Technology access tips for students

As we transition to distance learning classes, we know you have questions about what you will need and how you can access it. Most importantly, your faculty and everyone at ÖйúÌå²ÊÍø will continue to support your learning and growth. Classes will look and feel different, but we will work through these challenges together to finish this semester strong. This document addresses some questions you may have about accessing the technology you need.

How do I access my course?

When classes resume on March 30, you will find your syllabus and instructions on how to access your course materials in your course Moodle site. You can log in to Moodle here. 

How do I communicate with my instructor? 

Be sure you check your ÖйúÌå²ÊÍø email at least once a day and use that email to communicate with anyone from the college. Your faculty members will also be checking their ÖйúÌå²ÊÍø email. You will find information on how to contact your faculty members, including their virtual office hours, in your Moodle course pages. 

Will I have class at my scheduled time?

You might, but you will also have other options to engage. Some instructors may choose to hold live (i.e., synchronous) classes at your scheduled class time. If you are asked to meet via video conferencing, Google Hangouts Meet may be used. This is really easy to use, and you can learn more about it here. You will be able to join a Google Hangouts Meet through your computer using a link or dial in on your phone if you do not have stable internet access. 

We recognize that you might not be able to join for live classes, so your faculty members will work with you to make materials accessible so you can access them when you are able (i.e., in an asynchronous format).

What if I don¡¯t have access to a computer?

There are several options for you to consider:

• You may not need a computer to complete your courses this term. If you feel comfortable reading and writing on your phone and you are able to submit assignments via email or Moodle, this may be enough for many classes. Please check with your faculty members.
• If you are concerned about your computer being slow, remember that faculty will work with you to provide options for you to engage. Instead of using your computer to interact with your professors and classmates, you might use your phone to join a Google Hangout Meets session.
• Computer labs on floors 1 and 3 of Olin are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. You must email the Dean of Students Office to request permission to use these, and you will need your ID card to access them. This building will be regularly cleaned. Be sure to practice proper social distancing (i.e., stay at least six feet apart from others) and follow posted guidelines.
• If these options are unavailable to you, please contact the ITS Helpdesk for further assistance.  

What if my internet is slow?

Slow or spotty internet may be frustrating, but you should be able to continue in your courses. Your faculty members will work with you to provide multiple options for you to engage. When they offer live video chat interaction via Google Hangouts Meet, you can join by calling in on your phone. Faculty members will also record these to post for you to view at another time. We will all practice flexibility and patience.

What do I do if I don¡¯t have access to the internet?

There are several options for you to consider:

• Many cell phone companies (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, and others) are increasing or waiving data limits during this time. This better allows you to use your phone as a hotspot for wifi access. Learn how to use your cell phone as a mobile hotspot here. 
• Many internet providers (Mediacom, Comcast, etc) are offering free installation and free service for the first 60 days with no contract. Please look into this with the internet providers in your area as soon as possible.
• Providers (AT&T, Spectrum, Comcast) are also making their public Wi-Fi hotspots open for free access by anyone. Follow the links to check availability in your area and practice social distancing when using these.
• This tool can help you find low or no cost internet service options that may be available to you
• If you are in Illinois, check out this map of public drive-up Wi-Fi hotpots across the state
• If these options are unavailable to you, please contact the ITS Helpdesk for further assistance.