We found 284 results that contain "video consultation"
Posted on: #iteachmsu
My Class Size Exceeds the Zoom License Limits – What Now?
The Zoom meeting size limit is 300 students, and webinar licenses are maxed out at 500 but in some cases MSU has courses that have more students enrolled than that. So, while each person has access to both a 300 student space and a 500 student space, that may not always be enough. This article provides alternatives to synchronous Zoom classes that may help not only solve the license challenges, but also help you navigate teaching a large course fully online.
Berry (2009) notes that teaching a large course online “requires a shift in focus from teaching to learning (p. 176).” While 2009 was a full 11 years ago and the technologies driving online course delivery have advanced greatly, this fundamental idea remains as true today as it was then. Lynch & Pappas (2017) highlight the challenge that faculty-student interaction presents in large-enrollment courses, whether they be fully online or completely face-to-face. How can a single faculty member effectively communicate with 600 students? In this case, technological affordances are our friend – and Zoom is not necessarily the answer.
Some Non-Zoom Solutions
MediaSpace or Camtasia videos and D2L Discussion Forums
I know this may not seem like the most exciting solution, but it can be an effective and efficient one. Picture this:
Record a 20-minute video discussing your insights on the week’s content, focusing on what students won’t necessarily glean for themselves in their own review.
Did you know you can request free captioning services from MSU IT on videos 20 minutes or less?
Click here for more information on getting started with the MSU Crowd Sourced Closed Captioning Program.
Save the video to Mediaspace and share it with your students in D2L. Give them a few questions to think about while they watch it.
Guide students to the D2L discussion forum where discussions will happen. Configure the discussion forum to require that they post their response before they can see the responses of others.
Learn more about ways to configure your discussion forum here
Grade the discussion forum using the D2L Quick Discussion Grader tool.
Learn how to use the D2L Quick Discussion Grader tool here
Half on, half off
You can split your course in half. What if you had two smaller large courses? Consider inviting half of your students to Zoom, while the others engage in an asynchronous assignment such as a discussion forum or a low-stakes knowledge-testing quiz that’s automatically graded by D2L. Then, use your Zoom time together to discuss what students can only get from you – instructor-student interaction!
Asynchronous activity idea: Try setting up a discussion forum and have your students work on an applied case together based on the content.
Asynchronous activity idea: Ask students to collaboratively build a study guide for the exam based on the week’s content.
Peer Review using Eli Review
Eli Review is a peer review tool that is free for faculty and students at Michigan State University. Here, you can configure peer review writing exercises, automatically sort students into groups, and provide them with a clear series of writing, review, and revision tasks. You can see analytics for completion, helpfulness, and more.
As stated on the tech.msu.edu page for Eli Review, "many writing instructors have found using Eli for small assignments (i.e., a thesis statement, annotated bibliography) works better than for entire papers. Smaller assignments make it easier to focus on one specific set of criteria and goals. Students stay more engaged with a small task and can move forward in an assignment when the core elements are properly set up."
Since Eli Review is an online platform, students can use it any time, allowing instructors flexibility in assigning reviews. Eli has a feature to accept or decline late work, so students are responsible for the online homework just as in-class homework.
Need more help?
Hopefully some of the ideas shared here have helped you think about some alternatives to pursue should Zoom not be an option for your courses. The instructional technology and development team in MSU IT is happy to consult with you on how you can leverage academic technologies to make your large course experience feel smaller. We can help you think about how to live without Zoom and embrace the asynchronous teaching life if you choose.
MSU IT offers a number of valuable tools and services that can help you create an experience that facilitates student success regardless of bandwidth, time zones, or class size. To make an appointment with an instructional technologist, fill out the appointment form located at https://tech.msu.edu/service-catalog/teaching/instructional-design-development/ or e-mail the MSU IT Service Desk at ithelp@msu.edu and request a consultation with Instructional Technology and Development. If you prefer the phone, you can also contact them at (517)432-6200.
References
Berry, R. W. (2009). Meeting the challenges of teaching large online classes: Shifting to a learner-focus. MERLOT Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 5(1), 176-182.
Boettcher, J. (2011). Ten best practices for teaching online. Quick Guide for New Online faculty.
Lynch, R. P., & Pappas, E. (2017). A Model for Teaching Large Classes: Facilitating a" Small Class Feel". International Journal of Higher Education, 6(2), 199-212.
Berry (2009) notes that teaching a large course online “requires a shift in focus from teaching to learning (p. 176).” While 2009 was a full 11 years ago and the technologies driving online course delivery have advanced greatly, this fundamental idea remains as true today as it was then. Lynch & Pappas (2017) highlight the challenge that faculty-student interaction presents in large-enrollment courses, whether they be fully online or completely face-to-face. How can a single faculty member effectively communicate with 600 students? In this case, technological affordances are our friend – and Zoom is not necessarily the answer.
Some Non-Zoom Solutions
MediaSpace or Camtasia videos and D2L Discussion Forums
I know this may not seem like the most exciting solution, but it can be an effective and efficient one. Picture this:
Record a 20-minute video discussing your insights on the week’s content, focusing on what students won’t necessarily glean for themselves in their own review.
Did you know you can request free captioning services from MSU IT on videos 20 minutes or less?
Click here for more information on getting started with the MSU Crowd Sourced Closed Captioning Program.
Save the video to Mediaspace and share it with your students in D2L. Give them a few questions to think about while they watch it.
Guide students to the D2L discussion forum where discussions will happen. Configure the discussion forum to require that they post their response before they can see the responses of others.
Learn more about ways to configure your discussion forum here
Grade the discussion forum using the D2L Quick Discussion Grader tool.
Learn how to use the D2L Quick Discussion Grader tool here
Half on, half off
You can split your course in half. What if you had two smaller large courses? Consider inviting half of your students to Zoom, while the others engage in an asynchronous assignment such as a discussion forum or a low-stakes knowledge-testing quiz that’s automatically graded by D2L. Then, use your Zoom time together to discuss what students can only get from you – instructor-student interaction!
Asynchronous activity idea: Try setting up a discussion forum and have your students work on an applied case together based on the content.
Asynchronous activity idea: Ask students to collaboratively build a study guide for the exam based on the week’s content.
Peer Review using Eli Review
Eli Review is a peer review tool that is free for faculty and students at Michigan State University. Here, you can configure peer review writing exercises, automatically sort students into groups, and provide them with a clear series of writing, review, and revision tasks. You can see analytics for completion, helpfulness, and more.
As stated on the tech.msu.edu page for Eli Review, "many writing instructors have found using Eli for small assignments (i.e., a thesis statement, annotated bibliography) works better than for entire papers. Smaller assignments make it easier to focus on one specific set of criteria and goals. Students stay more engaged with a small task and can move forward in an assignment when the core elements are properly set up."
Since Eli Review is an online platform, students can use it any time, allowing instructors flexibility in assigning reviews. Eli has a feature to accept or decline late work, so students are responsible for the online homework just as in-class homework.
Need more help?
Hopefully some of the ideas shared here have helped you think about some alternatives to pursue should Zoom not be an option for your courses. The instructional technology and development team in MSU IT is happy to consult with you on how you can leverage academic technologies to make your large course experience feel smaller. We can help you think about how to live without Zoom and embrace the asynchronous teaching life if you choose.
MSU IT offers a number of valuable tools and services that can help you create an experience that facilitates student success regardless of bandwidth, time zones, or class size. To make an appointment with an instructional technologist, fill out the appointment form located at https://tech.msu.edu/service-catalog/teaching/instructional-design-development/ or e-mail the MSU IT Service Desk at ithelp@msu.edu and request a consultation with Instructional Technology and Development. If you prefer the phone, you can also contact them at (517)432-6200.
References
Berry, R. W. (2009). Meeting the challenges of teaching large online classes: Shifting to a learner-focus. MERLOT Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 5(1), 176-182.
Boettcher, J. (2011). Ten best practices for teaching online. Quick Guide for New Online faculty.
Lynch, R. P., & Pappas, E. (2017). A Model for Teaching Large Classes: Facilitating a" Small Class Feel". International Journal of Higher Education, 6(2), 199-212.
Authored by:
Jessica L. Knott, Ph.D.

Posted on: #iteachmsu
ASSESSING LEARNING
Gradebook Considerations
Gradebook Considerations
Gradebooks within D2L are an extremely useful tool and can help instructors plan and organize their course efficiently and effectively. Further, the use of a gradebook impacts the perceived quality of an online course (and blended course), as well as the competence of an instructor (Zhang, et. al, 2020). A well-planned gradebook can minimize the stress of record keeping for instructors. It can also allow students the opportunity to monitor their learning and progression, as well as your ability to identify students at risk earlier in your course (Maiti & Priyaadharshini, 2022).
The gradebook should not be an area of consternation in your preparation for the semester. Using and setting up your class gradebook should be a routine practice and one that will save you time and stress at the end of your course and throughout as you evaluate student assignments. Further, your gradebook can be used as a monitoring tool to help students who are struggling. Earlier identification can help to improve the learning experience for students.
There are many places that you can seek help and guidance in setting up your course gradebook. You may consider:
Seeing how this process is done within D2L. This is a recording of a session offered by the IT department experts in D2L:https://mediaspace.msu.edu/media/D2L+Gradebook+Setup/1_t3zcz39
Consult the D2L help documentation provided by the IT department: https://help.d2l.msu.edu/msu-docs/d2l-grades-at-msu/d2l-gradebook-tips
Look for other documentation on how to setup your course gradebook:
Brightspace Documentation - https://community.d2l.com/brightspace/kb/articles/3539-set-up-your-grade-book
Brightspace Training Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl4U3rcbPOM
Here are some other useful tutorials for using your gradebook:
Categories - https://youtu.be/hZjoSnyHnjc?si=LDzo88o50yeMU_UO
Associating assignments to items & categories in the gradebook - https://youtu.be/2H_pbMNfLWQ?si=aWjjWJVS_N52gOyi
Remember if you need further assistance, you can book a consultation with an IT representative.
References
Maiti, M., & Priyaadharshini, D. M. (2022). Recommender System for Low Achievers in Higher Education. International Journal of Information and Education Technology, 12(12).
Zhang, J., Addae, H. M., Bakeman, M., Boyraz, M., Flaherty, P. T., Habich, M., ... & Schreihans, C. (2020). Management Students' Perceptions of Online Teaching Quality. E-Journal of Business Education and Scholarship of Teaching, 14(2), 33-52.
Gradebooks within D2L are an extremely useful tool and can help instructors plan and organize their course efficiently and effectively. Further, the use of a gradebook impacts the perceived quality of an online course (and blended course), as well as the competence of an instructor (Zhang, et. al, 2020). A well-planned gradebook can minimize the stress of record keeping for instructors. It can also allow students the opportunity to monitor their learning and progression, as well as your ability to identify students at risk earlier in your course (Maiti & Priyaadharshini, 2022).
The gradebook should not be an area of consternation in your preparation for the semester. Using and setting up your class gradebook should be a routine practice and one that will save you time and stress at the end of your course and throughout as you evaluate student assignments. Further, your gradebook can be used as a monitoring tool to help students who are struggling. Earlier identification can help to improve the learning experience for students.
There are many places that you can seek help and guidance in setting up your course gradebook. You may consider:
Seeing how this process is done within D2L. This is a recording of a session offered by the IT department experts in D2L:https://mediaspace.msu.edu/media/D2L+Gradebook+Setup/1_t3zcz39
Consult the D2L help documentation provided by the IT department: https://help.d2l.msu.edu/msu-docs/d2l-grades-at-msu/d2l-gradebook-tips
Look for other documentation on how to setup your course gradebook:
Brightspace Documentation - https://community.d2l.com/brightspace/kb/articles/3539-set-up-your-grade-book
Brightspace Training Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl4U3rcbPOM
Here are some other useful tutorials for using your gradebook:
Categories - https://youtu.be/hZjoSnyHnjc?si=LDzo88o50yeMU_UO
Associating assignments to items & categories in the gradebook - https://youtu.be/2H_pbMNfLWQ?si=aWjjWJVS_N52gOyi
Remember if you need further assistance, you can book a consultation with an IT representative.
References
Maiti, M., & Priyaadharshini, D. M. (2022). Recommender System for Low Achievers in Higher Education. International Journal of Information and Education Technology, 12(12).
Zhang, J., Addae, H. M., Bakeman, M., Boyraz, M., Flaherty, P. T., Habich, M., ... & Schreihans, C. (2020). Management Students' Perceptions of Online Teaching Quality. E-Journal of Business Education and Scholarship of Teaching, 14(2), 33-52.
Authored by:
Jay Loftus
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Gradebook Considerations
Gradebook Considerations
Gradebooks within D2L are an extremely use...
Gradebooks within D2L are an extremely use...
Authored by:
ASSESSING LEARNING
Friday, May 31, 2024
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Teams - What it is, and an invitation
Here’s what you can do in Teams: you can make a voice or video call to a person, or you can have many people join your online event. You can chat with one person or with a group of people. You can collaborate on documents in real time. You can share files. Those are the basics. Perhaps an easy way to think about Teams is as a combination of Zoom and Google Docs, but with integration with all those Microsoft tools you likely use, including Outlook Mail & Calendar, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
The hardest part about Teams is that it is called ‘Teams’. It makes it hard to talk about. For example, I’m in a team on Teams that has as its subject matter, Teams. Well, maybe the hardest part about Teams is just getting started. For me, getting started was accelerated by that pandemic that is becoming a more distant memory. Since those times, I can’t imagine working without Teams. If you are among those folks I encounter that somehow have managed to avoid Teams, I have an offer for you for a gentle introduction: I want you to send me a chat in Teams. Or even call me in Teams. Go to spartan365.msu.edu. You might need to log in to MSU.
Eventually, after all that signing-in business, you should come to a page that has the Teams icon on the left. That will open the web version of Teams. There is an app to download to your computer or your phone, but we can leave that for now. Now that you are in the web version of Teams, you should see a button on the left called ‘Chat’. Select that. In the window that opens, you should see the word ‘Chat’ in bold. To the right of that, there is a series of icons. Click the one that looks like a paper and pencil. This will open a new chat. In the ‘To’ line, begin typing my name: David Howe. I’m the David Howe with the email address davehowe@msu.edu. I’ll leave the rest for you to figure out. Send me a note, and then we can chat more about Teams, just the two of us. Or even better, we can have a video call. I promise to respond to every chat I receive.
The hardest part about Teams is that it is called ‘Teams’. It makes it hard to talk about. For example, I’m in a team on Teams that has as its subject matter, Teams. Well, maybe the hardest part about Teams is just getting started. For me, getting started was accelerated by that pandemic that is becoming a more distant memory. Since those times, I can’t imagine working without Teams. If you are among those folks I encounter that somehow have managed to avoid Teams, I have an offer for you for a gentle introduction: I want you to send me a chat in Teams. Or even call me in Teams. Go to spartan365.msu.edu. You might need to log in to MSU.
Eventually, after all that signing-in business, you should come to a page that has the Teams icon on the left. That will open the web version of Teams. There is an app to download to your computer or your phone, but we can leave that for now. Now that you are in the web version of Teams, you should see a button on the left called ‘Chat’. Select that. In the window that opens, you should see the word ‘Chat’ in bold. To the right of that, there is a series of icons. Click the one that looks like a paper and pencil. This will open a new chat. In the ‘To’ line, begin typing my name: David Howe. I’m the David Howe with the email address davehowe@msu.edu. I’ll leave the rest for you to figure out. Send me a note, and then we can chat more about Teams, just the two of us. Or even better, we can have a video call. I promise to respond to every chat I receive.
Authored by:
David Howe

Posted on: #iteachmsu

Teams - What it is, and an invitation
Here’s what you can do in Teams: you can make a voice or video call...
Authored by:
Monday, Jun 3, 2024
Posted on: #iteachmsu
NAVIGATING CONTEXT
MSU Resources on Civility and Community Enhancement in Academic Environments
MSU Resources on Civility and Community Enhancement in Academic Environments
Michigan State University is a large and diverse institution hosting a variety of climates and cultures. Understanding and navigating these cultures can sometimes be challenging, so this list of resources is provided to increase awareness of the opportunities for learning and growth that are available to enhance our community and those that engage with it. It is the responsibility of everyone at MSU to contribute to an academic environment that welcomes every individual and respects their unique talents as we all work toward preparing future generations of Spartans.
Resources available at MSU
Conflict Resolution:
The Faculty Grievance Office responds to inquiries from MSU faculty, academic staff and administrators concerning alleged violations of MSU policies and practices.
The Office of the University Ombudsperson assists students, staff members, instructors, and administrators sort through university rules and regulations that might apply to specific student issues and concerns and help to resolve disputes.
MSU Human Resources offers Organizational Development Consulting Services on a variety of topics including climate/culture/interpersonal relationships.
The Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives offers programs and resources to bridge understanding across difference:
Inclusive Communications Guide (coming soon).
One-page Tip Sheets (printable/shareable .pdfs) These were designed to aid in building inclusive classrooms, but many of the concepts are more broadly applicable to other academic spaces and environments.
Setting up an Inclusive Classroom (PDF)
Some Dialogue Basics (PDF)
Intercultural Dialogue Facilitation (PDF)
Strategies for Managing Hot Moments in the Classroom (PDF)
Interrupting Bias: A Technique (PDF)
Microaggressions: A Primer (PDF)
Learn at Lunch this informal series welcomes anyone to bring their lunch and join the conversation. A variety of topics related to inclusion, social justice and equity will be highlighted - the schedule for the year is posted on the website in August.
Implicit Bias Certificate Program (available through MSU HR in EBS): this series of three sessions include topics on Creating an Inclusive Environment, Implicit Bias and Microaggressions, and Preparing for the Next Encounter. Sessions can be attended consecutively or combined to complete a certificate.
List of diversity and inclusion workshops offered (examples include Building an Inclusive Workplace, Disrupting Bias in the Academy, Racial Literacy, Building an Inclusive Classroom, Inclusive Leadership, Diversifying and Retaining Faculty and Staff)
MSU Dialogues a cohort-based experience exploring deep conversations about race, gender and other important aspects of identity. Undergraduate, graduate, faculty and staff groups are formed through application and the series of 6-8 meetings is offered each semester.
MSU Human Resources also has information and workshops available to further productive conversations about workplace culture and environments:
List of behavioral competencies
Free online learning opportunities through elevateU including topics such as:
Building a High-Performing Work Culture (example topics: personal skills, optimizing team performance, leadership skills)
E-books available in the Library (titles on health and wellness, etc.)
In-person workshops in collaboration with units across campus. Access to these programs is through EBS - Some of these include:
Building Capacity-Resilience as a Leader
Creating & Sustaining Positive Workplace
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Crucial Accountability
Crucial Conversations
Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Engaging Teams for Maximum Performance
Ethics: How Do We Deal With "Gray Areas"
Honing Your Emotional Intelligence
Inclusive Communication Series
Managing Difficult Customers
Prohibited Harassment: for employees, for supervisors, student employees
Thriving through Change
Prevention, Outreach and Education Department offers a variety of trainings on violence prevention and bystander intervention, healthy ways of practicing consent and establishing boundaries, creating a culture of respect in the workplace, navigating boundaries in professional settings and more.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): no cost, confidential counseling service offered to MSU faculty, staff, retirees, graduate student employees, and their families.
Health4U Program: some examples of resources provided include: emotional wellness coaching, courses, events and resources to support more healthy habits and practice
The Academic Advancement Network offers thriving sessions for Academic Specialists, Fixed-term Faculty, and Tenure-System Faculty are focused on supporting career progression. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with people who can help individuals and units navigate the various appointment types at MSU.
LBGTQ Resource Center offers QuILL training: Queer Inclusive Learning and Leadership Training for understanding the experiences of people who may be marginalized by their gender identity.
Office of Cultural & Academic Transitions offers intercultural leadership training for departments and organizations
Other useful external resources
Climate/Culture/Inclusive Environments
Link to SHRM article: 6 Steps for Building an Inclusive Workplace
Definition of Workplace Bullying and other resources from WBI
More information about workplace bullying, what to do, difference between hostile work environment
Forbes article on commonality and bullying in the workplace
Book: Lester, J. (Ed.). (2013). Workplace bullying in higher education. Routledge.
Belsky, G. (2013). When good things happen to bad people: Disturbing news about workplace bullies. Time.
Wilson, S. M., & Ferch, S. R. (2005). Enhancing resilience in the workplace through the practice of caring relationships. Organization Development Journal, 23(4), 45.
Youssef, C. M., & Luthans, F. (2007). Positive organizational behavior in the workplace: The impact of hope, optimism, and resilience. Journal of management, 33(5), 774-800.
Work Culture and Environment - Key Principles
Arianna Huffington: 10 Ways to Actually, Finally Improve Company Culture
Inspiration & Personal Growth
Brené Brown video on shame, guilt and empathy and empathy vs sympathy
Alain de Botton, TED talk on A kinder, gentler philosophy on success
8 Secrets to Success TED talk with Richard St. John
Free edX course on Happiness at Work
Free edX course on Mindfulness and Resilience to Stress at Work
There are also numerous resources available at the MSU Library:
Taking the Liberty of Incivility: Workplace Bullying in Higher Education by Lee Gloor, Jamie, Human Resource Development Quarterly, 02/2014, Volume 25, Issue 1, pp. 121–126, Article PDF: Download Now Journal Article: Full Text Online (book review)
Workplace bullying policies, higher education and the First Amendment: Building bridges not walls by Coel, Crystal Rae and Smith, Frances L. M First Amendment Studies, 07/2018, Volume 52, Issue 1-2, pp. 96–111, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Workplace Bullying as Workplace Corruption by Vickers, Margaret H Administration & Society, 10/2014, Volume 46, Issue 8, pp. 960–985, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Bully University? The Cost of Workplace Bullying and Employee Disengagement in American Higher Education by Hollis, Leah P SAGE Open, 06/2015, Volume 5, Issue 2, p. 215824401558999, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
The Gendered Nature of Workplace Bullying in the Context of Higher Education by Ambreen Anjum and Amina Muazzam, Pakistan Journal of Psychological Research, 07/2018, Volume 33, Issue 2, pp. 493–505, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Michigan State University is a large and diverse institution hosting a variety of climates and cultures. Understanding and navigating these cultures can sometimes be challenging, so this list of resources is provided to increase awareness of the opportunities for learning and growth that are available to enhance our community and those that engage with it. It is the responsibility of everyone at MSU to contribute to an academic environment that welcomes every individual and respects their unique talents as we all work toward preparing future generations of Spartans.
Resources available at MSU
Conflict Resolution:
The Faculty Grievance Office responds to inquiries from MSU faculty, academic staff and administrators concerning alleged violations of MSU policies and practices.
The Office of the University Ombudsperson assists students, staff members, instructors, and administrators sort through university rules and regulations that might apply to specific student issues and concerns and help to resolve disputes.
MSU Human Resources offers Organizational Development Consulting Services on a variety of topics including climate/culture/interpersonal relationships.
The Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives offers programs and resources to bridge understanding across difference:
Inclusive Communications Guide (coming soon).
One-page Tip Sheets (printable/shareable .pdfs) These were designed to aid in building inclusive classrooms, but many of the concepts are more broadly applicable to other academic spaces and environments.
Setting up an Inclusive Classroom (PDF)
Some Dialogue Basics (PDF)
Intercultural Dialogue Facilitation (PDF)
Strategies for Managing Hot Moments in the Classroom (PDF)
Interrupting Bias: A Technique (PDF)
Microaggressions: A Primer (PDF)
Learn at Lunch this informal series welcomes anyone to bring their lunch and join the conversation. A variety of topics related to inclusion, social justice and equity will be highlighted - the schedule for the year is posted on the website in August.
Implicit Bias Certificate Program (available through MSU HR in EBS): this series of three sessions include topics on Creating an Inclusive Environment, Implicit Bias and Microaggressions, and Preparing for the Next Encounter. Sessions can be attended consecutively or combined to complete a certificate.
List of diversity and inclusion workshops offered (examples include Building an Inclusive Workplace, Disrupting Bias in the Academy, Racial Literacy, Building an Inclusive Classroom, Inclusive Leadership, Diversifying and Retaining Faculty and Staff)
MSU Dialogues a cohort-based experience exploring deep conversations about race, gender and other important aspects of identity. Undergraduate, graduate, faculty and staff groups are formed through application and the series of 6-8 meetings is offered each semester.
MSU Human Resources also has information and workshops available to further productive conversations about workplace culture and environments:
List of behavioral competencies
Free online learning opportunities through elevateU including topics such as:
Building a High-Performing Work Culture (example topics: personal skills, optimizing team performance, leadership skills)
E-books available in the Library (titles on health and wellness, etc.)
In-person workshops in collaboration with units across campus. Access to these programs is through EBS - Some of these include:
Building Capacity-Resilience as a Leader
Creating & Sustaining Positive Workplace
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Crucial Accountability
Crucial Conversations
Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Engaging Teams for Maximum Performance
Ethics: How Do We Deal With "Gray Areas"
Honing Your Emotional Intelligence
Inclusive Communication Series
Managing Difficult Customers
Prohibited Harassment: for employees, for supervisors, student employees
Thriving through Change
Prevention, Outreach and Education Department offers a variety of trainings on violence prevention and bystander intervention, healthy ways of practicing consent and establishing boundaries, creating a culture of respect in the workplace, navigating boundaries in professional settings and more.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): no cost, confidential counseling service offered to MSU faculty, staff, retirees, graduate student employees, and their families.
Health4U Program: some examples of resources provided include: emotional wellness coaching, courses, events and resources to support more healthy habits and practice
The Academic Advancement Network offers thriving sessions for Academic Specialists, Fixed-term Faculty, and Tenure-System Faculty are focused on supporting career progression. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with people who can help individuals and units navigate the various appointment types at MSU.
LBGTQ Resource Center offers QuILL training: Queer Inclusive Learning and Leadership Training for understanding the experiences of people who may be marginalized by their gender identity.
Office of Cultural & Academic Transitions offers intercultural leadership training for departments and organizations
Other useful external resources
Climate/Culture/Inclusive Environments
Link to SHRM article: 6 Steps for Building an Inclusive Workplace
Definition of Workplace Bullying and other resources from WBI
More information about workplace bullying, what to do, difference between hostile work environment
Forbes article on commonality and bullying in the workplace
Book: Lester, J. (Ed.). (2013). Workplace bullying in higher education. Routledge.
Belsky, G. (2013). When good things happen to bad people: Disturbing news about workplace bullies. Time.
Wilson, S. M., & Ferch, S. R. (2005). Enhancing resilience in the workplace through the practice of caring relationships. Organization Development Journal, 23(4), 45.
Youssef, C. M., & Luthans, F. (2007). Positive organizational behavior in the workplace: The impact of hope, optimism, and resilience. Journal of management, 33(5), 774-800.
Work Culture and Environment - Key Principles
Arianna Huffington: 10 Ways to Actually, Finally Improve Company Culture
Inspiration & Personal Growth
Brené Brown video on shame, guilt and empathy and empathy vs sympathy
Alain de Botton, TED talk on A kinder, gentler philosophy on success
8 Secrets to Success TED talk with Richard St. John
Free edX course on Happiness at Work
Free edX course on Mindfulness and Resilience to Stress at Work
There are also numerous resources available at the MSU Library:
Taking the Liberty of Incivility: Workplace Bullying in Higher Education by Lee Gloor, Jamie, Human Resource Development Quarterly, 02/2014, Volume 25, Issue 1, pp. 121–126, Article PDF: Download Now Journal Article: Full Text Online (book review)
Workplace bullying policies, higher education and the First Amendment: Building bridges not walls by Coel, Crystal Rae and Smith, Frances L. M First Amendment Studies, 07/2018, Volume 52, Issue 1-2, pp. 96–111, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Workplace Bullying as Workplace Corruption by Vickers, Margaret H Administration & Society, 10/2014, Volume 46, Issue 8, pp. 960–985, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Bully University? The Cost of Workplace Bullying and Employee Disengagement in American Higher Education by Hollis, Leah P SAGE Open, 06/2015, Volume 5, Issue 2, p. 215824401558999, Article PDF: Download Now, Journal Article: Full Text Online
The Gendered Nature of Workplace Bullying in the Context of Higher Education by Ambreen Anjum and Amina Muazzam, Pakistan Journal of Psychological Research, 07/2018, Volume 33, Issue 2, pp. 493–505, Journal Article: Full Text Online
Authored by:
Patti Stewart
Posted on: #iteachmsu
MSU Resources on Civility and Community Enhancement in Academic Environments
MSU Resources on Civility and Community Enhancement in Academic Env...
Authored by:
NAVIGATING CONTEXT
Tuesday, Nov 5, 2019
Posted on: #iteachmsu
PEDAGOGICAL DESIGN
Multilingual/Multicultural Learners: A Teaching Scenario
This video was made by Yuyang Cai for the University Undergraduate Research and Arts Forum. This video is a part of the main content in the "Teaching Multilingual Learners: An Introduction to Translingual Pedagogy" Playlist. After watching this video, check out the comments below and then continue on to the next post in the playlist.
How does what you observed in the video connect with what you wrote earlier, about your experiences teaching multilingual learners?
How does what you observed in the video connect with what you wrote earlier, about your experiences teaching multilingual learners?
Authored by:
Yuyang Cai

Posted on: #iteachmsu

Multilingual/Multicultural Learners: A Teaching Scenario
This video was made by Yuyang Cai for the University Undergraduate ...
Authored by:
PEDAGOGICAL DESIGN
Wednesday, Jun 9, 2021
Posted on: #iteachmsu
PEDAGOGICAL DESIGN
Why won't international students talk in class?
This video was made by Key Chimrak, Apichaya Thaneerat (Plagrim) and Juhua Huang (Hayden). The team presented their work at the MSU Diversity Research Showcase in January 2021.This video is a part of the main content in the "Approaches to translingual pedagogy" Playlist [link]. After watching this video, please consider the reflection prompt below and respond in the article comments, then continue on to the next article in the playlist.
Please scroll down to the comments below to respond to the question below by clicking “reply”!
Please scroll down to the comments below to respond to the question below by clicking “reply”!
Authored by:
Key Chimrak, Apichaya Thaneerat (Plagrim) and Juhua Huang...

Posted on: #iteachmsu

Why won't international students talk in class?
This video was made by Key Chimrak, Apichaya Thaneerat (Plagrim) an...
Authored by:
PEDAGOGICAL DESIGN
Wednesday, Jun 9, 2021
Posted on: MSU Online & Remote Teaching
Kaltura MediaSpace as a core tool for remote teaching
MediaSpace: Store and stream video and audio.
MediaSpace is a cloud based web service developed by Kaltura which facilitates the conversion and distribution of various audio, video and image media formats. Faculty, staff and students may upload media content to the MediaSpace server which automatically converts and optimizes your media for hassle-free distribution on the web. Once on uploaded, MediaSpace will provide links and embed code that you can use to share your media with others. This service is offered to the MSU community at no cost.
You can store all videos and audio that you make at MediaSpace, MSU’s version of YouTube.
You can use Mediaspace to caption your videos
You can do some simple editing using Mediaspace
You can add quizzes and 'hotspots' to your videos
Once videos are uploaded, you can add them to your D2L course.
MediaSpace is a cloud based web service developed by Kaltura which facilitates the conversion and distribution of various audio, video and image media formats. Faculty, staff and students may upload media content to the MediaSpace server which automatically converts and optimizes your media for hassle-free distribution on the web. Once on uploaded, MediaSpace will provide links and embed code that you can use to share your media with others. This service is offered to the MSU community at no cost.
You can store all videos and audio that you make at MediaSpace, MSU’s version of YouTube.
You can use Mediaspace to caption your videos
You can do some simple editing using Mediaspace
You can add quizzes and 'hotspots' to your videos
Once videos are uploaded, you can add them to your D2L course.
Authored by:
Makenna Neal

Posted on: #iteachmsu
Exploring Alternative EdTech Approaches for International Student Participation
Given that there is variability in the availability of technologies and materials and differences in time based on location (see table below) and that the availability of those technologies change over time, faculty members need to be as flexible as possible in the course requirements (technology, materials, timing), and both faculty and students need to be vigilant and clear communicators of their needs. The goal of this document is to provide possible alternatives for challenges that faculty may employ in accommodating students reporting that technologies are not available to them in their geographic location.
Alternatives for Technology
Ideally, when designing curriculum, you would work with the core learning technologies available at MSU. While not all of these technologies will work all of the time, the benefits of relying on this list are:
You and your students have more technical support
They are free to you and your students
Most are available around the world
They have been vetted for base levels of security and accessibility
They are aligned to the data protection and storage requirements outlined by the Institutional Data Policy
Most of these tools will work most of the time. However, times may arise when some of these tools are not available depending on geographic region, most often those that include real-time sharing and drafting functionality (Google apps and Microsoft 365 are the core tools most frequently reported as not working). There are many reasons for how or why this unavailability comes about, but faculty and students should not use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) as a work-around in that it may violate local laws and regulations. Instead, we are suggesting alternatives based on flexibility in curriculum and pedagogy. Some alternatives to common issues are described below. Video hosting: Most Issues with YouTube and Vimeo would be alleviated if you host your videos in MediaSpace and post them in D2L. If the materials are third party and you are not able to move them online can you check with librarians to find alternatives within the library or identify other materials that meet the same or comparable learning outcomes.You can contact them at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/askalib/ or by finding your subject matter librarian at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/subjectlibrarian/ File distribution: Difficulties with software options that promote file sharing (Google Suite, Microsoft OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams) can be substituted by D2L. By posting the files to D2L, students should have access to the content. However, they may not have all of the collaborative features of the unavailable software such as live co-editing, chat, et cetera. So, assignments might have to be shifted to be individual as opposed to collaborative in nature, or re-designed to be submitted in phases to allow for students to download, co-create, and re-submit to a new assignment dropbox. Synchronous lectures: Accommodating synchronous lectures can be difficult given time zone differences. That said, recording lectures and posting them at a later time can be helpful for not only accommodating time zone differences, but also allowing students to review materials. Alternatively, students might be able to call into the Zoom session and have access to the audio of the lecture, in some cases this may be sufficient to meet the academic goals of that Zoom session. If you are unsure about what academic technology strategies may work to accommodate your international students, request a consultation with MSU IT’s Instructional Technology and Development Team, who can help you think about the tools available and ways to think about incorporating them in your course and teaching process.
Alternatives for Webcam Assessment
Zoom (or other software like Kaltura MediaSpace app) and student smartphone
Proctoring locations
Shifting days/time of exam to accommodate availability of technology
Oral exam on phone
Alternatives for Materials
Getting materials from Amazon or other vendor: One of the biggest concerns are materials purchased from vendors such as Amazon that are not able to be shipped to all countries. A few options for potentially overcoming this hurdle include:
Use an intermediate shipping company, as described at https://borderoo.com/ . Providers can include (the followingare examples not recommendations):
MyUS
Shop2Ship
PlanetExpress
Order from a more regional service such as Taobao: https://world.taobao.com/
Or allow alternate materials that meet similar learning outcomes.
Note: Materials may take longer to arrive, so considerations may need to be made. Students engaging in the use of such services are responsible for any taxes or duties incurred. Getting access to journal articles or other course readings: Create downloadable course packs by assembling the readings of the course into a downloadable zip file that students can access and download from the course in D2L. MSU Librarians can help you with this process. You can contact them at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/askalib/ or by finding your subject matter librarian at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/subjectlibrarian/
Alternatives for Time
If there are synchronous elements in the course, can a student reach the course objectives through asynchronous methods. Synchronous lectures: Can these be recorded and posted for others at a later date? Either by recording Zoom sessions or by using the Hybrid Technology that are now available in many classrooms. Lecture participation: Can course elements such as participation in a synchronous lecture be shifted to quizzes, reflection papers or other activities that engage the student in similar cognitive practice to what they will miss not being in the synchronous experience. Office hours: If students are unable to make office hours because of timezone constraints, can you offer alternative times that might be convenient or provide sufficient support through email, phone conversations, individualized discussion forums, or other methods. If time constraints are the only constraint then finding a time (such as 7-9pm) could work for most regions.
Technologies with potential availability issues
As of 8/11/2020, and subject to frequent change:
# Students
Country
Zoom
Microsoft Teams
Skype
G Suite
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Vimeo
WhatsApp
MSOneDrive
Notes
total FS20, unofficial
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
3,044
China
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
104
Iran
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
59
Bangladesh
X
31
Indonesia
X
30
United Arab Emirates
X
X
4
Morocco
X
4
Ukraine
X
X
Apps blocked in Crimea region only.
3
Burma (Myanmar)
X
3
Syria
X
X
X
X
X
2
Sudan
X
X
X
1
Turkmenistan
X
X
Alternatives for Technology
Ideally, when designing curriculum, you would work with the core learning technologies available at MSU. While not all of these technologies will work all of the time, the benefits of relying on this list are:
You and your students have more technical support
They are free to you and your students
Most are available around the world
They have been vetted for base levels of security and accessibility
They are aligned to the data protection and storage requirements outlined by the Institutional Data Policy
Most of these tools will work most of the time. However, times may arise when some of these tools are not available depending on geographic region, most often those that include real-time sharing and drafting functionality (Google apps and Microsoft 365 are the core tools most frequently reported as not working). There are many reasons for how or why this unavailability comes about, but faculty and students should not use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) as a work-around in that it may violate local laws and regulations. Instead, we are suggesting alternatives based on flexibility in curriculum and pedagogy. Some alternatives to common issues are described below. Video hosting: Most Issues with YouTube and Vimeo would be alleviated if you host your videos in MediaSpace and post them in D2L. If the materials are third party and you are not able to move them online can you check with librarians to find alternatives within the library or identify other materials that meet the same or comparable learning outcomes.You can contact them at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/askalib/ or by finding your subject matter librarian at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/subjectlibrarian/ File distribution: Difficulties with software options that promote file sharing (Google Suite, Microsoft OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams) can be substituted by D2L. By posting the files to D2L, students should have access to the content. However, they may not have all of the collaborative features of the unavailable software such as live co-editing, chat, et cetera. So, assignments might have to be shifted to be individual as opposed to collaborative in nature, or re-designed to be submitted in phases to allow for students to download, co-create, and re-submit to a new assignment dropbox. Synchronous lectures: Accommodating synchronous lectures can be difficult given time zone differences. That said, recording lectures and posting them at a later time can be helpful for not only accommodating time zone differences, but also allowing students to review materials. Alternatively, students might be able to call into the Zoom session and have access to the audio of the lecture, in some cases this may be sufficient to meet the academic goals of that Zoom session. If you are unsure about what academic technology strategies may work to accommodate your international students, request a consultation with MSU IT’s Instructional Technology and Development Team, who can help you think about the tools available and ways to think about incorporating them in your course and teaching process.
Alternatives for Webcam Assessment
Zoom (or other software like Kaltura MediaSpace app) and student smartphone
Proctoring locations
Shifting days/time of exam to accommodate availability of technology
Oral exam on phone
Alternatives for Materials
Getting materials from Amazon or other vendor: One of the biggest concerns are materials purchased from vendors such as Amazon that are not able to be shipped to all countries. A few options for potentially overcoming this hurdle include:
Use an intermediate shipping company, as described at https://borderoo.com/ . Providers can include (the followingare examples not recommendations):
MyUS
Shop2Ship
PlanetExpress
Order from a more regional service such as Taobao: https://world.taobao.com/
Or allow alternate materials that meet similar learning outcomes.
Note: Materials may take longer to arrive, so considerations may need to be made. Students engaging in the use of such services are responsible for any taxes or duties incurred. Getting access to journal articles or other course readings: Create downloadable course packs by assembling the readings of the course into a downloadable zip file that students can access and download from the course in D2L. MSU Librarians can help you with this process. You can contact them at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/askalib/ or by finding your subject matter librarian at https://lib.msu.edu/contact/subjectlibrarian/
Alternatives for Time
If there are synchronous elements in the course, can a student reach the course objectives through asynchronous methods. Synchronous lectures: Can these be recorded and posted for others at a later date? Either by recording Zoom sessions or by using the Hybrid Technology that are now available in many classrooms. Lecture participation: Can course elements such as participation in a synchronous lecture be shifted to quizzes, reflection papers or other activities that engage the student in similar cognitive practice to what they will miss not being in the synchronous experience. Office hours: If students are unable to make office hours because of timezone constraints, can you offer alternative times that might be convenient or provide sufficient support through email, phone conversations, individualized discussion forums, or other methods. If time constraints are the only constraint then finding a time (such as 7-9pm) could work for most regions.
Technologies with potential availability issues
As of 8/11/2020, and subject to frequent change:
# Students
Country
Zoom
Microsoft Teams
Skype
G Suite
YouTube
Vimeo
MSOneDrive
Notes
total FS20, unofficial
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
source
3,044
China
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
104
Iran
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
59
Bangladesh
X
31
Indonesia
X
30
United Arab Emirates
X
X
4
Morocco
X
4
Ukraine
X
X
Apps blocked in Crimea region only.
3
Burma (Myanmar)
X
3
Syria
X
X
X
X
X
2
Sudan
X
X
X
1
Turkmenistan
X
X
Authored by:
Jessica Knott and Stephen Thomas
