Sakai 11 Upgrade

What is Sakai 11?

Sakai 11 is a new version of Sakai that is currently being developed and is expected to be released sometime in Summer 2016.

When will Durham Tech upgrade to Sakai 11?

Durham Tech plans to upgrade to Sakai 11 on August 1, 2016, if the new version is ready by then. If not, we expect to upgrade on December 19, 2016. For technical reasons the upgrade must be done by December 31, 2016.

What's new and different in Sakai 11?

Sakai 11 has a completely new look-and-feel. The user interface has been redesigned for easier viewing on mobile devices and tablets. In addition…

• The Lessons tool has a new simplified interface, with consolidated menus and common tasks quickly accessible on the page. New layout options allow flexibility to arrange content in blocks or chunks.
• The Gradebook tool will offer options for recording extra credit. A new spreadsheet interface is also in the works, which makes entering grades easier.
• Building assessments in Tests & Quizzes is exactly the same, but you will find two new question types: hot spot and extended matching. Also, test settings have been streamlined, and a new option lets you give specific students extra time or a different time frame for taking a test.
• The Assignments tool is the same too, but with new features for Peer Review and Group Submission.
• The Syllabus tool will also change (details TBD).

Screenshot gallery

(click to enlarge)

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  New mobile-friendly design

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  Lessons interface simplified

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  Lessons divided into blocks

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  Grade entry spreadsheet

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  Test settings

What will stay the same in Sakai 11?

Lots of functions are unchanged in the new version. The following tools have no changes (or minor, barely noticeable changes) in Sakai 11:

• Announcements
• Forums
• Blogs
• Resources
• Drop Box
• Email
• Email Archive
• Chat
• Meetings
• Import from Site

What will happen to my course content and data?

Content and data in your existing course sites (and project sites) will stay the same. And you can "copy" that content from one semester to the next, like always. Just the tools and buttons you use to interact with your content will look different, and some tools will have new features you can use.

How will the Sakai 11 upgrade affect students?

Aside from the new look-and-feel, changes in functionality for students will be minimal. Instructional Technologies will provide videos and support materials for students, closer to the rollout of the new version.

How can I learn more about Sakai 11?

Instructional Technologies is hard at work learning and testing the new version, updating support materials, and planning training to help faculty make the transition. Stay tuned for more info on Sakai 11 training opportunities!

Info sessions in May and June

Instructional Technologies will demo Sakai 11 and answer questions at these upcoming sessions:

• Wednesday, May 11, 1:30 - 2:30 pm (in the TLC, room 325 Phillips)
• Wednesday, June 1, 1:30 - 2:30 pm (in the TLC, room 325 Phillips)

Note:

• Sessions will be recorded for those who are interested but cannot attend. Recording link will be posted here a few days after the May 11 session.
• These sessions are not TLC-sponsored events; attendance does not count toward the Adjunct Teaching Institute Stipend.