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ChatGPT FAQ for MSU Educators
This Q&A is for educators who are interested in learning more about using ChatGPT in higher education. Use this list to learn the basics on how this technology can enhance teaching and learning experiences while also addressing concerns related to its potential misuse.
There are other chatbot platforms that existed before ChatGPT, such as Jasper.ai for marketing and creative content. There are also competing platforms that quickly entered the market following ChatGPT, such as Google Bard and Bing Chat. Many of the answers below also apply to these other AI platforms.
We are focusing on ChatGPT because of how often educators around the world are discussing its potential for disrupting current teaching and learning practices.

What is ChatGPT?
What can ChatGPT do and not do?
Can I trust ChatGPT?
How can I access ChatGPT to try it out?
What is ChatGPT Plus?
Are there tools that detect ChatGPT writing?
Does Turnitin detect AI generated text?
Are there other MSU supported tools that use AI?
What other tools can I use to compare AI detection results?
Is there a university policy on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT?
Is there a recommendation for how to address the use of AI tools in my class?
How can I improve the output from ChatGPT?
Could AI chatbots potentially create issues of digital equity for students?
What are the privacy concerns associated with using AI in education?
What is MSU doing and how can I stay connected with future developments?

Q1: What is ChatGPT?
A: ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that was launched by OpenAI in November 2022. GPT stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer. It is based on a Large Language Model (LLM) that checks for the probability of what words are likely to come next in a sequence. It is not the same as a search engine because it generates responses on the fly from a vast data source. The model is trained to sound like natural language and is optimized for dialogue. 
Q2: What can ChatGPT do and not do?
A: What ChatGPT can do:
ChatGPT can generate text related to natural language processing, including, but not limited to, answering questions, translating text from one language to another, providing writing assistance by proofreading, editing, and offering suggestions, generating content (e.g., writing an essay, creating a story or poem, summarizing a long article, brainstorming ideas), and engaging in conversations. The tool can also be used to generate and edit code.
In the context of higher education instruction, some educators have already started experimenting with ChatGPT for developing curriculum plans, learning activities, various types of assessments, and rubrics, as well as providing feedback on students’ writing. Students might use ChatGPT to explore different learning topics, get editing suggestions on their written work, brainstorm ideas for projects, and even generate responses to quizzes, exams, and essays, some of which would raise academic integrity issues.
What ChatGPT cannot do:
ChatGPT does not access current websites for information, and according to its statement of limitations, ChatGPT has “limited knowledge of world events after 2021,” and “may occasionally generate incorrect information” and “harmful instructions or biased content.” It is not very accurate at listing citations/references and all output should be checked, as it often makes things up. However, processes are improved with GPT-4 and results may change significantly with new versions over time.
While ChatGPT can create new content based on the data it has been trained on, it still lacks the ability to generate truly original ideas or solve complex problems that require higher-order thinking and creativity. Even though ChatGPT can assist with providing feedback on student work, it is important to note that OpenAI recommends against educators relying on ChatGPT, as giving student feedback involves possible decision making and complex, context-based considerations. See Educator Considerations for ChatGPT for more details of OpenAI’s discussion on the use of ChatGPT in education. 
ChatGPT can be used as an assistant for designing, developing, and teaching courses, but it is not a substitute for educators’ teaching expertise. The best way to learn about its capabilities and limitations is to experiment with ChatGPT within your specific teaching context.
Q3: Can I trust ChatGPT?
A: Ensuring that AI-driven data is accurate and unbiased is very important. The model’s output can sound convincing, but it doesn’t “know” what it is saying and will at times make things up. It is not a substitute for human expertise, judgement, and responsibility. Educators and students need to critically evaluate the information generated by ChatGPT. In practice, assume there are inaccuracies and possible biases (see OpenAI’s FAQ and the given limitations statement).
Ensuring that the collected data is secure and used ethically is also a major challenge. Avoid entering sensitive information. Do not provide any student information or student grades to ChatGPT, as it may be a FERPA violation for disclosing educational records to a third party without the student’s written consent.
Q4: How can I access ChatGPT to try it out?
A: The free version, GPT-3.5, is available at chat.openai.com. Sign up with an email address or Google account. You can create multiple sign-ins to use for work or personal use by using a different email. The sign-up process will ask for a phone number and send you a code for verification. You can use the same phone number for the verification process.
After signing up, go to chat.openai.com/chat. There is a text input field at the bottom where you will enter your prompt. Select “Regenerate response” for another version and scroll through the numbers to the left of the prompt to view each version. Continue refining your results by giving subsequent prompts or start a new chat from the menu on the left. You can edit chat labels or delete them by selecting the item in the menu. If you find an answer is incorrect, you can provide feedback by using the "Thumbs Down" button.
Q5: What is ChatGPT Plus (ChatGPT-4)?
A: ChatGPT Plus (ChatGPT-4) is available with a $20/month subscription. The upgrade provides better access during high demand, faster responses, and priority access to new features. One of the new plugins recently adds web browsing for more current data. GPT-4 surpasses ChatGPT in its advanced reasoning capabilities and can solve difficult problems with greater accuracy. You can access it from the menu options after signing up for the free version.
Q6: Are there tools that detect ChatGPT writing?
A: There are tools that claim to be able to detect AI generated text (e.g., Turnitin, CheckGPT, GPTZero). However, keep in mind that the only evidence is the presence of statistical markers about the likelihood of word patterns. It is possible for human writing to fall along similar patterns, leading to false positives, and it is also possible to produce AI-generated responses that go undetected, leading to false negatives. As of Aug. 1, no reliable detector has been identified, and the detectors that are widely available have been shown by multiple studies to be biased against English language learners and people with disabilities (e.g., GPT detectors are biased against non-native English writers by Liang et al. and A study of implicit bias in pretrained language models against people with disabilities by Venkit et al.). Do not assume AI detectors are giving you absolute facts (see Can AI Generated Text be Reliably Detected by Sadasivan et al.), rather let them guide you in addressing concerns with students. 
The best approach is to have a conversation with the student about whether, how, and why they used the tool. For example, an international student may have entered their own work to polish up language structure. Some students may not know using the technology constitutes academic dishonesty, or to what extent they are allowed to get AI assistance if it hasn’t been mentioned explicitly.Be careful how you approach students and consider refraining from mentioning the use of AI detectors as a threat. “The use of these tools to evaluate student text can increase students’ anxiety and stress (both of which have been found to inhibit learning), while also creating an atmosphere of distrust.” [source: Evaluating Student Text with AI Text Detectors]
Bottom line, dedicate some classroom time to educating students about AI and what you consider to be misuse in your class. Have open discussions about its benefits and limitations. Help students understand the downsides of relying on it and emphasize the importance of developing their own writing abilities.
Q7: Does Turnitin detect AI generated text?
A: Turnitin has its own AI writing detection tool, however, it was removed from within the tool on our D2L instance due to concerns over bias and unreliability. Turnitin acknowledges that false positives and false negatives are possible. Again, as of Aug. 1, no reliable detector has been identified, and the detectors that are widely available have been shown by multiple studies to be biased against English language learners and people with disabilities (e.g., GPT detectors are biased against non-native English writers by Liang et al. and A study of implicit bias in pretrained language models against people with disabilities by Venkit et al.).
Turnitin Disclaimer:
“Our AI writing assessment is designed to help educators identify text that might be prepared by a generative AI tool. Our AI writing assessment may not always be accurate (it may misidentify both human and AI-generated text) so it should not be used as the sole basis for adverse actions against a student. It takes further scrutiny and human judgment in conjunction with an organization's application of its specific academic policies to determine whether any academic misconduct has occurred.”
See the following for more Turnitin resources.

Turnitin’s AI Writing Detection FAQ
Academic integrity in the age of AI
AI conversations: Handling false positives for educators

Return to the Turnitin AI writing resource center for educators periodically to find current articles on this rapidly evolving topic.
Q8: Are there other MSU supported tools that detect AI?
A: Packback is an MSU supported AI tool that monitors student work. When using the Packback discussion tool, students are notified when AI generated text is detected, and guidance is provided on how to use AI tools with integrity. See the article, "Post may have been generated by AI" Reason for Moderation.
Packback also has a free AI detection tool called CheckGPT that can be used even if you don’t use the discussion feature, Packback Questions. CheckGPT will analyze a piece of text and suggest using what you learn to help create teaching moments with your students about ethical use and the importance of academic honesty. The tool author intentionally tuned CheckGPT towards a low false positive.Be aware that as of Aug. 1, no reliable detector has been identified, and the detectors that are widely available have been shown by multiple studies to be biased against English language learners and people with disabilities (e.g., GPT detectors are biased against non-native English writers by Liang et al. and A study of implicit bias in pretrained language models against people with disabilities by Venkit et al.).
Q9: What other tools can I use to compare AI detection results?
A: Some other tools being used include GPTZero, Hive Moderation, and AI Text Classifier. Try submitting your own original work, as well as AI generated results, to get a better understanding of the differences between tools.
GPTZero is a free AI detection tool for educators that is finetuned for student writing and academic prose. You can analyze pasted text or upload files. There is also a separate product with a similar name called ZeroGPT.
Hive Moderation has an AI detection tool that will score the likelihood of generated text by segment. On top of an overall score, results include which engine created an image and which segment of text has the most probable artificial content.
If you search the internet, you will likely find many others (e.g., Top 7 Best Plagiarism Checkers For AI-Generated Content). Experiment with the different tools to get a feel for their usefulness within the context of your teaching. Use the tools as a point of discussion, rather than considering them as proof of misconduct, which may not be the case. Due to the unreliability, it is unclear whether detection has an advantage in the long-term as all have disclaimers.
Q10: Is there a university policy on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT?
A: On August 1, 2023, the Office of the Provost at MSU posted the Generative Artificial Intelligence Guidance, and Technology at MSU also shared an Interim Guidance on Data Uses and Risks of Generative AI. Check for related policies within your college or department. Consider explaining the new university guidance, existing academic integrity policies, and your approach to the use of AI tools in your course syllabus. 
MSU policies and resources related to academic integrity:

Spartan Code of Honor
Integrity of Scholarship and Grades
Student Rights and Responsibilities Article 7
MSU Campus Resources for Academic Integrity

Q11: Is there a recommendation for how to address the use of AI tools in my class?
A: Generally speaking, educators have been responding to the rise of AI tools by either resisting or adapting (see ChatGPT and AI Text Generators: Should Academia Adapt or Resist). Resistors may see more issues than benefits in using AI for teaching and assessing students. They prohibit, bypass or discourage the use of AI tools by returning to in-person pen and paper assessments or using AI detection tools to detect AI generated content. Educators who take a more adaptive approach will likely see more benefits of using AI in teaching and learning and the need of better preparing students for the challenges they will face in a post-AI world. Of course, how you address the use of AI tools in your course depends on your specific teaching context and course goals. An instructor teaching writing classes and an instructor teaching AI-related courses are likely to take different approaches.
In your course syllabus, make your expectations clear on whether students can use AI tools,  what students can use them for, what students should not use them for, and whether they need to explain how they have used them. The more detailed your expectations are, the less likely students will misuse these tools.
Carefully (re)design your course activities and assessments, whether you are embracing AI tools or discouraging the use of them in your course. Consider designing activities or assessments that encourage higher-order thinking, critical thinking, and creative thinking (e.g., reflection activities or essays, activities that develop critical digital literacy, work that focuses on process over end-product, and real world, ill-structured problem-solving), which are essential for successful learning and resistant to students’ misuse of AI tools. Below are several resources for designing activities and assessments in the age of AI:

Five ways to prepare writing assignments in the age of AI by Turnitin
New modes of learning enabled by AI chatbots: Three methods and assignments by Ethan and Lilach Mollick, University of Pennsylvania - Wharton School

Q12: How can I improve the output from ChatGPT?
A: You can improve the output with targeted prompts and subsequent tasks, such as defining the structure type (essay, email, letter, blog, lesson, assignment, quiz, rubric, list, table, outline, etc.) and tone (professional, heartfelt, humorous, in the voice of a celebrity, for a fifth grader, etc.). You can give the chatbot a role and a task (prompt: “you are a college professor teaching __, write a ___ about ___). You can continue improving the output by providing more context details.
You can also train the model by providing a dataset of your own. It will not read text from a website by providing a url (try it sometime to see the model make stuff up). You will have to paste in the text with your request. For example, prompt ChatGPT to give you a summary of … “paste in article text” or ask for a list of discussion questions to give to students from the copied article text. If you want something more concise, give a subsequent prompt to “make it shorter”. If the text appears to have cutoff at the end, you can extend the length by telling ChatGPT to continue from “paste in the last sentence.” For more, see Open AI’s guide on prompt design.
Q13: Could AI chatbots potentially create issues of digital equity for students?
A: Using AI technology in the classroom may lead to unequal access for students. Those with slower internet speeds or no internet access at home may face disadvantages. Additionally, those who pay for subscriptions may have better access and results. Students at schools that prohibit the technology may also be at a disadvantage. However, AI technology can help alleviate inequity in some cases, such as assisting international students with grammar and improving communication with instructors. It can also provide academic support for students without access to private tutors.
Disclosure: The above paragraph was rewritten with the help of ChatGPT. The original is listed below.
The prompt given was simply “Rewrite: If you allow and even encourage the proper use of AI technology in your classroom, students will not all have the same level of access. Students who experience slower internet speeds or have no access to the internet at home may face a disadvantage. Additionally, during peak usage times, the free version may not be readily available. Those who pay for a subscription will have an advantage with better access and improved results. Students from schools that prohibit the use of the technology may find themselves disadvantaged relative to those who were trained to use it as a tool. The technology may help to alleviate inequity in other cases, such as helping an international student polish their grammar or improve communication with an instructor. Students without access to private tutors can potentially get assistance with their studies.”
Both versions are provided to give you an example of using ChatGPT to improve or shorten a piece of writing.
Q14: What are the privacy concerns associated with using AI in education?
A: The company collects information from you and/or your students when signing up for an account. Entering personally identifiable information related to your students in a prompt would be a FERPA violation because prompts may be reviewed by AI trainers to improve their systems. See the privacy-policy for more details. Instructors who are embracing the technology as a learning tool may be creating assignments that specifically encourage its use. However, students who are concerned about privacy issues may be reluctant to use the technology. Consider creating an alternative assignment for those cases.
Q15: What is MSU doing and how can I stay connected with future developments?
A: MSU offered a university-wide AI Symposium in February 2023, followed by on-going conversations within departments and academic programs around the topic. For example, there was an AI/IAH Workshop on April 14, 2023 (resources are posted on iTeach). Other AI coffee talks were posted on the MSU Library calendar. The MSU Spring Conference in May had sessions on the topic, as well as the EdTech Summit in June, 2023 MSU Educational Technology. Check with your department and the following areas to keep up on the latest developments.
iTeach & CTLI (Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation)

Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education (and Learning)
AI & Education Group – login to find the group and join the growing list of members.
MSU’s Spring Conference on Teaching and Learning - May 2023
Using AI in Teaching & Learning iTeach playlist

EDLI (Enhanced Digital Learning Initiative) and Broad College

Short Overview of ChatGPT for University Faculty By Jeremy Van Hof, Eli Broad College of Business, MSU
Quarterly Newsletter Apr 2023

OSSA (Office of Student Support & Accountability) and MSU Policy

When It Comes to Academic Integrity, Even ChatGPT Has the Answer By Jake Kasper, Office of Student Support & Accountability
Office of Student Support & Accountability

Spartan Code of Honor
Integrity of Scholarship and Grades
Student Rights and Responsibilities Article 4
MSU Campus Resources for Academic Integrity



Spartan Newsroom and MSU Today

Are teachers ready for the rise of Artificial Intelligence? - January 20, 2023
What if AI helped write a commencement speech? ComArtSci 2023 commencement

Additional Resources:

Educator Considerations for ChatGPT By OpenAI
ChatGPT Updates and FAQ By OpenAI
ChatGPT General FAQ By OpenAI
AI Chatbot FAQ By Western Carolina University
ChatGPT & Education By Torrey Trust, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Academic integrity in the age of AI By Turnitin
White Paper: How Academia is Adapting to Generative AI
How to Productively Address AI-Generated Text in Your Classroom By Indiana University Bloomington

Currently, there is an explosion of tools integrating Chat AI tools. For example, Quizlet has a new tool called Q-Chat, Khan Academy recently developed Khanmigo, and Grammarly introduced a ChatGPT-style AI tool. On a humorous note, there is CatGPT (not a typo). More guidance and updates are likely to follow this getting started FAQ.Originally posted: May 2023Updated: Nov 2023

For their work as part of the Leadership Academy 2020 cohort, the Professional Growth Group aimed to develop a series of workshops to provide professional development opportunities to their fellow graduate students based on community feedback. In the process of narrowing the focus of their efforts for the eight week period of the Academy, the Professional Growth Group determined that not everyone has access to information about pursuing alternative academic careers. Being that the current academic job market offers increasingly fewer opportunities, more graduate students are seeking information about alternative options. As such, our group decided to produce a series of workshops for students across all departments that prepared students to pursue alt-ac careers and allowed them to be exposed to alt-ac careers before leaving graduate school. Through this work, we hoped to destigmatize the process of seeking alternative careers to academia and provide a safe space for students whose networks may not be as supportive of this decision.  While we wanted to target our workshops at graduate students, we also wanted to network with people on campus who either already provide workshops and spaces for more professional development or those who have the authority to help further this work. As such, in addition to the widely circulated flyers for two workshops that we would host during the period of the Academy, we developed an online space on iteach.msu.edu for graduate students to connect and access alt-ac resources.
On February 25, 2020, the Professional Growth Group hosted two workshops: 1) Leveraging your Membership, which focused on teaching students to leverage their service experience to transferable skills to add to your CV or resume; and 2) Translate Your Thesis to the World, which helped students learn to describe their research in three minutes using only a single powerpoint slide. We had a total of five students attend, and received generally positive feedback. Both presentations were recorded and uploaded to our iteach.msu.edu page so students who were unable to attend the workshops in person could have the opportunity to interact with us and each other virtually. We also began to reach out to campus offices who might want to connect with our group and help us circulate existing campus resources. Looking forward, if we have the opportunity to continue our work on this project we would develop a series of interviews of podcasts of MSU grad student alumni who have careers in alt-ac,  host additional workshops, and extend our recruitment of our online group to encourage more active discussion about pursuing alt-ac careers among students. 
 
Powerpoint with Short Video Presentation: https://iteach.msu.edu/posts/preview_attachments?post_id=1507 

From the moment you present a mid-semester feedback opportunity to the learners in your course, it is imperative that you communicate your commitments to acting on the feedback. Have you ever had a peer or employer ask for your input on a project or initiative and then seem to completely ignore it? Maybe your significant other asked for your opinion on ways to tackle a challenge and then pursued an opposite approach? If you can recall a moment like this, how did it make you feel? 
When you collect mid-semester feedback, you are asking your students for feedback. You want to make sure they feel valued and heard, that they have a voice in your class space, and that their input isn’t being collected just “for show.” You should clearly indicate which elements of their feedback you will and will not act on (and why). We know that students who feel empowered and who see their voice reflected in class activities feel more engaged and are more likely to show positive learning outcomes.
There is a body of literature that indicates biases are real and problematic in students’ evaluation of teaching. The goal of this mid-semester instrument is not evaluative of the instructor, but instead is focused on feedback surrounding the learning experience. That being said, be aware that a host of factors including (but not limited to) gender, race, and subject matter, stress, and load can lead students to make statements that imprecisely reflect the actual quality of instruction.
We recognize it can be difficult to look past the most impassioned individual feedback and consider all the data holistically, but remember that the “loudest” voice or the longest comments may not reflect the overall feelings of learners. One helpful strategy is to have someone you trust read the comments before you do, then provide you their overall impressions and filter out any inappropriate remarks.  
 
The following is Adapted from the Enhanced Digital Learning Initiative at MSU: Scott Schopieray (CAL), Stephen Thomas (Nat. Sci.) Sarah Wellman (CAL & Broad), Jeremy Van Hof (Broad). 
Additional sources: Faculty Innovation Center at University of Texas at Austin
Toshalis, Eric & Nakkula, Michael (2012). Motivation, Engagement, and Student Voice. The Student at the Center Series, Jobs For the Future.
Justin Esarey & Natalie Valdes (2020) Unbiased, reliable, and valid student evaluations can still be unfair, Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education, DOI: 10.1080/02602938.2020.1724875
 

Topic Area: DEI
Presented by: Stefanie Baier, Rachel Barnard, Joanna Bosse, Rique Campa, Ellie Louson, Anna Pegler-Gordon, Sharon Combs, Corbin Livingston, and Ted Van Alst
Abstract:
Annually the Graduate School provides funding to approximately 30 graduate students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to participate in Teaching Fellowships. Colleges across campus including Lyman Briggs, RCAH, James Madison, and other units such as the HUB are very invested in this process providing support to fellows, mentors, and fellowship leaders. The programs include the FAST, HUG, IIT, RCAH, and SUTL Teaching Fellowship Programs.Since the pandemic started, colleges are making decisions in the ways they can continue supporting these programs and their support is crucial. This is apparent as the job market for future faculty is becoming more competitive.In this session we will share about the impact of these programs, what has been learned while teaching and researching teaching practices, modes and methods of instruction and assessment. In addition, the community support received from each other and their fellowship leaders within these fellowship communities have even taken on greater value. Examples, voices, testimonials, and experiences with navigating career paths that are shaped by the new reality 2020 has brought upon everyone will be discussed. Anyone who is interested in learning more about Graduate Teaching Fellowship, mentoring teaching fellows, and supporting future faculty is invited to join this session.
Session Resources:
The Added Value of Teaching Fellowships for Future Faculty (PDF)
Teaching Communities and Fellowships webpage

Step into the CTLI office, and you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of collaboration and respect. This welcoming environment is largely attributed to LeChele Parris (she/her), the Project Intake & Event Coordinator whose attention to detail and inclusive leadership ensures that everyone, from seasoned administrators to new student employees, feel part of the team.
LeChele’s role at the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation [CTLI] is multifaceted and essential to the organization’s smooth operation. With a keen eye for efficiency, she ensures that all team members have the resources and support they need to perform their jobs effectively. Her responsibilities include [but are certainly not limited to] monitoring various CTLI communication channels, such as emails and intake forms, to guarantee that inquires are promptly addressed and directed to the appropriate personnel. LeChele’s expertise in delegating problems to the right team members ensures that issues are solved efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall productivity of the center. 
Beyond her administrative duties, LeChele plays a crucial role in managing the daily schedules of CTLI administrators. Her meticulous coordination of meetings and appointments optimizes productivity, allowing the center to function seamlessly. Perhaps one of her most impactful contributions is her oversight of student employees. LeChele provides invaluable guidance and mentorship, fostering an environment where young professionals can grow and thrive. Her approach is personalized; she takes time to get to know everyone individually, always offering a friendly face and a listening ear in the workspace.
In 2022, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology through Central Michigan University’s Global Campus. Her decision to return to school came later in life, after her children had become more independent. However, like many others, her educational plans were impacted by the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges of remote learning and the ongoing global crisis, LeChele persevered, completing her degree and subsequently joining CTLI in 2023.
Her personal experience as a non-traditional student has given LeChele a unique perspective on higher education. She openly shares her journey of completing her Bachelor’s degree after establishing a family and career path, making her decision to work in higher education truly motivating. Initially hesitant about entering the field, LeChele found her calling in supporting online education at MSU.
“Coming here [to CTLI] and hearing about how my coworkers administrate the online programs here at MSU, I wanted to support them in that,” LeChele explains. “I want to be a part of making an online program better for MSU students”. This sentiment encapsulates her dedication to improving educational experiences and her commitment to lifelong learning.
LeChele’s presence at CTLI goes beyond her official duties. She brings a wealth of life experience, empathy, and a passion that enriches the center’s culture. Through her work, LeChele continues to make a significant impact on the CTLI team and the broader MSU community, embodying the values of perseverance, inclusivity, and continuous growth.

The My Spartan Story Team looks forward to working with you to support continued growth of My Spartan Story, MSU’s co-curricular record. Below, you will find helpful information and links to register for our Spring 2022 workshops.
What qualifies as an out-of-classroom or co-curricular learning experience for My Spartan Story?
My Spartan Story defines co-curricular as “an intentional learning activity not bearing academic credit, where the experience has learning goals measured by an assessment strategy.”
Experiences can include but are not limited to:

Community engagement
Committee service
Internships
Leadership roles
On-campus jobs
Student organizations
Undergraduate research

 I advise and/or supervise a co-curricular experience listed above. How can it be added to the co-curricular record?
Experiences are submitted for inclusion in the record by MSU faculty and staff (we do welcome and encourage students to be a part of the process with you).
 When should experiences be submitted by for the Spring 2022 term?
The preferred deadline is April 1, 2022. (This allows the Advisory Committee time to review and to ensure experiences will display on a student’s Spartan Experience Record by commencement).
 I would like to learn more about My Spartan Story. What are ways I can do so?
We have two workshop types this semester for faculty and staff:
My Spartan Story Introductory Workshop
If you are looking to learn about My Spartan Story, our Introductory Workshop is a great place to start. Our workshop will help familiarize you to the record, benefits for students, your college/division and MSU, as well as to the submission and approval process to add your co-curricular experience(s). Register HERE.

Friday, January 21, 2 - 3 p.m.
Friday, January 28, 11 a.m. - noon
Thursday, February 10, 3 - 4 p.m.
Tuesday, February 22, 4 - 5 p.m.
Monday, March 14, 2 - 3 p.m.
Wednesday, March 30, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

My Spartan Story Sprint Workshop
If you are familiar with the record and are ready to submit an experience, register for our Sprint Workshop. This session walks you through the submission process and will help you draft at least one submission during the session. Our team will discuss key elements including learning outcomes and learning outcomes assessment. Register HERE.

Wednesday, February 16, 3 - 4 p.m. (virtual)
Tuesday, March 8, 11 a.m. - noon (virtual)
Wednesday, March 9, 1 - 2 p.m. (in person - tentative)

We look forward to connecting with you this semester and welcome you to share these opportunities with your colleagues. If you have any questions, please visit the My Spartan Story site or contact Sarah Schultz, Director of My Spartan Story.

One key takeaway of our workshop is the degree to which being aware of and thinking critically about the way that general education courses fit into a larger curriculum can set you apart as both a teacher and a job candidate.For the sake of comparison, then, we have gathered together an incomplete (by design) map of various schools in Michigan to faciliate a comparison between the ways each defines their liberal arts or general education curriculum. (Image description: Map of the lower peninsula of Michigan, with brown pins marking Kalamazoo, Alma, Albion, Hillsdale, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Detroit)Each of the schools marked above requires some version of a general education/liberal arts* curriculum, and you may find that it's easier to articulate your own experience of this type of teaching when you compare it to some sister institutions. To that end, use the links below to explore how these various schools in Michigan define general education, and the way they structure their curriculum as a result.* Alma College refers to this curriculum as "distributive requirements." At Kalamazoo College, it's the K-Plan.(Schools arranged alphabetically)

Albion College
Alma College
Hillsdale College
Kalamazoo College
Michigan State University
University of Michigan
Wayne State University
Western Michigan University

You may find it helpful to use the following to guide your thinking:

Albion and Alma are both small liberal arts colleges with religious affiliations. How do you see those shared characters influencing their approach to general education requirements?
In many ways, Hillsdale College is very similar to Albion and Alma, but it regularly appears on lists of the most conservative colleges in America. Do you see that political orientation influencing the school's approach to liberal arts anywhere?
Kalamazoo College and Western Michigan University are both located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Does that shared setting promote any meaningful comparisons or contrasts between their curricula?
MSU and U of M are the two highest-rated public universities in the state (though college rankings are an inherently fraught subject). How would you differentiate between the way both programs describe their general education/humanities curricula?
Wayne State University includes a number of additional links and philosophy statements about their general education program, which makes its website fairly comparable to the Center for Integrative Studies in the Arts and Humanities at MSU. What similarities/differences do you notice about the way Wayne State and Michigan State talk about the mission and goals of general education?

Please feel free to share your response to these questions, or any of your own reflections, as comments on this article in the space provided below.

With the transition to remote learning we have all faced some difficulties, but how has this affected our students? Based on posts and stories that we have seen on the internet, we compiled this resource for students to help support their transition to remote learning.
Remote Learning for Students
Dear students,
We have been learning more about some of your fears, frustrations, anxiety, loneliness, uncertainty, and challenges that you are facing with the evolving situation of COVID-19, and how that is affecting your lives as well as your relationship with your college or university. We have read some of your stories and posts, and those have helped us start to understand the hardships and uncertainty some of you are facing during this unprecedented time. With the continually evolving updates, changes, and restrictions being communicated daily, your institution’s choice to move to remote learning might seem trivial given everything else happening around you. We hope that this guide can provide you with useful information, resources, and tools to make remote learning approachable and valuable to your education.
For as many different styles of teaching that exist among instructors, whether it’s reading content from slides, assigning multiple chapters of reading, or allowing a space for collaboration between peers, there are a far greater number of diverse ways that students absorb and learn information. We understand that being tossed into an online learning environment may not be the way that many of you prefer to learn, but there are some tools and strategies that you can implement to make it work for you.
One of the strengths of online learning is the diverse set of tools that you can individually use to support your learning. Our institutions want to support you through these times. If you have questions, please consult with your college or university to learn more about the support they offer. Students with minoritized identities may be impacted differently in this situation, and we encourage you to communicate with each other, and advocate for yourselves and your peers.
Student Support
Let’s get real about education, we all learn differently and we all respond differently to changes in our learning environments. Remote learning probably would not have been most students’ first choice. Some of us may thrive with remote learning and some of us may struggle. It is important to be honest with yourself and recognize that this is an unprecedented time and that we may experience struggles we have never encountered before. However, through difficult times comes new opportunities.
Why did my institution move to an online environment?
In this section, we’re not necessarily sharing the specific reasons why our two institutions may have moved to remote, but rather sharing various reasons that institutions have provided. There are a lot of reasons why colleges and institutions of higher education are moving to fully remote instruction. In this time of change, it is important to consider why your institution may have moved to remote instruction. Although it may seem like the obvious answer would have been to cancel classes the following are the reasons why classes may be continuing:

Some students may have already accepted a job contingent upon their graduation and by canceling classes and pushing them to a later time students would not be able to honor these commitments.
If classes were to extend through the summer, some students would have to deal with the unexpected costs of summer housing.
There are accreditation programs that the universities must meet and with those come specific responsibilities and assessment criteria that could not be honored if classes were canceled.
Institutions of higher education and students need to move forward. Putting students behind an entire semester will set back every subsequent class, both incoming and graduating.

Concerns with Remote Learning
Whether you have worked in an online environment before or not, you might be concerned about your level of readiness to succeed in your course. In order for our institutions to best support students, some questions have been gathered, and answers generated to address potential concerns among the student population.
I’m worried that transitioning to remote learning is going to impact my success.
Having an open line of communication with your instructor is important now more than ever. Instructors are trying to make sure that they are meeting their students’ needs and providing a successful learning environment for their students. However, this shift has not been easy for the instructors nor the learners. As everyone continues figuring out this change together, we need to be mindful of the challenges. If you have concerns about your performance or have other concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your instructor. This is an important first step to take.
Does moving online impact the assessments and expectations set at the beginning of the semester?
Moving to an online environment has also caused disruption to initial course objectives, goals, and how to meet them. Many adjustments to syllabi have been made to reflect the possible limitations posed in new learning environments. Focus on the big picture for your course: what is the central idea being taught, what are the main takeaways, and what do you need to know to be successful moving forward? Assessments should reflect the central concepts to your course, so focus your time and energy there and not on the miniscule details. If you are still feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, then reach out to your instructor and ask about their new expectations for you moving forward. If you are concerned with how quizzes or exams may be provided and/or proctored, be sure to communicate with your instructor.
How can I continue collaborating with my classmates?
Communication with classmates can be essential to your success in a course. In a face to face environment, these conversations happen naturally and not much thought goes into it. However, this is something we now have to actively think about and problem solve. If your instructor has not created an environment for student interactions to take place yet, it might be beneficial to request them to do so. This can be an open discussion forum in your Learning Management System (such as Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, etc.), a virtual meeting session especially for students to collaborate, or an outside channel (such as Microsoft Teams) for students to chat. Exchanging phone numbers, emails, or even social media information (to those who have it) can also be beneficial to keep conversations fluid and accessible.
Can I still meet with my instructor in a one on one setting?
Open communication with your instructor is vital. Remote learning can be challenging and we want to make sure we are able to support you in any way necessary. If your instructor held office hours before, they are likely still willing to hold office hours in a virtual setting. Reach out to ask how to schedule a meeting with them.
What impact will remote learning have on my future courses?
The uncertainty or newness in an online learning environment might leave you overwhelmed and concerned about what  impact this may have on your future courses. This can be especially impactful if you are currently in a prerequisite course or in a course that is core to your degree program. Ask yourself the following questions to gauge the potential impact of these courses on future courses:

How does this course affect my future learning?
Is it a requirement for my future courses?
Will I need this information to be successful in my degree program?
Have I thought about which information is the most important for my future success?

Your answers to the above questions should help you in prioritizing your current courses. Also, do not forget to reach out to your instructors if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or concerned during this time.
Where else can I look for more support if these tips and tools aren’t enough?
Your college or university likely has additional resources. For example, if you are a student with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, and you think you may need an accommodation, we really encourage you to contact your Disability Services office. Moving to remote learning may change your needs and these offices are designed to aid students with disabilities in pursuit of their educational goals. Accommodations can be granted based on need, and the requirements for receiving accommodations will vary by institution. A diverse range of disabilities both physical and cognitive may make you eligible for accommodations.
Communication with Instructors
Transitioning to an online learning environment can pose new challenges compared to face to face discussions. Below you can find some templates for communicating with your instructors if you have questions, or are having difficulty in the new environment.
Ask your instructor to host open office hours through a virtual meeting platform for the whole class:
Option One
“Hi (insert name),
I am concerned about my ability to continue to meet with you during your office hours due to the recent shift to online learning. I was curious if you will continue to hold virtual office hours through (Teleconferencing platform: BlueJeans/Google Hangouts Meet/Zoom)? Could you provide me with the dates and times for these office hours and the link/phone number? I was also curious if you set up a protocol for how we should sign up for these sessions? All help would be appreciated!
Best,
(insert name)”
Option Two
“Hi (insert name),
With the recent shift to online learning, I am having some difficulty grasping the new concepts being taught. I am worried that without more one on one support I will not be successful for the remainder of the semester. I was curious if you are able to hold virtual office hours through (Teleconferencing platform: BlueJeans/Google Hangouts Meet/Zoom)? If so, could you provide me with the dates and times for these office hours and the link/phone number? I was also curious if you had set up protocol for how we should sign up for these sessions. All help would be appreciated!
Best,
(insert name)”
Ask your instructor if you can schedule a one on one meeting with them for support:
“Hi (insert name),
I just wanted to reach out to inquire about the possibility of one on one meetings. Remote learning is new to me and something I have struggled with in the past. I feel like I would perform better through weekly/bi-weekly check ups for clarity and understanding. I typically respond better to one on one interaction. Is this something we could set up? I think 15 minutes would be sufficient for me to ask questions or review content. Let me know if this is something we could set up! I appreciate all your support during this time.
Best,
(insert name)”
Ask the instructor if they can create a space for you and your classmates to have open discussions:
“Hi (insert name),
With the recent change to online learning, I have realized that my classmates and I are no longer able to ask each other questions as easily as before since we no longer have face to face interaction. These conversations helped me a lot throughout this course and it would be very beneficial for us to continue to have these conversations during this time. Below are some options that I think would be helpful to support our conversations in an online environment:



Virtual meeting sessions specially for students
(Class Chat Channel: Microsoft Teams, Slack, Facebook, etc.) channel for our course
Q&A thread in (Course website: Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, etc.)



I am also open to suggestions you may have as well to help in this area. Please let me know what you think of the above options.
Best,
(insert name)”
Communication with Classmates
We’ve been monitoring ways that students around the United States are choosing to keep in touch with each other. Below are popular options to support your continued engagement with your classmates.
Virtual Meeting Sessions (e.g., Bluejeans/Hangouts Meet/Zoom, etc.)
With the shift to remote learning, natural conversations that may have occurred before or after class can become more difficult to continue. These times are often a space to talk through questions or concerns with fellow classmates. If these conversations were something you found useful, we encourage you to reach out to your instructor to see if they would be willing to start a virtual meeting session early or keep it open after the class has ended as a space for students to collaborate. If you want a private space to talk with you and your classmates, then ask the instructor if they would be willing to share a virtual space where students can join at certain times to talk through content, concerns, or frustrations.
Teams Channel
Teams is a great resource for communicating with your classmates. It imitates direct messaging and you are able to download the application onto your phone allowing you to receive instant notifications from chat responses. If your instructor was able to create a Teams channel for you class you might benefit from asking them to create separate channels within the course channel so that you can communicate more directly with classmates on group projects and more. Once a separate channel has been created for your group only members of that group would be able to see your messages (including your instructor if they so choose).
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are an easy way to stay in touch with your classmates. If you are looking for a space to converse more naturally than on a university platform then Facebook would be a great option. Keep in mind that not all of your classmates may have a Facebook or have access to continuous wireless support and may prefer exchanging phone numbers instead. It is best to have an open conversation with your groupmates or classmates to see which platform they may prefer.
WhatAapp
WhatsApp is a great platform for instant messaging, sharing content, voice messages, and video calls. Given the current situation, many students have returned to their permanent places of residence across the United States and abroad. WhatsApp allows users to communicate via Wi-Fi without a phone plan and without long distance rates. It can be an inclusive option for students who are not located on or near campus. It can be downloaded on Android and Apple devices as well as Mac or PC.
GroupMe
GroupMe is a free instant messaging app that works across iOS, Android, and Windows Phones, but you can send messages from your laptop as well. Users don't need to have the app to text, just add anyone from your contacts and they can chat within the group through SMS.
Slack Channel
Slack is a messaging platform that is used all around the world, throughout industry, and higher education. Within Slack users have the ability to create public and private groups, and send direct messages. Group work can be divided into “channels” for greater organization, and clarity. Slack even has integrations for apps like Google Drive and Box, if you’d prefer to avoid such integrations, then you’re able to share files through Slack as well. Calls can be made via Slack as well if you’ve integrated a video-conferencing solution like Bluejeans, or Zoom; however, on the free version of Slack, only 1:1 voice or video calls can be made, so you may consider using a video-conferencing software for that purpose specifically. Slack can be downloaded on MacOs or PC, and is mobile friendly for Android, and iPhone users.
Discord Channel
Discord is a free voice, video, and text chat service that is available to download on your PC, mobile device, or directly within your browser. This app was originally designed for online gaming, however over the past few years more instructors have been incorporating this tool into their courses to promote ongoing conversations among classmates.
Participation
If your instructor has enabled the “chat” feature in your virtual meeting sessions, try to participate and ask questions as they arise. On some platforms, you have the ability to submit questions anonymously. It is encouraged to use this feature if you are concerned about singling yourself out. Remember, if you need clarification or have a question, it is likely that others in class do as well. Don’t hesitate to join discussions if your instructor allows you the ability to collaborate. You can also share your contact information with others to provide support for them or vice versa. It is encouraged to find a platform where you can share information and questions with classmates. Try to regularly check the platform(s) and answer questions to support your classmates when you can help provide guidance.
Discussion Forums
Ask your instructor when new discussion forums will be opened, as well as when initial posts and responses are due. This will make it easier for you to keep track of your tasks as well as to keep you on top of checking the forums. Make sure you have a clear understanding of how many posts you need to contribute as well as the expectations for quality and quantity in your posts. Often, instructors will ask you to disperse your responses to prevent you from responding to the same post more than once. It is key that you understand what is being expected of you. Try to respond to topics that are of interest to you to provide more meaningful interactions even when tempted by others that only require a quick response. You will learn more from topics that draw your attention.
Assessments such as Quizzes and Exams
Your instructors may not know how their syllabus is going to be affected or how they expect to deliver quizzes or exams or other ways of checking your learning. You should ask your instructor if previously established quizzes and exams have been rescheduled. Update these assessment dates in your notes and begin to organize study materials accordingly. Remember, quizzes and exams may now be delivered through an online platform. Ask your instructor how they intend to offer their exams and how this might impact you.
Technical Support and Resources
Please note, that none of these links are endorsements towards any product or company, but rather are here as potential resources which you can look into on your own.
Wifi Access
Nationwide (United States) Connectivity Resources
With a note of thanks to Richard Saouma, Michigan State University, for compiling the original list. This was last reviewed 03/18/2020.
With the shift to remote learning, the need for reliable Internet connection has become vital. Below is a list from major internet providers and the services they are offering in response to COVID-19:

Comcast

Free essential internet for two-months and no data caps (60 days).


T-Mobile & Sprint

Unlimited smartphone data to existing customers (60 days), 20GB/month wi-fi hotspot for smartphone customers (60 days), free international calls to Level 3 impacted countries.


ATT

Free hotspot access to anyone, $10 home unlimited internet for qualifying households, no late fees and no disconnects.


Verizon

No late fees.


CenturyLink

No late fees, no disconnects, and no data caps (60 days).


EduROAM

Your institution may be part of this network, and you can login to your institution’s domain on multiple campuses throughout the United States.



Free Resources for Students
Please note that your institution may use or not use some of these tools. This list is not designed to indicate endorsement of any individual tool, but rather to help provide some starting points for students looking to adapt their learning style to the shift to remote instruction. These technologies may be potential useful tools for personal use. We did not test the accessibility of each of these technologies, but recommend you check out these and other technologies that support your learning or your peer group’s learning. The authors of this document do not imply endorsement, but rather want to link to Assistive Technology and studying tools. Please be sure to read the Terms & Conditions and End User License Agreements, and consider asking your instructors what tools they recommend. Be sure to read and make informed decisions when making agreements with companies.

Note Taking Tools

Glean

This is a free resource being offered to students through fall 2020. It allows you to record a video (lecture, informational, etc.) so that you can actively listen instead of focusing on taking notes and possibly missing important information. It also allows you to import slides directly in the notes and flag areas of importance to revisit at a later time. There is also a real-time captioning feature built in.




Study Tools

Quizlet

Quizlet allows you to either build your own custom digital notecards or import your notes which can be converted into notecards. Once your note cards have been created you can easily share them with fellow classmates. If you have a particular card you are struggling with, Quizlet allows you to “star” certain cards and only review those cards at a particular time.


Kahoot!

You can create a Kahoot (quiz) for yourself off of items you think will be asked on an assessment. You can then make Kahoot live and share it with friends to see how everyone does.




Screen Recording Tools

Loom

Loom is a free software that allows you to record your screen, video, or app without the need of a built-in camera. This can be used to screen record your virtual lectures to support note taking or for video responses that you have to create for your course.


Techsmith Snagit

Snagit is a screen capture and screen recording tool. It makes screen recording and screen capturing an easy and seamless process for users. TechSmith is currently offering Snagit for free through the end of June 2020.




Speech to Text, Text to Speech, and Captioning Tools

Otter.ai

Otter ai is a free captioning tool for real time video content that allows users up to 600 free minutes a month. It can also be used as a speech to text tool for creation of notes.


Kurzweil 3000

Kurzweil 3000 is a text to speech software that allows a user to have electronic text aloud. It can help with concentration and focus and is beneficial for those who learn through auditory means. For MSU students: before downloading a free trial reach out to your campus’ Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities since they often have free licenses.


Read&Write

Read&Write is an additional text to speech software that allows a user to have text read aloud and that can also be useful for writing and note-taking. For University of Michigan students, faculty, and staff: please visit the accessible computing webpage at ITS for details on how to download this free of charge.


NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA)

NVDA is a free, open-source screen reader technology which can be used to read webpages, documents, or applications. NVDA is a commonly used assistive technology by folks who are blind and low vision.


Google Docs

Google Docs has many useful built-in features to support students. One to highlight is the speech to text feature. This tool can be used to support the creation of notes, papers, discussion responses, etc.




Time Management Tools

Be Focused Timer

This app has a built-in timer that provides users with a way to stay focused, manage tasks, and track progress over time. You can set timers for work durations as well as short and long breaks to help maximize productivity.


Remember the Milk

This app allows users to create to do lists and set up reminders that link can be linked to other apps such as Gmail, Outlook, and Google Calendar. The user even has the ability to attach documents to tasks to stay organized.




Focus Tools

Freedom

This app allows the user to take control of distractions. Freedom can limit websites, desktop apps, or the internet as a whole and can sync these blocks across all devices.


Reader View Chrome Extension

Reader View strips away unnecessary clutter on a webpage and allows you to focus only on the content. It removes all advertisements to help prevent distraction. It also allows you to change the text size, font, contrast and layout for easier reading.




Additional Tools

Grammarly

Grammarly is a browser plugin that runs a grammar check on your content and offers suggestions on how you can improve your wording or punctuation. This can prove especially useful for email correspondence.


EquatiO

EquatiO is a tool designed to support students in mathematics and STEM courses. With this tool the user has the availability to type, write, and dictate expressions and equations. It also has the ability to predict expressions and transform your handwritten expressions into text. It also allows the user to grab an equation and transform it into digital text. Users can take a picture of a written equation and upload it into a digital format.


WordToEPUB

WordToEPUB is a tool that allows for the converting of Word documents to accessible EPUB files. The EPUB format makes for easier reading on laptops, smartphones, and other devices.





Note Taking Support
How you take notes might be a new obstacle with changing to an online environment. There are many tools available to help support the note taking process and to ease the burden on the student. Below are some tools to assist in the process as well as some organizational recommendations in platforms you might already be using (such as Microsoft Word documents). None of these are endorsements and please make informed decisions and review user agreements when choosing a tool that works for you. or You may also consider asking your instructor or classmates if they would like to create a shared note document. Make sure to choose a platform that works for all students in your class or group, regardless of any disability. Sometimes technologies may not be as accessible as we like.

Tools:

Evernote

Evernote is a note taking tool that allows you to take and organize notes, as well as include files, photos, and voice memos in the same area. The basic version of Evernote is free and can be downloaded and synced across multiple devices.


Glean

This is a free resource being offered to students through fall 2020. It allows you to record a video (lecture, informational, etc.) so that you can actively listen instead of focusing on taking notes and possibly missing important information over notes. It also allows you to import slides directly in the notes and flag areas of importance to revisit at a later time. There is also a real-time captioning feature built in.


Loom

Loom is a free software that allows you to record your screen, video, or app without the need of a built-in camera. This can be used to screen record your virtual lectures to support note taking or for video responses that you have to create for your course.


OneNote

OneNote is a note taking tool that allows users to take and organize notes in one place. You can sort your notes into different tabs, sections, and pages. Flag important information with to-do tags, insert files and record audio files within your notes. OneNote also allows you to draw and annotate on a touchscreen that will save within your notes.




Tips

Microsoft Word

Making use of the following features while taking notes in a Word document will make it easier to organize your content and easily navigate your content when revisiting notes for studying.

Make use of headings in your document. Main content areas can be marked with headings. This will make navigating your document more seamless because with the use of headings an outline will be available in the navigation view.
Make use of comments throughout your document to place emphasis on important topics and details.
Organize your notes with the built-in list styles. This will help you to create a natural hierarchy of information throughout your notes.
Through Office365, you have the ability to share your documents with others to collaborate on a document in one place at the same time.







Accessible Note Taking
When it comes to sharing notes or sharing content it is important to keep in mind that accessible content is better content. Accessible content is content that can be accessed by any individual regardless of disability. This is important when it comes to sharing content with fellow classmates or professors. Here are a few quick tips for accessible content:

Make use of heading styles.
Make use of built in list styles.
Consider your color contrast (text vs. background color).
Try to avoid using color alone to denote meaning.
Make use of descriptive link text.
Add alternative text to images that are non-decorative.
Make use of header rows and columns when building tables.

For more detailed information on how to produce accessible content please visit Michigan State University's Webaccess website where detailed tutorials can guide you through accessibility of various document types.
Organization
You probably have heard several different strategies for doing this from your instructors. We wanted to provide an additional strategy for when you run out of all of those other ones. Here’s some things that we’ve heard have worked for others. Maybe they’ll help you, too. We also just wanted to quickly note that all of us are different. We each have different responsibilities, strategies, and spaces to work from in this time. Some of us have families to care for or are balancing other work responsibilities. Take from these what you will. An important tip: you learn how you learn. This is not a one-size-fit-all solution.
Managing your Calendar
There are a variety of ways to keep a calendar, or manage a calendar. Many of us have calendars on our phones, and laptops that make it easy to save events, schedule appointments, and access a high-level overview of our week. Additionally, many Learning Management Systems (LMS’s) like D2L and Canvas, have built-in calendars and calendar integrations to things like Google Calendar, which allow you to automatically schedule assignments and receive reminders. You may find it helpful to set recurring reminders for study time and homework time.
Managing your Email

Keeping emails organized and unifying information streams from instructors is important. Advocate for a single source of information that links to other areas.
Create a separate folder for each of your classes within your email so you can more easily navigate back to content. You can also set up rules so that information is funneled appropriately as it comes in.
Compile resources as you go in one single document. With all the information that is being shared it can be easy to lose information or track down that information once you leave it. By copying information into one single document you will have an easier time referring back.

Managing your Files/Documents

If you are downloading content from a course and adding notes try to save those files with descriptive file names (e.g., Biology_Lecture_001) in a specific folder designated to that course on your Laptop.
If your computer has limited storage you can make use of OneDrive which is a free tool to all students.

Managing your Time
If you’re new to online learning it can be easy to become overwhelmed with the lack of structure, and subsequently fall behind in all your classes. The following strategies may help you to more efficiently manage your time:

Try to avoid working in bed.
Get ready as though you were leaving your home.
Eat breakfast, just coffee does not count.
Whether your classes are synchronous or asynchronous, follow your class schedule to keep structure to your days.
Take a 15 minute break for every hour of work or study time. Your eyes will strain from looking at screens for too long.
Minimize distractions by working with the TV off, and away from your Xbox, PS2, Atari, GameCube, etc.
Schedule online co-working sessions with your classmates to increase accountability and productivity.
Put your phone on “Do not disturb.”
Make a to do list for each class and pick which items you will work on each particular day.

Wellness Strategies

Plan a healthy lunch to the best of your ability.
If it’s an option, work in different locations within your permanent residence. You can get stagnant being in one place for too long.
If you’re able: do some stretches, go for a walk, or exercise in some way that works for you in order to keep your energy up and your mind sharp.
If you’re in isolation, call, email, Facetime, or video chat a friend. We’re primarily social beings, and even the most introverted among us require human contact.
Reach out to your campus Mental Health Professionals (MHP’s) if you’re feeling isolated, anxious, or depressed. These services are free on most campuses.

Applications to Support Health and Wellness

What’s Up (Free; What's Up for iOS and What's Up for Android)

What’s up uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy approaches to help users cope with depression, anxiety, and stress. The app contains over 100 different questions to help pinpoint what you are feeling and offers thinking patterns to teach you how to stop negative internal thoughts.


Mind Shift (Free; Mind Shift for iOS and Mind Shift for Android)

Mind Shift is an app designed specifically for young adults with anxiety. Mind Shift helps users change their focus from avoiding anxious feelings to being mindful about how you think about anxiety and process through anxious situations and feelings.


Self-Help for Anxiety Management (SAM) (Free; SAM for iOS and SAM for Android)

SAM supports users in creating a build your own 24 hour anxiety toolkit. This toolkit supports users in tracking anxious thoughts and behavior and then pulls from 25 different self-help techniques and tailors the recommendations to the user. SAM also allows users to connect to an online community for additional support.



Phone and Hotline Resources

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in a suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By calling 1.800.273.TALK (8255) you will be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7. Hearing-impaired TTY users may dial (800) 799-4889. 
The Trevor Lifeline is the nation’s only around-the-clock crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth. Call 1.866.488.7386. [Note: the lifeline will talk with any individual regardless of sexuality or gender.]

For University of Michigan and Michigan State students: for further information about available resources, please visit Michigan State University’s Emergency Resources for Students or University of Michigan’s CAPS Services Regarding Covid 19 Update.
Productive Ways to Fill Your Time

Join a Facebook group that is of interest for you.
Schedule FaceTime/Snapchat/Facebook video sessions with your friends and family to keep up with social interactions.
Refresh your resume.
Apply for jobs.
Apply for scholarships.
Take a free online course through the libraries if you are interested in a specific topic.
Look into graduate school programs that might be of interest in the future.
Take a YouTube crash course and build your own website.
Develop a daily schedule.

What should I do if I have unresolved concerns?
It is a difficult time and we are all doing the best we can. However, if you feel frustrated or have a concern that warrants attention and you have not received a response in a timely fashion, then it is important to know with whom to speak. Ensure you have accurately and succinctly voiced your concerns to your instructor. Instructors have struggles and time constraints just like you, and they might just need a few days to circle back. If your instructor is not responsive, or you believe they've requested something of you that is inappropriate, e.g., such as attending midterms in person, the next step would be to escalate those concerns to the chair of your department, or find an associate dean or dean of your college. If you have a course coordinator or are aware of a program coordinator they would also be a good person to reach out to as well. Do not be afraid to follow up as many times as are necessary, it is the responsibility of these offices and persons to support you. If you feel as though you need to escalate even further, you can bring the issue to your University’s Ombudsperson office. Their charge is to assist students in resolving conflicts.
Keep Learning
Remember, higher education institutions are here to help you learn. What is important right now (for us, and we’re hoping for you, too) is that you are safe and that you have good opportunities to learn. We’ve heard from some students that the reason we call this remote teaching is because we have “no remote idea” what we’re doing, and you may be onto something there... So help us help you, and communicate openly with your instructor about your needs! We know that these times have not been kind or fair to many of you, and that many of you face significant personal challenges or uncertainty at this time. We hope that you can get to where home is or needs to be right now. Things can be ambiguous and scary right now. We hope that you can focus on learning the things that move you forward and keep you safe, and that you will share in the joy in learning that all of us in higher education have. We thank you for your patience and grace in this process. And for keeping us going, too. #KeepLearning
Sincerely,
Brooke Knapp (Michigan State University), Darrell Williams (University of Michigan), Gabrielle King (Michigan State University), and Phillip Deaton (University of Michigan)
References

Create A Work From Home Workplace Wellness Program
How to Work From Home & Still Be Productive
EMERGENCY Resources for Students | Counseling & Psychiatric Services | Michigan State University
Tips for Excelling in an Online Learning Environment
Purdue Online Student Toolkit
A Brief Letter to an Institution that Believes Extensions are the Accommodations We Need Right Now