Video captions in Illinois Media Space are added in English but there may be times that you wish to add captions in another language, too. You can do this by downloading the captions file from Media Space and then paste them into Word or a similar text file to translate. Once you are done translating the captions into the desired language, go back to the video page in Media Space and click “edit” under the “Actions” heading. Click on “captions” and then select “Upload captions file.” You’ll be able to select the language of the translated captions to be added to the video. After you save the captions to the video file, users will be able to select the language of the captions when they view the video.
Author: Ashley Tschakert Foertmeyer
Tech Tip of the Week: Embedding Pictures in Discussion Posts
Embedding a picture in a Canvas discussion post can be completed in three simple steps. First, make sure the image you want to embed is saved as a jpeg file on your computer. Second, within the discussion post reply, click the image button to add your picture file. Finally, after you add the accompanying text within your post, click the reply button. You can find additional information on using image files in a discussion post in the Canvas Student FAQs.
Tech Tip of the Week: Accessible Links
Whenever you need to include a link in an email or on a webpage, make sure you follow accessibility guidelines to ensure easy access for all. Creating accessible links helps those using screen readers determine exactly what information they will find by choosing a link. When links do not have meaningful associated text, those using screen readers might be unsure of where a link leads. The following tips avoid this issue.
- Embedded hyperlinks should be included within meaningful text. Avoid wording such as “learn more” or “click here.”
- Do not display the URL as the hyperlink.
- If directing someone to email for more information write, “Questions about [topic] can be directed to [written out email address]” and attach link to the written out email address.
For more accessibility tips, check out the accessibility training on the iSchool Technology Training page located on Canvas.
Tech Tip of the Week: Canvas Mobile Apps
Whether you are an instructor or a student, there may be times that you need to check Canvas away from your computer. You could use a browser on your phone but you know that many functions are not mobile compatible and those that are can still be difficult to navigate. Fortunately, you can download the Canvas Student App or Canvas Teacher App instead. From participating in discussions to seeing or posting grades, the Canvas mobile apps allow users to access their courses easily while on the go.
Tech Tip of the Week: Trick for Recording Audio
Whether you are recording audio for a podcast or a class presentation, mistakes are bound to happen. When you make a mistake, clap your hands or make a loud noise. That way, when it’s time to edit, you will see a spike in the audio waves and can quickly locate errors you need to remove.
Tech Tip of the Week: 2FA without a Phone
You are trying to log-in to Canvas when you suddenly realize your phone is dead and you’re stuck on the 2FA screen. Fear not! You can simply log-in to the NetID Center and request a temporary passcode. The passcode will be sent to your primary email on file and, voila, you can now login with 2FA without your phone. For additional security, you can also add multiple devices to 2FA. That way, if you forgot your iPhone but you have your iPad, you can login with 2FA without requesting a temporary passcode.
Tech Tip of the Week: Removing Text Formatting
You are working on a project that requires copying and pasting text but the original formatting can’t be removed. Fortunately, there is an easy solution. First, copy the text you want to use. Then paste it into a url box, which will remove the formatting. From here, you can copy and paste the text where you need it to go!
Tech Tip of the Week: Safe Senders in Outlook
Have you ever missed an email because it was sent to your junk mail folder? You can avoid this issue by ensuring your contacts are listed as Safe Senders in Outlook. Adding contacts to your Safe Senders list depends on the version of Office you have on your device. Microsoft has detailed instructions on how to add contacts depending on the version of Office you use. The Help Desk can help you with any questions you have about utilizing Safe Senders.
Tech Tip of the Week: Slido
Slido is a tool that makes it easy to create interactive polls for Zoom meetings or other events. From multiple choice to word clouds (like the one the Help Desk created below), participants can see results change instantly. Polls can be embedded in PowerPoint slides via a personalized QR code or a link can be shared with participants. To learn more about creating interactive polls and to start your free account, visit www.slido.com or watch this video for more details on using Slido.
Tech Tip of the Week: UIUC AnyWare
UIUC AnyWare gives students and instructors access to a variety of software that can be accessed remotely. Even better, VPN is not required to use UIUC AnyWare.
UIUC AnyWare may be helpful to those who:
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- need to run software that they do not have access to on their own devices;
- need to run software that their personal device cannot run due to processing power;
- are unable to download large files due to internet bandwidth issues or data caps.
You can learn about available software by visiting the Technology Services UIUC AnyWare webpage.