The iFisher Story
From early ideas to implementation.
Using a strategic and data-driven approach, ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ 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.
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2019–20
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.
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2020–21
Collaborative Leadership
The DePeters Family Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence was created to provide the Fisher community with collaborative leadership for the design and delivery of innovative teaching and learning activities.
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.
Faculty Fellows
Some pilot participants became on campus. These faculty fellows 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.
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2021–22
Student Deployment
Fisher moved to fully deploy iPads to all undergraduate students in the fall of 2021.
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.
Returning Student Deployment
Returning students got their iPads in August. Students and faculty received weekly videos with helpful tips for development.
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2022–23
Open Educational Resources
Fisher was accepted into the Institute on Open Educational Resources offered by AAC&U to expand the use of free and across campus.
Fisher’s Athletic Programs
Several coaches started using iPads during practices. They used the technology to keep track of team stats and as a recruiting tool for prospective student-athletes.
Fisher Recognized as Apple Distinguished School
Recognized for the iFisher: Next Generation Learning Initiative, Fisher is committed to providing students with transformative experiences designed to help them achieve their educational goals and early career outcomes.
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2022–23
AR/VR Classrooms
A grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation supported the redesign of a classroom with modular furniture for AR technology for the nursing curriculum. Using their iPads, students practice interacting with avatars in augmented reality.
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2024–25
Continued Classroom Enhancements
In four years, the University improved one-third of all learning spaces across campus to facilitate active learning techniques and remain adaptable to new technologies.
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2025–26
Lavery Library Renovation
The heart of campus was modernized to reimagine how Fisher students research, study, and gather. Lavery Library now includes technology-rich spaces to facilitate group study and collaborative work.
Expanding Deployment
As Fisher launched a new Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) program, we also expanded iPad access for students in that program.