Classroom Technology Updates
Hyflex Upgrades
During the winter break, eight classrooms received hyflex upgrades. The rooms are: A1430, A1520, A1900, A1920, A1940, C2240, C2250, and H1139.
Some of these spaces also had or will have changes to the whiteboard/projection surface over the next couple of weeks. If your classroom has a temporary whiteboard/projection solution you received a direct email communication on January 10, 2023.
If you would like to learn more about the hyflex technology in these classrooms, consider scheduling a 1-1 technology consultation.
Dual Boot Support Ending
Spring 2023 will be the last semester that IT will support dual boot computers in classrooms and computer labs. Beginning in Summer 2023, Mac computers found in classrooms such as A14150 and B1750 as well as computers labs will only offer Mac operating systems.
Classroom Support Tips
IT prepared a few tips to keep classroom technology operational.
Turnitin Draft Coach Available through Microsoft Word (Online)
Draft Coach is Turnitin’s new writing tool that provides instant feedback as you write. Users can run checks for similarity, grammar, and citations with the tool to become more confident writers. IT is promoting Draft Coach as a student-centered tool, but it is available to all users across the organization. Draft Coach is only available in the online version of Microsoft Word. You can access the online version of Microsoft Word through http://clawmail.ggc.edu.
Mimecast Email Filtering
On December 15, 2022, Information Technology (IT) implemented a new email filtering solution from Mimecast that helps combat viruses, spam, and phishing attempts.
The Mimecast solution evaluates incoming email messages and may hold suspicious messages in quarantine. If a message is held, you will be notified with a “held message” email that provides access to your quarantine summary and the ability to release, permit, or block held messages. Mimecast reduces risk by empowering community members to help manage potentially malicious or unwanted email. You may choose to manage your quarantined messages via the Mimecast portal.
If a phishing attempt or suspicious message makes it to your inbox, you may report the phishing attempt via Outlook or Claw Mail.
Reminders
Getting Help
Submitting requests to the help desk is the best way to report issues or request help with technology. Requests can be emailed to helpdesk@ggc.edu or submitted via the website.
Additional Help Desk Information
Location:
Building A, Room 1040
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Thursday: 7:30am – 7:00pm
Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Sunday: CLOSED
IT Workshops, Webinars, and Consultations
The IT website offers a calendar of workshops/webinars on topics such as MyCourses, Zoom, and Kaltura. You may also schedule a technology consultation.
Student Laptop Checkout Program
IT continues to offer a student laptop checkout program. As announced in fall, faculty are not required to initiate the request for students.
Windows Known Folders Synchronization with OneDrive
Frequently used folders such as Windows Desktop, Documents and Pictures now automatically synchronize with OneDrive, and you will be able to access these folders whenever you log in to any GGC managed computer.
Instructional Equipment Checkout
New portable document cameras are available for faculty checkout in addition to voicelift devices and portable projectors. Equipment is subject to availability.
Software Installation Requests
An updated software installation request form is available. Please review the request form and note the deadlines.
Online Proctoring Services Available
Looking for guidance on GGC’s online proctoring solutions? Review IT’s detailed overview of available proctoring solutions, as well as implementation recommendations.
Blackboard Collaborate Decommission
Support for Blackboard Collaborate ended on December 15, 2022. Zoom and Teams are the recommended and supported alternatives. They are also integrated with MyCourses. The Zoom integration with MyCourses offers additional features such automatically adding recorded meetings to Kaltura My Media and placing scheduled meetings on the MyCourses Calendar.
Feedback on New MyCourses Navigation Experience Requested
As previously communicated via Pulse on November 8, 2022 and a MyCourses announcement, IT will be updating the default MyCourses course navigation experience for summer 2023. Review the options and provide feedback by January 31, 2023.
Microsoft Office Available for Personal Devices
The rumors are true! Employees and students may download up to 5 copies of Microsoft Office for personal use!