Start of Semester Preparation: Check Your Materials

In anticipation of starting a new semester it is always a good idea to check the materials you plan on using for your course. Here are a couple of pitfalls that could happen, and how you might protect yourself.

1. Where did that go?
   1. Sometimes we link to library resources such as journal articles, books, or media, and we expect that the link will be ‘good’ in perpetuity. However, over time, things shift and change. It is a good idea to use stable links to ensure that your resources will be available to students when they select the link you have provided. Check out the MSU Libraries guide on how to create and use stable links in your course.
       
2. It’s not the limits we set…
   1. Some resources have a limit to the number of individuals who can access the resource at one time. It’s kind of like the olden days when there were only a few copies of a book in the library for hundreds of students. The same occurs in some digital resources. It is a good idea to ensure that your resources don’t have any restrictions, and if they do, that you are aware of these before adding them to your final syllabus or course reading list. Check out the MSU Libraries guide on stable links and licensing restrictions.
       
3. Deadlines and other support help
   • If you are experiencing an issue with access or availability to course resources from the library, you should contact them as soon as possible in the planning process. MSU librarians are very skilled and knowledgeable about the availability of resources and suggestions for alternatives when necessary. For help with course materials, visit the MSU Libraries website.

These points relate to resources and materials available through the MSU library. It is always a good idea to check your links and access to third-party resources and materials that you have ‘used in the past’. Over time, open and free resources can become fee-for-access (e.g., you will receive a 401 Unauthorized error), as well as being removed from the web entirely (e.g., the dreaded 404 ‘Not Found’ error). Checking these resources early can help you avoid last-minute panic and scrambling to find alternatives for your course