by Elizabeth Jenike, IT Services

Welcome (back) to campus for Fall 2019! Whether you are a returning student or new to Miami University, IT Services is pleased to be the provider of all the technology you’ll be using every day in (and out of) class. 

Let’s take a look at some of the helpful tools you have access to—and how they can help you keep your head on straight as the semester ramps up:

1. FileLocker

FileLocker provides a secure way to share documents containing sensitive information to parties both inside and outside Miami. Documents uploaded to this system will be deleted after 90 days, ensuring that private information isn’t sitting unprotected and forgotten after you are finished with it.

Check out the Knowledge Base for full information and instructions on how to share files with both internal and external people.

2. Qualtrics

This is a handy tool that allows instructors, staff, and students alike to set up surveys and gather information. Whether it’s for course credit or graduate research, Qualtrics can be a powerful ally in helping gain knowledge in a controlled environment. 

Before using Qualtrics, you should:

• Have a faculty or staff member request an account for you
• Determine if your survey requires approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Research Compliance Office (RCO) at Miami. These groups oversee research dealing with human subjects.
• Familiarize yourself with the tool (our Knowledge Base is perfect for this!)

Read more about Qualtrics on the IT Services website.

3. Hoonuit

Have you ever wanted to learn how to edit an image in Photoshop, or had trouble adding media to a PowerPoint slideshow? Hoonuit should be your go-to application for learning how to do cool new things in regards to technology and instruction. It even includes modules on Canvas for both instructors and students. With your Miami credentials, you have access to hundreds of training modules about different tools.

Try it now.

4. Webex

Webex is a messaging and conferencing platform that allows students, faculty, and staff to communicate via the internet instead of in person. Teams can share screens, send messages to each other, and video chat all from the same intuitive interface. 

We recently rolled out a few great changes to Webex, including better integration with both Google and Canvas, better support, and some changes to the licensing structure so everyone who wants to can get an account.

Check it out and start talking to each other!

5. Virtual private network (VPN)

Miami’s VPN allows you to access certain Miami resources (the ones that are restricted to on-campus access) from off-campus locations. It also creates a secure channel for accessing the internet -- which could save you a headache down the line. If you are off campus and on a public Wi-Fi connection, we strongly suggest you use the VPN!

Important note: Duo is still active when accessing VPN, as well. The easiest way to log in to the VPN is to queue up a Duo code by touching the Miami University dropdown arrow in the Duo Mobile app. Then, put in your password, a comma, and the code: [password,code] 

More information about using VPN and Duo can be found in the KB.

Visit MiamiOH.edu/VPN for more information and to download the client for your Mac or PC.