Academic Technology

List of 6 items.

• Internet Bandwidth

  This is the single most important consideration. As more and more devices in the home share a single internet connection, the strain increases on available bandwidth as determined by the contract with your Internet provider (Verizon, Comcast, etc.). In particular, the increase in streamed video for remote classes and meetings places a high demand on bandwidth. To conserve bandwidth, consider turning off video when possible for meetings and classes and rely exclusively on audio. Turn off devices that are not necessary but may be consuming internet bandwidth, like streaming audio services. While not using a high amount of bandwidth, every little bit helps. Use an online application to test the speed of your internet connection. If you continue to experience poor performance on your device, it may be worthwhile talking to your provider about options to upgrade your service.

• Wireless Coverage

  Most households use wireless services to connect the many devices in the home to the internet. Frequently, though, your internet router does not provide good coverage throughout the entire house, and there may be many spots with weak or even no signal where it would be beneficial to use connected devices. A network extender can assist with this problem. These can be readily purchased through technology retailers, but their configuration and location are important to maximize their usefulness. Poorly placed or configured extenders can actually worsen network performance, so be sure to get technical assistance from the retailer or your internet provider first. Also, be sure to enable access to security features on your wireless network. You don’t want to be the internet provider for your neighbors.

• Printing

  Although more and more documents are exchanged and submitted electronically, printed copies of materials still play an important role in our lives. While having a multi-function device that can print, scan, and copy may seem like a luxury, it can be of great value in facilitating work and school activities. Most are now capable of wireless connection and can be placed anywhere with sufficient wireless signal. Consider placing it in a location that is accessible to all but where the noise will not disturb others in the household.

• Charging Devices

  Identify locations where your devices can be conveniently charged when not in use and, preferably, can be plugged in during extended use or overnight.

• Comfortable Workspaces

  A couch or bed may seem like a comfortable short-term location for completing some work, but it is not ideal for long stretches of sustained work or studying. Identify specific spaces where each family member can work which has good lighting; available power; sufficient space for textbooks, notebooks, and other resources; and comfortable ergonomics.

• Sharing Devices

  In a fully remote environment, everyone frequently needs to be working simultaneously. Each user will likely need his own device in order to complete work and assignments in a timely way, meet necessary deadlines, and participate in scheduled activities like classes, meetings, or webinars. Consequently, it is often simply impractical for family members to share computers.