Online Learning for Students
Prepare
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I don't have a laptop. Where can I go on campus for access to a computer?
We have several computer labs available. Check out our Computer Lab website for locations and hours.
As a reminder, as a SHSU student, you also have access to discounts through Apple, Dell and HP. Click the below links to see the deals.
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Do I have to have a laptop or desktop to learn remotely?
To be able to learn from home, you must have a computer (desktop or laptop) available to you. In addition, you will require an internet connection. These are a requirement to be able to receive and submit assignments as well as access SHSU web-based services.
As a reminder, as a SHSU student you have access to discounts through Apple, Dell and HP. Click the below links to see the deals. You may use the campus standard specifications as a guide for your purchase.
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How do I verify I have a secure internet connection?
It is important to use a secure internet connection when working from a wireless network that is not part of the SHSU network.
To find out how you can keep your work and private information secure when working remotely, use this Securing Your Home Network article as your guide.
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Am I required to have a webcam and microphone?
While webcams are not necessary, it does give your students an in person perspective to your teaching. However, some students may not have access to webcams during emergency situations. Consider recording lectures or providing presentations documenting what you are teaching.
Confirm that your webcam and microphone are working prior to attempting to teach a class online.
For help with any technical difficulties, please contact the IT@Sam Service Desk.
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How can I access my documents from home?
If you use Microsoft OneDrive, you can access your documents from anywhere and collaborate remotely from any device. You also have 1TB of storage (that's a lot!).
Review this brief Security Tip to ensure you are using OneDrive securely. Once you have reviewed the article, go to the Office 365 Online technology tutorial to get started!
Additionally, you use Remote Desktop Connection to access network drives such as the T:\ and S:\ drives.
Online Learning
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Who do I contact if I am having trouble using Blackboard for an online class?
SHSU Online provides support for Blackboard, SHSU's campus learning management system.
- Phone: 936-294-2780
- Toll-Free: 1-877-759-2232
- Email: blackboard@shsu.edu
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What software is available for learning remotely? (i.e. Office, MatLab)
- Adobe Creative Cloud (download Adobe Creative Cloud software such as Photoshop)
- Office 365 Online (download Microsoft Office software)
- SPSS Statistics (download and install at home)
- Zoom (instant messaging and online meetings)
- MatLab
- Mathematica
NOTE: You do not have to use Remote Desktop Connection to access this software.
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Tools for Off-Site Resources
Educause
EDUCAUSE® is a higher education technology association focused on advancing higher education with research, professional development, and collaboration. To login, point your web browser to https://www.educause.edu/ and click on Login. Then search for and select Sam Houston State University from the Federated Login section to continue logging in.
SHSU Newton Gresham Library
- Full text books are available online
- Access to Citation tools such as EndNote and EasyBib are available through the Newton Gresham Library. Visit their Citing Sources website for additional information.
Stay Connected
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How do I enroll or confirm I am enrolled in Katsafe?
Katsafe is SHSU’s emergency notification system. For instructions on how to enroll, confirm enrollment, or change your contact information, view the Katsafe Communications Instructions.
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Where can I find my Professor's contact information?
Your syllabi should have this information. In the event you can't find it, you can look up contacts in SamWeb under the SHSU Directory.
If you do not have a contact sheet, it is recommended that one is created.
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Where can I access SHSU wireless internet?
Eduroam wireless internet and collaborative work spaces are accessible throughout all campus buildings.
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I saved a document to my profile in a lab, is there a way to access my S:\ drive remotely?
Yes, you can connect to remote.shsu.edu to access the SHSU network along and additional software that you may need for class. For step-by-step instructions on how to use this feature, review the Remote Desktop Connection technology tutorials.
For additional help, contact the IT@Sam Service Desk.
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How do I access my emails when I am off campus?
The ability to access emails during emergency situations is important. If you do not have the Microsoft Outlook application installed on your phone, you can use login on to the Outlook Web App online.
For additional information on how to use the Outlook Web App, take a look at our technology tutorials.
NOTE: You do not have to use Remote Desktop Connection to access this.
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How do I connect to my phone’s mobile hotspot (internet)?
If you do not have internet service, you can connect to your phone’s hotspot if it is provided by your phone service provider.
To use mobile hotspot for Apple or Android devices, use the technology tutorial How To Connect To Mobile Hotspot.