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Introduction to computers

During your study at UniSA, you will use computers to locate information  and for learning. 

Why do you need computers for study?

As a student of UniSA, you will use computers frequently to:

UniSA has a vast network of computers linked together called an intranet (internal to the university; the internet is external).

Features of computers

The main features of a computer are:

Activity: Try the following computer tutor from the BBC.  It is for people who do not know how to use a keyboard, mouse or computer screen. This takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

Using Microsoft Word

Word is the program used to type assignments so it is important to learn how to use this software well.  The best way to learn is to experiment.

myUniSA

myUniSA is a web-based information service providing access to your personal information about your life and study at UniSA. You will find links to your program details, grades, class and exam timetables, internet and printer quotas, student services and email.  You can also link to an outside email account.  Take some time to familiarise yourself with these links.

 

Components of the myUniSA navigation banner (shown above):

  1. Links bar - links to popular and useful University resources.
  2. UniSA logo and Help link - the logo links to the University of South Australia home page and Help links to a glossary of terms used in the University.
  3. Home button - the login page for myUniSA.
  4. My studies -  links to the home pages for all courses that you are enrolled in during this study period. It also includes your academic records.
  5. My email - links to Outlook (the University's email system).
  6. My resources  - takes you to your printer and internet quota, the Library and IT Help Desk.
  7. My finances - allows you to check your financial details and pay accounts.
  8. My personal details  - shows your information  registered with the University. You can edit the details if you move house or change phone numbers.
  9. My services - provides many links in alphabetical order, including:
    -  A-Z quick find
    -  Ask IT
    -  Computer barns and pools
    -  IT HelpDesk
    -  New Students
    -  On campus workshops
    -  Staff directory
    -  unilife


If you have a disability

The Learning and Teaching Unit's disability service can arrange access to adaptive technology suites which use accessible hardware and software (for example, voice activated and screen reading software).

In addition, there is one priority access computer in each pool set aside for students with disabilities and all computers have an accessibility tool.  To access this, from the start menu, click:

Here you will find accessibility wizard; magnifier; narrator; onscreen keyboard and utility manager.  Contact the Learning and Teaching Unit's disability service for further information.

Handy hints and information

Glossary

Computers

Computers at UniSA are used for creating and storing work and communicating with lecturers and other students.

Email

An electronic communication program (much like an electronic letter) enabling you to communicate with staff and other students.

Surf the internet

Look for information on the World Wide Web

Discussion forums

These are similar to email, but are like an electronic noticeboard where you can write and respond to short messages from lecturers or students.  Messages are visible.

myUniSA

Your online home at UniSA with links to your courses, results, printer and internet quotas and UniSA services.

Username

You are required to use this name to log on.  It is the first three initials of your family name, and the initials of the first two given names ('Y' is used as a replacement if you only have one given name).  For example, David Doe would be Doedy.  This is followed by three digits, assigned by the University (eg 003).  David doe's user name might be doedy003.

Password

You are required to use your own password to log on.  This has eight characters - the first four letters of your family name (use 'X' as a replacement initial) and the date and month of birth (eg 2107 is July 21).

 

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