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Getting Started with Digital Tech at UCI
Your Computer
UCI has put together a minimum computer requirements page that can help you understand what equipment you’ll need.
It is likely that some of your classes will use Canvas. The Canvas website has recommended browsers.
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Chromebooks do not work with some educational technology software and are not recommended for your course work.
A webcam is key to participating in remote classes. If your computer doesn’t already have one, you’ll want to get one.
Your UCInetID
Your UCInetID is your passport to all the tools and services available to you as a student here. For added security, you will also be required to use Duo when logging in with your UCInetID. Make sure you never share your UCInetID password with anyone, and always confirm you’re logging into an authorized UCI resource before entering your password.
- Activate your UCInetID or change your password
- Add Duo MultiFactor Authentication (MFA)
- Use these password security tips
Some campus resources, particularly if you’re off-campus, will also require you to install Virtual Private Network (VPN) software in order to access them.
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If you have a different name that you prefer to go by (what UCI calls a “preferred name”), you can add that name to the Registrar’s StudentAccess system and it will populate in Canvas and other campus tools.
For a fee, you can request a different UCInetID than the one originally assigned.
Your UCI Google Account
Your email and calendar at UCI will be via Google Apps for Education. Your UCI email is how all official communication between you and the University is conducted. Once you’re enrolled, we will no longer message you using a non-UCI email address.
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You may get emails from your instructors, or messages from them through Canvas. Be sure to talk to your instructors if you’re unclear about their expectations and how they plan to communicate with you.
Additionally, you’ll get a lot of Zotmails from various campus folks. Be sure not to automatically filter these out or you could miss important campus communication.
Digital Technologies You’ll Use at UCI
UCI’s Canvas Learning Management System
Course assignments and materials will typically be located on UCI Canvas. Here’s how you can gain access:
- Login to UCI Canvas using your UCInetID (make sure your UCInetID is already activated, steps can be found above under “Your UCInetID”)
- View and configure your Canvas preferences, including:
The Canvas Student App is also helpful to check due dates and review course materials; it is available here: Canvas for iOS Devices | Canvas for Android Devices
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- Contact your instructor. They may not be using Canvas, or may not have made their course available there yet.
- Verify your official enrollment at the Registrar’s Student Access site.
- Try the Missing Classes Tool.
Need help with Canvas? You can get Canvas support by writing to eee-support@uci.edu which is available during regular business hours (typically Monday through Friday from 8:00AM to 5:00PM).
EEE+ Tools
UCI has developed several homegrown tools to help improve your educational experience. The EEE Home page contains a full overview, but here are the tools you are most likely to use:
- MyEEE+ Class List – A comprehensive class list and schedule
- EEE+ Evaluations – Platform for completing evaluations of your instructors and TAs
Lecture Capture Software
There are two primary web conferencing tools that are used at UCI for delivery of remote and hybrid instruction.
If a UCI instructor is providing you with online lectures, they’ll use a couple of different tools.
Yuja
Some instructors will use Yuja and embed videos into Canvas. There’s nothing for you to set up; you’ll just access these like any other course materials on Canvas.
Zoom
Many instructors will use Zoom and may conduct real time classes that you’ll participate in at scheduled times.
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If your instructor hosts Zoom office hours, go! Bring your questions to your instructor, learn what other students are struggling with, and connect with your class in a more meaningful way.
UCI has themed Zoom backgrounds you can use.
Respondus Proctoring Software
Some of your instructors may require you to use Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor when taking quizzes or exams online. When the lockdown browser is launched, it prevents other applications from opening on your computer until you’ve completed your exam. This video explains more about the basics of Respondus.
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Resources and Places to Know About
The Writing Center
Writing is an important component of your coursework at UCI. Fortunately, you’ve got assistance via the Center for Excellence in Writing and Communication, commonly known as The Writing Center.
UCI Libraries
UCI has a Main Library (Langson Library) and a Science Library. You might also want to use the Gateway Study Center, which has computers, printers, and study spaces.
- Avoid high textbook costs! Check if your course materials are available on Course Reserve
- You can take self-paced tutorials and watch short videos to be better prepared for classes
- You can Ask A Librarian a question at any time, 24 hours a day, or schedule a free research consultation
- Use a Curated Guide to learn more about your major and study tips
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Many UCI Library resources require you to use UCI’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access, so make sure you’ve enabled VPN on your computer and smartphone.
Well-Being Resources
Sometimes stress, time management, or basic needs can become obstacles to doing your best as a student at UCI. Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to you to help with a wide range of topics. Here are a few links to get you started:
- Campus Assist List – Campus and community resources
- Counseling Center – Counseling and mental health services
- Student Health & Wellness – Advocacy and promotion of student health & wellness
- Basic Needs Pantry – Resources for food assistance, housing, and other basic needs
- Disability Services Center – Resources for students with disabilities
- SOAR – Student advocacy, guidance and support programs
Finding Study Spaces on Campus
If you need a quiet place to study and find privacy, try the UCI Libraries Study Space Locator or the available Student Center study spaces.
Whether you’re studying alone or with a group, there’s a place for you. Some locations also feature things like free self-serve lockers, earplugs, and dry erase markers.
Tutoring Resources
The study spaces above are great for finding a place where you can focus. But what if you want to improve your study skills, or get tutoring assistance? The Learning and Academic Resource Center (LARC) has got you covered.
You can also find tutoring for some specific majors on the Student Success Initiatives website.
Campus Wi-Fi Availability
You can find Wi-Fi in locations all over campus! Get up and running in just a few steps:
- Register your laptop or device.
- Find one of the many Wi-Fi locations on campus using the UCI Mobile Access WiFi Map.
Academic Advising Directory
Check out the Academic Advising Directory to determine who to contact for academic counseling services.
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Running low on battery? Visit one of the following locations and look for a Charge It Up! sign:
- Science Library
- Grunigen Medical Library
- Langson Library
- Libraries Gateway Study Center
- Multimedia Resources Center
NameCoach
NameCoach is software that allows you to create an audio recording of your name, so that others can hear how to pronounce it properly. You may see this show up in Canvas for some of your courses. Creating a recording of your name can help start new relationships off on the right foot by giving instructors and peers an opportunity to hear how to pronounce your name correctly.
Take a look at this help guide to get started with NameCoach.