I'm not familiar with online classes. What do I need to know?
Information Technology Support Services (ITS) provides support and detailed information about recommended hardware and software. Students are encouraged to explore what is available and to look at the software available through the University Bookstore (some of it discounted heavily for students).
Assistance and Answers
- IT Support Center: For information on upgrades, current network/software issues and maintenance, as well as general information about technology at Appalachian State University
- Technology FAQ: For answers to the most commonly asked questions.
- Computer Support Assistance: Students can request support in a variety of ways through the Support Center's homepage.
- Tech Support Hours: The hours of “live” assistance can be found on the Technology Support Center page.
- Computing Services at ASU Centers: Students also have access to computing services at the ASU Centers in Burke, Caldwell, and Hickory and at the North Carolina Center for Engineering Technologies in Hickory. Center staff at each location will assist you upon presentation of your official student ID card along with an official government issued photo ID.
Your Access
Tools
- AppalNet: AppalNet is Appalachian's "one-stop-shop" for access to your individual, password-protected student information, resources, and services. It is the portal to Student Self-Service information and provides access to register, check grades/GPA and much, much more. It is an important resource that you will want to locate, bookmark, and become familiar with
- UDesk Information and Installation: You have access to all of the software licensed by the university through UDesk. For information on what "it" is and how to use it, click any of the hyperlinked UDesk mentions. To access the UDesk, you must first install the VMWare Horizon Client. Click here for installation instructions for Windows users. Click here for installation instructions for Mac users.
- ASULearn is the university's learning management system. Online coursework will most likely be delivered entirely through an ASULearn link. Some site-based courses will also use ASULearn to deliver a portion of the instruction. The syllabus will inform students about this. Students are strongly encouraged to review the information and tutorials available on the ASULearn Student Support web page. Click here to access the ASULearn Log in page.
- Google: With Google Suite, you can access many useful tools, including Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Slides and Google Sheets. Using these apps, your files will be saved automatically and can be accessed online at any time. Remember to use your Appalachian email address to log into your account.
- Microsoft Office 365: All Appalachian students can install Microsoft Office 365 on up to five devices free of charge.
- Zoom is Appalachian's web conferencing service. Click here to learn more or log in. For an overview of Zoom settings, click here.