OCT. 12, 2021
We hope your classes are going well! Throughout the semester, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks. You also can find a collection of past “Orange Online” emails on Answers.
This edition’s topics:
- MySlice Tips and Reminders
- Managing Midterm Stress for Academic Success
- Making Things Happen in the MakerSpace
- Personal Pronouns
- Libraries Workshop: All About Sources
MySlice Tips and Reminders
As you know, MySlice has a new look after a system upgrade last month. MySlice’s security also was enhanced with Microsoft Two-Factor Authentication (also known as multi-factor authentication or MFA). If you haven’t visited MySlice since the upgrade, please clear your web browser cache before doing so. Please also navigate to myslice.syr.edu rather than using an old bookmark. Clearing your cache and navigating directly to the site will resolve most issues related to MFA.
If you need assistance with MFA-related issues, please call the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677 (rather than sending an email) for assistance. Zoom calls are available if you are outside of the United States.
Also, please remember that parents should not use their student’s SUID and password to access MySlice. Instead, students can share specific sections of their MySlice account with their parents, guardians or family members by following the instructions available on Answers.
Managing Midterm Stress for Academic Success
We are reaching the point of the semester where you are balancing coursework, exams and projects on top of social and co-curricular activities. It’s common to feel stressed or overwhelmed or to feel you aren’t able to juggle everything you need or want to do. The University has staff and a variety of resources to support you and help you succeed.
Making Things Happen at the MakerSpace
The MakerSpace is a hidden gem on campus. Located in the Kimmel Computer Lab, the MakerSpace is a collaborative space where students, faculty and staff can create fun, inventive projects using a variety of specialized machines, including 3D printers, a laser engraver, an embroidery machine and more. Learn more.
Personal Pronouns
International Pronouns Day is Wednesday, Oct. 20. Personal pronouns (“he,” “she,” “they,” etc.) specifically refer to the pronouns that people use for themselves. All students, instructors and staff can update their personal pronouns in MySlice by following these instructions. To learn more about personal pronouns, including suggestions for how to ask someone what their pronouns are, review this FAQ on Answers.
Libraries Workshop: All About Sources
If you’re new to the research process, Syracuse University Libraries encourages you to attend the “All About Sources” workshop on Tuesday, Oct. 19. The workshop will demonstrate how to search for and identify certain types of sources using Summon. After the workshop, you will be able to identify different types of sources, find credible sources that fulfill your information needs and critically evaluate information.
Thank you for reading. Go Orange!
SEPT. 28, 2021
We hope your classes are going well! Throughout the semester, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks. You also can find a collection of past “Orange Online” emails on Answers.
This edition’s topics:
- Upgraded MySlice Now Available
- Disconnecting Wireless Hotspots
- Keep Zoom Up to Date
- Phishing Awareness
- ITS In-Depth: Extended Reality
Upgraded MySlice Now Available
MySlice has a new look after a system upgrade. Before logging in, please clear your web browser cache. The refreshed, tile-based MySlice features increased mobile compatibility, accessibility and personalization. You can find information about the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Helpful links include:
Disconnecting Wireless Hotspots
University network administrators have detected several wireless access points or “hotspots” coming from personal devices across campus. Wireless access points and hotspots are not permitted on campus because they can cause interference and disrupt the normal use of University-provided wireless access by students, faculty and staff. If you currently use a hotspot, please disconnect it. If you need help connecting your devices to AirOrangeX, you can review step-by-step instructionsor call the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677.
Keep Zoom Up to Date
If you are having issues with Zoom, be sure you have updated to the latest version. Detailed instructions to check for updates are available from Zoom. You also can learn more on the Zoom at Syracuse University Answers page.
Phishing Awareness
Criminals use malicious email to try to trick you into revealing your password or other sensitive information or to infect your computer with malware. These phishers sometimes try to make their emails look real by using companies’ or institutions’ logos, fonts and colors. Urgent demands also are common (for example, “Reply with your password within 24 hours or your account will be closed!”). You can learn more about identifying phishing emails on Answers.
ITS In-Depth: Extended Reality
Each edition of “ITS In-Depth” takes a closer look at a hot topic in information technology. With extended reality (XR) rapidly blurring the lines between science fiction and, well, reality, we talked with ITS Online Learning Services Instructional Analyst Jason Webb G’18 to learn how XR is shaping teaching, learning and research at the University.
Thank you for reading!
SEPT. 14, 2021
We hope your classes are going well! Throughout the semester, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks. You also can find a collection of past “Orange Online” emails on Answers.
This edition’s topics:
- Securing Zoom Meetings
- MySlice Upgrade Sept. 25-26
- National Online Learning Day
- Accessible Learning Technology
- Stay Connected With AirOrangeX
- LinkedIn Learning
Securing Zoom Meetings
All students have access to Zoom videoconferencing by logging in to zoom.syr.edu. To help ensure the security of your Zoom meetings, ITS recommends taking the following steps when hosting a session:
- Automatically generate a Meeting ID
- Require a meeting password
- Enable the waiting room feature
- Disable “Join Before Host”
- Limit screen sharing to the host
- Lock the meeting once all expected attendees have joined
You can learn more about these and other recommendations on the Securing Zoom Meetings page on Answers.
MySlice Upgrade Sept. 25-26
MySlice is getting a new look later this month! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
National Online Learning Day
National Online Learning Day is Wednesday, Sept. 15. We are proud to serve our online students around the world with resources such as the Online Success Toolkit and the Office of Online Student Success. Remember: Wherever you are, you’re Orange!
Accessible Learning Technology
The campus teaching and technology community is committed to providing accessible technology that enables participation by the greatest number of students possible, including those with disabilities. Here are some key accessibility resources that can help all students:
- Zoom offers live transcription. Details are available on the Zoom Live Transcript Answers page.
- Blackboard Ally enhances the usability and accessibility of course documents uploaded to Blackboard.
- TextHelp Read&Write provides all learners with access to reading, writing, studying and research tools at school, home or work.
- TextHelp EquatIO helps make equations, formulas and graphs accessible, includes handwriting recognition and integrates seamlessly with Read&Write.
Stay Connected With AirOrangeX
Wherever you study on campus, the wireless AirOrangeX network provides fast, secure connection for computers, smartphones and tablets. For best results, proper configuration is highly recommended. You can find configuration instructions on Answers to ensure you stay connected anywhere on campus.
LinkedIn Learning
Available to all students, LinkedIn Learning provides access to thousands of high-quality, on-demand courses. You can log in to linkedinlearning.syr.edu with your NetID and password. One course that might be helpful is a guide to study skills, including how to strengthen your note-taking.
Thank you for reading!
AUG. 31, 2021
Welcome to the fall semester! We are happy to help you in your studies by providing updates and insights about how you can make the best use of the technology and resources available to you. Throughout the semester, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks.
This week’s topics:
- Starting the Semester Strong
- Microsoft Office 365
- Disconnecting Wireless Hotspots
- Phishing Awareness
- Rave Guardian Safety Mobile App
- MySlice Upgrade Sept. 25-26
Starting the Semester Strong
As you get in the swing of a new semester, you want to prioritize connecting with your professors, both in person and online. Be sure to check your Syracuse University email and log in to Blackboard often to receive communications from your instructors. If you can’t access a course on Blackboard, ask the instructor to make the course available to you. Also, please note that some messages sent through Blackboard wind up in recipients’ junk email folders, so be sure to check your junk folder as well as your inbox.
Microsoft Office 365
All Syracuse University students are encouraged to have a computer running Microsoft Office or Office 365. Active students can download and install Microsoft Office desktop applications for free. Visit Answers to learn more about Office 365.
Disconnecting Wireless Hotspots
Syracuse University network administrators have detected several wireless access points or “hotspots” coming from personal devices across campus. Wireless access points and hotspots are not permitted on campus because they can cause interference and disrupt the normal use of University-provided wireless access by students, faculty and staff. If you currently use a hotspot, please disconnect it. If you need help connecting your devices to AirOrangeX, you can review step-by-step instructions or call the ITS Help Desk at 315.443.2677.
Phishing Awareness
Criminals use malicious email to try to trick you into revealing your password or other sensitive information or to infect your computer with malware. These phishers sometimes try to make their emails look real by using companies’ or institutions’ logos, fonts and colors. Urgent demands also are common (for example, “Reply with your password within 24 hours or your account will be closed!”). You can learn more about identifying phishing emails on Answers.
Rave Guardian Safety Mobile App
Students are encouraged to download Rave Guardian, a free app created by Rave Mobile Safety, which the University already uses to send Orange Alerts via platforms such as email, phone and text. With Rave Guardian, users can receive important campus notifications, communicate with the Department of Public Safety and gain access to helpful resources. You can download the Rave Guardian app in the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for “Rave Guardian.”
MySlice Upgrade Sept. 25-26
MySlice is getting a new look in September! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
Thank you—and go Orange!
AUG. 24, 2021
We are happy to welcome students back to campus this week! If you haven’t left for campus yet, be sure to configure and verify you’ll have access to your two-factor authentication methods. You can manage your two-factor authentication methods at netid.syr.edu.
Wherever you will study this semester, Information Technology Services (ITS) will provide updates and insights about how you can make the best use of the technology available to Syracuse University students. In addition, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks.
This week’s tips:
- Getting Connected
- Campus Living: Gaming, Streaming and More
- Finding Resources Around Campus
- ITS Service Center
- MySlice Unavailable Sept. 25-26 for Upgrade
- Study Guide: Online Learning Resources
- Blackboard Gets a New Look
Getting Connected
ITS provides access to a wide range of computing services on campus and beyond. For students who will be on campus this fall, we have put together a guide to getting connected, which includes instructions for connecting to campus networks, finding technical support and more.
Campus Living: Gaming, Streaming and More
Do you know about the Gadgets&Games campus network for streaming devices and gaming systems? Have you tried out the SpectrumU video streaming service that delivers live TV to your device? Learn about these and other campus resources on the Campus Living Answers page.
Finding Resources Around Campus
If you haven’t already, check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.) You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu. Learn more about face mask requirements on campus shuttles and Centro buses.
ITS Service Center
Located at 1-227 CST in the Life Sciences Complex, the ITS Service Center offers a wide range of in-person support services. Visit its.syr.edu/supportsvc for more information, including support hours. While no products or software are sold at the ITS Service Center, the Syracuse University Campus Store features a range of technology options.
MySlice Unavailable Sept. 25-26 for Upgrade
MySlice is getting a new look in September! You can find more information on the enhanced navigation and user experience, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page. Please note that MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for the implementation of this upgrade.
Study Guide: Online Learning Resources
ITS maintains a collection of online learning resources on Answers. This collection includes online learning recommendations, campus resources, helpful links and login locations. You also can review some tips for safe computing.
Blackboard Gets a New Look
Syracuse University Blackboard has upgraded to Ultra Base Navigation. The change provides a modernized landing page that includes a new notification system, a consolidated view of course activity and easier ways to navigate to course content. You can learn more, including how to find your courses within Blackboard, on the Blackboard Navigation Update page on Answers.
Thank you for reading—and go Orange!
AUG. 17, 2021
We are excited to start the fall semester in less than two weeks! Throughout the semester, Information Technology Services (ITS) will provide updates and insights about how you can make the best use of the technology available to Syracuse University students. In addition, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks.
This week’s topics:
- Getting Connected
- MySlice Unavailable Sept. 25-26 for Upgrade
- Online Learning Resources
- Two-Factor Authentication
- Finding Resources Around Campus
- Blackboard Gets a New Look
Getting Connected
ITS provides access to a wide range of computing services on campus and beyond. For students who will be on campus this fall, we have put together a guide to getting connected, which includes instructions for connecting to campus networks, finding technical support and more.
MySlice Unavailable Sept. 25-26 for Upgrade
MySlice will be unavailable during the weekend of Sept. 25-26 to allow for an upgrade to the system’s navigation and user experience. You can find additional information, including screenshots and customization options, on the MySlice Upgrade Answers page.
Online Learning Resources
ITS maintains a collection of online learning resources on Answers. This collection includes online learning recommendations, campus resources, helpful links and login locations. You also can review some tips for safe computing.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication protects your accounts and confidential information by strengthening the sign-in process with an extra verification of identity in addition to your username and password (for example, a one-time code texted to your phone). Prior to traveling to campus, be sure to configure and verify you’ll have access to your two-factor authentication methods. You can manage your two-factor authentication at netid.syr.edu.
Finding Resources Around Campus
If you haven’t already, check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.) You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu. Learn more about face mask requirements on campus shuttles and Centro buses.
Blackboard Gets a New Look
Syracuse University Blackboard has upgraded to Ultra Base Navigation. The change provides a modernized landing page that includes a new notification system, a consolidated view of course activity and easier ways to navigate to course content. You can learn more, including how to find your courses within Blackboard, on the Blackboard Navigation Update page on Answers.
Thank you for reading—and go Orange!
AUGUST 3, 2021
Each month, Information Technology Services (ITS) provides updates and insights about how you can make the best use of the technology available to Syracuse University students. In addition, you can contact the ITS Help Desk (help@syr.edu or 315.443.2677) for any technology-related questions and follow ITS on Instagram for tips and tricks.
This month’s topics:
- Resources for New and Returning Students
- Maps.syracuse.edu
- Welcome Events for First-Year and Transfer Students
- Two-Factor Authentication
- Registration
Resources for New and Returning Students
ITS is dedicated to helping Orange students get connected. New students can visit its.syr.edu/welcome to learn about starting their computing experience at Syracuse University. We also have an IT refresher for returning students.
Digital Maps Help You Navigate Campus
Are you looking for the best way to get from Point A to Point B on campus? Check out our digital maps on maps.syracuse.edu, where you can sort by a range of location types (buildings, computer labs, parking, dining options, etc.). You also can find bus schedule information at subus.syr.edu.
Welcome Events for First-Year and Transfer Students
The Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs offers a range of activities to help students start their Becoming Orange journeys. A complete list of Syracuse Welcome events is available online. You also can email newtosu@syr.edu or call 315.443.9187 with any questions.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is an added security feature that helps protect your accounts and confidential information by strengthening the sign-in process with an extra verification of identity in addition to your username and password (for example, a one-time code texted to your phone). Prior to traveling to campus, be sure to configure and verify you’ll have access to your two-factor authentication methods. If you have not already done so, you can manage your two-factor authentication at netid.syr.edu.
Registration Tips and Tools
As you register for your next courses, be sure to run a degree audit through Degree Works and meet with an advisor in order to select the appropriate classes needed to stay on track for degree completion. Thanks to a recent upgrade, Degree Works now features a new, responsive student dashboard that is mobile-friendly with a fresh and clean look. You also can use Schedule Builder to display possible schedules in a side-by-side calendar format.
Thank you—and go Orange!