Semester start technology message provides helpful information for OHIO instructors
The Office of Information Technology (OIT) sent a semester start e-mail to all University instructors in December. The e-mail outlined OHIO’s most powerful computing tools, technology changes, and access to educational resources.
The email covered three key areas and is presented below.
Technology is constantly evolving, which can present challenges for instructors. This message highlights updated technology resources and enables instructors to provide critical feedback to OIT.
Read on to learn more about how OHIO instructors can leverage technology to enhance their spring semester courses.
Semester start essentials
Operating System (OS) updates for Windows and Mac
Using the most recent operating system for your computer is the best way to keep it operating smoothly and securely.
Blackboard integrations
Blackboard integration updates occurred between Dec. 14-16, for Lumen, Macmillan, McGraw Hill, Pearson, Proctortrack and Rising Software. Integrations from Cirrus by Paradigm, Evolve, Hypothesis and Ximera were retired during this time based on low usage.
New integrations may require course content to be recreated. Visit Blackboard Integration Updates for more details.
Learning Management System (LMS) demonstrations
Potential vendors for the next Learning Management System platform will provide product demonstrations Jan. 9-11. Sessions will be recorded for those who cannot attend. More details are available on the LMS Evaluation project page.
Create a Microsoft Team for your course
Microsoft Teams for Classroom works well with Blackboard to promote collaboration and interaction among students. To create a team for a course:
- Blackboard Original users can submit a Team Auto Creation form.
- Blackboard Ultra users can use the tools located within your Blackboard course.
Troubleshooting your Wi-Fi connection
A quick way to fix a device that won't connect to eduroam is by “forgetting” the Wi-Fi network and then reconnecting. To fix your connection, try:
- Forget a Wi-Fi network on iPhone, iPad, & Mac.
- Forget a Wi-Fi network on Windows.
- Forget a Wi-Fi network on Android.
- Reconnecting to eduroam
If you’re still having trouble connecting, contact the IT Service Desk.
Dry erase markers and chalk provided in classrooms
In addition to the normal technology services, all OIT-supported classrooms will be supplied with dry erase markers and chalk.
Each room has a clear plastic bin containing two black dry erase markers and a box of chalk. OIT will replenish the supplies during regular room checks.
If supplies are not available, please contact the IT Service Desk.
Take your instruction to the next level
Classroom hardware training
Learning Spaces will provide hands-on classroom hardware training on the Athens campus for instructors the week before spring classes begin.
Sessions will cover the following classroom types: small and medium (1-98 seats), large (99+ seats), Irvine 194/199, and Schoonover 450.
View session dates and times on the Learning Spaces Technology Resources and Training page.
Instructional technology consultations
Looking to refresh your course content or instruction? Connect with an instructional technologist for help with researching and selecting technology or navigating the technology review process.
Submit the Instructional Technology Services Request Form to schedule a consultation.
Software technology review
Want to try out a new technology? Submit a Technology Review Form to ensure your software is accessible and secure before introducing it to your students.
Digital accessibility checklist
Digital accessibility is your responsibility. Use OIT’s checklist for accessible course content to ensure your course materials are accessible for all students before the semester begins.
Stay Secure
Phishing, an attempt to solicit personal information through fraudulent emails, is responsible for more than 90 percent of stolen data from businesses.
If you received an email that you suspect is phishing, always check the Phish Bowl (ohio.edu/phish-bowl) or contact the Information Security Office.
Optimize your technology
New Microsoft Teams features
New features are available in Teams to enhance your hybrid class/meeting experience.
- Speaker Coach provides a private, personalized meeting coach during Teams meetings. This can be a great resource for your students who deliver presentations or speeches via Teams.
- You can now pop out shared content into a separate window during classes or meetings to enhance your viewing options.
- Additional meeting controls, including the ability to manage attendees' audio and video permissions, have been enabled.
Top Hat survey
If you use Top Hat, be on the lookout for a survey in January. The survey will ask how you use the tool and what features are most important to you. Survey results will be used to inform an upcoming request for proposal (RFP) process for a student response system.
Azure Multi-Factor Authentication migration
For greater security and a more user-friendly experience, Ohio University has moved from Duo Multi-Factor Authentication to Azure. Azure offers the option to “Remember Me” for 90 days instead of 30 days.
Tip: You can disable app lock so you will not be required to enter your phone’s passcode every time you authenticate.
Please contact the IT Service Desk if you are experiencing any difficulties with Azure migration.
Get help
Visit the Technology Help Center (help.ohio.edu) to submit a ticket or view:
- Knowledge Base – home to all technology help articles.
- Service Catalog – catalog of OIT services.