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TLOS Top 10 for Spring 2024

The start of a new year is a time for resolutions, reflection, and fresh opportunities. In this Top 10 we have collected updates about TLOS-supported tools and processes, calls to action, and a chance for recognition of your accomplishments. Our mission is to provide you with resources and services that enrich your pedagogy, improve student learning, and help you adapt to changing conditions. As your spring classes get underway, we hope the following topics will assist you in preparing for a successful spring semester. 

  1. Use Gradescope in your courses
    Following a successful pilot, Gradescope is now available for all Canvas course sites under a multi-year software contract. Gradescope offers flexible options for grading paper-based, digital, and bubble-sheet quizzes, exams, and homework assignments. The tool pairs AI-assisted grading with instructor-created rubrics to increase the efficiency and consistency of scoring and facilitate more timely feedback. After assignments are graded, you can analyze questions to better understand student performance.

  2. Apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles
    By applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, you can create inclusive and flexible learning environments that support all students. Request a TLOS consultation with UDL experts to learn how to leverage the UDL framework to advance inclusive pedagogy and meaningful interactions that facilitate persistence and success. Prefer a flipped approach to learning more about UDL? Participate in the self-paced UDL 101 course to dive deeper.

  3. Be ready for Google storage and email changes 
    Spring ’24 is a key semester for Virginia Tech's Google / Microsoft changes. You should stay informed and get ready. First, be sure your Google Photos app is empty before January 16, when the app will be removed from VT Google accounts. Second, Gmail users should take time between now and January 15 to delete unneeded mail: this will help speed up your email migration. Third, follow guidance from your IT office regarding storage moves, shared drives, etc. For questions, 4Help IT Support is available 24/7.

  4. Leverage Zoom’s AI Features
    Zoom now includes a suite of AI features (referred to as “Zoom AI Companion”) that can enhance video meetings. In your courses, you can leverage these features to introduce capabilities such as live transcription, meeting summaries in multiple languages, chat AI, and whiteboard AI tools. Following a thorough review of Zoom’s privacy and security standards, these new AI features are available at Virginia Tech, but they are set to “off” by default. If you are interested in using these features, you can enable them in your Zoom account settings.

  5. Request assistance with instructional media, video, and graphics
    TLOS supports high-quality video production in a classroom, in a studio setting, or in the field for course-based instruction, employee training, research, engagement, and marketing. Request a consultation with a media expert to get started or schedule time in our “Do It Yourself” (DIY) studio. The DIY studio design allows users to walk in, turn on the lights and camera, sign in on the computer, and start recording.

  6. Try out the redesigned Canvas Discussion tool
    The newly redesigned Canvas Discussion tool introduces a new user interface and several new features, such as enhanced search and filter options, anonymous posting, the ability to mention other users, and an edit history function. The tool has successfully undergone an accessibility audit and is fully responsive for optimal viewing on mobile devices. All Canvas courses will use the new tool beginning on July 20, 2024, but you can opt to use it early. No migration is necessary — all existing discussions will automatically use the new features when you activate the tool in your Canvas courses. Explore the new features and learn more by enrolling in a Canvas Discussion and Announcements Redesign workshop.

  7. Prepare for Kaltura media storage changes
    Do you have meeting recordings or other videos stored in Kaltura at video.vt.edu? If so, spending some time reviewing your files will reduce the number of future email messages you may receive. Beginning on March 11, 2024, videos stored in Kaltura that have not been published to a Canvas course or a video.vt.edu channel or collection will be deleted if they have not been viewed in the past 24 months. Video owners will receive a notification email 14 days prior to removal. You can delete unneeded files at any time. To retain a file, you just need to play the video for 15 seconds.

  8. Register for generative AI workshops
    Five new AI-focused workshops have been added to the pair of introductory workshops. You have the option of participating in hands-on, collaborative sessions as well as traditional format workshops. Topics include using Microsoft Copilot, AI-assisted course design, and enhancing Canvas assessments. Registration for workshops is open now.

  9. Transition to Google Assignments LTI 1.3
    Google Workspace apps will remain available for teaching throughout the email and calendar transition. Google Assignments Learning Tool Interoperability (LTI) 1.3 is an integrated application that gives you a fast, simple way to distribute, analyze, and grade student work in Canvas. You and your students can now create a Drive item (including Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, Forms, and Drawings) and collaborate with other course users. If your Canvas courses are still using the previous tool, “Google Apps LTI,” you will need to move to Google Assignments LTI 1.3 before June 30, 2024.

  10. Submit an XCaliber Award nomination
    The XCaliber Award — shorthand for exceptional, high-caliber contributions to technology-enriched learning activities — celebrates courses and significant projects that demonstrate the exemplary use of technology and student-centered pedagogy. Recipients receive a cash award, a commemorative plaque, and an invitation to showcase their award-winning activities at a special event. Does one of your courses or projects measure up? Apply or encourage colleagues to apply — download and complete the nomination packet and submit it to tlos@vt.edu no later than Feb. 23, 2024.

Stay connected with TLOS throughout the semester on follow us on LinkedIn, X, or Facebook for tips, updates, and news about learning technologies. Contact us at tlos@vt.edu with questions or to share an idea.