This week’s update includes information about course formats and registration for the spring semester, a new online proctoring solution, technology help and resources for students, expanded testing, testing locations, and getting students help when needed. Visit the University’s Coronavirus website for the most up-to-date information and guidance. Questions can be emailed to coronavirus@ilstu.edu.
Spring Course Formats and Registration
Spring 2021 courses will be delivered online, hybrid, and face-to-face. Not all course formats are finalized, but the majority of courses will be delivered in online formats similar to the fall term. Students should visit Course Finder to learn more about how courses will be offered. In the “Section Note”, more information can be found about whether a course will be offered synchronously or asynchronously.
The following definitions may be helpful when registering for classes:
- In person – Class meets face to face at a fixed time with the instructor
- Asynchronous online – An online course that does not have a fixed meeting time
- Synchronous online – An online course with a fixed meeting time
- Asynchronous/Synchronous Online – An online course with a limited number of synchronous online meetings during the term
- Asynchronous hybrid – A hybrid course with a fixed meeting time for the in-person component and no fixed time for the online component
- Synchronous hybrid – A hybrid course with a fixed meeting time for both the in-person and online components
Registration for the winter session and the spring 2021 semester begins October 19 and registration appointments will be posted in My.IllinoisState.edu on October 1.
Online Proctoring Solution
Illinois State has purchased a new online proctoring solution, ProctorTrack, which will be integrated into ReggieNet and will work with the Test and Quizzes tool. Instructor training sessions and resources (e.g., handouts and videos) will be available in mid-October followed by a video to familiarize students with the software. Instructors will be able to utilize ProctorTrack for online, automated exam proctoring starting in November.
Students will need a functioning web camera on their computer to utilize ProctorTrack. Most laptop computers have a built-in webcam or an external one may be connected (please note that new webcams remain in short supply across the nation). Illinois State’s TechZone, in the Bone Student Center, can assist with technical setup and is striving to keep external webcams in stock for purchase. Students needing financial assistance for a webcam should contact the Technology Support Center (309-438-HELP or SupportCenter@IllinoisState.edu).
Technology Help and Resources for Students
The University continues to offer campus technology resources and support to students.
- Loaner laptops and assistance with home Internet issues are available through the Technology Support Center. Students who are having issues with access to technology should contact the TSC at (309) 438-4357, SupportCenter@IllinoisState.edu or ITHelp.IllinoisState.edu for assistance.
- Students receive a “free printing” allowance to be used at campus uPrint printers. Visit the full list of uPrint locations.
- Scanning is available to students in the Bone Student Center, in residence hall computer labs, and in the CVA 138 computer lab. These self-service devices allow for scans to a local USB flash drive, email, or OneDrive.
- Visit the updated list of on-campus computer labs for locations and hours of operation.
- Many software applications are available remotely. Learn more about what is available and how to access applications anytime and anywhere with a web browser and connection.
- Tech help is available. Contact the Technology Support Center (TSC) by phone at (309) 438-4357, on the web at ITHelp.IllinoisState.edu, or by email at SupportCenter@IllinoisState.edu. The TechZone Service Center is available on the first floor of the Bone Student Center for in-person help and repair work, including warranty repairs. TechZone also has in stock many of the common items students need for online learning.
Expanded Testing for Students
Expanding the University’s ability to test is part of the overall COVID-19 testing program. The goal of COVID-19 screening is to provide information necessary to minimize the spread of COVID-19 on the campus and inform public health action. Student Health Services continues screening at Illinois State University to track and limit the spread of COVID-19 on the campus. Required testing for students living in on-campus housing is on-going.
Additionally, beginning next week, student employees will be strongly encouraged to test at one of the two on-campus COVID-19 testing sites. Students from this population will be randomly selected for this screening and more information will be provided via email to selected students. Students enrolled in a face-to-face or hybrid course are also strongly encouraged to test at one of the two on-campus COVID-19 testing sites.
Testing Locations
Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing for students will continue at the temporary building in the parking lot between Watterson Towers and Stevenson Hall. Testing will continue at the former fire station at 602 N. Adelaide St., Normal. Both locations are open from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students experiencing symptoms should call Student Health Services at (309) 438-7676 for an initial screening and to make an appointment to be tested.
Testing is also available for students, faculty, and staff at the Interstate Center testing site. Students testing at this site should share positive test results with Student Health Services by uploading them to the Secure Patient Health Portal. Sharing test results will ensure students have proper documentation for classes, housing, and/or employment.
Getting Students Help
Faculty and staff are often the people students turn to first when they have questions. The Division of Student Affairs has resources available to help faculty and staff get students the answers they need, including the Helping Students Get Help webpage.
Designed to let faculty and staff know where to refer students who are managing difficult times, the site covers topics such as anticipating or returning from an extended absence, battling depression and anxiety, and witnessing or experiencing unhealthy or dangerous behaviors.
“We are intentional in the resources and services we offer for our students,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Levester Johnson. “Faculty and staff are often the front lines in assisting students, so it’s vital they know the ways the University can provide help.”
The Helping Students Get Help webpage includes contact information for the Dean on Duty, Student Counseling Services, the Redbird Care Team, and more.
