As the semester comes to a close, here are 5 things you can do now to tie up loose ends and prepare yourself for a smooth start next semester:
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Save a backup of your current gradebook now in case of last minute technology issues, and again after grades are submitted. You can do this by either exporting your gradebook(s) from Canvas or making a backup of the document you use to keep track of student grades. This dual backup ensures that you have a record of your students’ final grades, which can be helpful if any questions or issues arise over the break, or if your students contact you for recommendation letters in the future.
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Save a backup of your Canvas course by exporting it (note this export won’t include the gradebook). This way you have a local copy and won’t have to rebuild the course from scratch if a technology issue arises.
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Secure your research data by following the 3-2-1 rule: ensure your research data (drafts, raw data, analysis scripts) exists in 3 copies, on 2 different types of media, with 1 copy off-site.
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Block off time on your calendar to clean out your email inbox and reset for next semester.
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Set your “out of office” email responder to set expectations regarding your availability to respond over break.
Doing these things now can save you time and stress in case of unforeseen technology issues in the future. Best of luck as you wrap up the semester!
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