First Course Earns QM Certification with 7th Ed. Rubric Eileen O'Brien Among 19 Faculty to Satisfy Peer Review

The first faculty member from UMBC has earned Quality Matters (QM) certification for an online course utilizing the new 7th Edition Higher Education Rubric as part of the Quality Matters Impact (QMI) program. This brings to 19 the total number of certified courses at UMBC. More than half of the QM certified courses inthe University System of Maryland are from UMBC.

Faculty participants received feedback from certified QM subject matter experts and peer reviewers as part of a formal course review. They also earned a digital credential for completing the Applying the Quality Matters Rubric (APPQMR) online workshop in preparation to take a course through the peer review process.

The most recently certified using the 7th Edition Rubric is:  

PSYC 306 - LIfespan and Human Development - Eileen O'Brien

Date certified: 01.10.2024

Eileen O'Brien

O'Brien joins others who have earned QM Certification since 2021: 

  • AGNG 355 - The Experience of Dementia (Louise Murray)
  • CHEM 101 - Principles of Chemistry 1 (Sarah Bass)
  • EDUC 667 - Structure of English for TESOL (Mary Tabaa)
  • ENCH 300 - Chemical Process Thermodynamics (Mariajose Castellanos)
  • PBHL 100 - Survey of the US Healthcare System (Katie Birger)
  • GWST 210: Intro to Critical Sexuality Studies (Kate Drabinski)
  • SOCY 351: Health, Illness, and Medicine (John Schumacher)
  • EHS 115: Medical Terminology (Gary Williams)
  • CMSC 104: Problem Solving & Computer Programming (Chris Marron)
  • SPAN 102: Elementary Spanish (Maria Manni)
  • POLI 210: Political Thought (Lisa Vetter)
  • PSYC 317: Cognitive Psychology (Diane Alonso)
  • PSYC 100: Introduction to Psychology (Laura Rose)
  • IS 607: Introduction to Information Systems (Augusto Casas)
  • ART 332: Design and Technology (Gary Roznac)
  • SPAN 101: Elementary Spanish I (Maria Gomez-Rubio)
  • SPAN 201: Spanish Intermediate I (Milvia Hernandez)
  • EHS 115: Medical Terminology (Crista Lenk)

In partnership with the Provost's Office, the QMI pilot launched in FA2021 as an extension of the award-winning PIVOT program to recognize exemplary course design. A QM Official review provides independent validation of quality, learner-focused course design. 

QM certifications are valid for five years. A course achieves QM Certification when it meets QM Rubric Standards at the 85% threshold or better and meets all Essential Standards. The newly certified courses are eligible to display the QM Certification Mark, an internationally recognized symbol of online and blended course design quality, on the syllabus or within the course. The QM Certification Mark represents these instructors' ongoing commitment to creating learning environments that provide students with a clear pathway to success. 

DoIT's Instructional Technology team manages the formal review process and facilitates the fully online, asynchronous Applying the Quality Matters Rubric workshop designed to help instructors prepare for a formal course review.

For more information about the Quality Matters Impact program, please contact the QM coordinators for UMBC:

Dr. Mariann Hawken

Director, Instructional Technology\

mariannhawken@umbc.edu

Dr. Susan Biro

Manager, Online Learning

sbiro@umbc.edu

 ]]> The first faculty member from UMBC has earned Quality Matters (QM) certification for an online course utilizing the new 7th Edition Higher Education Rubric as part of the Quality Matters Impact... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology/posts/139499 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/139499/guest@my.umbc.edu/f81256a035d7d02b8bd697f8f56635ec/api/pixel biro hawken online-hybrid online-learning pivot qm-certification qmi quality-matters quality-matters-impact Instructional Technology https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/original.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/large.png?1446126703 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/medium.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/small.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxsmall.png?1446126703 Instructional Technology https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/xxlarge.jpg?1709560507 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/xlarge.jpg?1709560507 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/large.jpg?1709560507 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/medium.jpg?1709560507 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/small.jpg?1709560507 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/xsmall.jpg?1709560507 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/499/f3bb9c0800386dcd1ac8faa83b28ebf0/xxsmall.jpg?1709560507 Quality Matters logo 5 1 true Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:13:09 -0500 Sun, 29 Mar 2026 14:00:46 -0400 MSRP/Nationwide retirement webinars Supplemental Retirement Accounts webinars for March 2024

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Enroll with MSRP Nationwide today at MarylandDC.com!

Please see the information below about the upcoming retirement webinars from MSRP Nationwide. All webinars are approx. 45 mins in length. 

How to Plan for Taxes in Retirement

Learn about the sources of income State employees can expect to have in retirement, the Maryland Pension Exclusion, and how taxes factor into developing a retirement income budget.

 

Get Your Financial House in Order

Review the steps to become financially stable and confident! Learn how to get your financial house in order, save time, and gain peace of mind.

 

Have We Got a Match for YOU!

Don't miss out on the MSRP Dollar-for-Dollar Match or the NEW Higher Education Student Loan Payment Match! Attend this webinar and learn if you qualify!

 

Are you a Contractual Employee? This Webinar is for YOU!

Contractual employees can enroll in the Maryland Supplemental Plans (457b/401k/403b), to save for the future! Learn about this great State sponsored benefit and why you should enroll today!

 

Click HERE to register for any of the above webinars. 


"It's Your Future - Take CONTROL!" webinar series below. All webinars are approx. 45 mins in length. 

Success in Planning: Understanding Your MSRP Plans

Are you a new employee, a Contractual employee, or just looking for a review? This webinar is for YOU! Learn the features and benefits of the MSRP 457(b), 401(k), 403(b) plans.

Financial Knowledge: Understanding Investing and Your MSRP Options

It is important to make sound INVESTMENT decisions. In this webinar, MSRP covers the basics of investing and the importance of managing risk to help you determine the investment option suitable for you within your MSRP Plan.

Countdown to Retirement: Understanding Retirement Readiness

Whether the day you stop working is a decade away or just around the corner, learn the financial planning steps to take that are relevant to help you retire on YOUR terms. 

Click HERE to Register for any of the Take CONTROL! webinars







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When women are starting their careers, there’s a lot to consider - career goals, job satisfaction, achieving a work/life balance. But it’s important to also consider retirement. Discover how establishing a plan now can help build your financial future.

Hosted by Ms. Jahleel Gordon, TIAA will share financial strategies:

• Understand your income and your outflow, and how to balance them to your advantage
• Discover how saving a little now can help you later on
• Make a plan for your finances and your financial future
Please join us! Register here

March 8, 2024   Noon - 1:00 p.m. (ET)



]]> When women are starting their careers, there’s a lot to consider - career goals, job satisfaction, achieving a work/life balance. But it’s important to also consider retirement. Discover how... https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4403549/A4E0201E61D3891E75FFBFD4795C247A https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/139478/guest@my.umbc.edu/04df8f508c3d32313cd2a7bb404e4445/api/pixel benefits retirement Training https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/training https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/original.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/large.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/medium.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/small.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxsmall.png?1281010946 Training 0 0 false Fri, 01 Mar 2024 16:26:14 -0500 Gradebook statistics coming to Ultra courses in March Additional features include AI enhancements, new settings
In continuous effort to improve the digital learning environment for both faculty and students, the March update to Ultra features several improvements designed to streamline course management, enrich assessment capabilities, and foster a more personalized learning experience. 

Reviewing course performance on graded content is now easier than ever with the introduction of Gradebook Item Statistics. Instructors can select a column in the gradebook to access summary statistics for any graded item. The statistics page displays key metrics such as minimum and maximum value; range, average, median, standard deviation, and variance. The number of submissions requiring grading and the distribution of grades also displays.

Example of the gradebook item statistics. These are accessed from the gradebook column in grid or list view
Image 1: Example of the gradebook item statistics. These are accessed from the gradebook item in grid or list view.

Introduced last year, the AI Course Design Assistant provides instructors with helpful tools to create organizational structures, rubrics, and test questions. In the March update, the AI Design Assistant incorporates a context picker for test question generation. Instructors can now select specific course content items to help the AI create questions. This option improves the alignment of generated questions to course content.

Flexibility in Ultra course management is further enhanced with the No Due Date assessment setting. In some scenarios, such as self-paced learning, an instructor may not want to apply a due date. Recognizing the diverse needs and schedules of students, this feature allows instructors to create assessments without strict deadlines. 

Example of the No Due Date option for Ultra assessments.
Image 2: Example of the No Due Date option for Ultra assessments.

Additional Updates
  • A number indicator will appear next to the announcement tab in the course to indicate the number of unread announcements available. Users can also mark announcements as read or unread when announcements pop-up or from the Announcements page.
  • Instructors can align goals to journals to ensure that the activity measures the desired learning outcomes. Instructors can also align goals to assignments, tests (including individual questions and questions in banks), discussions, rubric criterion, files, web links, and documents.
  • In flexible grading, instructors can collapse or expand the left panel (student cards) and right panel (feedback and rubrics). To provide a better user experience, the last used state is now preserved in the browser.
  • In Original courses, instructors can create text schemas that are currently unsupported in the Ultra course view. When converting courses, text schemas convert to a points schema. After conversion to Ultra, instructors can create and apply an alternate schema if desired.
Faculty should see the latest updates in Ultra courses around March 7-8, 2024. The next update to our Ultra test environment will take place on March 12, 2024; release notes are posted to the What's New in Ultra that same week. Faculty who are interested in test driving new features before they are released to production should open an RT ticket to request early access. Please watch the FAQs, including the What's New with Ultra page, and myUMBC for additional information about Ultra. 

Connect with Instructional Technology
As always, if you have any questions about teaching, learning, and technology at UMBC, please consider the following options:
Thumbnail-image: New to Ultra
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Below is the link to a video from one of those training sessions.
DRIF Distribution Training_February 2024.mp4
]]> Attached are the slides from the FY24 DRIF training sessions that occurred on 2/14 & 2/16. Below is the link to a video from one of those training sessions. DRIF Distribution... Document https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/attachments/5eee691637d01d80f2e940aad94b7abe/69fbd6e8/news/000/139/261/cd85355d87ca3c23d8e4fbff6d282fc0/DRIF Distribution Training_Final_FY24.pdf?1708706314 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/139261/guest@my.umbc.edu/b02d1f14f218bc03c6983f1a1d11f1bc/api/pixel Training https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/training https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/original.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/large.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/medium.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/small.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxsmall.png?1281010946 Training 0 0 false Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:38:44 -0500 Open Education Live: Free Virtual Symposium on OER Event sponsored by University of Central Florida
Open Ed Live is a free online event on February 27-29, 2024, aimed at bringing Higher Ed faculty, librarians, and instructional designers together to explore the boundless opportunities of open education. It consists of three half-day, virtual events with drop-in sessions for extended conversation on key topics.

Hosted by the Division of Digital Learning at the University of Central Florida, this event seeks to educate all attendees on emerging trends and issues within open education. Speakers representing all levels of colleges and universities will present informational sessions, participate in panel discussions, and lead interactive workshops for attendees.

This inaugural event acts as a prelude to the annual Open Ed Week. Scheduled this year from March 4-8, 2024, Open Ed Weeks is a global celebration where educators can actively share and learn about the latest achievements in open education.

Symposium Topics

At Open Ed Live, you'll learn about both the basic information and the emerging trends of open education surrounding the curriculum of higher education. There will be sessions for all levels of knowledge and awareness around OER. So, whether you're new or well-versed in this subject, there will be something for you to engage with.

This event will also highlight national issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Inclusive Access regarding open education. Attendees will learn how to use AI for Open Ed in their courses.

A student panel will be present at the event to discuss the importance of using Open Ed not only for their academic success, but also its financial impact. OER can be more affordable for students and provide academic freedom and creativity for faculty.

Download the extended agenda (pdf).

How to Attend

This event is free and open to attendees in higher education. It will take place via Zoom over three days from February 27-29, 2024.

There will be multiple live sessions. Registered attendees are free to attend some or all presentations. Once you have registered, you will receive the Zoom link and future communications about the agenda.

Registration will be open throughout the event.
]]> Open Ed Live is a free online event on February 27-29, 2024, aimed at bringing Higher Ed faculty, librarians, and instructional designers together to explore the boundless opportunities of open... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology/posts/139026 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/139026/guest@my.umbc.edu/3144a68a116d9960ed401a5671bcb6de/api/pixel oer open-education symposium webinar Instructional Technology https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/original.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/large.png?1446126703 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/medium.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/small.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxsmall.png?1446126703 Instructional Technology https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/xxlarge.jpg?1708017869 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/xlarge.jpg?1708017869 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/large.jpg?1708017869 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/medium.jpg?1708017869 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/small.jpg?1708017869 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/xsmall.jpg?1708017869 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/139/026/6861a49ef2e704924a673293123175cb/xxsmall.jpg?1708017869 1 0 true Thu, 15 Feb 2024 12:27:48 -0500 Center for Global Engagement Training Series Navigating Immigration Processes

From Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb, OISS, Center for Global Engagement

Dear campus partners:

We are excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive training series on navigating immigration processes tailored specifically to our administrative staff colleagues. In our commitment to support departments and research centers in international hiring, this series aims to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of immigration processes.

Overview: The training series will cover topics related to immigration, ensuring that you are well-equipped to support our international faculty, staff, and scholars. The sessions will be designed to provide practical insights, address common challenges, and foster a deeper understanding of immigration in higher education.

Who: The intended audience is both seasoned and new staff in academic departments or centers, who are involved in hiring, onboarding, and terminating international employees in paid and unpaid positions, or anyone in an academic department or center who would like to learn about and understand our field. Shared Services staff  are invited to attend sessions where they are included but are welcome to attend any session as well!

 Key Focus Areas:

  1. Visa Categories and Processes:

    • An in-depth exploration of the H-1B and J-1 visa categories and the associated processes.

  2. Immigration Compliance:

    • Understanding the legal aspects of immigration to ensure UMBC's compliance with government regulations.

  3. Navigating Changes:

    • Learning when to communicate changes to our office.

Benefits: Upon completion of the training series, participants can expect to:

  • Navigate immigration processes confidently and efficiently at the department level.

  • Gain best practices skills so the process remains efficient for all entities involved.

  • Contribute to creating a supportive environment for our international community.

Format: The series will be delivered simultaneously in-person and through Webex. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions, ask questions, and receive guidance from our office. I'll be serving some nice coffee for those who join me in person!

Please email Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb (dianezg@umbc.edu) to register and I will add the events to your calendars. Simply RSVP YES directly in the Google calendar invite when you are ready. Please update your RSVP to NO if your plans change. Don't hesitate to let me know if I should add anyone from your department or center to the calendar invites.


Schedule: The training series started on February 13, with sessions taking place monthly, from 3 pm to 4 pm, in Admin 218 and virtually, unless noted. 

Please note that you do not have to attend all the sessions. Also, although there is a main topic "du jour", questions are open for J-1 and H-1B at every event! 

The dates and topics for 2024 are:

Tuesday, February 13, J-1 and H-1B overview. Shared Services, campus partners staff are invited to attend.

Tuesday, March 12, H-1B in depth for staff in departments and centers.

Tuesday, April 16, J-1 and H-1B overview for all. Shared Services, campus partners are invited to attend.

Tuesday, June 11 OR Tuesday, June 25, from 10am-3pm, full day with lunch.

Tuesday, July 9, J-1 and H-1B overview for all. Shared Services, campus partners are invited to attend.

Tuesday, August 6, J-1 in depth for staff in departments and centers.

Tuesday, September 10, H-1B in depth for staff in departments and centers.

Tuesday, October 22, J-1 and H-1B overview for all. Shared Services, campus partners are invited to attend.

Tuesday, November 19, J-1 and H-1B.

Tuesday, December 10, J-1 and H-1B.

Actions needed from you: RSVP directly in the Google Calendar invitation. Update your RSVP if your plans change. Let me know if I should add new personnel that have joined your team recently.

We encourage all staff involved in immigration-related processes to participate actively in this series. Your engagement is pivotal in ensuring a seamless and supportive environment for our international faculty, researchers, and staff.

We look forward to your active participation in this valuable training initiative.

I hope to see you very soon!

Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb

International Scholar Coordinator, ISSS, Center for Global Engagement |

]]> From Diane Zeenny Ghorayeb, OISS, Center for Global Engagement Dear campus partners: We are excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive training series on navigating immigration processes... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/138926/guest@my.umbc.edu/c0f19141d9c0326288143fae74058cd1/api/pixel Training https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/training https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/original.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xlarge.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/large.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/medium.png?1281010946 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/small.png?1281010946 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xsmall.png?1281010946 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/019/bdb106a0560c4e46ccc488ef010af787/xxsmall.png?1281010946 Training https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/xxlarge.jpg?1723493475 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/xlarge.jpg?1723493475 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/large.jpg?1723493475 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/medium.jpg?1723493475 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/small.jpg?1723493475 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/xsmall.jpg?1723493475 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/926/e7a456e5e67fee916ec1a9b1bfa50312/xxsmall.jpg?1723493475 2 0 true Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:31:18 -0500 Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:41:35 -0400 Blackboard to Present Exclusive Ultra Roadmap on Feb 21 Discover Ultra’s future: Join in person or virtually Instructional Technology is pleased to partner with Blackboard on February 21 for the Ultra Lunch & Learn Roadmap. During this exclusive event, faculty can explore upcoming features in Blackboard Ultra, discovering what's coming next for Ultra's gradebook, learner engagement and content creation tools, AI course design assistant, and more. 

Why Attend?

This roadmap presentation offers a deep dive into new development in Ultra over the next 3-6 months, impacting the way we teach, learn, and interact with our students using Blackboard. In addition to Instructional Technology staff support, the Blackboard team, representing client experience, product management, and Ultra migration, will be available to answer your questions. Continued feedback has helped shape Ultra's evolution since UMBC began its journey and contributes to our final milestone to migrate all courses to Ultra by the end of 2024.

We're offering exclusive perks for those who can join us in-person:

  • Complimentary Lunch: Enjoy a simple lunch as you network with Blackboard, Instructional Technology, and UMBC colleagues.
  • Free T-shirts, Notebooks, and Pens: Grab a small token of appreciation for your engagement and feedback.

Space for in-person attendance is limited. However, understanding the demands of academic schedules, we're also offering a virtual attendance option. This ensures that everyone interested can benefit from the valuable insights shared, regardless of physical location.

How to RSVP

Visit our event page to reserve your spot, whether you plan to attend in-person or virtually. Please take a few minutes to complete this pre-event survey by February 14, 2024 to help us tailor the upcoming Lunch & Learn Roadmap session to your needs and interests. Your responses will guide the focus of the roadmap presentation and discussion.

Connect with Instructional Technology

As always, if you have any questions about teaching, learning, and technology at UMBC, please consider the following options:

UMBC is committed to providing a consistent learning experience for everyone. The last day we will support Blackboard Original is December 31, 2024. Please check out our training and support: umbc.edu/go/ultra

Thumbnail Image: word cloud spelling "ULTRA"

]]> Instructional Technology is pleased to partner with Blackboard on February 21 for the Ultra Lunch & Learn Roadmap. During this exclusive event, faculty can explore upcoming features in... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology/posts/138801 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/138801/guest@my.umbc.edu/3fc4a91b2560af0e32881d59c2e3560e/api/pixel blackboard roadmap ultra Instructional Technology https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/original.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/large.png?1446126703 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/medium.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/small.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxsmall.png?1446126703 Instructional Technology https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/xxlarge.jpg?1707404581 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/xlarge.jpg?1707404581 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/large.jpg?1707404581 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/medium.jpg?1707404581 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/small.jpg?1707404581 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/xsmall.jpg?1707404581 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/801/4e6ac602544037f4234396b42bc16603/xxsmall.jpg?1707404581 3 0 true Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:56:21 -0500 DoIT’s Susan Biro Selected to QM Academic Advisory Council QMAAC provides guidance to QM direction, initiatives

DoIT's Manager of Online Learning, Dr. Susan Biro, has been selected to serve on the Quality Matters Academic Advisory Council (QMAAC) for a three-year term beginning January 1, 2024. The Council provides guidance to and oversight of the programmatic directions and initiatives of Quality Matters.

QMAAC members represent an institution or organization's interests and viewpoint to QM; provide guidance on QM to ensure QM's long-term sustainability and success; help to review new initiatives and act in an advisory role for new projects; and disseminate QM-related information, materials, and opportunities to others. 

Biro came to UMBC in May 2019 as Coordinator, Online Learning with more than 20 years of experience in distance education, including accreditation, program management, faculty support, and online student support and retention. 

"I was introduced to Quality Matters early in my higher education career," said Biro. "QM has been an integral part of how we do the important work of supporting faculty in designing effective online and hybrid learning environments. It's an honor to have been selected and I look forward to working with my QM colleagues on initiatives and projects."

Susan Biro

Biro currently serves as one of UMBC's QM Coordinators. She is also QM-certified as a Course Review Manager, a Peer Reviewer, and Independent Online APPQMR Facilitator.

About the QM Academic Advisory Council

Created in 2004 during the grant phase of Quality Matters, the Council has evolved in purpose and composition. The QMAAC's 15 members include representatives of QM subscriber schools, QM senior staff, and online and blended learning leaders who provide a national perspective. 

The Council is chaired by Dr. Morris Thomas, Assistant Provost for Digital and Online Learning and Director, Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Assessment at Howard University. 

Biro is one of five new members selected to serve on QMAAC. The others are Julian King, M.Ed., Instructional Designer & Quality Matters Coordinator, Center for the Advancement of Learning, University of the District of Columbia; Katherine McAlvage, Ph.D., Associate Director, Faculty Development and Support, Oregon State University; Antoinette R. Miller, Ph.D., Professor and Department Chair, Psychology, Clayton State University; and, Alicia Reed, Director of eLearning and Instructional Innovation Center, Laredo College.

About Quality Matters at UMBC

A total of 18 faculty have earned Quality Matters certification of their online or hybrid courses following rigorous peer reviews as part of the Quality Matters Impact (QMI) program. To date, more than half of the QM-certified courses in the University System of Maryland are from UMBC.

For more information about Quality Matters at UMBC, including course reviews, please contact Dr. Susan Biro (sbiro@umbc.edu).

]]> DoIT's Manager of Online Learning, Dr. Susan Biro, has been selected to serve on the Quality Matters Academic Advisory Council (QMAAC) for a three-year term beginning January 1, 2024. The Council... https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology/posts/138785 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/138785/guest@my.umbc.edu/355e4d7d77611f6972e70f46b239572f/api/pixel biro online-learning qm qmaac quality-matters Instructional Technology https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/instructional-technology https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/original.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xlarge.png?1446126703 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/large.png?1446126703 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/medium.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/small.png?1446126703 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xsmall.png?1446126703 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/001/164/dec3b026b81ee6d890a8f82f75c94a2e/xxsmall.png?1446126703 Instructional Technology https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/xxlarge.jpg?1707329892 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/xlarge.jpg?1707329892 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/large.jpg?1707329892 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/medium.jpg?1707329892 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/small.jpg?1707329892 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/xsmall.jpg?1707329892 https://assets3-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/thumbnails/news/000/138/785/fddfdee1c39441de2057a024bafdb747/xxsmall.jpg?1707329892 13 3 true Wed, 07 Feb 2024 14:37:00 -0500 Google Jamboard to Retire in Fall 2024 Microsoft Whiteboard Available as Free Alternative

Google Jamboard, a cloud-based digital whiteboard app, has been a popular choice for instruction and group collaboration. Along with the announced end of support for Google's Jamboard devices, Google has announced that support for the Jamboard app will wind down in late 2024.

Jamboard Retirement Timing

October 1, 2024 is the last date that it will be possible to create new or edit existing Jams. Existing Jams can be accessed to view or export from October 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Please export any Jams you wish to retain by December 31, 2024.

Microsoft Whiteboard

For current Google Jamboard users, Microsoft Whiteboard offers similar features for collaboration in the physical or virtual classroom. Microsoft Whiteboard is available to the UMBC campus as part of the Office 365 suite of apps. The following links are provided if you would like to learn more about Microsoft Whiteboard:

Whiteboard for instruction:

With the addition of the Microsoft Teams integrations in Blackboard, Microsoft Whiteboard may help streamline activities in your course.

Connect with Instructional Technology

As always, if you have any questions about teaching, learning, and technology at UMBC, please consider the following options:

Thumbnail Image: Jamboard Logo
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