Dublin Institute of Technology has launched three new social media initiatives at the Irish Film Institute, the first of their kind in Irish third-level education.
The first is a smartphone application, available for iPhones and phones which support the Android platform. It has been supported by Samsung Ireland and allows students to access useful information about the college and their programmes, including email access, library and online learning systems.
The second initiative includes a Facebook induction programme, which helps students find their way around campus and lets them contact fellow students before the term starts.
The third includes a satirical movie trailer, which shows college life from a student’s perspective, created by current DIT students and DIT alumni.
The creation of the DIT trailer
Those involved in creating the trailer are or were involved in the DIT societies of drama and media. It was directed by Conor Mulhern, who graduated from DIT School of Media in 2004 and now runs his own audio, visual and graphic design business called Eyeon.
The three-minute film satirises movie trailers in general and current movies such as Twilight. It is available to view on YouTube.
“Getting comfortable with college and getting involved in campus life are really important aspects of the student experience,” said Brian Norton, president of DIT.
“This innovative campaign to inform students about what’s available to them in DIT uses communication channels they use on a daily basis and will help new students to make the most of their opportunities.
“As the tagline says, we hope it will encourage them to ‘get wild about DIT’! I’d like to thank the many current and past students who were involved in developing the campaign for giving their time and using their experience to help new students,” said Norton.
The project was managed and implemented by DIT Campus Life, which develops a campaign each year to promote involvement with college life, thus improving the student experience.
“It really makes sense to use the talents of our current and alumni students in campaigns like this,” said Brian Gormley, manager at Campus Life.
“Everyone involved is familiar with DIT and really knows what captures the attention of our new students.
“Some have set up their own businesses and it is great to keep the relationship going by getting them immersed in such projects and using their talents to the benefit of all,” said Gormley.
