Remote Learning
What do I need for Remote Learning?
Make sure you have what you need to access content online in terms of reliable internet access and a reliable desktop or laptop. We appreciate that this might not always be possible and where you cannot secure reliable internet access, please ensure your lecturer/module coordinator is made aware of the challenges you are facing. Here is a list of what you will need in terms of accessing your UCC content online and useful tips on the relevant technical requirements.
Student Checklist
- You will need access to a laptop or desktop computer running a modern supported operating system with all software updates
- Some of UCC’s services (e.g. the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment) also have mobile apps for iOS and Android Devices that you may wish to use
- You should always use the most current version of your preferred browser. In general we recommend the Chrome Web browser (NB: Internet Explorer will not work with Canvas)
- You will need access to a reliable broadband connection with at least 2Mbps or more
- You will require an Office suite of software (Microsoft Office 2013 or later or equivalent) and a PDF reader. Please note that registered UCC students have access to Office 365 which includes software such as Microsoft Word/Excel etc.
Accessing our Services
The Student IT website at https://sit.ucc.ie is the landing page for accessing our Student online services. Almost all UCC digital services are available from anywhere 24/7 including:
Please note that some discipline specific software may not be available from off campus, so you should liaise with your module and programme coordinators to understand what options or alternatives may be available. Also note that some services may not be available in all countries (e.g. G Suite will not work in China)
Accessing Course Content
All students are automatically added to their registered modules in Canvas, and lecturers use this for sharing lecture notes, reading materials, as well as building assessments and various types of digital content including recorded and live video. It is vitally important that students can see the modules for which they are registered when they log in so please check this as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so.
Each programme will differ in how they use Canvas, so for specific help with online module content you should liaise with the module teaching team.
Download the Canvas App
Available for iOS or Android which can be very useful for learning remotely.
Microsoft Teams
All students in UCC can also use Microsoft Teams to create ad-hoc digital collaboration spaces, to host meetings, distribute files, and collaborate in real time with other students, UCC staff, and even people from outside UCC. There is a Printable Teams Cheat-Sheet to help get you started.
Getting started with Teams
Study and Research
Much research literature can be accessed online via the UCC Library and many publishers offer a login where your UCC credentials can be used to access content that is typically available only within UCC campus. The library's learning and teaching team has also put together a set of resources in Canvas to help you with:
- Finding academic resources for your assignments
- Citing, referencing and plagiarism
- Literature reviews
- ...and more
Visit the library's Canvas resources for more information.
Getting Support with Remote Learning
You can get technical support on our platforms (9am-5pm, Monday to Friday) from Student IT Services (SIT) at: https://www.ucc.ie/en/sit/support/
Canvas Support
Canvas has 24/7 support for both staff and students. Any questions about Canvas, including technical issues as well as advice and support about using the platform can be directed to the Canvas Support Desk, who will escalate any specific issues to the appropriate channels in UCC if needed. Just select the Help button on the left of the screen when you’re logged in to Canvas and you can call, chat or email the Canvas support team. Or call the specific Canvas Support Hotline on Freephone 1800 852 159.
All UCC Students are also enrolled in a Learning with Canvas course which is a comprehensive guide to how to use our learning platform. The University will use this canvas course to help support students’ learning needs in the event of extended campus closure.
UCC Library
The Remote Working section of the UCC Library outlines the services still available to you while you study from home.
Skills Centre Supports
Did you know that when you are studying remotely, you can avail of the Skills Centre Writing Clinics via Google Meet.
We will work with you either synchronously or asynchronously, the choice is yours!
To book your remote writing clinic, please visit our webpage to find out more https://www.ucc.ie/en/skillscentre/
Should you have any queries please contact us at skillscentre@ucc.ie only.
We are currently not available by phone.