Tech Update 8/23/21: Expanded IT Support, Reminders for Coming Back to Campus

Colleagues,

This latest Tech Update highlights many new, convenient resources to help streamline the start of the new academic year, including simple tips to make teaching, working, and learning more productive, collaborative, and inclusive.

Have or requests? Check out the 2021-22 Connect to Tech guides for resources to get you started. For issues that the guides can’t help solve, the Tech Service Portal and live support options are available 24/7.

Cheers!
-M

Marcus P. Robinson,

Associate Vice President, Engagement and Experience

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Tech Update: August 23, 2021

Expanded IT Support and Services Provide Around-the-Clock Help

The Northeastern Services Now Mobile app, which launched earlier this year with Wellness resources, has been updated with support for technology-related questions. This new release includes the ability to create and track IT support requests. Download the free app at the Apple App Store for iOS or the Google Play Store for Android users.

Handy Info for Return to Campus

Make coming back to campus a smooth process, especially if you’ve been away for a while, with these helpful tips and reminders.

Before you arrive on campus:

• Install any available updates to your computer’s operating system, especially Windows 10. Updating to the most recent version of Windows 10 will ensure your device’s security and help avoid any disruption when trying to connect to campus networks once you arrive. Check the status of your operating system, and find additional information through the Windows 10 Update Guide.
• If you’ve been using a headset, speaker, or other external devices to make and take your Microsoft Teams calls, remember to pack it and bring it to campus with you. If you haven’t been using one, consider whether you will want one when you return to campus. Teams-certified devices are recommended, but Teams will support most headphones, speakers, or wireless earbud devices that can be paired with your computer.
• Back up and sync documents to OneDrive so that you have easy access to your individual files.
• Submit the Expectations for Return to Campus Attestation form before your first day on campus, or by September 6. This updated form reflects new wellness protocols for fall 2021 and is required for every member of the Northeastern community including anyone working remotely.

When you’re on campus:

• Allow some extra time to reconnect to Northeastern wireless networks when first returning to campus. You may also need to reinstall any network printers. To connect to NUwave, follow these helpful steps.
• If you’re at a U.S. campus, schedule a COVID Test for the week of September 6. Boston-based faculty and staff will use the COVID-19 Test Scheduler to schedule their tests. First-time testers can refer to the Guide to First-Time Testing on the Boston Campus for step-by-step instructions. Employees at other U.S. campuses will receive information on how to schedule a test from their campus.

For additional tips for returning to campus and other general technology information for teaching, research, and work, visit the Connect to Tech guides for faculty and staff.

Fall 2021 Canvas Course Readiness

As a reminder, all Northeastern courses can be found in the Canvas learning management system. To get started, access the Canvas start of term checklist for step-by-step instructions for uploading syllabi, grading assignments, and communicating with students.

Instructors should also take time to review updated resources on supporting student success in Canvas through digital flexibility and should visit the Canvas training sessions and seminars to brush up on Canvas skills.

Streamline Assignments: Welcome Gradescope, Goodbye Scantron

Say farewell to Scantron bubble grading and machine feeding. The new, flexible Gradescope application is here, now supporting handwritten tests, bubble sheets, and online exams. Gradescope is an assignment tool in Canvas that allows instructors to save time with rubric-based digital workflows for grading hand-written or code-based assignments.

• Learn how Khoury faculty member Jason Hemann integrates Gradescope with Canvas courses to upgrade the learning experience for students.
• Access Northeastern’s knowledge base for Gradescope articles and getting started guides.
• Participate in Gradescope live and on-demand training.

Microsoft Teams Tips

Microsoft Teams enables everyone to chat, meet, call, and collaborate all in one place. Below are some quick “Teams Tips” to best leverage the flexibility and features of Teams. Bring your own Teams calling devices including headsets and webcams to enhance meeting quality.

• Pin your Chats to keep important or frequent conversations at the top of the chat window.
• Download the Teams Mobile App to take Teams anywhere for anytime access.
• Organize tasks with Microsoft Planner by selecting the “Tasks by Planner” tab to streamline productivity and create to-do lists.
• Learn Teams keyboard shortcuts including Ctrl+Shift+M (Windows) and Command+Shift+M (Mac) on your keyboard toggles mute and unmute in meetings and calls.

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