will focus on familiarizing Teaching Assistants with Chalk. You will learn how to build a course site by uploading course documents and organizing materials. We will also highlight helpful tools and resources used specifically by teaching assistants such as Discussion Boards, the Assignment Manager, and the Grade Center. This session will be held at the IT Services TechB@R on the first floor of Regenstein Library, room 160.

Please RSVP to chalk@uchicago.edu
Contact: Academic Technologies
773-702-9944
Calendars: Academic Technologies, Featured, Seminars, Training, Workshops
 
Persons with disabilities who need an accommodation in order to participate in this event should contact the event sponsor for assistance. Information on Assistive Listening Device

All About Endnote: April 10th 12-1pm

Posted on March 29, 2012 by Jennifer Hart

Location: Crerar Library Zar Room

Learn how to use the bibliographic software EndNote.  Topics covered include creating and managing libraries, importing references from online databases, and creating formatted bibliographies and citations in Microsoft Word. Registration is required.

Register here:https://training.uchicago.edu/course_detail.cfm?course_id=320

Get technology training at Regenstein TECHB@R

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Rebecca Starkey and Jason Edelstein

Library and IT Services collaboration brings technology-related programs to TECHB@R

Staff consult with Library users at TECHB@R

IT Services TECHB@R in Regenstein Library (Photo by Quinn Dombrowski)

The University of Chicago Library and IT Services are partnering to present new, technology-related training programs for the UChicago community at the IT Services TECHB@R in the Regenstein Library. Because IT Services and the Library both provide training and support on information technology resources, it can be challenging for many of our users to identify which unit to turn to for help with specific tools. This collaborative nature of the TECHB@R breaks down such barriers, providing faculty, students, and staff seamless access to the training and assistance they need.

During Spring Quarter, the TECHB@R will host a wide range of programs, which are free and open to the entire University community. Some sample topics include Google Sketch-up, wikis, citation managers (such as Zotero and EndNote), Firefox Add-ons, and the ever popular “Chalk Days,” as well as its other training programs for instructors and students alike.

A new monthly series, entitled “Tech Treats,” offers a more casual learning experience. Individuals can drop by the TECHB@R to enjoy refreshments and learn about new technology tools. Scheduled for Spring Quarter are programs on presentation software (such as PowerPoint, Keynote, Impress and PrezI) and online technology training tools (such as Lynda.com, the IT Services Knowledge Base, and Safari Tech Books online). Last quarter, librarians presented a “Tech Treats” program on the news databases Factiva and LexisNexis Academic and featured a demonstration of different news apps for the iPad.

In addition to presentations and classes, the TECHB@R hosts various “Ask the Expert” office hours. Librarians, training specialists, and Chalk support technologists offer in-depth, individual assistance using a variety of software products and systems including Chalk, Microsoft and Adobe software, citation managers, as well as other tools like WebShare and the campus wiki. The “Ask the Expert” service compliments the drop-in tech support services already offered at the TECHB@R during its regular hours and is available to all faculty, students, and staff.

The TECHB@R training spaces in Room 160 (located behind the TECHB@R counter) are appropriate for a wide variety of programs and teaching styles. These include a configurable conference-style area, a small-group training/consultation space, and small tables for one-on-one assistance. The TECHB@R’s equipment lending program provides presenters and attendees access to laptops and iPads for a hands-on learning experience.

To learn more about the TECHB@R and see a complete schedule of events for Spring Quarter, visit: itservices.uchicago.edu/techbar. We welcome your comments regarding our programs and services.

Rebecca Starkey is Librarian for College Instruction and Outreach.  Jason Edelstein is Senior Support Services Specialist.

We Are Chicago: A Study Break Celebrating Student Life at UChicago

Posted on February 15, 2012 by The University of Chicago Library

Photo from the University Archive of students drinking sodas.

Photo from the Archival Photographic Files, apf4-03553, Special Collections Research Center, University of Chicago Library.

Friday, March 2nd
2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Special Collections Research Center
Regenstein Library, 1st Floor

Gallery talk at 3 p.m.  Refreshments will be served.

In honor of our new exhibition “We Are Chicago: Student Life in the Collections of the University of Chicago Archives”, the Special Collections Research Center welcomes students to visit a special, hands-on display of materials from the University Archives.   Browse the gallery and visit our seminar room for a hands-on viewing of items highlighting student theater, sports, Greek life, arts, politics, and more.  

Persons with disabilities who need an accommodation in order to participate in this event should contact Julia Gardner at 834-0627 for assistance.

Tech Treats: News Sources – TECHB@R event

Posted on February 2, 2012 by The University of Chicago Library

Photo of the 1st Floor of Regenstein Library

Photo by Jason Smith

Treat Yourself to New Technology’

Wednesday, February 8, 3 pm – 5 pm
TECHB@R
Regenstein Library, Room 160

Drop by the TECHB@R in Regenstein Library to learn about the wide variety of news tools available from your desktop, laptop, iPad, or mobile phone. Learn about databases like LexisNexis and Factiva, which provide access to hundreds of U.S. and international newspapers.  Or try out news apps such as Flipboard, which allow you browse newspapers and magazines virtually in a way that resembles print. 

Refreshments will be served.

Tech Treats: News Services is co-sponsored by the Library and IT Services.  Look for additional Tech Treat events in the coming months.

All About Endnote Workshop, February 14th 12-1pm

Posted on January 27, 2012 by Jennifer Hart

Crerar Library Boardroom February 14th – 12-1 pm

Learn how to use the bibliographic software EndNote.  Topics covered include creating and managing libraries, importing references from online databases, and creating formatted bibliographies and citations in Microsoft Word. Registration is required.

Register here:https://training.uchicago.edu/course_detail.cfm?course_id=320