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ODE Updates Feb 2024
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The Office of Online and Digital Education (ODE) provides comprehensive support to instructors and academic units in the development and delivery of online courses and programs at UM-Flint. Below you will find the latest information for online teaching and learning resources, upcoming events, training opportunities, and more.

ODE Course Development Stipend
As part of the strategic transformation initiative, ODE is reinstating the ODE course development stipend.

Amount: $1,500 per online course included in the FY25 strategic transformation plan.

Eligibility: Limited funding available on a first-come, first-served basis. Faculty must meet course review criteria, including Dean's approval, completion of the ICD training (with an 80% or better since 2017), and a course review by an ODE instructional designer. Please see the Course Development Stipend page and Course Development Stipend form for more detailed information and eligibility requirements.




Nick Gaspar featured in PBS interview discussing GenAI 
An expert in the area of GenAI, Nick Gaspar was interviewed on The Follow Up program, which aired live on Delta College Public Media’s WDCQ-TV on Tuesday, February 13 at 8:00 p.m. Gaspar examined GenAI’s application in higher education and discussed educating the campus and community on how it works. Peter Barry, a philosophy professor at Saginaw Valley State University, also brought his unique perspective to the conversation. All episodes can be found here.


International Interest in GenAI Course/Resources
Recently a representative at the Queensland Department of Education in Australia expressed interest in utilizing our GenAI Prompt Literacy course materials for the development of Generative AI guidance materials for their state's public schools. This is a testament to the impact and relevance of our GenAI resources on a global scale and we are committed to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across borders.

Free Generative AI Prompt Literacy Course Available
The GenAI Prompt Literacy Course is not only gaining interest internationally, but it has attracted more than 774 learners, including users from all three U-M campuses as well as K-12, Harvard University, Yale University, Columbia University, Cornell University and more. The course dives into the essential art of AI prompting, and explores not just the how, but also the why behind effective AI communication. Whether you are crafting detailed reports or seeking innovative learning strategies, this accessible and engaging course equips you with the tools to make AI a practical asset in your daily life. You can learn more about the course and sign up now online.




New Course Combine Process
ODE is pleased to introduce a new automated process for combining course sections in Canvas. This streamlined process is now available and offers immediate, automatic combining of sections, eliminating previous delays associated with manual processing. Access the new feature:

This enhancement is part of our ongoing efforts to improve your experience with Canvas. For any questions or additional support, please reach out to the ODE Help Desk.



Training Opportunities
Workshops: ODE offers regular workshops and training to help prepare instructors at UM-Flint. Register for one of our upcoming live workshops or browse our list of recorded workshops to watch at any time.

Individual & Unit Level Consultations: Need help with instructional design, course redesign, or an educational technology tool? Our instructional design team is available for 1:1 consultations and customized sessions for academic units and programs. Please contact ODE to schedule.