To determine the information needed in this repository, current instructional science students at BYU were surveyed about the types of information they found necessary when first entering the program as well as detail they need to accomplish specific requirements. Responses revealed the following categories: program structure, classes, and requirements; people in the department; important locations in the building; available resources; and how to get through the program, obtain employment, and access available benefits. The categories were used as a basis for organizing the pages and defining the informational content.
The program pages include the definition of instructional science, department's degree requirements, and procedures for admittance. Descriptions of each class including prerequisites, class meeting times, links to instructor information, and a complete syllabus help students decide which classes to add to their study list.
The people section allows students to network and establish relationships with each other and with professors. To acquaint students with faculty expertise, each faculty member's page includes a brief biography with education; positions; classes taught; interests; a complete vita; and a list of publications, presentations, and projects. A picture included with the biography helps the student recognize the professor. The student section lists individual contact information, background, interests, and projects allowing new students to identify peers with similar goals. Alumni and staff are also included for reference.
Prior to creation of the facilities page, a complete list of available labs and resource centers in the Department of Instructional Science did not exist. Linked map locations now include lab materials, resources, hours, and usage restrictions. Information on offices and other places of interest in the building are also accessible via WWW.
Providing students with information and step-by-step procedures to enable them to quickly progress through their programs was a major goal. "Information every student needs to know" includes how to select a committee; file a study list; find apprenticeships; file a prospectus; complete projects, theses and dissertations; arrange for the oral exam; and apply for graduation. General advice prevents possible pitfalls and needless graduation delays. A list of campus-wide resources provides academic support to students enrolled in the program.
The section addressing frequently asked questions provides students with information on post-graduation benefits of being a graduate student in the program, and answers to specific questions which normally arise while a student is enrolled. Links provide information about how to change their degree program, committee, and study list; apply for financial aid; find internships and on-campus employment; and contact professors.