Workshops

Learn tools and techniques to make your research more efficient and enjoyable and to help you produce innovative creations. Most workshop sessions are 50 minutes with hands-on practice, so you can apply what you have learned immediately to your projects. Click on the gold box below to see the dates each workshop is offered and then click on Read more for a complete description and to sign up for the workshop.

Be sure to check the schedule before the workshop date for any updates or changes to the posted times or locations.

Alkek Events & Workshops

Location:
Alkek Library, Open Theater 240; Open Theater 240
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Jess Williams
jesswilliams@txstate.edu
512.245.2686
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us for a guided tour of the Alkek Library designed specifically for new faculty. Discover the extensive resources, services, and spaces available to support your teaching and research. While the tour is tailored for new faculty, any interested faculty members are welcome to attend! Multiple tour sessions are available, but each session covers the same content—so you only need to attend once. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the library! Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Online (Teams); Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Carolina Jondron, carolina@txstate.edu
Marissa Bradley,
mlbradley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Data, Analytics & Institutional Research
Ready to create a dashboard but don't know where to start? Join our hands-on (follow along) workshop where you'll learn how to create a dashboard using Tableau Public! You'll learn how to upload datasets, create a table and bar chart, and utilize geographical data to create a map visualization. By the end of the workshop, you will have an insightful dashboard to showcase. This is a beginner-level workshop, so no prior experience is necessary!
Note: We will be using Tableau Public on the web, so you do not have to download any software. However, if you would like to download and use the desktop version of Tableau Public, you can do so here: www.tableau.com….
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Data Curation Specialist Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop introduces you to IBM SPSS Statistics, a program that can assist users with analyzing, organizing, and visualizing data. Attendees will learn how to prepare data for visualization, run a basic frequency/descriptive analysis, and create visual representations of their analysis. This workshop is open to all skillsets and comfortability with SPSS or data analysis programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to follow along in their own SPSS windows and test functions.
Attendees should come with any version of SPSS installed on their computers. Discounted or free trial versions of SPSS can be found here:
https://www.ibm.com/products/spss-statistics/gradpack?adoper=227628_2&adobe_mc_sdid=SDID%3D7A82FF6FBE1542FB-09EE9102E1BBADCE%7CMCORGID%3DD10F27705ED7F5130A495C99%40AdobeOrg%7CTS%3D1723670637
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Data Curation Specialist Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop provides participants with a step-by-step guide to successfully prepare and submit their final projects for the 2025 TXST Open Datathon via the TXST Dataverse Repository. We will cover submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and best practices for presenting your data and findings. Participants will also have the chance to view examples of outstanding projects from last year’s competition to inspire and guide their submissions. Additionally, we’ll address any questions to ensure your projects meet evaluation criteria. Don’t miss this essential session to set your work up for success!

Read more about our last year's Datathon Projects: https://dataverse.tdl.org/dataverse/datathon2024/
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 441; Alkek 441
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Data Curation Specialist Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop provides participants with a step-by-step guide to successfully prepare and submit their final projects for the 2025 TXST Open Datathon via the TXST Dataverse Repository. We will cover submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and best practices for presenting your data and findings. Participants will also have the chance to view examples of outstanding projects from last year’s competition to inspire and guide their submissions. Additionally, we’ll address any questions to ensure your projects meet evaluation criteria. Don’t miss this essential session to set your work up for success!

Read more about our last year's Datathon Projects: https://dataverse.tdl.org/dataverse/datathon2024/
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Library, Open Theater 240; Open Theater 240
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Jess Williams
jesswilliams@txstate.edu
512.245.2686
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us for a guided tour of the Alkek Library designed specifically for new faculty. Discover the extensive resources, services, and spaces available to support your teaching and research. While the tour is tailored for new faculty, any interested faculty members are welcome to attend! Multiple tour sessions are available, but each session covers the same content—so you only need to attend once. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the library! Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Data Curation Specialist Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
The Open Datathon Virtual Office Hours provide an opportunity for participants in the 2025 TXST Open Datathon to ask questions, seek guidance, and receive support regarding their projects. These office hours are designed to:

a) Answer questions about datathon rules, submission requirements, and evaluation criteria.
b) Provide assistance with tools, resources, or data platforms, including the TXST Dataverse Repository.
c) Offer advice or feedback on data analysis, visualization, or project development.
d) Address any technical issues or concerns related to the datathon.

Participants can drop in during these hours to ensure their projects meet the guidelines and to receive any additional support needed before submission.
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Library, Open Theater 240; Open Theater 240
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Jess Williams
jesswilliams@txstate.edu
512.245.2686
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us for a guided tour of the Alkek Library designed specifically for new faculty. Discover the extensive resources, services, and spaces available to support your teaching and research. While the tour is tailored for new faculty, any interested faculty members are welcome to attend! Multiple tour sessions are available, but each session covers the same content—so you only need to attend once. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the library! Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Library, Open Theater 240; Open Theater 240
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Jess Williams
jesswilliams@txstate.edu
512.245.2686
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us for a guided tour of the Alkek Library designed specifically for new faculty. Discover the extensive resources, services, and spaces available to support your teaching and research. While the tour is tailored for new faculty, any interested faculty members are welcome to attend! Multiple tour sessions are available, but each session covers the same content—so you only need to attend once. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the library! Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek Library Rm 441; Alkek 441
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Data Curation Specialist Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
The University Libraries is excited to host the second annual Open Datathon during International Love Data Week 2025. The TXST Open Datathon concludes with an engaging presentation, judging, award notification, and closing ceremony session, marking the culmination of intense collaboration and innovation within the realm of data analytics and problem-solving. This session is a pivotal moment where participants get the opportunity to showcase their projects, findings, and solutions to a panel of esteemed judges and peers. All TXST students, staff, and faculty members are welcome to join us.

Location:
Alkek 105; ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
A beginner friendly workshop creating a robotic arm using Blender 3D.
NOTE: Workshop is 2 hours for 4 days over 2 weeks. You must attend all sessions to earn your micro-credential
This NASA Badged workshop is introductory-level 3D modeling, unwrapping, rigging, and animation using Blender. NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio works closely with scientists to create visualizations, animations, and images that promote a greater understanding of Earth and Space Science research activities: svs.gsfc.nasa.gov.
This series meets 4 times:
Monday, February 17, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Monday, February 24, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 105 or Zoom; Alk 105 or Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Avery Bouskila, exm7@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop provides an introduction to Google Earth Pro, a desktop application offering advanced tools for visualizing, analyzing, and creating geographic data. Explore features such as importing GIS data, measuring distances and areas, creating high-resolution images, and recording tours. Perfect for users who want to take their geographic exploration and analysis to the next level. No prior experience is required. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tara Spies Smith, ts20@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Come see how we can make custom library research course guides for your classes including databases, books, H5P activities, and embedded basic research tutorials, and more. Join Open Licenses Librarian Tara Spies Smith as she walks you through how this works. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 105; Alk105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Kira Wright-Leal, kirawright@txstate.edu
Zachary Wohlstein, zachary@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Learn to edit video and audio, including: making cuts, generating graphics, replacing a green screen, and enhancing audio quality in Premiere Rush and Premiere Pro. No experience required for this immersive five day workshop!

The class will meet twice a week for two weeks. There is a 3rd day set aside for office hours to meet with the instructor if needed. YOU MUST ATTEND ALL 4 TUESDAY AND THURSDAY MEETINGS.
Upon completion of this workshop, you will receive a micro-credential badge in Canvas.
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Library Conference Halls (441/442); Alk 441/442
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashlynne Gooch, a_g642@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Take a study break and join in the fun as we play board and card games and just have some fun while we make connections with other fun people. We'll serve snacks and provide the games.

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Isabelle Antes, isabelle.antes@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This quick introduction to Open Resource Databases, Repositories, and Websites will help you find resources to include in your course or research including Textbooks, Journal Articles, and Digital Learning Objects. Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Main Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashlynne Gooch, a_g642@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us in the library for some much needed puppy therapy! Divine Canines are bringing their dogs for you to cuddle and pet. There's no other stress relief like it!

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tricia Boucher, squirrel@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Increased student engagement has been shown to increase persistence and retention. Yet students disengage when they don't see how what they're learning is relevant or useful to their own lives. Open Pedagogy techniques and assignments can increase student engagement in your class by making coursework more meaningful - come learn how! Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek 105; Alk105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
"Unreal Engine for Filmmaking" explores how this powerful real-time 3D video game engine is transforming the film industry. We will cover the fundamentals of the engine's capabilities for creating stunning visuals, virtual sets, and immersive environments, enabling indie filmmakers to push the boundaries of storytelling. Attendees will learn about its integration with traditional filmmaking techniques, and the benefits of real-time rendering for production efficiency. There are four sessions to this workshop and you must attend all of them. 
The series meets:
Monday, March 17, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Monday, March 24, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Jess Williams, jesswilliams@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Literature Reviews are time consuming and often overwhelming, but new artificial intelligence (AI) tools can streamline the process. This workshop will introduce various tools for finding and evaluating sources, viewing connected citations through visual knowledge maps, and organizing your findings for pre-writing. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 105 and Zoom; Alk 105 or Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Alexa Hight, alexa.hight@txstate.edu
Avery Bouskila, exm7@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop introduces you to the world of ArcGIS StoryMap: a web platform that allows users to "combine maps with narrative text, images, and multimedia content. They make it easy to harness the power of maps and geography to tell your story". The workshop is open to all with no prior knowledge in GIS or those who will like to refreshen their knowledge after a long break from learning GIS. It is hands-on so attendees will have the opportunity to create their own StoryMaps. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop is designed to provide participants with valuable insights and skills related to data management and organization. During this session, attendees will explore open data resources and learn effective data management practices, with a specific focus on the crucial aspect of file naming. The workshop aims to enhance participants' ability to create well-organized and easily navigable datasets by emphasizing best practices for naming files. This skill is fundamental for maintaining data integrity, collaboration, and efficient retrieval, contributing to a more streamlined and effective data management process. Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
San Marcos; 7th Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
amc189@txstate.edu
512-245-3593
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College

Enjoy a relaxing Wine & Cheese Social in The Wittliff Collections galleries on the 7th floor of the Alkek Library as a part of Graduate Student Appreciation Week. This informal event includes a brief program at 5:15 pm, which will feature remarks from Dean Andrea Golato and Provost Pranesh Aswath and highlight select library resources. Mingle with fellow graduate students and library staff, enjoy some food and drinks, and get tickets for raffle drawings. Registration is limited and required for this event. You must be over 21 and have proof of age in order to drink wine.

Presented by University Libraries and The Wittliff.

Register today!
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Andrew Rechnitz, andrew@txstate.edu
Audrey Stewart, a.stewart@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join Technology Engagement Director Dr. Andrew Rechnitz and Asst. Director of Information Literacy and Instruction Audrey Stewart for an interactive working session on AI ethics in the classroom. We’ll collaboratively explore the ethical challenges faculty face and flesh out policy ideas to help navigate these issues. This session will be driven by your experiences and needs, ensuring that we address real-world scenarios and create practical, inclusive guidelines. We will also introduce the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS), a framework for designing assessments that incorporate generative AI. The AIAS features five levels ranging from “No AI” to “Full AI” to guide instructors in crafting assignments across disciplines. This session will help faculty develop strategies for leveraging GenAI to enhance student learning while upholding academic integrity. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 105 & Zoom; Alk 105 or Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Xuan Zhou, x_zhou@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop introduces the Texas Data Repository, a Dataverse-based platform for preserving and sharing research data. Learn best practices for organizing and documenting your datasets, how to upload and manage files, and tips for increasing the impact of your research through effective data sharing. Ideal for researchers looking to meet data management requirements or collaborate more effectively. No prior experience is required. Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Alkek Main Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashlynne Gooch, a_g642@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Join us in the library for some much needed puppy therapy! Divine Canines are bringing their dogs for you to cuddle and pet. There's no other stress relief like it!

Location:
Alkek One MakerSpace; MakerSpace
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Hithia Davis, hd13@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Always wanted to sew, but don't know how to get started? Why not join us for a Making with Fabric workshop? We will introduce you to some sewing basics and show you the first steps in using a sewing machine. Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tricia Boucher, squirrel@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
What's a systematic review? Why would I do one in engineering or the social sciences? How long does one take? Why do I need a team? Get these and other systematic review questions answered in this short introduction. Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Alkek 105; ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
A beginner friendly workshop creating a robotic arm using Blender 3D.
NOTE: Workshop is 2 hours for 4 days over 2 weeks. You must attend all sessions to earn your micro-credential
This NASA Badged workshop is introductory-level 3D modeling, unwrapping, rigging, and animation using Blender. NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio works closely with scientists to create visualizations, animations, and images that promote a greater understanding of Earth and Space Science research activities: svs.gsfc.nasa.gov.
This series meets 4 times:
Monday, February 17, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Monday, February 24, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
Conference Room 441/442
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashlynne Gooch, a_g642@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Don't put off that work any longer, join us for our long night event where we tackle those projects and papers and prep for final exams. We'll have coffee, donuts, and snacks while supplies last. Librarians, staff from the Writing Center, SLAC and other study support will be available to assist students.
Location:
Online; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Sam Marsh, tqz16@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Faculty participants will explore library databases related to the STEM & Business disciplines through interactive activities. We will by no means be able to cover all resources available to STEM & Business students in depth, but participants will come away with a strong overall concept of what’s available to students and learn research tips for databases they might not have used before. Do you know what MathSciNet is? Come find out! Click here for more information
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