The Instructional Multimedia Group has prepared this web page to assist faculty in developing contingency plans for handling an increased volume of absences and make-up work.

Best Practice Recommendations

• The Office of the Provost recommends that each course syllabus and grades be posted in Canvas
• Convert as many files as possible to PDF
• Use free software as often as possible (Audacity, PDF Creator)
• Use Podcast Producer to upload to AU iTunes
• Use tools you are already familiar with rather than trying to learn new ones (e.g., it will be easier to add narration to PowerPoint rather than learn to create a podcast with Captivate); contact IMG for other suggestions
• Enlist student help with communicating with those who are absent
• For Labs: Schedule make-up sessions weekly
• Hold office hours on-line (Canvas Chat/Conferencing, Skype, Google Hangouts)

Resources you might need and availability in IMG

Hardware:

• Computer with internet access (6 PCs and 1 Mac available in IMG)
• Microphone – Wireless lavaliere or headset with noise-cancelling microphone (Logitech makes several good ones)
• Flash drive – Limited quantity available in IMG
• Scanner (scan existing documents to PDF) – Two available in IMG

Software:

• Browser (PC: Internet Explorer or Firefox; Mac: Safari or Firefox)
• Audacity (with LAME Encoder) - A free audio recorder/editor
• PDF creator (Adobe Acrobat, Word 07 Add-in, PDF Creator, or other freeware)
• HTML editor (Dreamweaver or KompoZer)
• FTP program (WSFTP available through AU install)
• Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.) or OpenOffice

General Recommendations - Use tools readily available: Asynchronous tools available and suggested use

Canvas – Password protected/secure environment

• All Canvas Help (Flash videos and PDF versions)
• Notify students of any absences by faculty, actions by the University
• Communicate contingency plans/alternate assignments
• Attach files for the entire class or just one student
• Convert as many files as possible to PDF (e.g., notes view/three slides per page for PowerPoint)
• Provide means for regular writing assignments
• Assignments can be submitted electronically and graded electronically
• Online tests limit need to come to campus
• Settings help prevent cheating
  • Respondus Lockdown Browser available

iTunes – Public and password-protected (authenticated class) versions

• Publish MP3 (audio) or MP4 (video) files
• To post recorded lectures, supplemental materials

Webspace – Public and unsecured

• Post information and files/links to files on personal web space
• Grades may not be posted

Send your suggestions to IMG@auburn.edu

Last Updated: June 7th, 2012