Jacky Baughman: Organization!
Using Canvas Effectively
One thing that has worked really well is organization and communication. I rarely used learning management systems (i.e., Canvas) pre-pandemic, but have learned to embrace them. I keep highly organized file systems, share all lecture slides, notes, labs, readings, resources, etc. via Canvas, and collect much of the work on Canvas. I also keep grades up-to-date via Canvas (I used to just have my own spreadsheets). In all my classes, I make sure that within the first 2 weeks the students become pros at accessing information, knowing where to look, and practicing the structure of the class that we will use for the rest of the semester. As part of this system, I share a Google Sheets link with the class (see example below) that is always the most up-to-date with what we're doing and what is due when. And at the end of every week I send an email that highlights what we did that week, how to prep for class the following week, and clarifies due-dates and expectations.
Using Google Sheets
This shared Google sheet allows students to see course parts as a color-coded list for the entire semester. As items pass, a strikethrough is an indication visually to the student.
In Canvas, you can share Google sheet links, embed Google sheets on pages, and more.
Here are resources for creating a Google sheets calendar in your courses:
Switching to Sheets from Excel
