17 Engaging with the Online Community

Essential Support Resources for FSW Faculty

What Support Options Are Available to Faculty for Canvas and Online Teaching Tools?

FSW is committed to ensuring that faculty have robust support while navigating Canvas and other online teaching tools. Understanding that timely assistance is crucial, FSW provides two key resources available 24/7 to help faculty effectively utilize Canvas and enhance their online teaching strategies.

  • Canvas 24/7 Support: Did you know that FSW offers round-the-clock support for both faculty and students through Canvas? This service includes a dedicated phone line and online chat specifically for faculty, accessible via the “Help” option in the Canvas Global Navigation Menu. These resources are prominently positioned at the top of the pop-out menu, ensuring easy access whenever needed. Similarly, students have access to their version of this support through the same “Help” menu, ensuring consistent assistance across the board.
  • FSW Helpdesk: For additional support with FSW-specific tools integrated in Canvas, such as Simple Syllabus, H5P, Kahoot, or Proctorio, the FSW Helpdesk is ready to assist. Faculty can reach out by submitting a Helpdesk ticket through the Office of Information Technology website or by contacting eLearning@fsw.edu directly. For an in-depth exploration of tools frequently used in Canvas, the FSW Ed Tech Toolkits provide comprehensive guidance and resources.

How Can Microsoft Teams Enhance the Online Teaching Community at FSW?

To foster a community among online faculty, FSW encourages joining the Microsoft Teams for FSW Online Faculty. This platform serves as a dynamic forum where faculty and staff involved in online teaching and course design can exchange ideas, share resources related to academic integrity, obtain support for the Ed Tech Toolkits, and stay informed about the latest developments in AI and other educational technologies. To join this vibrant community and enhance your online teaching experience, click here to access the Microsoft Teams channel.

How Can FSW’s Learning Technologies and Instructional Design Team Support Faculty in Online Course Development?

FSW’s Learning Technologies department is dedicated to supporting faculty in the creation of high-quality online courses that effectively engage students and meet educational standards. By offering a suite of resources and expert guidance on best practices in instructional design, the department ensures that faculty are well-equipped to design courses that are both informative and interactive. Faculty benefit from a structured development process, which includes comprehensive planning tools such as course blueprints and timelines, ensuring that all course elements are aligned with learning objectives. Regular progress updates and access to a variety of educational tools aid faculty in enhancing course delivery and student interaction. The collaborative approach between Instructional Designers and faculty ensures that courses are developed efficiently and meet the rigorous demands of online education at FSW.

How Can Faculty Leverage AI Tools Sponsored by the Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies to Enhance Student Learning?

FSW provides faculty with opportunities to integrate AI into their courses effectively through resources sponsored by the Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies. The AI Excellence Toolkit offers short learning paths, detailed guidance on AI, sample resources, and training information, empowering faculty to stay current with AI advancements and apply them in educational settings. Additionally, the AI Playground invites faculty to explore AI through hands-on activities and challenges each week, fostering a creative environment for discovering innovative teaching methods. By engaging with these resources, faculty can enrich their courses with AI-driven content, enhancing student engagement and preparing them for future technological landscapes.

FSW Faculty Takeaways

“Over the years, I have been able to learn about and try some new technologies/apps that I have added to my course, some were hits, some were misses.  The hits have stayed as part of my online courses, and I feel I have elevated the quality of my courses in terms of improving access to the instruction/information, increasing engagement, or just being more efficient.”

Support Resources for FSW Students

What is the Level Up Certification, and How Does It Support Student Success in Online Learning?

The Level Up Certification at Florida SouthWestern State College is crafted to empower students with the skills necessary for success in online learning environments. This program equips students with essential competencies such as effective time management, digital communication, and community building, all crucial for navigating online courses and digital workplaces. Upon completion, students earn the Online Learning G.O.A.T. Badge, affirming their mastery and readiness for online academic and professional challenges.

Search “Level Up” in Canvas Commons to add it as an assignment to your online course.

How Can Faculty Utilize the FSW’s AI for Students to Support Student Learning in Generative AI?

The FSW AI for Students Canvas Course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of Generative AI, offering micro-credential badges in three key areas: Basics, Ethics, and Application. This resource enables students from diverse disciplines, including humanities and computer science, to explore practical and ethical aspects of AI, enhancing their digital literacy. Faculty can encourage students to showcase their acquired skills on professional platforms like LinkedIn, supporting their career readiness and positioning them as adept in navigating the evolving technological landscape.

Search “AI for Students” in Canvas Commons to add it as an assignment to your online course.

How Do FSW’s Digital Communication Platforms Enhance Student Connection and Success?

FSW Discord Server: The FSW Discord Server offers a dynamic environment for students to engage in text and video chats, ask questions, and learn about support services and events. Various channels on the server facilitate real-time communication and collaboration, helping students feel connected and informed about campus life and resources.

FSW Student GroupMe: The FSW Student GroupMe keeps students updated on important deadlines and support services and offers a platform for asking questions and sharing information. It serves as a mobile-friendly tool that ensures students are always connected to the college community, helping them stay engaged and supported throughout their academic journey.

On-campus Proctoring Rooms for Students

FSW provides on-campus technology resources that are available on a first-come, first-served basis for students needing to take proctored exams.

Where Are the Testing Spaces and Laptop Kiosks Located?

Charlotte Campus:

  • Testing Space: Building D, Room 209. Open Monday-Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Laptop Kiosk: Available at the Charlotte Library Circulation Desk in Building B.

Collier Campus:

  • Testing Space: Building J, Room 217. Open Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Laptop Kiosk: Located at the Collier Library Circulation Desk in Building G.

Lee Campus:

  • Testing Space: Building H, Room 213. Open Monday-Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Laptop Kiosk: Found in the Rush Library Entryway Lobby on the 2nd Floor of Building J.

Hendry/Glades Center:

  • Laptop Kiosk: Available in the Lobby of Building A.

 

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Teaching Online Handbook Copyright © by Rozalind Jester is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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