Technical

Extended Reality and Accessibility

Introducing Extended Reality (XR) Extended Reality (XR) allows learners to reach beyond the classroom into another setting through 360 videos and other simulations that can be used on different platforms whether that is headsets, web browsers, or mobile devices. Creating these learning activities in XR allows learners to practice needed skills in a simulated environment.  […]

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NameCoach – A new tool for Canvas

NameCoach for Canvas – a tool for building community in the classroom. NameCoach is a new tool introduced in Canvas in Fall 2021. It allows students and instructors to record their preferred way to audibly speak their name, as well as provide a phonetic pronunciation. In Canvas, NameCoach is automatically enabled on the left-hand navigation […]

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The (very) basics of screen casting lecture

How this will help: Understand the most basic tools for recording video/lecture content. The basics Once you have decided to record some of your own content, it’s time to make some decisions on how to record them. Recording lecture content can be on a spectrum from incredibly simple (and cheap) to a substantial investment in […]

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Exams and quizzes online

How this will help: Determine if an exam best aligns with the course learning goals. Structure your exam to be successful in an online setting. Make informed choices about Canvas Quiz settings. The basics You may be comfortable with giving exams or tests in your residential classroom, but what about now in your online class? […]

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Creating engaging online lectures

How this will help: Understand the importance of chunking information, minimizing cognitive overload, instructor affect and effective visuals for student learning in online lectures. The basics Although there are many skills used in delivering face-to-face lectures that are equally important in an online context, there are important unique features of teaching and learning online that, […]

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Getting comfortable on-screen

How this will help: Here are some tips for feeling more comfortable on-screen. The basics You’ve probably heard the comments about public speaking being a common fear, speaking on camera (and knowing that it is going to be recorded) brings out a special concern for many faculty. You can mitigate these concerns be being prepared, […]

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Effective office hours

How this will help: Identify various ways in which digital office hours can be structured. Integrate strategies for facilitating effective office hours in the online environment. The basics Online office hours can be an excellent way to interact with students, provide direct feedback, answer questions, and create community among a group of learners. Office hours […]

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Facilitating asynchronous online discussions

How this will help: Describe four principles for productive online discussion board facilitation. Identify when the discussion needs instructor support. The basics Group dynamics are a key part of facilitating meaningful discussions with students, both face to face and online. For this collaborative space to exist online, the instructor must know how to read the […]

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Introduction to communication tools

How this will help: Differentiate the uses and purposes of synchronous and asynchronous tools. Identify the benefits and limitations of each communication method. The basics Within all disciplines, we develop and utilize tools that can make our lives easier. Some tools can allow tasks to be completed more efficiently, while others may assist in fostering […]

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Finding open educational resources

How this will help: Identify the benefits to using open educational resources. Locate available open resources that can be used in a course. The basics The cost of textbooks and other learning materials can be a major barrier for students who cannot afford required or supplemental resources. Luckily, as the online world grows more vast, […]

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