Technology FAQs – Teaching & Learning Resources

Technology and Devices

What kind of computer should I bring to school?

The IT Help Desk has a New Student FAQ that covers this question in detail includes specification recommendations. Here is a excerpt from their guide we’d highlight:

With the advent of tablets, touchscreens, and powerful mobile processors that extended battery life and portability, what we think of as a “computer” is changing. However, there are several things to consider here:

You will be typing – a lot. Full size physical keyboards make this much easier.

Chromebooks, iPads, Android and Windows tablets generally perform well as a more portable “secondary” device. We recommend a laptop as your primary computing device.

Portability is important – you might like a giant screen on a laptop when you are sitting at the desk using it, but that will probably make it less convenient to carry to class. Plugging a larger external monitor into the laptop at your desk is an alternative way to balance screen size with portability.

Where can I get the technology I need for my projects?

UMW offers lots of free technology resources. Check the list here, or contact the Digital Knowledge Center if you can’t find what you are looking for.

What technology will we need to have and what technology will the school provide?

There are no technology purchasing requirements to attend UMW. Depending on your course of study your technology needs will vary. If you have questions of what the technology needs of a biology or studio art major we recommend you reach out to those departments directly. At minimum we recommend purchasing a laptop as this will make your coursework much easier.

Access software for a class it often made available through computer labs or student licenses (free or reduced cost). We also have AppsAnywhere, a virtual computer lab, that enables you to access a large variety of software.

Internet and Wi-Fi

How do I get connected to the internet/wi-fi?

Campus has both a general wi-fi (UMW network) and residental wi-fi (ResNet) for those living in residence halls

The Residence Hall Network guide covers the specifics of getting connected in your residence hall.

Who do I contact if I’m having issues connecting to the the internet?

Starting with the IT Help Desk is always a good place to start for technology related issues.

If you are having issues in your residence hall you can contact Apogee (who handles the residential wi-fi) 24/7/365 support center at 877-478-8808. They can help you add devices to your account (printers, phones, game consoles, etc.).

Can I bring my own wireless access point?

No, independent wireless access points cause wireless problems and interference for other users of the wireless network in the residence halls. If you are having issues with connecting or getting good signal you can contact Apogee (who handles the residential wi-fi) 24/7/365 support center at 877-478-8808. They can help you add devices to your account (printers, phones, game consoles, etc.).

If you are experiencing any problems with Apogee Support not resolving your issues, please contact the IT Help Desk.

Printing

Do I need to bring a printer to school?

Increasingly faculty take submissions digitally, but you may find you have occasion to print things. Printing is available at MFD devices across campus. You can find instructions on how to web print to these devices and where to find them can be found on the Copy Center’s site.

Is there a cost for printing?

It is $.10 Per Page (Black & White) $.30 Per Page (Color)

Technology and Classwork

Do all professors use Canvas?

At UMW our learning management system is called Canvas. Faculty are not required to use Canvas for all aspects of their course they are expected to:

Provide the syllabus
Provide the course schedule
Provide faculty contact information, office hours and means of communication
Indicate how students will access grades or feedback
Links to other sites/platforms with explanation of use and expectations

Are students allowed to bring laptops to the classroom?

Use of laptops or other electronic devices in the classroom is up to the discretion of the professor. This information should be available in your syllabus but if you have any questions you should contact your professor.

What if I have a technology based accommodation?

Whether you need lecture material recorded or other assistive technology you’ll want to reach out to the Office of Disability Resources to ensure you receive the accommodations you need to be successful at UMW.

Facilities and Resources

How can I book study and conference rooms on campus?

See the Reserve Spaces and Resources page for links to booking spaces on campus.

How can I book the podcast studio or the 3D printer?

The Digital Knowledge Center (DKC) handles several specialty spaces in the Hurley Convergence Center. You can reserve a space on the DKC’s site. You do not need to be in any particular class or major to access these space.

Technical Support and Learning

If my computer breaks where can I fix it?

The IT Help Desk will do best effort to help your troubleshoot your broken computer. If it is a software problem they may be able to resolve your issue but if it is hardware (e.g. broken screen) they will likely refer you to external support

Can anyone help me learn how to use my computer?

The Digital Knowledge Center (DKC) is a great resource for helping students accomplish digital projects as well as supporting general technology learning. DKC consultants will meet with you on one to help you with your questions.

Can someone teach me digital skills like photo editing, audio editing, etc?

Artificial Intelligence

Does UMW have an AI policy?

We encourage you to read the page on the Academic Integrity website about using AI responsibly but in short each course will have a different policy regarding Artificial Intelligence so it’ll be important to read your syllabus and assignments carefully and ask your professor if you have questions.