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We will update this page with new communications throughout the semester.

Table of Contents

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We will update this page with new communications throughout the semester.

Table of Contents

Past Updates

JANUARY 7, 2021

With the Spring 2021 semester set to begin on Monday, Feb. 8, we are here to help you refine your approach to your courses from the first day of classes to your final assessments. We also want to hear from you: What went well for you last semester? In what areas would you like to improve this spring? Your feedback will inform future editions of the “Teaching Tips” email series.

For any questions you might have as you plan your semester, you can contact the faculty support team by emailing help@syr.edu or by calling 315.443.2677. The faculty support team features experts from the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, and ITS. 

Classroom Technology Guide

Do you remember how to share your screen on Zoom? Do you need a refresher on using a document camera? The Classroom Technology Guide covers a range of topics for Registrar classrooms, including how to start the classroom audiovisual system, how to activate the web conferencing tool and more. To learn about technology available in a specific classroom, you can consult the Classroom Resource Guide.

Learning Opportunity: ‘Teaching Tips and Strategies Based on ‘Small Teaching Online: Applying Learning Science in Online Classes”

You are invited to attend ‘Teaching Tips and Strategies Based on ‘Small Teaching Online: Applying Learning Science in Online Classes,” a Zoom-based learning opportunity. During the session, you will explore research-based strategies for teaching online in the company of your peers. Two times are available:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 20, 1-4:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Jan. 21, 8:30 a.m.-noon

You can register online to reserve your spot.

Spotlight: Answers, Syracuse University’s Knowledge Hub

Available to all faculty, students and staff, Answers is a searchable knowledge base of teaching and technical information. The website’s content focuses on Syracuse University systems and technical services, including solutions to common problems, how-to instructions, FAQ and more. A first step is to search for “Online Success Toolkit,” which connects you with many resources to strengthen online teaching and learning.

Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality (or modalities) in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

Thank you for reading.

JANUARY 5, 2021

Happy New Year! The “Teaching Tips” team is excited to help you thrive as a teacher in 2021. Each Tuesday and Thursday, we will send you timely updates and helpful tips to support online teaching and learning.

As you likely know, Syracuse University will begin the Spring 2021 semester and residential instruction on Monday, Feb. 8, and conclude on Friday, May 21. Check the academic calendarfor important dates and deadlines to help you plan your semester. 

Course Transition Services 

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

Support for Instructors

The University’s IT community is ready to help with any technology-related issues you might have. In addition to your school or college support staff, ITS offers support ranging from self-service on Answers to full-service assistance from our Help Desk, Online Learning Services, and Learning Environments and Media Production teams. Learn more about available resources.

For any teaching questions you might have as you plan for the upcoming semester (or teach during Winterlude), you can contact the faculty support team by emailing help@syr.edu or by calling 315.443.2677. The faculty support team features experts from the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, and ITS. 

Zoom Live Captioning

Zoom has rolled out an automatic live captioning feature called Live Transcript. This new feature provides real-time captions that users can choose to view as subtitles or as a sidebar. Meeting hosts also can give users the option of downloading the transcript. Live Transcript is not enabled by default. You can enable it by following the instructions on the Zoom Live Transcript page in Answers. Also, please remember that automated live captions might not meet University requirements for Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) services. More information is available on the Guidelines for CART and ASL Interpreting page.

Reminder: Ensemble Video

ITS will decommission Ensemble Video Service later this academic year. Prior to Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, Ensemble users must choose one of the following options to retain access to existing content:

  • Manually upload original media files to Kaltura
  • Prepare existing Ensemble media for bulk transfer
  • Manually download Ensemble media and upload to Kaltura

We encourage Ensemble users to follow the steps provided on our Transferring Ensemble Media to Kaltura Answers resource. You also can find instructions to manually upload media to Kaltura on the Kaltura MediaSpace and Kaltura in Blackboardpages.

In Case You Missed It

On a recent episode of “Behind the Monitor,” the ITS podcast, we spoke with Ellyn Riley, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders in the College of Arts and Sciences, about how she has enhanced her teaching with PlayPosit. An interactive online video tool, PlayPosit allows learners to explore new material at their own pace, increasing long-term retention and learning efficacy over standard video. Check out the podcast.

Thank you—and go Orange!

DECEMBER 15, 2020

Thank you for reading “Teaching Tips”! This will be our final email for 2020. We have all come a long way since this email series began nine months ago. We thank you for your efforts and determination to reach this point and hope your teaching has been strengthened by the ideas and information we have shared.

We will return to your inbox on Jan. 5, 2021. In the meantime, we hope you are able to enjoy some rest, to devote time to some recovery and to find some relaxation.

Ensemble Video

ITS will decommission Ensemble Video Service later this academic year. Prior to Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, Ensemble users must choose one of the following options to retain access to existing content:

  • Manually upload original media files to Kaltura
  • Prepare existing Ensemble media for bulk transfer
  • Manually download Ensemble media and upload to Kaltura

We encourage Ensemble users to follow the steps provided on our Transferring Ensemble Media to Kaltura Answers resource. You also can find instructions to manually upload media to Kaltura on the Kaltura MediaSpace and Kaltura in Blackboardpages.

If you are an Ensemble user, you will receive further communication from ITS about Ensemble later this week.

Extended Reality

On this week’s episode of “Behind the Monitor,” the official podcast from ITS, we talk with Online Learning Services instructional analyst Jason Webb about the growth of extended reality at Syracuse University. Extended reality is an umbrella term that encompasses three main subcategories: virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality. Webb describes several unique projects undertaken by professors in schools across campus, including the School of Architecture, the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Listen on Apple Podcasts.

Faculty Support

For any questions you might have as you plan for next semester (or teach over Winterlude), you can visit the Online Success Toolkit. You also can contact the faculty support team, comprising ITS, the Center for Online and Digital Learning (CODL), and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE), by emailing help@syr.edu or calling 315.443.2677. Please note the following regarding availability over winter break: 

  • During winter break, you can contact the ITS Help Desk by emailing help@syr.edu, calling 315.443.2677 or chatting on Answers.syr.edu. Learn about ITS Help Desk winter break support hours. The ITS Help Desk will resume regular business hours on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021.
  • CTLE and CODL will continue to be available during regular business hours until Orange Appreciation Days. CTLE and CODL will resume normal business hours Monday, Jan. 4, 2021.

In Case You Missed It

Here are some helpful links we shared in recent messages:

Thank you—and see you in 2021!

DECEMBER 8, 2020 

Congratulations on wrapping up the fall semester! Orange instructors have shown remarkable dedication to their students and their work this fall. For any tech-related questions you have as you complete your final fall checklist or plan for next semester, you can visit the Online Success Toolkit or contact the ITS Help Desk at help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677.

Submitting Grades

Final grades are due Monday, Dec. 21. You can access online grade rosters via MySlice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Learn more about submitting grades online, including how to upload grades from Blackboard.

EvaluationKIT

EvaluationKIT is Syracuse University’s new online system for collecting course feedback from students. The platform launched for courses in all locations and delivery formats this summer. You can register for EvaluationKIT training taking place next week.

Spring Semester Planning

As you focus more energy on planning for the spring semester, please remember the following:

  • All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.
  • Teaching is a process of continuous improvement. Contact the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) to discuss how you can enhance your spring courses with lessons learned this semester. You also can encourage your chair, program director, school or college to invite the CTLE for a workshop or course redesign day.
  • If engaging students proved challenging this semester, you’re not alone. Instructors across the University and higher education in general struggled to connect with their students. Review these tips and techniques for infusing student engagement into your spring courses.

Thank you—and go Orange!

DECEMBER 1, 2020

We hope you enjoyed a safe, restorative Thanksgiving break. As you complete the semester online, be sure to bookmark the Online Success Toolkit if you haven’t already done so. The toolkit features course design support, training opportunities and helpful links. The toolkit also features tips for safe computing, which are especially helpful given recent phishing attempts.

Two-Factor Authentication

If you plan to access your Microsoft Office 365 account or applications away from campus, it’s a good idea to configure your two-factor authentication at msmfa.syr.edu. Two-factor authentication is an added verification step that helps to prevent the unauthorized use of University NetIDs and passwords. Learn more about Microsoft Office 365 two-factor authentication.

PlayPosit

On the latest episode of “Behind the Monitor,” the ITS podcast, we talk to Ellyn Riley, associate professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders in the College of Arts and Sciences, about how she has enhanced her teaching with PlayPosit. This interactive online video tool allows learners to explore new material at their own pace, increasing long-term retention and learning efficacy over standard video. Check out the podcast.

Course Feedback

The window for collecting student course feedback this semester closes tomorrow, Dec. 2. Please remind your students to take a moment to provide their feedback. The University’s new course feedback platform, EvaluationKIT, allows you to monitor your response rate and to access your results. Learn more here about EvaluationKIT and how you can improve student response rates and feedback quality. If you have any questions, please email coursefeedback@syr.edu. You also are welcome to consult with the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence on interpreting the feedback you receive in a private, one-on-one Zoom session.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

Spring courses are now available for instructors in Blackboard. All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started. When you fill out the form, you can request assistance with building your course and decide whether to use the University’s Blackboard template.

ITS Support Hours

If you have a technology-related question or problem, you can call the ITS Service Center at 315.443.2677. If you call after hours, you will have the option to leave a message with support staff. You also are welcome to email help@syr.edu at any time.

Thank you—and go Orange!

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

As we head into the Thanksgiving break, thank you again for everything you have done to make this semester a success for our students and for the University. Thank you also for reading our “Teaching Tips” emails. Please feel free to suggest topics for future communications by sending an email to help@syr.edu.

Course Feedback Window Open Through Dec. 2

The window for collecting student course feedback this semester is open through Dec. 2. Please remind your students to take a moment to provide their feedback. The University’s new course feedback platform, EvaluationKIT, allows you to monitor your response rate and to access your results. Learn more here about EvaluationKIT and how you can improve student response rates and feedback quality. If you have any questions, please email coursefeedback@syr.edu. You also are welcome to consult with the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence on interpreting the feedback you receive in a private, one-on-one Zoom session.

Teaching and Testing Remotely

As mentioned in previous communications, please keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to have a traditional final exam if your students can demonstrate they have met your course outcomes in other ways. In addition to accessibility and academic integrity concerns, it is important to remember that students’ technology environments at home might differ from their campus technology environments. Consider these ideas for assessments to replace a traditional final exam. If you haven’t already done so, please also review these tips for teaching and working remotely, including remote desktop solutions.

Phishing Alert

It’s essential to protect yourself against phishing attempts and other cybersecurity threats, including those disguised as unexpected job offers or reminders to reset your NetID password. Be wary of any email that asks you to provide personal information or “click here now” to avoid getting locked out of your account. Regardless of the bait, these emails are designed to get you to provide personal information, including information that could enable an attacker to access your bank account. If you receive a suspicious email, please forward it to itsecurity@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

Spring courses are now available for instructors in Blackboard. All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started. When you fill out the form, you can request assistance with building your course and decide whether to use the University’s Blackboard template.

ITS Support Hours

If you have a technology-related question or problem, you can call the ITS Service Center at 315.443.2677. If you call after hours, you will have the option to leave a message with support staff. You also are welcome to email help@syr.edu at any time.

For more information on how to make the best use of technology, be sure to bookmark the Online Success Toolkit. You also can follow ITS on Instagram and listen to “ITS Behind the Monitor” on Apple Podcasts.

We wish you a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

NOVEMBER 19, 2020

Spring Courses Available in Blackboard

First and foremost, thank you. We know this semester has been challenging in many ways for everyone. Thank you for the time, energy and care you devote to your students and your work. As you put the finishing touches on this semester (and, in many cases, quickly pivot to your Winterlude courses), the faculty support team is here to answer your questions about teaching and technology. You can contact us at help@syr.edu.

Looking ahead, we wanted to let you know that spring courses are now available for instructors in Blackboard. Student enrollments will be added at the end of December—four weeks ahead of the start of classes.

As a reminder, all instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started. When you fill out the form, you can request assistance with building your course and decide whether to use the University’s Blackboard template.

For more information on how to make the best use of technology, be sure to visit the Online Success Toolkit, which features remote teaching and working resources, helpful links and login locations. If you have tech-related questions, you can contact the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677 or help@syr.edu. You also can follow ITS on Instagram and listen to “ITS Behind the Monitor” on Apple Podcasts.

Thank you for all you do for your students and for Syracuse University.

NOVEMBER 17, 2020

End-of-Semester Assessments and Final Grades

We hope your transition to online instruction is going smoothly. Comprising experts from the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, and Information Technology Services, the faculty support team (help@syr.edu) is here to help you finish the semester strong. In particular, consider these tips for end-of-semester assessments and submitting final grades:

Alternatives to Traditional Finals—As we approach finals week, keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to have a final exam if your students can demonstrate they have met your course outcomes in other ways. Consider these possible ideas for assessments to replace a final exam.

Testing in Blackboard—Instructors considering Blackboard tests for end-of-semester evaluations can find overview information, tutorial videos and links to in-depth documentation on Answers. Online Learning Services has created a video for creating and deploying tests in Blackboard at Syracuse University. You also can share these tips for completing a Blackboard test with your students.

Implementing Accommodations to Ensure Accessibility—The Center for Disability Resources (CDR) has shared somebrief user guides and general resources about implementing accommodations. Topics include extending times for exams in Blackboard, creating accessible PDFs and more. CDR also has answered some frequently asked questions to help you support students with accommodations.

Submitting Final Grades—Final grades are due Dec. 21. You can access online grade rosters via MySlice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Learn more about submitting grades online.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the briefCourse Transition Assistance Form to get started.

For more information on how to make the best use of technology, be sure to visit the Online Success Toolkit, which features remote teaching and working resources, helpful links and login locations. If you have tech-related questions, you can contact the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677 or help@syr.edu.You also can follow ITS on Instagram and listen to “ITS Behind the Monitor” on Apple Podcasts.

Thank you for all you do for your students and for Syracuse University.

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As announced yesterday, Syracuse University will shift to online instruction for the remainder of the semester effective today. Although we’re transitioning to remote teaching and learning sooner than we planned, we can still finish the semester well. We’ve provided some tips to help you think, plan and pivot. Some ideas:

  • Remind learners to start their semester-end projects if they haven’t already.
  • Review your course outcomes. Have students produced work that demonstrates meeting those outcomes? If so, do you require a final exam? Could learners work on a small project to help them cement their learning in your course? Could you ask learners to apply course concepts to a real-life challenge?
  • Remind learners to remain in contact with you as they transition to remote learning. Establish a single method of communication. (A Blackboard announcement is a great choice.) Set some expectations. For example, “I’ll answer emails regularly, but not after 5 p.m. on weekdays and rarely on weekends.”
  • Think about your class time as a way for learners to connect with you and with each other. As everyone transitions to remote teaching and learning, build some time for connection into your plans if possible.
  • If you haven’t yet, consider suggesting that students form study pairs or groups to confirm deadlines, compare notes and share course navigation tips and tricks.

We will continue to provide tips and reminders to ensure you have the most up-to-date information related to online teaching and learning. If you haven’t already, please bookmark the Online Success Toolkit on Answers (and suggest that your students do the same). The “Working, Teaching and Learning Remotely” page includes tips to help you get your technology ready, as well as information about web conferencing tools, remote access options, file sharing solutions and more. You can discuss any hardware or software needs with your school or college IT support personnel. Please also remember that the ITS Service Center is available by email (help@syr.edu) or phone (315.443.2677) to address any tech-related challenges you or your students might experience.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

NOVEMBER 5, 2020

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We all have questions when it comes to technology. Luckily, we also have answers—Answers.syr.edu, that is.

Available to all Syracuse University faculty, students and staff, Answers features technical information focused on University systems and services, including solutions to common problems, how-to instructions, FAQ and more. To start exploring, you can visit the ITS Support home page. The Online Success Toolkit is a helpful resource designed to support online teaching, learning and working. Other popular pages include Accounts and NetIDs, MySlice and Blackboard.

Many schools and colleges, as well as individual departments, maintain information related to resources and support provided specifically for their faculty, staff and students. You can find contact information and operating hours for IT personnel in each school and college on the academic IT department contact page.

Answers also includes information beyond technical know-how. For example, faculty and staff can use the Caregiving Exchange Board to share caregiving resources and connect with colleagues who have similar needs and might be willing to share collaborative arrangements.

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While Answers is a great self-service option, the faculty support team also is here to help. Whether you have questions about teaching, technology or other related topics, you can send them to help@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

NOVEMBER 3, 2020

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Election Day is upon us, bringing additional stress and uncertainty to an already challenging semester. To help you help your students, Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede has provided some helpful information about trauma-informed teaching practices.

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  • Safety
  • Choice
  • Collaboration
  • Trustworthiness
  • Empowerment

Read Diede’s post about trauma-informed teaching practices on the Online Success Toolkit for more information.

Whether you have questions about teaching, technology or other related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

OCTOBER 29, 2020

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To support the transition to online instruction effective at the end of the academic day on Tuesday, Nov. 24, we will continue to provide helpful tips and reminders to ensure you have the most up-to-date information related to online teaching and learning. If you haven’t already, please bookmark the Online Success Toolkit on Answers.

As you might remember, the Online Success Toolkit includes a guide to working, teaching and learning remotely. This resource provides a checklist of items necessary to teach or work remotely, as well as an overview of remote access solutions, web conferencing tools, file sharing options and more. Please review the checklist as soon as possible and discuss any hardware or software needs with your school or college IT support personnel.

Some other tips:

  • Communicating with your students—If you haven’t done so already, please let your students know what they can expect in terms of coursework, web conferencing and online office hours after Thanksgiving break. Communication is essential to student success.
  • Web workarounds—Depending on your students’ circumstances or location, they might encounter issues accessing certain online resources. In these situations, the ITS Service Center might be able to suggest an alternative. For example, if a student cannot access YouTube, the student likely could access video content on Kaltura. Please contact the ITS Service Center at help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677 if you need to find a technological workaround to support your students.
  • Answers: Syracuse University’s knowledge hub—Available to all faculty, students and staff, Answers is a knowledge base of teaching and technical information. The website’s content focuses on Syracuse University systems and technical services, including solutions to common problems, how-to instructions, FAQ and more. A first step is to search for “Online Success Toolkit.” As mentioned above, links on the toolkit will connect you with many resources for you and your students.
  • Academic integrity—Transitioning a face-to-face course to an online environment is challenging, especially when exams and quizzes are involved. Tests designed for traditional classrooms might not work well online, particularly when it comes to academic integrity. Given these differences, you might consider changing your course assessment instruments.

Whether you have questions about technology, assessments or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

OCTOBER 27, 2020

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Once you know what you’re teaching and the mode you’ll use, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll need to be able to accommodate any students who are quarantined. Even in-person classes will need to be able to operate in a mixed modality some of the time. Accordingly, all instructors are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services. Complete the brief Course Transition Assistance Form to get started.

Another proactive step you can take is to request a “sandbox” course from help@syr.edu (be sure to indicate whether you want to use the spring template). When designing your course, remember that a consistent structure supports student success. Following a course template with full alignment of assignments, assessments and objectives will strengthen student learning and reduce the volume of email you receive. Once spring courses have been populated in Blackboard on Dec. 7, you can request to have your sandbox content moved to your regular Blackboard course—and you’ll already have done much of the heavy lifting.

If you’re teaching courses to international students, keep in mind those courses typically are offered either early in the morning or later in the evening in the Eastern Time Zone to accommodate a 12-hour time difference for synchronous sessions. We have heard about possible limitations of using Zoom for some international students. Blackboard Collaborate is a good option in that situation. Instructors teaching a course with a significant number of international students are strongly encouraged to contact the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence for course design guidance.

Whether you have questions about this semester or next semester, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

OCTOBER 22, 2020

Receiving and Responding to Mid-Course Feedback

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Faculty can access the feedback through MySlice under “Faculty Services.” The feedback is visible only to the course instructor. 

In a new post on the Online Success Toolkit, Laurel Willingham-McLain from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) shares some ideas for instructors receiving mid-course feedback, including:

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Although only you can see your mid-course feedback, you don’t have to be isolated. You are welcome to consult with CTLE staff on how to interpret and respond to the feedback you receive in a private, one-on-one Zoom session.

Whether you have questions about technology, assessments or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

OCTOBER 20, 2020

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It’s a good time to start game-planning for the end of your courses if you haven’t already, including where you will teach and what technology you will have available. The “Working, Teaching and Learning Remotely” page on Answers includes a “Before You Go Remote” section with tips to help you get your technology ready. Some things to consider:

  • Laptop or desktop computer—A working laptop or desktop computer will be required for most routine work or academic functions. Users are highly encouraged to follow safe computing principles available in detail on the “Safe Computing” home page.
  • Microphone and webcam—Many collaboration and remote meeting tools require the use of a microphone and have the option of using a webcam. Many, but not all, personal computers have a built-in microphone and webcam. Users with computers that do not have them, or who are simply looking for an improved experience, might consider external solutions such as USB microphones and webcams. 
  • Internet access—Whether you are on or off campus, an internet connection is required to access web-based applications and resources, as well as for remote access through a virtual private network or a remote desktop solution.

In order to be as prepared as possible, please test your resources before they are needed. If you need help, you can contact the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677 or at help@syr.edu.

As you plan your finals, please also keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to have a traditional final exam if your students can demonstrate they have met your course outcomes in other ways. Consider these ideas for assessments to replace a final exam from Martha Diede of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence.

Whether you have questions about technology, assessments or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

Reminder: Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

OCTOBER 15, 2020

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All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

Online Success Toolkit

The Online Success Toolkit is a one-stop shop to support online teaching and learning. Available materials for faculty include course preparation guides, resources for supporting students and information regarding upcoming training and consultation opportunities. We continue to update the toolkit with new resources and information, including tips for a mid-semester refresh.

Research Computing Support

Do you need more computing power to move your academic work forward? Attend the Research Computing Series to learn how you can leverage Syracuse University’s advanced computing resources. This semester’s sessions include presentations from Britton Plourde, professor of physics, and the Research Computing team. Learn more. 

Contact Us

If you have questions about technology, testing or any other teaching-related topics, you can send them to help@syr.edu. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

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You can learn more about these and other recommendations on the Securing Zoom Meetings page on Answers.

Please also remember that Zoom meetings are only as secure as the email used to send the invitation. Remind students not to forward links to your meetings. Organizers of highly sensitive meetings also might choose to verify (by voice or video) that attendees are who they expect them to be before allowing them to join.

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Transitioning to mixed-delivery instruction is a challenge, and designing assessments for student work can be even more challenging for mixed-delivery and online formats than for face-to-face instruction. For the next Focus on Teaching and Learning Workshop (Oct. 16 from noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom), Assistant Professor of Chemistry Jonathon French and Associate Professor of Biology Jason Wiles will discuss how they have developed and deployed authentic assessments for students and have found ways to encourage strong performances and academic honesty. You can register online.

Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you have questions about technology, testing or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Beginning Oct. 21, 2020, Zoom at Syracuse University cloud recordings that are more than 120 days old will move to the Zoom “Trash” for 30 days before being permanently deleted. For longer-term storage, you can upload recordings to Kaltura MediaSpace. Please note that all Zoom meetings recorded to the cloud after Aug. 10, 2020, have been and will continue to be copied to Kaltura automatically.

You can view and manage your Zoom cloud recording(s), including the option to download them, recover them or delete them, by visiting our Managing Zoom Cloud Recordings page. To ensure you retain cloud recordings you want to keep, please read this quick blog post, which provides instructions based on the age of your recordings.

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All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you have questions about technology, testing or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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CLASS and Academic Integrity

Launched in 2017, the Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS) works with instructors to promote understanding of Syracuse University’s academic integrity policy. CLASS staff create online resources for classroom use, join faculty in making academic integrity presentations in schools and colleges, and are available for consultation about academic integrity cases and questions.

Available online resources include:

  • Promoting Academic Integrity at an Uncertain Time—Advice for Instructors
  • Ideas for Engaging Students in Discussion
  • Academic Integrity Case Studies
  • Exercises for Teaching Use of Sources
  • Academic Success and Integrity PowerPoint Materials for Faculty Use in Their Courses

If you have questions about academic integrity, you can email AIO@syr.edu or call 315.443.5412.

Spring Course Transition Services

All instructors teaching this spring are highly encouraged to use the University’s suite of Spring Course Transition Services offered by the Center for Online and Digital Learning, Information Technology Services and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Regardless of the modality in which you will teach, we can help you plan for a successful spring semester now. Complete the brief Spring Course Development Form to get started.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you have questions about technology, testing or any other teaching-related topics, the faculty support team is here for you. You can send your questions to help@syr.edu.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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For additional ideas and support, we recommend these learning opportunities:  

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As we approach midterms, keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to have a traditional exam if your students can demonstrate they have met your course outcomes in other ways. Consider these ideas for assessments to replace a traditional exam. You also can ask your students for their suggestions on potential assignments and assessments.

Instructors considering Blackboard tests for evaluations can find overview information, tutorial videos and links to in-depth documentation on Answers. In addition, LinkedIn Learning has sections on creating tests, as well as deploying and grading them.

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For additional ideas and support, we recommend these learning opportunities:  

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Keeping track of your documents can be a challenge when you work on multiple devices at home and in the office. If you haven’t already done so, learn about your file management and sharing options now to prevent losses later: 

  • OneDrive—All instructors have an Office 365 account that includes Microsoft OneDrive. Visit the OneDrive login page using your campus email address as your username. You can find additional details on the Microsoft OneDrive Answers page. 
  • Google Drive—All instructors have a Google G Suite account that includes Google Drive access. To learn more, visit the Logging into G Suite page.
  • Campus H: Drive—The H: Drive is a personal network drive available throughout campus in labs and office locations where you log into your campus Windows profile. You can connect remotely to campus drives on Windows and on macOS.
  • Campus G: Drive—The G: Drive, also available throughout campus in labs and office locations, is a shared drive managed by your administrative department or school or college. To access your G: drive remotely, connect to your office desktop using a remote desktop solution or contact your academic or administrative support personnel for additional options.

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For additional ideas and support, we recommend these learning opportunities:  

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Here are three key accessibility resources that support teaching and learning:

  • Blackboard Ally enhances the usability and accessibility of documents uploaded to Blackboard. While Ally was designed to improve access to course materials for students with disabilities, many students prefer the audio format (MP3) for longer documents.
  • Read&Write helps all individuals succeed regardless of ability or learning style. Users can access reading, writing, studying and research tools at school, home or work. Read&Write is especially helpful for those who have difficulty reading and writing, international students, first-generation college students and student-athletes trying to balance the demands of sports with their course work. Learn more.
  • EquatIO helps make equations, formulas and graphs accessible. Users can type, write, dictate or copy any expression and convert it to an accessible format suitable for use in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. EquatIO includes handwriting recognition and integrates seamlessly with Read&Write.

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For additional ideas and support, we recommend these learning opportunities:  

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Based on our interactions, we recently published a collection of online teaching and learning FAQ on the Online Success Toolkit. Topics discussed include Blackboard, Zoom and Kaltura. Some examples:

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For additional ideas and support, we encourage you to take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities:  

We look forward to hearing from you!

SEPTEMBER 15, 2020

Assessing Student Learning in Hybrid or Online Classes

As the fourth week of the semester unfolds, we recognize and appreciate the time, energy and care you have invested in your students. This semester has stretched all of us beyond our comfort zones. Whether your experience has been smooth or bumpy, you have made a difference for your students and for Syracuse University. Thank you.

With midterms approaching, you likely are considering ways to assess your students’ learning. Please remember the faculty support team is ready to help you in this process. Comprising experts from Information Technology Services, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, and the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the faculty support team is ready to help you decide which assignments, assessments, quizzes or tests are right for your course. You can contact the faculty support team by emailing help@syr.edu.

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You can learn more about teaching and technology by visiting the Online Success Toolkit. We also encourage you to take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities:  

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Much like a journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step, you will thrive this semester by making gradual progress. In a new post on the Online Success Toolkit, Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede shares recommendations for taking “small bites” to adapt to new teaching modalities:

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A more technical note for Zoom class sessions: Please remind your students to log in to their Syracuse University Zoom accounts before joining a meeting. This will ensure they are able to join the class as authorized users.

These are just a few suggestions for getting the most out of your teaching time. For additional ideas and support, we encourage you to take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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  • If you haven’t already, communicate with your students regarding your expectations for their technology. Will they need headsets, webcams, etc.? Let them know which students will attend in person on which days. It also would be helpful to share your syllabus ahead of time. In addition, these netiquette guidelines will help you set the tone for a diverse, inclusive learning community.
  • Visualize and rehearse how you will teach, whether in a classroom on campus or in a remote location. How will you greet your in-person students and online students? How will you engage each group throughout the class? If you can, visit the classrooms in which you will teach to familiarize yourself with the setting and technology.
  • In addition to the Classroom Technology Guide we shared last week, be sure to watch our short videos covering how to operate a standard teaching station, how to clean the classroom technology (note: each bottle of cleaning spray stays in its respective classroom) and microphone sound quality while wearing a mask.

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Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Comprising representatives from Information Technology Services, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the faculty support team has created a variety of learning technology resources to help you succeed in the classroom and online. As a refresher, here is a quick summary of those resources. 

Classroom Technology Guide

Earlier this week, we shared a link to our new Classroom Technology Guide on Answers. The guide covers a range of topics, including how to start the classroom audio-visual system, how to activate the web conferencing tool and more. In addition to the full guide on Answers, a “cheat sheet” will be available at the teaching station in all registrar classrooms.

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Instructors interested in learning about technology in a specific classroom can refer to our Classroom Resource Guide. This guide is searchable by building and room number.

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Blackboard Course Transition Services—For support with instructional design, content production, video recording, customization of a Blackboard course space and more, instructors can take advantage of our Blackboard Course Transition Services. Please fill out the Fall Course Development Form to request assistance.

Group Training Sessions—The faculty support team offers a range of training sessions covering such topics as teaching with technology, Zoom, Kaltura and PlayPosit.

Online Success Toolkit

Earlier this summer, we created the Online Success Toolkit as a one-stop shop to support online teaching and learning. Available materials for faculty include course preparation guides, resources for supporting students and information regarding upcoming training and consultation opportunities. We continue to update the toolkit with new resources and information.

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If you will be teaching beyond the classroom this semester, be sure to review our guide for working, teaching and learning remotely. This page covers a variety of solutions, including Blackboard, Blackboard Collaborate Ultra and other collaboration tools.

The faculty support team is dedicated to strengthening the academic mission of Syracuse University. We look forward to working with you this fall.

AUGUST 11, 2020

Classroom Technology Guide

With the fall semester approaching, the temperature outside is anything but fall-like. We hope you are enjoying some summer sun before classes begin.

To help you stay cool, calm and collected when you return to the classroom, we have compiled a Classroom Technology Guide. In addition to a laminated “cheat sheet” that will be available in classrooms, you can access the full version on Answers. Topics covered include:

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For support with instructional design, content production, video recording, customization of your Blackboard course space and more, you can take advantage of our Blackboard Course Transition Services. To request assistance or find out more information, please fill out the Fall Course Development form.

Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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“In the mixed-delivery format, faculty can be tempted to use their synchronous time for lecturing,” Diede says. “Then at the end of the class time, they feel exhausted because they’ve been managing the technology, the learners with them and the learners away from them. Or faculty feel exhausted because they’ve put forth a tremendous amount of energy to compensate for the lack of visual cues both from learners’ faces behind masks and from learners’ faces on screens. Making some changes to teaching practice can enhance learning and reduce fatigue.”

In her new post on the Online Success Toolkit, Diede suggests some additional teaching practices to help instructors lecture for learning. Examples include:

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For support with instructional design, content production, video recording, customization of your Blackboard course space and more, you can take advantage of our Blackboard Course Transition Services. To request assistance or find out more information, please fill out the Fall Course Development form.

Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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In addition to one-on-one support, here are some resources available to help you prepare for success this fall:

Fall 2020 Course Checklist — After working through this checklist, instructors will have thought through the design for their mixed delivery fall course(s) and aligned their course outcomes with their activities, assignments and assessments.

Resources for Teaching Remotely — ITS has provided this page to help you work and teach remotely.

Classroom Technology Instructions — Watch an overview of the standard instructional classroom technology in our training video.

Blackboard Course Transition Services — Through Syracuse University’s partnership with Blackboard Academic Services, you can request support with instructional design, content production, video recording, customization of your Blackboard course space and more. 

Online Success Toolkit — This collection of resources is designed to promote successful online teaching for new and returning faculty alike.

Web Conferencing Tools — To learn more about the tools available to you, as well as their respective teaching considerations and technical information, read this web conferencing comparison.

Kaltura at Syracuse University — New for this semester, this cloud-based video management system helps instructors store and share video course content to create engaging and accessible learning experiences for their students.

PlayPosit — This tool for adding rich content and dynamic interactions to video is currently configured for instructors to overlay video content hosted in YouTube, Vimeo, Ensemble and Kaltura.

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Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Aligning your course can make a big difference for students’ learning and for your experience as an instructor. Using the Fall 2020 Course Checklist, you can ensure that your course outcomes align with your assessments, assignments and activities, just like peas align in a pod.Graphic of a peapod showing alignment among course outcomes, assessments, assignments and activitiesAligned courses:

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Another advantage of an aligned course: It can pivot easily from format to format. To reach out for assistance in building your course, we encourage you to complete the Fall Course Development Form, which will help you get started with the Fall Course Transition Services available through Syracuse University’s partnership with Blackboard Academic Services. You can read these frequently asked questions to learn more about the Fall Course Transition Services.

As always, if you have questions about any aspect of teaching and/or teaching with technology, please contact the faculty support team (help@syr.edu). You can learn more about teaching with technology by listening to “Behind the Monitor,” the official ITS podcast, on Apple Podcasts. The new episode focuses on the recent launch of Kaltura at Syracuse University.

Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Syracuse University uses Blackboard Ally to enhance the usability and accessibility of course documents in the Blackboard learning management system. Ally provides students with multiple accessible formats of the original document so they can select the one that fits their unique needs. Currently, Ally offers accessible versions of Portable Document Format (PDF) files, Microsoft Office files (Word and PowerPoint), images and uploaded HTML files. Students will see a dropdown menu to the right of each document. From this dropdown menu, they can select one or more accessible versions to download and use.

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Syracuse University offers both Blackboard Collaborate Ultra and Zoom for online synchronous course meetings, whether from a University facility or off-campus location. Both web-conferencing services enable students to log in from their Blackboard course and also offer the option to have live-captioning functionality as required by the Center for Disability Resources.

Syracuse University recently adopted Kaltura, which also is integrated with Blackboard, for video creation and hosting in support of teaching and learning. Both Zoom and Kaltura include post-recording automatic speech recognition captioning for content, which not only helps to improve comprehension but also allows the individual to remediate text errors before making the pre-recorded content available. Also, the automatic captioning in Kaltura makes it possible to ask all students to add and then remediate the captions of their videos. A captioned video could be a requirement of their video submissions. 

To learn more about creating inclusive online content, visit our Accessible Technology Toolkit on Answers and Blackboard’s free Accessibility Checklist.

If you have questions about teaching and/or teaching with technology—including Fall Course Transition Services—you can contact the faculty support team (help@syr.edu). For more tech tips and tricks, follow us on Instagram and Twitter. Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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In recent weeks, we have shared information about a number of new resources and opportunities available to instructors to strengthen their online teaching. Here is a quick summary of tools you can use to make the most of the time remaining before classes begin on Aug. 24.

Kaltura

Kaltura at Syracuse University is a cloud-based video management system that helps instructors to create and share engaging learning experiences for their students. Although Ensemble will continue to be available through the Fall 2020 semester, any new content should be created in Kaltura.

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You can access Kaltura by logging in to Blackboard or video.syr.edu. You also can choose to use the Kaltura mobile app. We encourage you to register for online training sessions.

Fall Course Transition Services

Fall Course Transition Services are available until Aug. 3 through Syracuse University’s partnership with Blackboard. To preview the Syracuse University-specific Fall 2020 Blackboard course template, email help@syr.edu with either Course Name: Syracuse University Course Template—Fall 2020 or Course ID: sutemplate.fall2020 in the subject line. Remember: You don’t need to have a semester’s worth of content ready—only the course alignment (from syllabus through assessments, assignments and activities) and the first two weeks of materials. Once you finalize your syllabus and prepare your initial content, contact Blackboard Transition Services using the Course Is Ready for Transition Form.

Online Success Toolkit

The Online Success Toolkit also is available to support online teaching and learning. Available materials for faculty include course preparation guides, resources for supporting students and information regarding upcoming training and consultation opportunities. We will continue to update the toolkit throughout the summer and during the semester as appropriate.

As always, if you have questions about teaching with technology, you can contact the faculty support team (help@syr.edu). For more tech tips and tricks, follow us on Instagram and Twitter. Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

We look forward to working with you.

JULY 21, 2020

There Is Still Time to Sign Up for Fall Course Transition Services

With the semester a month away, we encourage you to take advantage of the Fall Course Transition Services available until Aug. 3 through Syracuse University’s partnership with Blackboard. As a refresher:

  • We have created a Syracuse University-specific Fall 2020 Blackboard course template for your convenience. To preview the course template and decide whether to apply it to your specific course, email help@syr.edu with either Course Name: Syracuse University Course Template—Fall 2020 or Course ID: sutemplate.fall2020 in the subject line.
  • You don’t need to have a semester’s worth of content ready—only the course alignment (from syllabus through assessments, assignments and activities) and the first two weeks of materials. Once you have finalized your syllabus and prepared your initial content, contact Blackboard Transition Services using the Course Is Ready for Transition Form.
  • If you have questions or if you aren’t sure where to begin, you can contact the faculty support team (help@syr.edu).

The Online Success Toolkit also is available to support online teaching and learning. Available materials for faculty include course preparation guides, resources for supporting students and information regarding upcoming training and consultation opportunities. For more tech tips and tricks, follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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We are excited to announce that Kaltura at Syracuse University is now available. This cloud-based video management system will help instructors store and share video course content to create engaging and accessible learning experiences for their students.

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How do I access Kaltura?
You can access Kaltura by logging in to blackboard.syracuse.edu or video.syr.edu. You also can choose to use the Kaltura mobile app. Please note that any videos created in Kaltura must follow Syracuse University’s Information Technology Resources Acceptable Use Policy.

Is training available?
Yes. You can register for online training sessions. These sessions will prepare instructors to teach with Kaltura during the Fall 2020 semester with a focus on how to create, upload and deploy instructional videos in Blackboard.

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Does Kaltura work with Blackboard?
Yes. Additional Kaltura functionality is available within Blackboard courses to promote teaching and learning. For instructions, tutorials and how-to documentation related to Kaltura in Blackboard, please refer to the Kaltura in Blackboard support page. 

How can I learn more about Kaltura?
We encourage all instructors to explore the Kaltura at Syracuse University home page on Answers.

If you have questions about Kaltura, our Fall 2020 Course Transition Services or any other aspect of preparing for the fall semester, you can contact the faculty support team (help@syr.edu). Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Available to all faculty, students and staff, Answers is Syracuse University’s knowledge base of technical self-help information. The website’s content focuses on campuswide and school- or college-specific systems and technical services, including how-to instructions, FAQs and more. In addition to the Online Success Toolkit, the Information Technology Support home page is a good place to start exploring. Answers is always evolving to meet the needs of our community, so be sure to check back periodically for updates. Even better, you can configure your Answers profile to get a daily digest of changes. To do so:

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Once you have developed a clear vision and materials for your course, we recommend working with Blackboard Academic Services as part of our Fall Course Transition Services to build out the first two weeks of your course, which will ease you into the mixed delivery format. Blackboard Academic Services will show you how to upload content, create assignments, build assessments and more. Using this approach, you don’t need to have a semester of content ready—only the course alignment (from syllabus through assessments, assignments and activities) and the first two weeks of materials. Once you have finalized your syllabus and prepared your initial content, contact Blackboard Transition Services using the Course Is Ready for Transition Form.

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Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

We look forward to working with you.

JULY 9, 2020

Four Steps to Jump-Starting Your Fall Course Transition

With the start of the fall semester less than seven weeks away, we wanted to share four steps to getting started with the Fall Course Transition Services available through Syracuse University’s partnership with Blackboard:

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Information Technology Services also has partnered with the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and the Office of Online Student Success to create the Online Success Toolkit. The Online Success Toolkit provides a central hub to promote successful online teaching and learning for new and returning faculty and students alike. 

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Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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Aligning Your Course for Success in Any Format

Using the Fall 2020 Course Checklist, faculty can ensure that their course outcomes align with their assessments, assignments and activities. Aligned courses:

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Another advantage of an aligned course: It can pivot easily from format to format. If you have developed a clear vision and materials for your course, we recommend working with Blackboard Academic Services as part of our Fall Course Transition Services to build out the first two weeks of your course, which will ease you into the mixed delivery format. Blackboard Academic Services will show you how to upload content, create assignments, build assessments and more.

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We strongly encourage instructors to utilize the Fall Course Transition Services. To request assistance or to find out more information, please fill out the Fall Course Development Form.

You can learn more about how ITS is helping faculty prepare for the fall semester by listening to the new episode of Behind the Monitor, the official ITS podcast. Please also remember these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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We thank all of the faculty members who already have begun the Fall Course Transition Services process, beginning with the brief Fall Course Development Form. Regardless of the subject matter, all courses will need to run in face-to-face, mixed delivery and full online formats.

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The faculty support team (help@syr.edu) is available to answer questions related to your fall semester planning. Please also take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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It can be a challenge to picture what fall courses will look like given the need to prepare for in-person, mixed delivery and fully online formats. With this in mind, we have put together an example of what your course might look like in Blackboard after you take advantage of Fall Course Transition Services.

You can complete the brief Fall Course Development Form to get started if you haven’t already. Investing time now will lead to better results during the semester.

The faculty support team (help@syr.edu) is available to answer questions related to your fall semester planning. Please also take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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We strongly encourage all faculty teaching this fall to utilize the University’s suite of Fall Course Transition Services. Regardless of the type of course you are teaching, your course will need to run in face-to-face, mixed delivery and full online formats. Complete the brief Fall Course Development Form to get started.

The faculty support team (help@syr.edu) is available to answer questions related to your fall semester planning. Please also take advantage of these online coaching and consultation opportunities: 

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The fall semester presents the opportunity to rethink your approach to instruction—both in person and online. As you prepare your courses, please consider how hybrid, hy-flex and flipped approaches to course design could strengthen your teaching and students’ learning.

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Hy-flex course design involves teaching a course using face-to-face and online delivery methods at the same time. This flexible option allows students to determine whether to be in-person or online. Students cannot progress from beginning to end in the course without demonstrating that they have acquired skills and knowledge deemed essential to proceeding. Still, a student could proceed through the course while only engaging the instructor and their classmates asynchronously. With this in mind, instructors must have fully developed face-to-face and online course designs for both delivery methods. We have provided a sample 50-minute class session and a sample 75-minute class session using hy-flex course design.

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The faculty support team (help@syr.edu) is available to answer questions related to course design or any other component of your fall semester planning. Faculty seeking assistance with online course development are encouraged to fill out the Fall Course Development Form to request support or to submit questions about specific aspects of online instruction and preparation. We have created a Fall 2020 Course Checklist to guide your planning.

Please also remember the coaching and consultation opportunities available to you: 

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The campus IT community works to ensure faculty have the best technology at their disposal to create outstanding learning opportunities for their students. With this goal in mind, we are rolling out the Kaltura Video Cloud for Education for the fall semester.

Kaltura is a cloud-based video management system that helps you store and share video course content online. Video drives student engagement, interactive learning experiences and better learning outcomes. Kaltura includes a range of products designed to create engaging and accessible experiences.

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In addition to the campuswide resources described below, please know that your school or college IT personnel are available for year-round support. We maintain a list of school and college IT contact information and Answers documentation for your reference.

The faculty support team (help@syr.edu) also stands ready to help you conduct your summer courses or prepare for the fall semester. This group comprises representatives from the Center for Online and Digital Learning (CODL), the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) and Information Technology Services (ITS).

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Rather than planning on large exams for your fall courses, we suggest creating smaller, low-stakes assessments. These assessments give students the opportunity to demonstrate what they know and give faculty the opportunity to assess gaps in students’ knowledge and skill acquisition. Read more about alternatives to exams.

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ITS maintains detailed information about technology in registrar classrooms across campus. Watch this overview of standard instructional classroom technology.

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In addition to resources provided by our faculty support team, Syracuse University has partnered with Blackboard Academic Services to provide fall course transition services to faculty throughout the summer. We encourage you to fill out the Fall Course Development Form to request support or to submit questions about specific aspects of online instruction and preparation. We have provided some frequently asked questions and relevant links for your reference. You also can attend virtual office hours every Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET and every Thursday at 10 a.m. ET.

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed throughout the summer. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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In addition to resources provided by our faculty support team, Syracuse University has partnered with Blackboard Academic Services to provide fall course transition services to faculty throughout the summer. We encourage you to fill out the Fall Course Development Form to request support or to submit questions about specific aspects of online instruction and preparation. We also have provided some frequently asked questions and relevant links for your reference.

Faculty Conversation Blog

Would you like to connect with your fellow faculty members to discuss approaches to teaching and learning? We have created a blog on Answers to facilitate conversations about topics of interest to our faculty (you will need to log in with your NetID and password). To get started, you can join this conversation about questions regarding the upcoming semester.

Classroom Technology Guide

ITS maintains detailed information about technology in registrar classrooms across campus. From Bowne to Watson, you can learn about the resources available in each space. Individual training sessions also are available for faculty and staff who need further assistance with learning to operate classroom computers.

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Not every video requires Hollywood-level production. If you have a phone or tablet that can record video, you have everything you need to create videos for your course. Check out these tips for home recording.

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed throughout the summer. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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In addition to resources provided by Information Technology Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning, and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, Syracuse University has partnered with Blackboard Academic Services to provide fall course transition services to faculty throughout the summer. We encourage you to fill out the Fall Course Development Form to request support or to submit questions about specific aspects of online instruction and preparation. We also have provided some frequently asked questions and relevant links for your reference. We look forward to working with you!

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  • Alignment: The course objectives, assessments and assignments should align, much like peas align in a pod. Review the Summer Online Course Checklist to learn more.
  • Transparency: Evidence shows that making assignments transparent can positively impact students’ course performance and remove barriers to student success. Enroll in the Transparent Teaching for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access organization in Blackboard for more on this topic.
  • Student-focused: In student-focused learning, the focus is on how students learn best. The instructor is a guide or mentor, not a lecturer, sage or speaker. Student-centered learning ensures that students practice skills and reflect on new knowledge to encode it for use later.
  • Predictable: Predictable learning puts similar learning activities at similar times in a face-to-face course and in similar locations in an online course. If the class commences with a question, every class commences with a question. If the course module includes a discussion, that discussion always appears in the same place. This practice increases student mental bandwidth for learning as it frees students from having to respond to new stimuli in each class.
  • Scaffolded: Scaffolding refers to external supports provided by an instructor and adjusted to a learner’s current level of ability to help the learner develop a particular skill. We discuss scaffolding in the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit.

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As you continue to explore online teaching and learning, you might encounter terms with which you’re unfamiliar. For example, what is the difference between a hybrid course design and a hy-flex course design? Learn more about these course design options as you plan for the fall semester.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed throughout the summer. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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As we prepare for the fall semester, we are excited to offer coordinated course preparation support through a partnership among Information Technology Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, and Blackboard. We outline the scope and process for taking advantage of these services below. As always, you can contact help@syr.edu with any questions. We look forward to working with you.

Course Transition Services

Through course transition services, instructional designers will support faculty in moving their face-to-face course content into a templated Blackboard course shell that strengthens remote teaching and learning. The instructional designer:

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If you are teaching your first online course as part of the summer session, please visit our archive of previous messages. We will continue to provide tips, updates and guidance to all faculty throughout the summer. Whatever your comfort level and experience might be, we are here to help.

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Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices

Trauma-informed teaching practices are especially important now, as students might have experienced a variety of traumas as part of the COVID-19 pandemic. These new traumas could be in addition to traumas experienced earlier in their lives. Faculty also might experience trauma either directly or as compassion fatigue. As you begin building courses for the fall or operating courses during the summer, trauma-informed practices could offer some positive ways forward for you and your students.

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For faculty members teaching or planning their summer courses, a new checklist is available from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.

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A new tool available to Syracuse University faculty, staff and students, PlayPosit is an interactive online video tool that allows learners to explore new material at their own pace, increasing long-term retention and learning efficacy over standard video. Learn how you can enrich your video content with a variety of interactions, including multiple-choice questions and fill-in-the-blanks.

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When choosing video as a means to communicate, it is important to understand the different approaches that are available to you. This will allow you to select the most effective option to communicate your content. Each video also should have an objective. What is the point of the video? What will students learn? Read more about recording video content for your course.

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications, you also can follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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To help your students succeed in any course, it’s important to explain your course expectations, rubrics and policies from the outset. For example, if there will be required synchronous components, provide the dates and times for those as soon as possible. Also be sure to explain why those particular components need to happen synchronously and what effect missing a synchronous component would have on a student’s grade. Learn more about creating a community in your online course.

ITS Accessibility Workshops

ITS accessibility workshops help you understand technology accessibility, put it into practice and support the University’s efforts to create a more accessible, inclusive campus. You can view recordings of past sessions on Answers.

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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Whether you are teaching a summer course or preparing for the fall semester (or both), we will continue to provide updates and tips to help you create the best learning opportunities possible. Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter.

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Blackboard Collaborate Ultra is a real-time video conferencing tool that lets you add files, share applications and use a virtual whiteboard to interact with your students. Take a deep dive into making the most of Blackboard Collaborate Ultra in your courses.

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One way to approach a writing-intensive course online is to focus on the writing process (as opposed to finished products) by assigning multiple drafts and peer editing exercises for each paper. You can do this by assigning students to editing groups from the beginning of the course and grading the process of writing along the way. Learn more about engaging students in the process of creating and editing academic writing.

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Faculty who are preparing to teach a summer course online are encouraged to utilize the online Academic Continuity Resources. Instructional design support and faculty coaching also are available. If you would like a consultation or coaching, contact the faculty support team at help@syr.edu. This team includes representatives from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, the Center for Online and Digital Learning, and Information Technology Services. The most appropriate support personnel will respond based on your specific question(s).

Self-service resources available include:

  • A new checklist from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.
  • A Blackboard summer course template from the Center for Online and Digital Learning and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Applying the template to your course will save you time and energy. Please follow these instructions to search for the “Summer 2020 Example Course Template” Blackboard Organization and enroll. Once inside, you’ll see announcements with more information and instructions on how to apply it to your course.
  • Scaffolding tips to help you build your assignments. This method also works well for courses as a whole.
  • Ideas for creating a sense of community in the online classroom. 

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Are you looking for some professional development opportunities this summer? LinkedIn Learning provides access to thousands of high-quality, on-demand courses. You can log into linkedinlearning.syr.edu with your NetID and password. More information, including a full user’s guide, can be found on the LinkedIn Learning at Syracuse University home page.

As always, we invite your questions, suggestions and success stories. Thank you for all you do for your students and for Syracuse University.

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Available to all faculty, students and staff, Answers is a knowledge base of technical self-help information. The website’s content focuses on Syracuse University systems and technical services, including solutions to common problems, how-to instructions, FAQs and more. 

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Faculty who are preparing to teach a summer course online are encouraged to utilize the online Academic Continuity Resources. Instructional design support and faculty coaching also are available. If you would like a consultation or coaching, contact the faculty support team at help@syr.edu. This team includes representatives from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, the Center for Online and Digital Learning, and Information Technology Services. The most appropriate support personnel will respond based on your specific question(s).

Self-service resources available include:

  • A new checklist from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.
  • A Blackboard summer course template from the Center for Online and Digital Learning and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Applying the template to your course will save you time and energy for the work that only you can do—creating learning opportunities for your students. Please follow these instructions to search for the “Summer 2020 Example Course Template” Blackboard Organization and enroll. Once inside, you’ll see announcements with more information and instructions on how to apply it to your course.
  • Scaffolding tips to help you build your assignments. This method also works well for courses as a whole.
  • Ideas for creating a sense of community in the online classroom. 

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed throughout the summer. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Faculty who are preparing to teach a summer course online are encouraged to utilize the online Academic Continuity Resources. Instructional design support and faculty coaching also are available. If you would like a consultation or coaching, contact the faculty support team at help@syr.edu. This team includes representatives from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, the Center for Online and Digital Learning, and Information Technology Services. The most appropriate support personnel will respond based on your specific question(s).

Self-service resources available include:

  • A new checklist  from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.
  • A Blackboard summer course template from the Center for Online and Digital Learning and the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Applying the template to your course will save you time and energy for the work that only you can do—creating learning opportunities for your students. Please follow these instructions to search for the “Summer 2020 Example Course Template” Blackboard Organization and enroll. Once inside, you’ll see announcements with more information and instructions on how to have it applied to your course.
  • Scaffolding tips to help you build your assignments. This method also works well for courses as a whole.
  • Ideas for creating a sense of community in the online classroom. 

...

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed throughout the summer. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages, subscribe to the ITS podcast and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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To see an example, please follow instructions on Answers to search for the “Summer 2020 Example Course Template” organization in Blackboard and enroll. Once inside, you’ll see announcements with more information and instructions on how to apply the template to your course.

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For faculty members planning their summer courses, a new checklist is available from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.

...

Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages, subscribe to the ITS podcast and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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For faculty members planning their summer courses, a new checklist is available from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Guided by the goal of long-term retention, the checklist includes course objectives, assessments, assignments and weekly modules to maximize online learning during the condensed summer semester.

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Faculty who are preparing to teach a summer course online are encouraged to utilize the online Academic Continuity Resources. Instructional design support is available for faculty who feel they need or want to seek additional resources before converting their course for online instruction. To request instructional design support, submit an email to help@syr.edu. Include the title of the course you are developing and indicate if it is a graduate or undergraduate course. An instructional designer will contact you within one business day to coordinate consultation and resource support.

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Final grades are due May 13. You can access online grade rosters via MySlice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Learn more about submitting grades online.

Implementing Accommodations to Ensure Accessibility

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Instructors considering Blackboard tests for end-of-semester evaluations can find overview information, tutorial videos and links to in-depth documentation on Answers. In addition, LinkedIn Learning has sections on creating tests, as well as deploying and grading them.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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As we approach finals week, keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to have a final exam if your students can demonstrate they have met your course outcomes in other ways. Consider these possible ideas for assignments to replace a final exam. You also can ask your students for their suggestions.

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Instructors considering Blackboard tests for end-of-semester evaluations can find overview information, tutorial videos and links to in-depth documentation on Answers. In addition, LinkedIn Learning has sections on creating tests, as well as deploying and grading them.

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A new tool available to Syracuse University faculty, staff and students, PlayPosit is an interactive online video tool that allows learners to explore and apply new material at their own pace, increasing long-term retention and learning efficacy compared to standard video. The ITS Online Learning Services team has scheduled an introduction tutorial for Friday, April 24, from noon to 1 p.m. using the following link: https://zoom.us/j/174757621.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages, check out the ITS podcast and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Faculty who are preparing to teach a summer course online are encouraged to utilize the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit. Instructional design support is available for faculty who feel they need or want to seek additional resources before converting their course for online instruction. To request instructional design support, submit an email to help@syr.edu. Include the title of the course you are developing and indicate whether it is a graduate or undergraduate course. An instructional designer will contact you within one business day to coordinate consultation and resource support.

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When designing online tests, it’s important to consider such issues as academic integrity, learning objectives and resource availability. Read these best practices for testing in an online environment.

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ITS accessibility workshops help you understand technology accessibility, put it into practice and support the University’s efforts to create a more accessible, inclusive campus. You can view recordings of past sessions on Answers.

Reminder: Course Feedback Window Open

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Are you about to record your first video? Have you done a few in recent weeks but you’re not sure if you’re doing it correctly? Check out these best practices and recommendations for simple computer-based video recordings while working from home.

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Online quizzes and tests have features that allow instructors to build in feedback for all questions and to tailor that feedback to both correct and incorrect answers. Learn more about grading and providing feedback in Blackboard.

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Proper conduct is just as important in an online course as it is in a face-to-face course. Outlining proper communication and course expectations is important to support the learning of the class.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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As you might know, Syracuse University recently implemented Zoom for students, faculty and staff. With the recent surge in Zoom meetings worldwide, internet trolls have “Zoombombed” public meetings by sharing their screen and playing disturbing content. With this in mind, we strongly urge you to review your settings in detail before launching your next Zoom meeting. Recommended settings include:

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For more information on these and other security measures, please review these best practices and read this interview with Shiu-Kai Chin, a computer security expert and professor in the College of Engineering and Computer Science. The ITS Service Center also has compiled a helpful FAQ collection.

Summer Institute for Technology-Enhanced Learning

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Now that your courses are up and running in Blackboard, how do you assess your students’ learning and share feedback with them? Learn more about testing and grading in Blackboard.

Web Workarounds

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Transitioning to an online environment is challenging, especially when exams and quizzes are involved. For example, learners can text screen shots of exam questions to others or take an exam on a laptop while using a cell phone to browse for answers. The academic integrity overview included in the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit addresses these and other challenges.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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You and your students might be experiencing some feelings of isolation as you adjust to the reality of staying at home. Read about some fun, simple ways to foster a sense of inclusion in online learning communities.

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The ITS Information Security department has seen scammers attempting to take advantage of the current COVID-19 crisis. Be suspicious of email that asks you to donate, provide personal information or “click here now” to avoid getting locked out of your account. We also have seen scam emails promising COVID-19 immunity, cures or treatments. If you think you have received a phishing or scam email, forward it to itsecurity@syr.edu. Read more about safe computing at home.

Accessibility Playlist on LinkedIn Learning

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We are all experiencing uncertain times that can lead to stress, worry and discomfort. As you study online, we will share tips to stay healthy and successful. Today’s tip: Be positive. We are all in a period of learning and adjustment. If your routine or schedule doesn’t work out, it’s okay to try something different. The goal is to find the combination that works best and be flexible within that. Utilize your community and support system as much as you can.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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A new tool available to Syracuse University faculty, staff and students, PlayPosit is an interactive online video tool that allows learners to explore new material at their own pace, increasing long-term retention and learning efficacy over standard video. Learn how you can enrich your video content with a variety of interactions, including multiple-choice questions and fill-in-the-blanks.

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The COVID outbreak is disrupting teaching and learning in many ways, and such disruption can provide incredible learning opportunities. Whether using webconferencing, discussion boards or assignments within Blackboard, educating students about COVID-19 may help them to deal with the challenges of the pandemic.

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Linkedin Learning offers thousands of courses in a number of different topics and disciplines. Learn how you can integrate these video tutorials into your Blackboard course using a few easy steps.

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We are all experiencing uncertain times that can lead to stress, worry and discomfort. As you transition to the online classroom, we will share tips to stay healthy and successful. Today’s tip: take a break. Devote time to clear your mind and step aside from your computer screen or your work. Take a walk, get some exercise, read for pleasure or talk with a friend. Be sure to set a timer to prevent your break from going on longer than anticipated.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Preventing “Zoombombing”

While ITS recommends Blackboard Collaborate as the primary platform for synchronous classes and meetings, there also might be times when you use Zoom. Since there has been a large increase in Zoom meetings, internet trolls have been “Zoombombing” public meetings by sharing their screen and playing disturbing content. In an effort to combat this, Zoom has posted tips for preventing Zoombombing.

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We are all experiencing uncertain times that can lead to stress, worry and discomfort. As you transition to the online classroom, we will share tips to stay healthy and successful. Today’s tip: time management. Create and maintain a daily schedule that resembles as much of your on-campus academic schedule as possible. Your hours can change as needed each day depending on time zones, course meeting times or workload.

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Please continue to visit the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which we will update as needed. In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you also can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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Syracuse University Libraries staff members have compiled this guide to support faculty who wish to incorporate library resources into their online courses. In addition to using this guide, please consult the Rapid Online Course Development Guide for best practices on transitioning a face-to-face course to an online format.

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As previously discussed, webconferences or large files (e.g., videos, long audio files) can pose challenges to people with bandwidth issues. When possible, please consider using features such as discussion boards, group chats, PDFs and other alternatives to synchronous, bandwidth-intensive instruction. The iSchool has provided suggestions for ways to foster online student engagement beyond webconferencing.

Announcements on Blackboard

Are you going to be 15 minutes late to your scheduled Blackboard Collaborate session? Do you need to miss it entirely? Be sure to communicate any changes to your schedule using the Announcements feature within Blackboard. You also can use announcements for assignment/project due dates, changes to your syllabus and correction or clarification of materials.

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Depending on your students’ circumstances or location, they might encounter issues accessing certain online resources. In these situations, the ITS Service Center might be able to suggest an alternative. For example, if a student cannot access YouTube, the student likely could access video content on Ensemble. Please contact the ITS Service Center if you need to find a technological workaround to support student success.

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We hope this message finds you well. As classes resume online, please review the material available in the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit, which is designed to facilitate your transition to online instruction.

In addition to our regular communications each Tuesday and Thursday, you can refer to our archive of previous messages and follow ITS on Instagram and Twitter for updates and tips.

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In addition to resources made available by Syracuse University, we have published a list of academic resources from a variety of content providers (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) in response to COVID-19. We also have compiled a list of internet service providers offering special plans or incentives.

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Now more than ever, it’s essential to protect your information. Check out these tips to keep your data and Syracuse University’s data safe and secure.

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We continue to update our list of frequently asked questions about Blackboard Learn and Collaborate on Answers. Some of the most common questions from faculty and students include:

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Remote Desktop Services (RDS) provide remote access to a Windows 10 operating system complete with University-licensed software applications. This service is intended for Syracuse University students, faculty and staff who have a stable broadband internet connection but do not have a pre-existing method for working remotely. Please note that you should use your local device for Blackboard (including Collaborate) to ensure the best experience. You can learn about the new Remote Desktop Services, as well as other remote access solutions, on Answers.

Alternatives to Web Conferencing

With the heightened emphasis on Blackboard and Blackboard Collaborate, it is important to consider the desired outcome for a given lesson and whether a live web conference is necessary to achieve it. Web conferencing can pose challenges such as coordinating students in different time zones, bandwidth issues and more. When possible, consider using tools such as pre-recorded 15-minute audio lectures, discussion boards and group forums. For more ideas, read this blog on videoconferencing alternatives and our own iSchool’s helpful matrix of online interaction methods (both asynchronous and synchronous).

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To help you create inclusive online content, visit our Accessible Technology Toolkit on Answers and Blackboard’s free Accessibility Checklist. As we shift to online instruction, delivering content that is inclusively designed and accessible is essential. Blackboard Ally is included in our learning management system and enables us to build a more inclusive online learning environment.

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In a recent post on the Blackboard Community site, Blackboard Chief Product Officer Tim Tomlinson said the company has seen record numbers of users with universities moving to remote instruction. “I’m glad to report that our system is performing well,” Tomlinson said, “and users are having a good experience in large part.” ITS will continue to stay in close contact with our Blackboard service delivery manager to monitor and address any issues related to capacity. We also have posted some Blackboard Collaborate tips to ensure the best experience for you and your students. In addition, the ITS Service Center and Online Learning Services staff are committed to supporting faculty in delivering their courses via remote methods.

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Transitioning to an online environment is challenging, especially when exams and quizzes are involved. For example, learners can text screen shots of exam questions to others or take an exam on a laptop while using a cell phone to browse for answers. We have added an academic integrity overview to the toolkit to address these and other challenges.

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To help you negotiate the differences between teaching on and off campus, we have developed the Working and Teaching Remotely guide, which covers subjects such as Blackboard Collaborate and remote desktop solutions. Please direct any technology-related questions to your school or college IT personnel. A quick tip: Talk to your family about maximizing available bandwidth when you need to work online.

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Are you looking for an online meeting space? Blackboard Organizations can serve as an online meeting space for groups that would like a space for information sharing, collaboration and communication. Examples might include faculty and/or staff organizations, departmental organizations, research groups and recognized student organizations.

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We will continue to provide a range of training opportunities related to working and teaching online. You can find a schedule of upcoming Blackboard Collaborate Ultra training sessions on Answers.

This is not the semester that anyone envisioned. We realize that everyone’s situation is slightly different in terms of family, resources and more. Even so, please remember that you are not alone—we are all in this together. We look forward to helping you make the best of a challenging situation.

March 12, 2020

To support the transition to online course delivery effective at the end of the academic day on Friday, March 13, we will continue to send regular communications to ensure you have the most up-to-date information related to online teaching and learning. If you haven’t already, please bookmark the Academic Continuity Resources toolkit available at at Syracuse.edu/coronavirus/academic-continuity.

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