Announcing OkraAlert: Emergency Text Messaging Service for DSU Campus

Delta State University, as part of its efforts to enhance emergency communication efforts on the campus, has recently implemented the OkraAlert emergency text messaging notification system.  OkraAlert provides for dissemination of emergency communications from the campus in the event of a life-threatening emergency. 

While signup for the system is voluntary, all faculty, staff, and students are strongly encouraged to participate so that you will receive an emergency text message in the event of any serious life-threatening emergency on campus.   There is no charge for participation in the service; however standard text messaging rates will apply. 

Please help all of us in spreading the word to our students, faculty and staff.  This is an extremely important initiative and we encourage everyone to enroll in the system.  Details on how to enroll in the system are located at OkraAlert Signup Page .

Faculty/Staff Off Campus Email Access

Webmail is provided for all University employees as a method of accessing email while off campus.  Web Mail is often referred to as both Outlook Web (OWA) and/or Web Mail.  Employees can check their email from anywhere they have internet access.  Web Mail can be accessed by clicking on the "My DSU" link on the home page or by pointing Internet Explorer to:  https://webmail.deltastate.edu. 

Electronic Learning Network ELN: Course Design /Support + Offering

In addition to workshops and institutes, the OIT-ELN provides course development and design support through its course template, course review and graphic design/new media offerings.

Course Templates

Course templates are available in both hybrid/blended and fully online formats. A course template is a pre-structured directory of "boilerplate" HTML files that can be installed in a BB-CE6 course shell course upon request (see a screenshot of the template front page below). In short, templates make it possible for faculty to worry less about course structure and design and more about course content, student assignments and interactions.

Visit the ELN’s site for more info.

Project Updates

Technology Classroom Enhancements

As part of the master lease funding; twelve locations on campus have received technology makeovers.  Broom 105, 202, 111, Ewing 227, 331, 315, Gibson Gunn 103, 128, Nursing 129, 130, 101, and the BPAC recital hall now all have either complete, new technology installations or enhanced technology upgrades.  These upgrades bring the campus to a total of over 70 technology-enriched classrooms and labs consisting of upgraded PC systems, full projection, and DVD/VHS playback with amplified sound.  OIT is appreciative of the patience from both faculty and staff as we completed these upgrades.

Jacob Center and State Room

Technology renovations are almost completed for the Jacob Center and the State Room.  These facilities are being modified to provide true technology conference center offerings, including much improved audio systems and several presentation viewing options.  Both conference centers will include stationary, computer systems, public address systems, DVD/VHS playback systems, and multiple projection systems.  Look for more information soon. 

AV Equipment Loans

OIT is unable to loan equipment to students.  Student organizations or groups that are in need of AV equipment should first identify a faculty or staff  member who will serve as your sponsor for the equipment.  Details and further information can be found at Media Reservation Form

 Network Staff Reaches Out
 to assist Students

Throughout the last two weeks, Network Services staff has assisted over 1000 students with the installation and configuration of Clean Access on their computer systems.  This assistance has been provided in public forums, residential hall technical sessions, tutoring, and hands-on assistance including after-hours support.  These efforts were provided in addition to those services offered by our 24/7 help desk (4444 on campus).   To date, approximately 74% of all students had no current anti-virus application running on their computers.  We appreciate the patience of all the students, residential hall assistants, and Residential Housing staff as we work to provide a safe and secure network environment for all concerned.

ASK OIT? Your Questions Answered by OIT Staff

askoit@deltastate.edu

What is “DSU Online Services” ?
DSU Online Services is an integrated system of Web pages that students may use to access their records over the Internet.  You can access the student system at DSU Online Services.  From this page you can view grades, add/drop courses, view billing and financial aid information and awards and a host of other services.  Check out DSU Online Services. For more information.