During unprecedented circumstances like these, the necessary skills for a student can change dramatically. With the transition to online courses, students are required more than ever to have high computer literacy. This can be challenging for students whose majors do not have a normal requirement of computers. This can also be extremely challenging for students who do not have immediate access to computers regularly. This blog will go over some basic computer tips and resources for students or anyone working with computers.
The first thing to understand with your computer is it is only as powerful as the software on it. The most common software students use is Microsoft Office. Luckily this suite of applications is available through Oklahoma State University’s software distribution site. This suite gives students access to Word, Powerpoint, Excel and other Microsoft software. It also provides tools like Matlab, jmp and Mathematica. Another important thing students can download is Windows operating systems up to Windows 10.
All of these tools are available to help students be successful in their academic careers. These tools are proving to be even more helpful with the current suspension of on-campus learning. But these more advanced tools are not helpful without basic computer knowledge. For more information on that check out our tech tips videos. These will go over things like shortcuts, snipping tools and finding a word in a page. If you haven’t had to use learning tools such as Canvas in your previous classes, check out their help page to get answers to your questions.
Some simple tips to make effective use of your computer involve simple things like keeping your active applications to a minimum. Generally speaking, if you have an application open that you are finished using, close it! This will help your computer run faster, and help you stay focused on the task you are currently doing. This means if you are using a video editing platform like Premiere, and you are finished making your video, you should close that application.
Organization is also key when you are trying to work effectively on your computer. Keeping windows organized can be as easy as keeping things that you are not using minimized. Assigning windows to different desktops on your computer can help to separate different projects you may be working on. You can also fix an object to a certain section of the screen so you can conveniently and have quick access between windows.
Are you having issues with any software for your class or general computer questions in general? Try checking the Oklahoma State University website to see if they offer any help with your questions. If they do not, remember that Google if your friend. Most technology questions any person has will have an answer online. Remember to be specific with your question! For example, if you want to find out how to separate your word document into two separate columns, enter something like “Microsoft Word document into separate columns.” This helps the search engine find a solution relevant to both your software and specific issue. After finding your topic, you should be able to read detailed text guides, or often even better, demonstration videos.
Edmon Low Library has also been working to keep as many of its services available to students as possible during online learning. All of the 54 databased are still available to students and faculty for research. The library is also accepting requests for interlibrary loans for articles and book chapters. Librarians are even available online for research questions or general library-related chat.
If any student is having issues getting internet access or computer access, they are encouraged to contact the university for a potential solution. Are there any questions you have concerning the efficiency or functionality of a computer? Let us know in the comments and it may be the next subject of a video or blog post!
Posted by Jacob Hinchey, Emerging Tech Intern
