A Beginner's Guide to University

IT Literacy

The Facts

Computer Literacy is essential for study at UNSW, therefore every student needs IT skills, regardless of their program.

You don't have to be studying computer science or new media - even if you're studying poetry as part of an English course, you'll be required to take part in an online tutorial, or access other information online.

• applying for uni online
• enrolling online
• student email. When you enrol at UNSW you are given an email account. This is the main mode of formal communication between the University and students, and is used to send you important announcements, information specific to your enrolment and vital administrative or teaching material not provided any other way.
• completing assignments. Most students use word processing programs to type up their essays.
• preparing visuals for presentations
• using the library catalogue. As the library catalogue is online, it's not possible to find a book in the library without being computer literate.
• accessing UNSW Online Learning. Most UNSW courses have online components (some are taught entirely online) and students need to be able to operate in an online learning environment.
• administration. Many schools now put much of their course materials and administrative information online. Moreover, some courses have online assessment which means that not knowing how to use the technology means that you won't be able to do the assignments.

Access to Computers

UNSW expects all new students to have off-campus access to a standard modern computer with DVD drive and standard software packages, and Internet connectivity.

• If you are intending to purchase a new computer and require guidance, please refer to the Infomation Technology Requirements for UNSW Students (2008 version).
• If you don't have a computer, it's worth investigating student loans for obtaining your own computer before you start uni.

If you need on-campus computer access, sort it out as soon as possible. There are computer facilities for students on campus, but you can't guarantee their availability. Expect to stand in a queue or make a booking.

• Find out about the facilities available to you in your faculty. Ask at the faculty office.
• Explore the library computers and familiarise yourself with the booking systems. Don't wait until an enrolment or assignment deadline to find out!

Get acquainted with basic computer skills before starting uni. TAFE, WEA and local community colleges all offer a broad range of short courses.