IT services support Elon community during online learning transition

The Information Technology Service Desk will extend its hours to offer technology assistance to the Elon community during the university's transition to online learning.

Elon University is transitioning to online learning, one of the many steps the univeristy is taking in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). To help with the transition, Information Technology support staff are on hand to provide the best possible service to students, faculty and staff working away from campus.

Associate Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Christopher Waters says the staff and the university’s technological resources are prepared to assist anyone in the Elon community in need of service.

“We’re learning a tremendous amount about our technology and the tools that we have,” Waters said. “We’re trying new things and partnering with software vendors to extend the service offerings that we have to our students, faculty and staff.”

The Technology Service Desk is ramping up service to the campus community during the transition. The desk is extending its hours of operation, and is offering assistance each weekday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Along with the extended hours, additional staff will be assisting students, faculty and staff with the transition. Anyone in need of assistance can contact the Service Desk at 336-278-5200.

Staff are available via phone or virtual chat to answer basic questions about Moodle, WebEx and other services. If the question requires more in-depth knowledge or expertise, your question may be routed to a Teaching and Learning Technologies’ staff member.

The Service Desk is also accessible via the IT Self-Service Portal. Users can submit service tickets and access the department’s “self-help” solutions browsing feature.

“I think we’ll have to experiment, we’re going to have to navigate it slowly, together,” said Waters. “But the faculty and staff I’ve talked to are up for the challenge and excited to embrace this so we can keep our community going and keep learning together.”

For up-to-date information about Information Technology offerings, including access to technology and software to enhance the online learning experience, visit the Online Learning section of the university’s COVID-19 Information website.

For other moments of disruption, Elon offers a number of services to support and answer questions about online learning, including:

  • Disabilities Resources: During times of disruption, Elon remains committed to the principle of equal opportunity, including efforts to accommodate qualified students with disabilities as they face the challenges of university life. Visit the Disabilities Resources website for more information and contact the office at 336-278-6568 if you have questions.
  • Learning Assistance: Learning Assistance will continue to support student learning by offering tutoring session online. Visit the Learning Assistance website for more information.
  • Library: Belk Library offers an array of resources to assist with your online courses. Visit this LibGuide for a variety of online resources and to chat with a librarian. Consult the subject library research guides, which provide an overview of resources for your courses.
  • Writing Center: Writing Center consultants will be available, March 23-April 5 for real-time online appointments. Visit the Writing Center website for updates and more information.