Test for Success: Finals Week Preparation

  OIT News  |  Dec 7, 2022  |  By Julie Acheson
Person’s arms typing on keyboard behind a desktop computer in a computer lab.

The end of the semester can quickly become an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be. The office of information technology supports a collection of resources that encourage academic success, especially during the last couple of weeks of the semester. In preparation for this busy time of the year, there are some easy steps students can make to ensure their finals run as smoothly as possible. 

Study Space on Campus
Scattered throughout campus, computer labs offer software and services for student use throughout the semester, including finals week. Multiple printer options, group collaboration zones, and late-night lab hours allow students the flexibility to study or work on final projects and papers.

Access Software Off Campus
Unable to make it to campus to use one of the many software programs? RebelApps provides  round-the-clock access to a collection of software titles, including remote applications like SPSS, to students away from campus. Students must follow these step-by-step instructions to download VMWare Horizon Client to access RebelApps on their personal device. 

Multifactor Authentication Considerations
Applications like Rebelmail, University Libraries, and WebCampus now require multifactor authentication (MFA), adding an extra layer of security to ACE accounts to keep them safe. Depending on the verification method, equipment like a phone must be nearby to log into applications. Contact the IT Help Desk if you forget your device or have other login problems. 

Get Comfortable with WebCampus
In many courses, WebCampus is essential for understanding when assignments and final exams are due. Support regarding general information, account settings such as notification preferences, and accessing content like grades and assignments is available for all students. 

Respondus Tools for Final Examinations
Respondus LockDown Browser may be required for  some final examinations. These tools may require certain systems, downloads, or equipment such as a webcam, microphone, and internet connection. Security key and biometrics options selected for ACE account multifactor authentication are not supported by LockDown Browser, so another factor like Okta Verify must be set up. Ensure these requirements are met before beginning final exams that use LockDown Browser. 

Help Desk Support
If you have questions, contact the IT Help Desk for assistance. They can help with login, WiFi, and other technology-related issues. Check the service status page for planned maintenance and outages of campus IT services too. 

Don’t let the end-of-the-semester jitters get the best of finals week. Finish the semester strongly by having a designated study space, downloading all required software applications, and having access to all accounts prior to finals week. Leave technology mishaps as the last thing on your mind as the semester comes to an end.