Prepare for online learning

This guide points to useful resources for learning remotely that are available to UIndy students.

Get minimum recommendations for student-owned laptops

Internet access at home

You can improve WiFi at home by knowing what affects network performance plus other tips/suggestions and Test Internet speed and bandwidth.

Test your access to the following equipment at home

  • Laptop or desktop computer with access to the internet: You may use commercially provided internet or a wireless hotspot through your mobile phone.
  • Mobile phone with installed app for video conferencing.  
  • Microphone: A microphone may be built into your laptop or computer, or you may use an external device such as a USB microphone or headset.
  • Webcam: A camera may already be built into your laptop, but you can also use an external USB camera for video conferencing.

Communicate and collaborate online

Google Workspace

Google Workspace is UIndy’s productivity tool suite providing many options for faculty, staff, and students to interact seamlessly.  

Chat

Google Chat is an online messaging tool providing a means to converse in real time.

Meet with video conferencing tools

Google Meet is our primary virtual meeting platform. Google Meet is a video conferencing app available for scheduled or impromptu video and/or phone calls. Meet may be accessed on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet. 

Access software

Follow information security best practices

Below are some suggestions and best practices to keep the University's sensitive information secure while working remotely. 

  • Sensitive data - Sensitive date, such as Personally Identifiable Information (PII), should protected.  Don't share passwords, and do not let anyone remote into your computer unless you have initiated the contact.
  • Keep your computer up to date - Be sure to keep your computer up to date with the latest security patches.  If you are running Windows 7 on your personal computer, Microsoft is no longer issuing updates for your operating system and your computer will most certainly become vulnerable to malware, spyware and hacking.  Upgrade immediately.
  • Make sure you have anti-virus software on your personal computers and keep it up to date.
  • UIndy uses Duo for multi-factor authentication (MFA) for most other UIndy systems. You are automatically enrolled in Duo after you claim your account. See Duo tips and tricks to get the most out of Duo.
  • Use secure WiFi - WiFi in public spaces will often not use encryption, and thus some activities are susceptible to interception. Always use secure WiFi networks (typically, you’ll know it’s secure as a password is required).
  • Use Google Shared Drives - Working with and sharing documents has never been easier than it is with Google Shared Drives.  Additionally, Shared Drives provide several security features that make it more secure than other means of sharing and working with documents.
  • Mark as phishing in Gmail
  • Protect yourself from digital fraud - Cyber criminals may send emails with malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or donating to fraudulent charities or causes.
    UIndyIT encourages individuals to remain vigilant and take the following precautions:
    • Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and be wary of email attachments.
    • Do not reveal personal or financial information in email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information.
    • Verify a charity’s authenticity before making donations.