UTS staff can request integration of third-party tools, apps or technologies into Learning and Teaching Systems application, via LTi or other methods.

There are three steps in this process. Successful requests will need to show evidence of educational value and potential for application in teaching at UTS. Technical aspects including security, compatibility and privacy, as well as cost and support for the tool will also be considered. For enquiries about the process please email lx.lab@uts.edu.au.

STEP 1 – Request form

UTS staff member (requestor) submits a form via ServiceConnect. The requestor will need to provide information about:

• Main purpose of the tool
• Specific learning and teaching problems it will solve
• Benefits for students and impacts on teaching
• Likely users of the tool
• Whether the tool is likely to be used for summative assessment
• Whether any currently supported tool offers similar functionality
• Any specific system requirements
• Integration method

STEP 2 – Showcase

The LX Team decides whether to proceed further on the basis of the form, and provides feedback to the requestor. If successful, the requestor works with LX Team to schedule a showcase in the LX.lab on use of the tool/application. The audience of the showcase are used as a gauge to the usefulness and widespread need for the tool. If there is a green light, Learning and Teaching Systems (LATS) will begin investigations with the vendor.

STEP 3 – Final Decision

The final decision on integration will be made jointly by Learning and Teaching Systems in conjunction with the relevant IT units, and IML. Note that this decision will take into account a wide range of factors, including:

1. Educational efficacy – Is there a sound pedagogical case to use this service? Is it adaptable to a range of teaching contexts?
2. Cost / licensing e.g. Is there a license or a contract to use this service? What does it cover? Is there a limitation on the number of users?
3. Compliance with university policy and relevant legislative requirements (e.g. copyright, privacy, accessibility and intellectual property)
4. Technical e.g. is the integrated system secure? Does it have capacity for the expected load? Is it fully LTi compliant and compatible with UTS LMS? Is user data protected?
5. Support e.g. does the license include support arrangements? Who can academics and students contact for support, bug fixes or enhancements? Are there online guides available?

If integration of the tool is not recommended, LX Team can help to source another alternative or workaround in consultation with the requestor.