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Academic Technology Newsletter

July 2025

We hope you are having a wonderful summer! This month brings timely updates, professional development opportunities, and helpful resources as you prepare for the upcoming semester.

We’re excited to announce that the Course Accessibility Report in Canvas is now powered by Cidi Labs’ UDOIT tool. This new integration offers the same features you’re used to with Ally—such as alternative file formats—while adding expanded functionality to support your accessibility goals and streamline the way you evaluate course content.

AI in July has returned, offering a full month of CSU-hosted events focused on artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. From prompt parties to the GPT-A-Thon, there are plenty of opportunities to explore new tools, sharpen your skills, and connect with colleagues across the CSU system.

The 2025–2026 Doctoral Fellowship in Academic Technology is now accepting applications. This fellowship supports doctoral research focused on digital equity and technology, advancing access, inclusion, and professional development.

You'll find resources to help you prepare for the upcoming ADA updates. Revisit the Summer Waves Canvas Course for on-demand learning in Canvas, AI, and video creation. The CSU Online Summer Training series also offers self-paced options you can complete on your own schedule.

This month’s featured workshops include hands-on support with Canvas and Panopto. Whether you’re brand new to Canvas, interested in creating instructional videos, or looking to fine-tune your Gradebook, our team is here to help you start the fall semester with confidence.

 
Blue hexagon with a white 'C' and the text 'cidilabs

New Course Accessibility Report for Fall

The Course Accessibility Report within your Canvas courses is now powered by Cidi Labs’ “Universal Design Online content Inspection Tool” (UDOIT). Cidi Labs offers the same features as the previous tool, including alternate file formats, while adding new options to help you with the accessibility of your materials. Learn more about Cidi Labs’ new course accessibility report.

 

Application Open for Doctoral Fellowship in Academic Technology

The Doctoral Fellowship in Academic Technology is now accepting applications for 2025–2026. This fellowship supports doctoral research on digital equity and tech-based education in minority-serving and Title I schools, advancing equity, access, and professional development. Learn more.

smiling young woman in a graduation cap and gown, looking over her shoulder toward the camera
 
AI in JULY An Empowered CSU set inside a white explosion bubble against a vibrant blue radial burst background

AI in July 2025

AI in July is back showcasing innovative AI work across CSU campuses! Explore CSU-led sessions through July 31 to boost your AI skills and connect with colleagues. Join the GPT-A-Thon, prompt parties, and other sessions to connect, learn, and get inspired.

 

How to Help Your Faculty
with Accessibility

New ADA updates take effect April 24, 2026. What do your faculty need to know? What resources does the University provide? The UDC is offering this summer workshop for academic support staff, to help you guide your faculty as they prepare for the ADA changes.

Miniature classroom setup with small wooden desks and a chalkboard displaying a red and white accessibility icon, all arranged on the keyboard of an open laptop.
 
A beach scene with a palm tree, people with surfboards, and waves under a blue sky

Summer Waves Canvas Course

Refresh your teaching toolkit this summer with the Summer Waves Canvas Course! Revisit top workshops or explore new ones on Canvas, AI, video creation, and more—anytime, on demand. Get started and make the most of your summer.

 

CSU Online Summer Training

Did you know that the CSU offers free online faculty trainings? Whether you're refining your course design with Quality Learning and Teaching (QLT) or exploring new AI tools, there's something for everyone. Explore flexible, self-paced options and sign up!

Five college professors having a meeting around a table with a laptop and papers

Featured Workshops

Canvas logo against light isometric background

Guided Introduction
to Canvas

If you've never used Canvas, this workshop can help with the fundamentals. Participants will learn how to navigate Canvas, upload files, create pages and modules, setup assignments and discussions, and basic Gradebook functions.

Register

Getting Started Creating Course Videos in Panopto

Learn how to record instructional video content in Panopto! Whether it’s recording class lectures, lessons, activities, or demonstrations, our lecture capture team can guide you in making Panopto your primary instructional video platform.

Register
Canvas logo against light isometric background

Canvas Course Setup Clinic

Make sure you’re ready to start the semester with success! Activities in this clinic are tailored to attendees and may include adding a video welcome message, checking assignment and quiz due dates, uploading a current class syllabus, and more.

Register
Canvas logo against light isometric background

Canvas Grading Clinic

Want to learn more about Canvas grades? Get one-on-one assistance with all things grading in Canvas, including setting up your course Gradebook, using Speedgrader, grading with external tools, and tips for grading efficiently and accurately.

Register
 

Find more professional development opportunities on the Academic Technology workshop calendar.

 

Share topics you would like to see covered in a future newsletter, give us feedback on your experience with instructional technology, or let us know of workshop resources you are interested in with the Academic Technology Feedback Form.

Want to connect? Join our Zoom Drop-in Hours, make an appointment, or send us an email. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for more Academic Technology updates.

 

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