As the University of Connecticut makes plans to welcome back new and returning Huskies this fall, it will be essential for all students to have access to the proper IT systems, services, and capabilities so that they may interact with instructors and classmates and complete required coursework.

Together, university faculty and staff from Information Technology Services (ITS) and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) have identified the technical capabilities that incoming and continuing students will use when engaging with digital learning systems and applications from university and non-university locations. These capabilities include:

• Using Gmail to send and receive email with attachments
• Using PeopleSoft, the student administration system and self-service portal
• Using Blackboard (HuskyCT), the learning management system
• Using Kaltura to record and edit video
• Using LockDown browser for online assessment
• Composing text essays and receive digital editing (comments, markup suggestions and edits)
• Creating digital presentations
• Performing calculations
• Accessing and using online digital content with graphics and animations
• Participating fully in web and video conferencing

To perform these required functions, devices must be portable, sufficiently up to date, and have adequate memory and storage. Below are the minimum technical specifications for computers that are capable of effectively providing these capabilities:

• Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor (i7 or Ryzen 7 preferred)
• 8GB of RAM (16 GB preferred)
• Mac OS 10.15 or Windows 10
• 256 GB SSD hard drive (512 GB preferred)
• Wireless networking adapter
• Camera and microphone

Since device requirements and preferences may vary from student to student and by school, major, program, and/or course, ITS is prepared to support students with equipment selection information, hardware options, and a technology training course allowing students to test equipment and gain experience using university systems before the fall semester begins.

UConn wants all students to be successful, but we recognize that each student’s circumstances allow for different opportunities and limitations. Students who anticipate needing assistance accessing software and/or hardware ahead of the fall semester are asked to contact the ITS Technology Support Center at techsupport.uconn.edu, techsupport@uconn.edu, or 860-486-4357 to discuss options.

For more information, contact: ITS Technology Support Center at techsupport@uconn.edu