Student Guide to Learning Remotely
PSU has a variety of tools to help you and your instructors connect, share information, and complete coursework without meeting physically. Check your PSU Gmail and Canvas mail frequently for guidance from your instructor on how they will be hosting classes and delivering course content.
On this page
Gain Access to Technology
Library Check Out
If you don't have access to the technology you need to be successful, you may be able to check out equipment from the library. Laptops, headsets, webcams, and other technology are available. Supplies are limited, so please consider everyone's needs when requesting this limited stock.
Laptop Lending Program
Some programs offer laptop lending programs for students and staff who do not have access to a desktop or laptop computer. School of Business majors should first apply to their department’s laptop loan programs: School of Business Request for Laptop Rental.
You can request a laptop through the PSU Library. The program works similarly to how books are checked out: visit the circulation desk during Library circulation hours and ask for a loaner laptop. If all laptops are currently checked out, you can email circ@pdx.edu to be added to a waitlist for the next available laptop. A complete list of instructions can be found on the Library’s Laptops & Equipment page.
If you have questions about this program, contact the Library Circulation Desk.
Computer Labs
Certain OIT computer labs on campus will be open and available for attending remote lectures and accessing coursework if you don’t have a computer or mobile device available. Please note, if you visit campus, your PSU ID will be required to enter buildings.
Virtual Computer Lab
OIT's Virtual Computer Lab (VLAB) enables you to use a personal laptop or desktop computer to connect to virtual computers that run a selection of academic software applications, at any time and from any location (both on and off campus).
Free or Low-Cost Internet
If you don't have internet access at home, visit the National Digital Inclusion Alliance article on Free and Low-Cost Internet Plans for several options to consider, including some temporary offers available due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mobile Hotspot
If your smartphone is your only internet connection, you may be able to use it to set up a hotspot to provide internet access to a laptop. Visit the Apple Support article How to set up a Personal Hotspot on your iPhone or the Google Support article Share a mobile connection by tethering or hotspot on Android for instructions.
Attend Class Remotely
Zoom Meetings
Your instructor may host remote classes using the Zoom video conferencing tool.
Zoom is available externally to all users at pdx.zoom.us, or it can be accessed through Canvas courses. If you don’t have a laptop or desktop computer, you can download Zoom for your mobile device to join remote classes.
Google Meet
Your instructor may use Google Meet to host remote classes. If you don’t have a laptop or desktop computer, you can install and use the Google Meet app on your mobile device to join remote classes.
Media Space
Media Space is PSU’s video platform solution, where your instructors may upload recorded lectures for you to watch at home. You can typically access these through your instructors’ Canvas course, or through a link they share with you.
Participate and Communicate Virtually
Canvas
You can find Canvas, PSU’s learning management system, by going to canvas.pdx.edu. Discussions, quizzes and assignment submission may be added by your instructor for courses being presented remotely. Make sure to check your courses, your Canvas email, and Canvas announcements daily for updates. Learn more about Canvas in tutorials and videos.
Gmail
PSU Gmail, found at mail.pdx.edu, is the place to go for information from your instructors, and for important campus updates. Learn more about Gmail at PSU.
Google Drive
You can use Google Drive, found at drive.pdx.edu, to create and share documents with your classmates and instructors from any desktop, laptop, or mobile device. Learn more about Google Drive at PSU.
Get Help with Learning Remotely
myPSU
myPSU is the central hub for you to find everything you need for the business of being a student.
If you haven't yet visited myPSU, it's available from a web browser at my.pdx.edu.
OIT Helpdesk
We're here to help you at the OIT Helpdesk. We offer support online, by chat, and over the phone. Contact us if you need help with remote learning technology.