COVID-19 FAQ, AI Shortages, Respondus Monitor, and Scholarship Support

With undergraduate move-in more than half complete and the start of new graduate student orientation underway, we should all keep in mind the need to minimize traffic and maintain social distancing.

COVID-19 FAQ is Live

The searchable FAQ page is live. Many thanks to Brian, Danny and all of ITG for keeping information at our fingertips.

AI Shortages

Because of the AI shortages and the challenges of coupling UTA schedules into the f2f and virtual discussion and lab sections, we ask for patience in getting final AI assignments.  Dalane and Becky are working incredibly hard to get things arranged in time for the start classes on Monday, so it would be helpful to minimize interruptions.

Respondus Monitor

Martha discussed this exam platform at the last faculty meeting, including the minimum tech requirements for using it.  If you intend to have exams as a part of your class, it is essential to have a practice ‘quiz’ during the first week of class to determine whether your students are adequately equipped. The quiz can be as simple as, “Are you able to answer this question?”  In addition, you should make the information on tech requirements available to your students, either in the syllabus or on your class’s Canvas home page.  Students should also be aware that the platform works best in good lighting.

System Requirements (Students)

• Windows: 10, 8, 7. Windows 10S is not a compatible operating system.
• Mac: OS X 10.12 to macOS 10.15. *
• iOS: 11.0+ (iPad only). Must have a compatible LMS integration. The LockDown Browser iPad app is not compatible with Sakai LMS servers. All Sakai users will need to use a computer with a compatible operating system.
• Web camera (internal or external) & microphone
• A broadband internet connection

* LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor may continue to run in older operating systems that have reached “end-of-life” but students may encounter unexpected results.

Scholarship Support for Eligible Majors

Charles will be reaching out to faculty teaching courses this fall with information on majors who might be eligible for scholarship support to cover the purchase of computer hardware and the cost of internet services.