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| Table of Contents |
|---|
Welcome to the first “Tech Tips” email of the new year! We hope you enjoyed some time to rest and re-charge over the last few weeks in preparation for a great spring semester.
In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of student communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This month’s topics:
- Submitting Your COVID Documentation
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Number Verification
- Blackboard and Multi-Factor Authentication
- Remote Access
- Orange Bot
- “ITS In-Depth”: Accessible Technology
- “Behind the Monitor” Podcast
- Connecting with Students
- Strategies for Missed Classes and Late Work
Submitting Your COVID Documentation
We recently provided guidance on how to submit your documentation verifying your vaccination status (specifically, how to take, upload and submit a photo of your COVID vaccination card) if you have yet to do so. You can learn more by visiting the “How to Email a Picture From a Smartphone” page on Answers.
Multi-Factor Authentication: Number Verification
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is currently enabled for all faculty, staff and students accessing SUMail, Office365, MySlice, Blackboard and many other web-based applications. An upcoming change will strengthen MFA’s ability to prevent the unauthorized use of NetIDs and passwords. Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 18, users responding to a push notification from the Microsoft Authenticator app will be presented with a number verification that they will need to type into the app to complete the approval process. Those who currently use SMS (text messaging) or receive a phone call to authorize their accounts will not be affected by this change. You can learn more about this change on Answers.
Blackboard and Multi-Factor Authentication
As mentioned, Blackboard has been enhanced with Microsoft MFA. The function of MFA in Blackboard is similar to its behavior in other campus systems where it is enabled.
Remote Access
Effective Jan. 18, remote access via Syracuse University Remote Access (SURA) VPN configuration will no longer be available on personal devices. Those with University-owned and -managed PCs or Macs will not be affected by this change. You can learn more about remote access on Answers. If you have questions related to this change, please contact your academicor administrative IT support personnel.
Orange Bot
Orange Bot is a virtual assistant that can help answer your questions about the University’s information technology. Orange Bot is available on the ITS website, with additional websites adding the feature soon. You can help Orange Bot provide better answers by asking it questions and then rating its responses.
‘ITS In-Depth’: Accessible Technology
Each edition of “ITS In-Depth” takes a closer look at a hot topic in information technology. For the latest installment, we talked with Information Technology (IT) Accessibility Analyst Pam Thomas to learn about the role that technology plays in creating an inclusive Orange community.
‘Behind the Monitor’ Podcast
ITS has a podcast called “Behind the Monitor” that discusses technology’s role at Syracuse University. The latest episode features a run-down of updates for the spring semester, as well as a discussion of New Year’s tech resolutions. You can subscribe to “Behind the Monitor” on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Connecting With Students
As we get in the swing of a new semester, we know that staying in touch with students is important, both in person and online. Research shows that students learn better when they feel connected to their peers and to their instructors. Connections with staff also help to support learning. Be deliberate about building that sense of community and relationship (you can watch this video to learn more). Be sure to check your Syracuse University email and log in to Blackboard often to receive any possible communications. In particular, students might contact instructors if they are unable to access a course in Blackboard. Please make sure your courses are available in Blackboard. Also, please note that some messages sent through Blackboard wind up in recipients’ junk folders, so be sure to check your junk folder as well as your inbox.
Strategies for Missed Classes and Late Work
With students encouraged to stay out of class if they are sick, faculty might need to consider more flexible attendance policies and submission deadlines. This creates even more work for instructors. Log in to Answers and search “Strategies for Missed Classes and Late Assignments” for some tips from Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede, including incorporating Blackboard and lecture capture technology.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
NOV. 30, 2021
We hope that you enjoyed a restorative Thanksgiving break and feel ready for the home stretch of the semester. In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of student communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
Personal pronouns are the ways in which we refer to each other in the third person (for example, “he/him/his,” “she/her/hers,” “they/their/theirs,” etc.). If you have selected your personal pronouns in MySlice, you now have the option to display them when using Zoom at Syracuse University. The latest blog post from ITS explains how.
Upcoming Change to Remote Access
Effective Jan. 15, 2022, remote access via Syracuse University Remote Access VPN configuration will no longer be available. You can learn more about remote access on Answers. If you have questions related to this change, please contact your department’s IT support personnel.
...
Accessibility enables full participation by all people regardless of their individual learning styles and abilities. While most tools (Adobe, Qualtrics, etc.) feature accessibility checks, the content creator ultimately is responsible for creating fully accessible content. To learn how to create inclusive online content, review the Accessible Technology Toolkit on Answers. The toolkit features workshops, resources for event planners and more.
...
Orange Bot is a virtual assistant that can help answer your questions about University information technology. Orange Bot is available on the ITS website, with additional websites adding the feature soon. You can help Orange Bot provide better answers by asking it questions and then rating its responses. Try it out at its.syr.edu.
Blackboard and Multi-Factor Authentication
Beginning Monday, Dec. 20, at 8 a.m. ET, Blackboard’s security will be enhanced with Microsoft multi-factor authentication. You can learn more by reading “Multi-Factor Authentication Coming to Blackboard” on Answers.
Alternatives to Traditional Final Exams
As we approach finals week, keep in mind that instructors do not necessarily need to have a final exam if students can demonstrate they have met the course outcomes in other ways. Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede has compiled some ideas for assessments to replace a final exam.
Course Feedback Window
The window for collecting student course feedback this semester is now open. The University’s course feedback platform, EvaluationKIT, allows instructors and administrators to monitor real-time response rates and to access results after grades are submitted. A good way to improve response rates is to offer class time for students to provide their feedback. If you have any questions, please email coursefeedback@syr.edu.
Open Educational Resources
If you will teach a course next semester, consider how you and your students can take advantage of open educational resources that reside in the public domain or have been released under a copyright license that permits anyone to freely use and repurpose them. Open educational resources include full courses, course materials, textbooks, streaming videos and any other tools or materials used to support learning. Syracuse University Libraries has compiled a research guide to help you learn more.
Partnership for Inclusive Education
The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence invites instructors to participate in the Partnership for Inclusive Education. This is a partnership between faculty and student consultants to explore, develop and achieve pedagogical goals toward deep learning for all students. Previous projects have included assignment design, course review, diversity and inclusion development, mid-course student feedback and online teaching strategies. If you are interested in learning more, please email Laurel Willingham-McLain at lwilling@syr.edu.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
...
We hope your work is going well! In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
Although Cybersecurity Awareness Month officially ended in October, the ITS Information Security Department has extended it into November! Check out this digital scavenger hunt to help you learn more about how you can keep your information secure.
...
MySlice was upgraded in September. The upgrade included enhanced security with Microsoft MFA. Additional details can be found on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. If you are having trouble logging in to MySlice, try clearing your browser cache and cookies. Browser-specific instructions are available on the Clearing Browser History and Cache Answers page.
LinkedIn Learning: Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word
Available to all University students, instructors and staff, LinkedIn Learning provides access to thousands of high-quality, on-demand courses. Some good options include:
...
Additionally, the Research Computing team will review connecting on and off campus and how to reach the team when questions arise. You can learn more and register online.
Strategies for Missed Classes and Late Work
With students encouraged to stay out of class if they are sick, faculty might need to consider more flexible attendance policies and submission deadlines. This creates even more work for instructors. Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede offers a few suggestions to address this challenge, including incorporating Blackboard and lecture capture technology.
...
- Getting the Most Out of Mid-Course Feedback
- Learning and Relationships in (and Beyond) Our Courses
- Experiences in Student Engagement: A Panel Discussion
You can review session recordings, readings and more.
Blackboard and Multi-Factor Authentication
Beginning Monday, Dec. 20, at 8 a.m. ET, Blackboard’s security will be enhanced with Microsoft multi-factor authentication. You can learn more about this upcoming change on Answers.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
...
We hope your work is going well! In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, but it’s always a good time to be on the lookout for malware. Malware is a catch-all term for any type of malicious software, regardless of how it works, its intent or how it’s distributed. A virus, meanwhile, is a specific type of malware that self-replicates by inserting its code into other programs. Viruses spread by attaching themselves to legitimate files and programs and are distributed through infected websites, flash drives and emails. A victim activates a virus by opening the infected application or file. Once activated, a virus might delete or encrypt files, modify applications or disable system functions. Learn how to protect your device from malware on Answers.
Qualtrics Survey Tool
Qualtrics is a cloud-based research and survey tool available to all current faculty, staff and students. With over 100 question types, Qualtrics allows for many different types of research. Qualtrics users also are able to share surveys and projects while maintaining secure credentials. Learn more about Qualtrics on Answers.
Rave Guardian Safety Mobile App
Faculty and staff are encouraged to download Rave Guardian, a free app created by Rave Mobile Safety, which the University already uses to send Orange Alerts via platforms such as email, phone and text. With Rave Guardian, users can receive important campus notifications, communicate with the Department of Public Safety and gain access to helpful resources. You can download the Rave Guardian app in the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for “Rave Guardian.”
...
Additionally, the Research Computing team will review connecting on and off campus and how to reach the team when questions arise. You can learn more and register online.
PlayPosit Training
Available to faculty, staff and students, PlayPosit is an interactive online video tool that allows learners to explore new material at their own pace. PlayPosit hosts regular training for partner campuses like Syracuse University in a webinar format. The series includes sessions for creating content with PlayPosit for a variety of settings: asynchronous, synchronous, remote, hybrid and in-person. You can view archived sessions and upcoming meetings on PlayPosit’s website. Planned topics for live sessions include:
...
We hope your work is going well! In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
MySlice Tips and Reminders
As you know, MySlice has a new look after a system upgrade last month. MySlice’s security also was enhanced with Microsoft Two-Factor Authentication (also known as multi-factor authentication or MFA). If you haven’t visited MySlice since the upgrade, please clear your web browser cache before doing so. Please also navigate to myslice.syr.edu rather than using an old bookmark. Clearing your cache and navigating directly to the site will resolve most issues related to MFA.
...
Students recently received an overview of resources to manage academic and personal stress. Faculty and staff might wish to review these resources as they assist students during the midterm period.
We particularly want to highlight the information on disability accommodations for exams. As a reminder, faculty can coordinate with the Center for Disability Resources (and your student) in implementing accommodations using the Disability Faculty Portal found on MySlice.
In addition, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellenceoffers resources for faculty seeking to enable student academic success during times of stress:
- Panel Discussion on Stress-Aware/Trauma-Informed Teaching (Video)
- Stress, Stresses and Learning
- Responses to Trauma
- Stress-Aware/Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices
- Alternatives to Traditional Exams
- Terms for Testing
Personal Pronouns
International Pronouns Day is Wednesday, Oct. 20. Personal pronouns (“he,” “she,” “they,” etc.) specifically refer to the pronouns that people use for themselves. All students, instructors and staff can update their personal pronouns in MySlice by following these instructions. To learn more about personal pronouns, including suggestions for how to ask someone what their pronouns are, review this FAQ on Answers.
Making Things Happen at the MakerSpace
The MakerSpace is a hidden gem on campus. Located in the Kimmel Computer Lab, the MakerSpace is a collaborative space where students, faculty and staff can create fun, inventive projects using a variety of specialized machines, including 3D printers, a laser engraver, an embroidery machine and more. Learn more.
Upcoming Events
- Visual Thinking Strategies (Oct. 22)
- Visual Thinking Strategies (Oct. 25)
- Building Awareness and Confidence in Using Pronouns & Preferred Names (Oct. 27)
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
...
We hope your work is going well—and that you’re enjoying the start of fall! In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
MySlice has a new look after a system upgrade. Before logging in, please clear your web browser cache. The refreshed, tile-based MySlice features increased mobile compatibility, accessibility and personalization. You can find information about the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Helpful tips include:
Disconnecting Wireless Hotspots
University network administrators have detected several wireless access points or “hotspots” coming from personal devices across campus. Wireless access points and hotspots are not permitted on campus because they can cause interference and disrupt the normal use of University-provided wireless access by students, faculty and staff. If you currently use a hotspot, please disconnect it. If you need help connecting your devices to AirOrangeX, you can review step-by-step instructionsor call the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677.
...
If you are having issues with Zoom, be sure you have updated to the latest version. Detailed instructions to check for updates are available from Zoom. You can learn more on the Zoom at Syracuse University Answers page.
Also, if you are an instructor who uses Zoom in the classroom for students who are unable to attend, we have provided some tips for doing so in the Classroom Technology Guide for Hybrid Course Delivery.
Phishing Awareness
Criminals use malicious email to try to trick you into revealing your password or other sensitive information or to infect your computer with malware. These phishers sometimes try to make their emails look real by using companies’ or institutions’ logos, fonts and colors. Urgent demands also are common (for example, “Reply with your password within 24 hours or your account will be closed!”). You can learn more about identifying phishing emails on Answers.
Upcoming Events
- Disrupting Academic Bullying (Sept. 29)
- Building Awareness and Confidence in Using Pronouns & Preferred Names (Oct. 21)
Facilitating Large-Group Masked Discussion
Large-group class discussion can be difficult to manage because it calls for sustained student engagement, interest and participation. Additionally, in a large classroom space with people wearing masks, it can sometimes be difficult to hear what others are saying. The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and ITS Online Learning Services have partnered to offer some tips for how in-person instructors can leverage technology to achieve their goals.
ITS In-Depth: Extended Reality
Each edition of “ITS In-Depth” takes a closer look at a hot topic in information technology. With extended reality (XR) rapidly blurring the lines between science fiction and, well, reality, we talked with ITS Online Learning Services Instructional Analyst Jason Webb G’18 to learn how XR is shaping teaching, learning and research at the University.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
...
We hope your semester is off to a great start! In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We also will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers, as well as an archive of past “Tech Tips” emails for faculty and staff.
This week’s topics:
...
All faculty and staff have access to Zoom videoconferencing by logging in to zoom.syr.edu. To help ensure the security of your Zoom meetings, ITS recommends taking the following steps when hosting a session:
...
You can learn more about these and other recommendations on the Securing Zoom Meetings page on Answers.
MySlice Upgrade Sept. 25-26
MySlice is getting a new look later this month! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
...
Remote Desktop Services offer a virtual desktop environment that allows you to access a University desktop from any personal computer with a stable broadband internet connection. More information is available on Answers. If you know how to connect already, you can go directly to rds.syr.edu.
Kaltura Video Management
Whether you need to share video content for your course or a series of training videos for your staff, Kaltura is the University’s official video repository tool. This cloud-based video management system helps you store and share video content to create engaging and accessible experiences for your audiences. You can learn more on Answers.
Strategies for Missed Classes and Late Work
Even in the best of times, learners might juggle many responsibilities and miss multiple classes, request a flexible deadline or choose to submit late work. This creates even more work for instructors. Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Director Martha Diede offers a few suggestions to address this challenge, including incorporating Blackboard and lecture capture technology.
...
On Friday, Sept. 24, from noon to 1 p.m. ET, the ITS Online Learning Services team will host a training with PlayPosit on the use of playlists. PlayPosit playlists allow you to build collections of learning “bulbs” with related content that can be organized via modules and presented in progression with supplementary materials. Basic PlayPosit knowledge is encouraged before attending this training. If you are not familiar with PlayPosit, please see Answers or review the PlayPosit Academy. Attendees can join by Zoom.
TurningPoint Classroom Response System
TurningPoint is the supported classroom response technology at Syracuse University. Classroom response technologies are designed for instructors to gather real-time feedback during instruction. They can be useful for students and instructors to assess in-class understanding of the materials. In-class polling can also increase student engagement while helping instructors monitor attendance and participation. You can learn more about TurningPoint on Answers.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
...
In addition to exploring the IT resources available to faculty and staff on Answers, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
We will continue to communicate with students throughout the semester. You can find a collection of those communications on Answers. Please also monitor the Stay Safe website for up-to-date information and guidance.
...
Criminals use malicious email to try to trick you into revealing your password or other sensitive information or to infect your computer with malware. These phishers sometimes try to make their emails look real by using companies’ or institutions’ logos, fonts and colors. Urgent demands also are common (for example, “Reply with your password within 24 hours or your account will be closed!”). You can learn more about identifying phishing emails on Answers.
Accessing Your Syracuse University Email
Syracuse University uses email as the primary vehicle for official communication with students, staff and faculty. Complete details, including login links, are available on the Email homepage on Answers.
Rave Guardian Safety Mobile App
Faculty and staff are encouraged to download Rave Guardian, a free app created by Rave Mobile Safety, which the University already uses to send Orange Alerts via platforms such as email, phone and text. With Rave Guardian, users can receive important campus notifications, communicate with the Department of Public Safety and gain access to helpful resources. You can download the Rave Guardian app in the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for “Rave Guardian.”
...
MySlice is getting a new look in September! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
...
The ITS Learning Environments team updated the technology in 36 registrar classrooms and eight captive classrooms this summer. If you are teaching in person and want to know about the technology available in specific classrooms, you can review our Classroom Resource Guide. Our Classroom Technology Guide offers tips on getting your classroom ready for instruction.
Connecting With Students
As we get in the swing of a new semester, we know that staying in touch with students is important, both in person and online. Research shows that students learn better when they feel connected to their peers and to their instructors. Connections with staff also help to support learning. Be deliberate about building that sense of community and relationship (you can watch this video to learn more). Be sure to check your Syracuse University email and log in to Blackboard often to receive any possible communications. In particular, students might contact instructors if they are unable to access a course in Blackboard. Please make sure your courses are available in Blackboard. Also, please note that some messages sent through Blackboard wind up in recipients’ junk folders, so be sure to check your junk folder as well as your inbox.
...
You can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
...
Technology can be a great tool for managing your time. When planning your next meeting, ask yourself: Could this just be an email? If real-time interaction is necessary, does it need to be in-person or would a Teams or Zoom meeting suffice? We want to hear from you: What are some ways you’ve used technology to save time, energy or money? Send us your success story at itscomm@syr.edu.
MySlice Unavailable Sept. 25-26 for Upgrade
MySlice is getting a new look in September! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
...
If you haven’t already, check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.) You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu. Learn more about face mask requirements on campus shuttles and Centro buses.
...
The “Focus on Teaching and Learning” lunch and learn series is a collaborative effort between the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment that aims to build your skills and knowledge while engaging in conversation with colleagues. The next session is titled “Pandemic Teaching and Learning Strategies: What Do We Keep and Why Do We Keep It?” You can learn more and register online.
Online Resources for Faculty and Staff
ITS maintains a collection of online teaching and working resources on Answers. This collection includes web conferencing solutions, file sharing and storage options, helpful links and login locations. You also can review some tips for safe computing.
Technology in the Classroom
The ITS Learning Environments team updated the technology in 36 registrar classrooms and eight captive classrooms this summer. If you are teaching in person and want to know about the technology available in specific classrooms, you can review our Classroom Resource Guide. Our Classroom Technology Guide offers tips on getting your classroom ready for instruction. Please also refer to last week’s message from Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost John Liu about managing COVID in the classroom.
Aligning Courses for Any Format
Using the course alignment checklist on Answers, instructors can ensure that their course outcomes align with their assessments, assignments and activities. Aligned courses:
...
The upcoming Syracuse University Libraries Faculty and Teaching Assistant Support Workshop will discuss several practical ways that the Libraries can support teaching during these unpredictable times. Topics include discovering and sharing digital resources, showing videos in class, supporting students with videos and tutorials about the research process. Two Zoom sessions will be offered on Tuesday, Aug. 31, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET and on Thursday, Sept. 2, from 11 a.m. to noon ET. You can learn more and register online.
Blackboard Gets a New Look
Syracuse University Blackboard has upgraded to Ultra Base Navigation. The change provides a modernized landing page that includes a new notification system, a consolidated view of course activity and easier ways to navigate to course content. You can learn more, including how to find your courses within Blackboard, on the Blackboard Navigation Update page on Answers. The Answers resource also includes schedule information for faculty support sessions offered by ITS Online Learning Services.
...
In addition, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
...
MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for an upgrade to the system’s navigation and user experience. You can find additional information, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page.
Inclusive and Accessible Events
As you plan events, following the guidelines for inclusive events can help everyone to feel welcome. For a comprehensive checklist to ensure you are adhering to all guidelines for attendees, please review this document: Inclusive Event Planning Checklist.docx. You also can review a brief planning guide for in-person events, which includes such considerations as budget, space and audio-visual needs.
...
If you haven’t already, check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.) You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu. Learn more about face mask requirements on campus shuttles and Centro buses.
...
The “Focus on Teaching and Learning” lunch and learn series is a collaborative effort between the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment that aims to build your skills and knowledge while engaging in conversation with colleagues. The next session is titled “Pandemic Teaching and Learning Strategies: What Do We Keep and Why Do We Keep It?” You can learn more and register online.
Online Resources for Faculty and Staff
ITS maintains a collection of online teaching and working resources on Answers. This collection includes web conferencing solutions, file sharing and storage options, helpful links and login locations. You also can review some tips for safe computing.
Blackboard Gets a New Look
Syracuse University Blackboard has upgraded to Ultra Base Navigation. The change provides a modernized landing page that includes a new notification system, a consolidated view of course activity and easier ways to navigate to course content. You can learn more, including how to find your courses within Blackboard, on the Blackboard Navigation Update page on Answers. The Answers resource also includes schedule information for faculty support sessions offered by ITS Online Learning Services.
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Each month, Information Technology Services (ITS) provides updates and insights about how you can make the best use of technology in your work. In addition, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, a representative from the Help Desk, ITS Online Learning Services, the Center for Online and Digital Learning or the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will assist you.
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Orange Alert is Syracuse University’s crisis notification system, designed to provide rapid notification and instruction to students, faculty and staff in the event of a crisis in progress. When activated, Orange Alert uses email, text messaging and phone calls to send a brief notice about the situation and instructions of what to do. Learn how to update your Orange Alert contact information.
Web Conferencing Comparison
Even if you’re on campus, online meetings can save time and energy compared to in-person meetings. ITS supports a variety of web conferencing tools, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Blackboard Collaborate Ultra and Google Meet. If you need assistance in determining which web conferencing tool is right for you, check out the Web Conferencing Comparison guide on Answers.
Digital Maps Help You Navigate Campus
If you haven’t already, check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.). You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu.
ITS In-Depth: Ransomware
Ransomware attacks have been in the news lately, including an attack over the Fourth of July weekend that impacted up to 1,500 organizations. In the new edition of “ITS In-Depth,” we speak with Syracuse University Chief Information Security Officer Chris Croad about what ransomware is—and how to protect against it.
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The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence invites instructors to a week of virtual reentry sessions that will cover ways to promote deep learning for all students. Each session features small, researched steps instructors can take and provides brief periods of time for hands-on course planning. You can learn more and register online.
Blackboard Navigation Update and Accessibility
On July 17, Syracuse University Blackboard updated to Ultra Base Navigation. The change provides users with a modernized landing page that includes a new notification system, a consolidated view of activity across their courses and easier ways to navigate to course content. You can learn more on Answers.
A few small adjustments to your Blackboard course materials might improve their accessibility and provide advantages to all of your students. Along those lines, you might consider using such tools as Blackboard Ally and reach out to the Center for Disability Resources. Of course, you can always contact help@syr.edu for support in enhancing the accessibility of your course materials.
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