Technology Support & Tools

Technology plays an important role in your online learning experience at the University of Cincinnati. From accessing coursework and submitting assignments to communicating with instructors and troubleshooting technical issues, UC provides a variety of tools and resources to help you navigate your courses with confidence.

Explore the sections below to learn more about the technology, software, and support services available to you as a UC Online student. Select a topic to jump directly to the information you need:

Use this guide to help you set up essential technology tools and accounts you’ll need as an online learner.

UC's DTS Get Started Guide

To succeed as an online student, you should be comfortable with some basic technology and digital information skills. The skills below provide a general overview of what you may need to navigate your courses and complete assignments.

Your course syllabus may include additional technology requirements or tools specific to your course. If you have questions about technology requirements, contact your instructor.

Technical skills may include:

  • Using Canvas, UC’s learning management system
  • Using email with attachments
  • Creating and submitting documents in Microsoft Word or other digital formats
  • Downloading and installing software
  • Using spreadsheet programs
  • Using presentation programs
  • Using web conferencing tools and software such as Teams or Zoom

Digital information literacy skills may include:

  • Using online libraries and databases to locate and gather appropriate information
  • Using computer networks to locate and store files or data
  • Using online search tools for specific academic purposes, including the ability to use search criteria, keywords, and filters
  • Analyzing digital information for credibility, currency, and bias (e.g., disinformation, misinformation)
  • Properly citing information sources
  • Preparing a presentation of research findings
Resources for Online Learning at UC

Canvas is the University of Cincinnati’s learning management system, and it is the primary online platform for your courses. You will use Canvas to access course materials, view announcements and assignments, submit coursework, participate in discussions, take quizzes and exams, view grades, and communicate with your instructor and classmates.

Visit the Canvas Student Guides page to search or browse the complete collection of student guides. 

Assignments

Guides and Tutorials

See the guides below for information on how to view, submit, and manage assignments:

Discussions

Guides and Tutorials

See the guides below for information on how to participate in course discussions, including viewing discussions, posting replies, and interacting with classmates:

Netiquette

Learn about proper online communication etiquette, including how to interact respectfully and professionally with instructors and classmates in virtual learning environments. Watch the video below for helpful tips on communicating effectively in online discussions and other course interactions:

Grades

Guides and Tutorials

See the guides below for information on viewing grades and assignment feedback:

Groups

Guides and Tutorials

See the guides below for information on how to find and participate in groups and group activities in Canvas:

Quizzes

Guides and Tutorials

See the guides below for information on how to access and complete quizzes:

Using Kaltura in Canvas

Guides and Tutorials

Where to Find Help with Canvas

Overview of UC student email, cloud file storage, and included Microsoft applications. 

View Microsoft Office 365

Find discounted computers, access free university-licensed software, and get tech repair services at the UC Bookstore. 

View UC Hardware & Software Options

Self Help Resources and Privacy Statements

UC is committed to maintaining the privacy of faculty, staff, and students while ensuring full and equal access.  Please review the university’s information below:

Your course experience may include various technologies provided by the university or third-party vendors. Use this list to find commonly used vendors' accessibility and privacy policies. Contact your instructor with any additional questions. 

Self Help Resources

Information on remote access to campus software and virtual desktop setup. 

Go to MyDesk Virtual Desktop

Overview of interactive video learning and media creation tools like Echo360 and Kaltura available in Canvas.

View Video & Web Conferencing Tools

The Digital Technology Solutions (DTS) Service Desk provides support for data and phone communications, as well as all computing concerns for UC students, faculty, and staff. This support includes email, Canopy tools (OneDrive, Echo360, Kaltura, Zoom), wireless access, VPN, UC Flex, file servers, and the mainframe.

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday through Friday: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Holidays: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

The Service Desk is closed on July 4th, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Holidays, Winter Season Days, New Year's Day, and during inclement weather closings.

UC provides artificial intelligence (AI) services and resources to augment student learning.  By using AI responsibly in their courses, students can develop the innovative skills needed to be leaders.

For more information on AI at UC, see the DTS page on AI for students.

Honorlock is a remote proctoring service that creates a fair testing environment for all students by protecting exams and academic integrity. Honorlock allows students to complete assessments at almost any location while still ensuring the academic integrity of the exam. Using almost any webcam and computer, you can take exams at home, at work, or any secure location where you have internet access. Honorlock’s proctoring software is primarily browser-based, and most students will not have to download any software to access it. 

For help with Honorlock, see the Honorlock Support Page.