For students
Classes at Reed use a variety of technologies to support teaching and learning, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may continue to impact students.
Below are some notes on the technical aspects of computing at Reed that may be helpful for students. If you have questions, get in touch at its@reed.edu. If you encounter a system that is not working as expected (e.g. Moodle, Zoom), check the IT status page for outage news or contact us.
Covering basic technology needs
Technology for courses and beyond
Traveling and maintaining connectivity
Accessing computer hardware
Students at Reed use computers in almost every area of the curriculum. Every student should have a laptop with a currently supported operating system, capable of running Microsoft Office, email, modern web browser, and Zoom. (For more details, see technical recommendations from CUS.)
If you do not have access to a computer, Reed may be able to help. Read more about the Student Technology Equipment Program, or contact Taylor Smith (smitht@reed.edu) to discuss your situation and make arrangements.
Accessing software
Much of the specialized software normally provided in campus computer labs, know as information resource centers, will be available through our virtual computer labs, accessible to all students, faculty, and staff.
In addition to the virtual labs, many commonly-used programs are accessible at downloads.reed.edu.
If you are in need of specialty software to complete your thesis or coursework, get in touch with us at its@reed.edu.
Internet access
You will need access to a stable internet connection to join any remote classes or meetings. If you are living off campus, some internet service providers may offer reduced-cost internet access, with options varying depending on your location. Zoom support provides bandwidth requirements as well as tips for improving WiFi connection issues.
Accessibility concerns
If you have questions about accessibility and the technologies used in your classes, get in touch with your professor and with Disability & Accessibility Resources.
Zoom and Google Meet
Some meetings, events, and courses may be held remotely via videoconference. Reed supports Zoom and Meet; if you have not used these technologies before, read through our documentation to get started. Videoconferencing requires a stable internet connection. If you anticipate issues with this, get in contact with the event organizer or your professor and share your concerns.
If you are looking to stay connected with friends remotely, you can use Google Meet or create a free Zoom account (we recommend using the Sign in with Google option using your @reed.edu address).
Moodle
Many courses at Reed use Moodle. Depending on the course, you might find a syllabus, e-reserves, assignment dropboxes, quizzes, and other materials and activities on the Moodle course page. If you are new to Moodle at Reed, we have a short introduction to get you started.
Panopto media system
Many courses at Reed use Panopto for viewing video and audio media. We have a brief overview of the tools in Panopto to get you started.
Maintaining access to your Reed email
If you are traveling to a location where access to Google services is blocked, you can set up an alternate email address. Once you have done this, your Reed email will be forwarded to your chosen email address.
Please note that even if you can access your Reed email via forwarding, you will still not be able to access other Google services, such as Google Docs, Google Drive, or other Google Apps for Education. If you are in a location where access to Google is blocked and need to use these services for course work, contact your professor as soon as possible to make alternate arrangements.
Contact its@reed.edu with any issues accessing course materials.