FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
1. What kind of computer should I buy before coming to Canisius?
2. What software is supported?
3. What kind of Instructional Technology Classrooms are available?
4. Are there computer labs on campus?
5. Do you use a learning management system?
6. Is there additional software available to host sessions online?
1. If you need help purchasing a computer before coming to Canisius product reviews can be found at CNET.com. This is a good source of current information in the rabidly changing technology market. Canisius supports both MacIntosh and Windows computers.
Canisius has negotiated discounts for students, faculty and staff with several manufacturers. Visit Dell, Lenovo (formerly IBM), and HP. Apple offers educational priciing on Select Macintosh computers. Canisius students, faculty and staff can save up to $200 on laptops and desktops. Visit Apple for details.
2. Microsoft Office is the supported suite of productivity software on campus. It is availalbe on both the Macintosh and Windows platforms. Many Adobe software products, such as Adobe Professional, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver are available in the labs.
3. The Instructional Technology Classrooms provide faculty with state-of-the-art equipment to use in their teaching. Classrooms are equipped with a variety of technologies, examples include:
- DVD players
- Color Televisions
- LCD Projectors and Screens
- Laptop Connectivity
- Wireless Microphones
- SMART Board (Interactive Whiteboard)
- Document Camera
- Classroom Lecture Capture
4.
There are a number of computer labs located throughout campus. Three of these have a dual boot platform for both Mac and Windows. Some courses are held in a lab environment.
5. The ANGEL learning management system is available for all faculty and students to use. Canisius usernames and passwords are used for login. Instructors are able to post syllabi, course announcements, course material and assignments. They can create online asyncronous discussion and send email. To help support the user experience there are help videos posted on the ANGEL login page. SoftChalk is used by some instructors and students, the lessons easily integrate into ANGEL. SoftChalk includes built-in style sheets and the user has the ability to create interactive learning games, quizzes, or pop-up text annotations.
6. Instructors and students are able to utilize GoToMeeting to hold virtual meetings for planning, and instructional purposes. GoToMeeting allows you to host an online meeting with up to 25 people. Using the web conferencing tool, you can share any application on your computer in real time. Also included in the Canisius license is GoToWebinar and GoToTraining. GoToWebinar allows you to conduct do-it-yourself webinars with up to 100 people. GoToTraining software allows you to hold interactive training sessions with up to 25 people.
