Tips for the Start of Fall Term
As Canvas experts, we have a way of knowing the answers to the questions you may have this term before you know you’ll need them. So, to help you prepare, we’ve created a list of our Canvas tips, dates, and processes that are most commonly asked as we embark on a new term.
New IT Messaging Provides Status Page and Consistent Look
We all know that when myFSCJ is unavailable, you can expect an email from ITInfo@fscj.edu informing you of the issue and another one once the service has been restored.
However, beginning this Fall the IT department will refine our process and provide more consistent messaging when systems experience issues. Additionally, if you suspect a system may be experiencing performance issues, there will be a status page that is updated as an issue arises.
InstructureCon 2022 Overview
On July 14, the FSCJ EdTech team attended InstructureCon 2022. This convention showcased the latest in Canvas and online learning. The conference was virtual this year, with live sessions that were also recorded so anyone could catch up on whatever they missed. We connected with other educators across the world through games and online discussion forums. We were inspired by the keynote speakers, creative inventor Simone Giertz and organizational psychologist Adam Grant. The following were some highlighted sessions we found helpful along with the avatars we created at the conference!
Canvas New Feature Release, June 18th!
Instructure will perform its monthly release of new features to Canvas on Saturday, June 18th, 2022. This is a part of the regular process by which Canvas provides new features to all of its users on the third Saturday of every month, without interrupting access to the system. More information about how Canvas releases work can be found here. This month, we have a big update concerning what browsers are supported while accessing our direct Canvas link and some small updates for our equation editor and the Canvas Syllabus page.
Setting Your Canvas Home Page
Our students are our top priority, so it’s always important to consider the student experience as you’re finalizing your Canvas courses. One way to improve the experience for online students is to select a Canvas Home Page to introduce yourself and set your expectations for the course.
Prospective Tool Review: Harmonize for Canvas Discussion Board
The FSCJ EdTech team is constantly on the lookout for the latest tools that may benefit our FSCJ community. We recently met with a representative from Harmonize, a Canvas partner that specializes in discussion boards “to create an interactive space for dynamic academic discussion, creative and analytical thinking, and in-depth feedback that drives next-level education.” Harmonize integrates with the Canvas discussion board, updating its look and providing features that are not currently available through Canvas.