Contemplating iOS 8? Read This Message!

Good Afternoon!

Maybe you’ve seen the notifications on your iPhone or iPad. Maybe you’ve heard about the pros (and cons) about it on the Internet. Just maybe, you’ve gone ahead and done it.

Last week, Apple released iOS 8.  They are touting it as the biggest iOS release ever. Apple has said, "Not since the addition of the App Store has an iOS made such an impact..." and they aren’t kidding!

The Center for Online & Digital Learning will be hosting two on-site information sessions, October 1 and 2, from 8:30a-10:30a in the Center for Teaching & Learning, led by our Learning Technologist Chris Gaudreau. 

Coffee will be provided and space is limited.  Please sign up to discuss the newest changes to your iOS.

We hope to see you there!

Looking for coffee and educational technology conversation but not about iOS 8? Use the form to suggest a topic you’d like to see in the future or contact Chris directly.  As always, don't hesitate to reach out to the Center for Online & Digital Learning if you have any questions.

Direct Link to Sign Up Form:  https://docs.google.com/a/baypath.edu/forms/d/1f1T6Pg-e8_H-KI1QgWx3gIWhtAaHZc_Nj5ANilBgU8M/viewform

 Wednesday. September 17. 1:00-ish. 

Apple announced that iOS 8 will be live and available for download around 1pm on Wednesday afternoon. Very quickly, know the impact it will make:

• Downloads. Lots of Downloads: The network may feel a pinch around this time, as lots of Faculty, Staff and Students update their iOS devices. Plan accordingly.
• Back Up Your Content: If you don't have a current back up (e.g. as of the moment before you want to download the new software), don't do it. If an error occurs while downloading that compromises your device, you may be out of luck until you connect it to a computer and redownload the software.
• User Names & Passwords: Keep a list of user names & passwords ready, especially your Apple ID. Go here for support for all-things Apple ID.
• Change is Coming: There are a lot of new enhancements and changes with this release. Visit this link to familiarize yourself with what's been shared with the public so far.
• iCloud Drive: Do NOT choose this option when given. iCloud Drive is not yet fully functional and may wipe out your content. Wait until Yosemite comes out later this year to opt-in.

Lastly, I have one piece of sage advice to leave you with: You don't have to get it. As with all new releases, it's not mandatory. But eventually, the apps you love won't work with iOS 6 and I know you've been avoiding iOS 7...

I'm here if you have any questions or concerns. Happy updating!

Gradebook Total Column Is Moving Up The Street!

The ability to identify struggling students in your course early and often is paramount to their success here at Bay Path. With the September 6^th update to Canvas, you will be able to do that more easily. 

Soon, your Total column will now become mobile allowing you to place it at the beginning.of your Grade Book.  By positioning it as the left-most column, the visual impact is much greater and immediate... you'll be able to easily identify where students are in any given course.

Let us know if this helps you out, or if you would like more information when it's released in a few days.

Chris Gaudreau and Mary Wiseman
Center for Online & Digital Learning

The details for these new features have been sourced from Canvas’ User Guides and Product Release Notes. If you have any specific question we would be happy to speak with you directly, please call 413-565-6880 or email us at online@baypath.edu.