As we prepare for the spring semester, UDIT would like to remind you about new services, features, fixes, and support. Please feel free to forward this information on to your constituents and colleagues.
Technology that supports instruction
Updates to centrally scheduled classrooms
To prepare for the spring semester, IT University Media Services (IT-UMS) has been busy upgrading some centrally scheduled classrooms. IT-UMS has enabled USB connectivity between instructor laptops and in-classroom document cameras to support hybrid courses using Zoom.
Last year, twelve classrooms were updated to the full hybrid model with the addition of an in-classroom camera to replace the laptop camera for a wider view. This includes a conference audio system with omnidirectional microphone that has replaced the laptop microphone allowing the instructor to move freely around the front of the room. These new microphones will also pick up the voices of in-person students.
An additional 8 rooms received hybrid upgrades and 30 non-hybrid classrooms had wireless microphone systems installed. More classrooms will be upgraded throughout the semester as time and equipment availability allows during a continued global supply chain crisis.
View the equipment in each classroom.
Using classroom microphones
Currently 63 centrally scheduled classrooms, including auditoriums, have a microphone system. Connecting your own personal microphone to the room system is not permitted as damage to the system and connection points may occur. Room wireless systems are keyed to unique frequencies to prevent crosstalk with adjoining rooms which renders connecting your own microphone to the house system inoperative. If there are concerns with COVID-19 surface contact transmission, the microphone surface may be gently cleaned with sanitizing wipes. Please do not use sprays or soak the microphone surface.
Exceptions for personal microphones: some smaller and all-analog rooms do not have microphones. Microphones cannot be added to these rooms at this time. In these smaller and analog rooms faculty may provide their own personal Bluetooth headset/speaker system. Faculty may consider purchasing this low-cost personal body system: ZOWEETEK Voice Amplifier with UHF Wireless Microphone Headset (Amazon). IT-UMS does not warrant the quality of this system but suggests it based upon current and successful use by several faculty members.
In-classroom faculty orientations
Classroom orientations are available again this year as part of the Keep Calm and Teach On (KCTO) event. An open house session is scheduled for Monday, January 31st from 9AM to 4PM in Willard 116.
Classroom orientations in your classroom are also available by appointment. Contact IT-UMS at (302) 831-3546 or visit the IT-UMS Classroom Technology site to schedule.
Pearson Video Learning Classroom Studios open for Spring
The Learning Classroom Studios (located on the 3rd floor of Pearson Hall) are staffed with full-time technicians to assist with complicated video needs. Each room is designed for full-class interaction between instructors and students through audio, video, Zoom, and course content. Recordings will be uploaded to your My Media account and Canvas course upon request. Space is available in spring for full-semester classes and single recording sessions. Please contact Academic Technology Services (IT-ATS) to request a tour or reserve a classroom studio.
What’s new with Zoom?
Zoom has recently added and updated many features that will help instructors engage students and manage hybrid classes. Among the updates are video focus mode, participant slide control, ability to stop incoming video, and new polling options.
For more detailed information, check out the “New Zoom Features” tab in our Zoom Instructions page.
To access the latest features and fixes, update your Zoom client software regularly. UDIT recommends updating at least once a month or using the new automatic update feature. For updating instructions, visit the UD Zoom Conferencing page and click the “Zoom Software Updates” icon.
Using Zoom in the classroom this semester? Check out the “Using Zoom in a Classroom” tab on our Zoom Instructions page for tips and suggestions.
Canvas spring courses are available
As of December 7, 2021, spring 2022 Canvas courses have been created. Faculty should check that their courses are appearing as expected on their Canvas Dashboard. Also, it is important to read the latest FERPA guidelines provided by the Registrar’s Office. See this post for information on confirming sites, requesting changes, getting ready for the spring term, and links to the Registrar’s guidelines about FERPA.
Faculty can review approved external LTI tools to extend the functionality of Canvas. Other tools can be requested but must first be reviewed.
UD Capture
Faculty must submit their UD Capture Classroom Capture recording requests before Friday, February 4 to ensure their first class sessions are recorded. Requests after February 4 may be delayed before being activated.
Visit the UD Capture page to review all of the options for recording courses for the spring, online, in person, or hybrid. Also, learn how to use Zoom to support remote students in the classroom.
New Scantron test scoring and frequency scanning process
Test scoring and frequency scanning will be available at the Smith Hall Service Desk, as always (Service Desk hours). The process for test scoring drop-off is being updated which will allow faculty members to submit a request through the test scoring form before dropping off the scantrons for scoring. This will enable faculty to track the ongoing status of their request from drop-off to pick-up.
Other services
Specialty software available online
With Remote Computer Labs, you can remotely access software just like you would in our on-site computer lab. All you need is an internet connection and a web browser or Microsoft’s Remote Desktop app. Learn how to get started.
On-campus printing
Wireless printing is newly available for UDIT supported printers. Students can print directly from their laptop to any of the available UDIT supported printers across campus. Learn how to use wireless and mobile printing.
Microsoft Bookings
Microsoft Bookings is a web-based appointment solution offered through Microsoft o365. Bookings offers an easy to configure website with a calendar of bookable services. Bookings integrates seamlessly with your Exchange Calendar and is available to all faculty/staff with an A3 Microsoft 365 license. Learn how to use Bookings to manage your appointments.
Wi-Fi
UDIT has been improving Wi-Fi networks by enhancing features and connectivity.
- eduroam Wi-Fi now supports both private and public IP addresses as well as static IP addresses to provide connectivity options that align more closely with “UD Devices” Wi-Fi.
- Wi-Fi 6 Support – Wi-Fi controllers upgraded to a known/tested stable version of code capable of supporting the new Wi-Fi 6 access points installed since 2020.
- Security and performance patching on the eduroam authentication servers.
- Upgraded Wi-Fi controllers with 20 Gbps redundant connectivity into the new core campus MPLS infrastructure and firewall network.
- Campus Wi-Fi on-boarding (Get Started at UD) upgraded to provide Android 11 devices the highest level of security—previously only offered on other mobile device Operating Systems.
Network Architecture
UDIT upgraded campus-wide network connectivity from 10 Gbps connectivity to redundant 40 and 100 Gbps connectivity across campus, all connecting via new 100Gbps border firewalls for Internet access. This will provide a faster online experience for UD’s users and systems.
Academic Support
Keep Calm and Teach On Workshop Series
Registration is now open for the long-standing Keep Calm & Teach On (KCTO) workshop series to help anyone who teaches at UD prepare for the upcoming semester.
Winter KCTO features focused, just-in-time workshops that can help instructors explore classroom teaching technologies, polish pedagogical strategy, refine the student experience, and build technical prowess.
Instructional Design
Instructors can visit the IT-ATS Instructional Design Services website to schedule a one-on-one consultation with an instructional designer or find important resources to improve their own course design.
Tech at UD website for students
The Tech at UD website has been updated for the spring semester. The website is the one-stop source of information for students with technology questions covering all of the major tools, as well as ONEcard services, software, and printing.
Smith Hall Service Desk
The Smith Hall Service Desk will be open with print and computing services available. The hours of operation will be posted on the Computing Site webpage.
Virtual Welcome Bar continues
The Virtual Welcome Bar service will continue to be offered through the spring semester. Instructors that have teaching and technology questions can get immediate support by joining the continuous Zoom meeting Monday through Friday, 8:30AM to 4:30PM.
