GMAP’s technology platform provides an intuitive set of tools that facilitate students’ collaboration. This includes:
- A laptop computer
- An online learning and collaboration system
- Multimedia course discs containing weekly readings and lectures, including audio-only versions of faculty lectures available for use with any MP3 player
- Tufts email account and other communication tools
The goal of the program is to make this robust technology invisible to the student experience.
At the heart of the online learning system are the program discussion boards. These boards allow both students and professors to continue conversations begun during residencies. Course discussion boards provide a forum for the entire class to deliberate over weekly topics while team discussion boards provide private sections for team members to collaborate. The platform also includes a calendar built upon course syllabi, as well as a network of student profiles and a lounge discussion board for informal communication within the GMAP community.
We understand that students have varied technological backgrounds so the GMAP technology staff works closely with students during each residency to enable them to master the skills necessary to complete the program. Following the residencies, this technology staff is available to provide technical support when needed. The GMAP laptops are configured with all hardware and software required by the program. To address the broad range of Internet connection speeds worldwide, our platform is able to operate over high-speed or a dial-up connection.
The GMAP technology platform makes it possible to complete coursework and operate as part of a team all while continuing to work and travel. The laptop and courseware allow students easy access to all necessary communication tools, schedules and assignments. Through the comprehensive GMAP technology platform, professionals can successfully maintain career responsibilities while interacting with this new global network.