A lot of changes have happened at the University of Idaho, and the move to an online environment left some students without access to technology needs and Wi-Fi.
“We were moving toward the online decision and communicated out to students we are online. When we made the decision, we had to close buildings, too. We knew we’re cutting off access for students to technology needs and one of those is Wi-Fi,” Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Blaine Eckles said.
Not all students have Wi-Fi or can afford good Wi-Fi at their residence. A drive-up Wi-Fi map was created by Information Technology Services (ITS) for students to see Wi-Fi spots on campus that can be accessed from parking lots.
“IT folks drove around campus and had a measuring tool to measure the strength of the Wi-Fi and generated a map we pushed out to students,” Eckles said.
Providing good Wi-Fi is an important resource because it interferes with a student’s access to education Eckles said. UI wants students to succeed academically and providing these resources assures students they can participate in their education with minimal distractions.
Highlighted areas are parking lots around the university that show different Wi-Fi ranges. Wi-Fi can be accessed any time if the device is in range of service.
Earlier in April, an email was sent out to students about the drive-up Wi-Fi map and opportunities Eduroam, a worldwide education roaming service that provides Wi-Fi to students.
“If you live in other areas around the region of the state of Idaho, even in the Northwest you may be able to tap into another institution’s Wi-Fi,” Eckles said.
Boise State University is a great example. On their campus, Vandals can use their login for Eduroam to access Wi-Fi and vice versa. A student from BSU that grew up in Moscow can use UI’s Wi-Fi by visiting Eduroam’s website.
These services are essential to the transition into an online environment. Wi-Fi gives students access to participate in classes. Minimal disruptions to learning are important to use, and Eckles said the university wants students to succeed.
Another service that is available for students locally is the Student Technology Center. Students who have questions about technology can use this service. It is a great opportunity for students to connect with individuals for assistance, Eckles said.
Emily Pearce can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @Emily_A_Pearce.