While we try to make sure our services and applications are available across a range of different types of devices, this year as a larger proportion of your learning will be carried out online, it is important that learning activities or use of software are accessed via a computer – i.e. a PC, laptop, or Mac – rather than a tablet or mobile phone.
To get the most from hybrid learning your device will need to be able to:
- Easily access internet – when you are on campus or in Halls of Residence, you will have access to the eduroam WiFi If you are living at home or in private accommodation, you should try to make sure you have access to a reliable connection.
- Create content and communicate – make sure you have access to software that allows you to create written documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and email. As a student at the University of Liverpool you have access to Office 365 which covers all of these; your computer should be able to run this or equivalent.
- Allow you to engage with online learning and content – our virtual learning services are accessed through a web browser or dedicated mobile apps. Alongside our virtual learning environments, Canvas and VITAL, you will also need to view streamed content and teaching sessions using Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- Access specific software – some programmes and modules require use of specific software available on our Teaching Centre PCs, either as part of timetabled sessions or for self-study. The Remote Teaching Centre Service, available from Monday, 5 October, allows you to connect to one of these PCs to join sessions or use the software without having to be on campus. Your computer needs to be Windows 10, Mac OSX or Linux to run a remote connection, and may require additional downloads.
- In some cases, the software provider allows students to download and install software on personal devices. If you have any queries about accessing specialist software please direct these to your School or department, in the first instance.
As you are likely to spend longer periods working on your computer, you should also make sure it is comfortable to use. Consider the size and layout of your screen, keyboard and mouse and ensure you have access to speakers, microphone and webcam.
If you don’t have access to a suitable device, we do have a limited number of PCs available on campus – use the PC Finder app to locate a free space. You can also locate PC centres across campus here.
Find out more about how Computing Services can support you in your learning, including advice for new students and access to new software, here. If you are a new student, we also recommend working your way through our IT Quickstart guide.
Laptop Loan Scheme
We understand that some students may require additional support accessing a suitable device to carry out hybrid learning this year. The recently launched Laptop Loan Scheme will allow students to loan a device from the University, however as numbers are limited we ask that any interested students apply as soon as possible. Applications are open to all students, both UK and international, with a closing deadline of Friday, 30 October.
All applications will be assessed based on actual income and expenditure. Further details and application forms can be found on the Student Support webpages.