Achieving academic success involves many tools, with technology and software being the most used. Email, word processors, presentation software, and learning management systems like Brightspace are crucial to understand and fully utilize. Student usage of Generative Artificial Intelligence in their academic coursework is also an area of advisement offered. Below are in-depth, yet approachable guides for Office 356, G Suite, and Brightspace. Data privacy and virus prevention measures are also important, with tips provided to keep your information safe and secure. If all else fails (crashes?) CU's Information Technology department is here to help!
"Let all things be done properly and in order." - 1 Corinthians 14:40
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) technologies, such as ChatGPT, have become a new learning and information processing tool readily accessible to students to use on their academic journey at the university. While GenAI provides innovative and cutting-edge outputs for students related to their studies and coursework, it easily poses the risks of infringing upon Cornerstone University's currently published academic integrity and plagiarism policies--which are consistent with other Higher Education institutions. To better understand how GenAI usage is allowed in the context of coursework and assignments, please email academic.success@cornerstone.edu or schedule a 1-on-1 Academic Success Coaching meeting using the form below, specifically for "Software and Technology", so that a professional staff-person can meet with you to explain what is, and is not, permitted as it pertains to GenAI usage. The university's current policy on GenAI usage can be accessed by clicking HERE. It is a student's responsibly to be aware of this university policy and the requirements outlined throughout, as well as external requirements on properly citing GenAI usage using American Psychological Association (APA) and Modern Language Association (MLA) citation when submitting any (approved) GenAI-assisted materials.
All students at Cornerstone University must be well versed in navigating Brightspace and checking it regularly. Your grades, many assignments, faculty/classmate information, and much more is housed in this learning management system. The following hyperlink includes important navigation functions for students and can be access by clicking HERE.
The Microsoft Office 365 set includes what many organizations deem as the standard for word processing, presentations and spreadsheets. As a students (and a future working professional), you should familiarize yourself with these pieces of software, and the quick guides hyperlinked above will help do just that. Remember: all Cornerstone University students using your "edu" email can download these as a set for free. The link to download them can be accessed by clicking HERE.
G Suite is all about ease of access and collaboration. Many college students are familiar with these, albeit at a surface level. All student Gmail accounts include the cloud file storage Drive, the word processor Docs, the presentation software Slides, and the spreadsheets software Sheets. While G Suite's software may seem more simplistic than Office 365, the simplicity is what makes it popular and user-friendly. Check the hyperlinked guides above to learn more about each of their features!
Whether you're attending college as a distance learner or residing on campus, college is a great experience. Inevitably, there will be some hiccups though. Fortunately, you can control many situations to make your college life a little easier, especially when it comes to your tech. Check out these 9 College Tech Tips to stay ahead of the game!
The Information Technology Department is Cornerstone University's primary sector for technology support. If you have any specialized technology/software related questions, give them a call at 616.222.1510 or email them at technology.support@cornerstone.edu to help troubleshoot.
← If you're an Online Learner, check out these techy tips to stay plugged in and ready to learn remotely!
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