Bucknell University's Free Office 365 Offer To Students

Bucknell University offers a range of technology resources and support for its students. The University's Library & Information Technology department serves the computing and access needs of students, providing assistance with various technical issues. While there is no explicit mention of free Office 365, the University does offer software distribution for academic and work purposes on personal and University-owned computers. Additionally, students facing financial difficulties in accessing reliable technology can seek help through the Technology for Students in Need program, which provides access to virtual Windows computers and, if necessary, a Chromebook or similar device.

Technology for students in need

Bucknell University offers a Technology for Students in Need program to help students facing financial difficulties in accessing reliable technology. Qualifying applicants receive access to virtual Windows "computers" that are equivalent to the Windows PCs in campus labs. This resource is available anywhere, at any time, for the entire academic year. Bucknell may also provide a Chromebook or basic computing device to access the virtual lab.

Technology is integral to modern education, and there are numerous ways it can support students in need:

Instant Information Access

Digital tools like academic journals, project management platforms, and study apps provide students with extensive information and resources. Digital libraries, online databases, and Open Educational Resources (OER) platforms offer free access to academic materials, enhancing learning and retention of concepts. Educational platforms and learning management systems (LMS) centralize resources and enable remote learning.

Real-World Connections

Technology removes classroom boundaries, allowing for immersive learning experiences. For example, a geology professor can take students on a virtual tour of the Grand Canyon. Virtual guest speakers can also connect students with experts, bridging classroom lessons with real-world applications and enhancing engagement.

Preparation for the Modern Workforce

Integrating technology into the curriculum equips students with skills for the modern workplace. Students develop digital literacy, information management abilities, adaptability to new technologies, creativity, and collaboration and communication skills through tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Drive.

Support for Different Learning Styles

Technology in the classroom helps accommodate different learning styles. It encourages collaboration and enhances interaction between students and instructors. Additionally, AI technology can provide deeper insights from student feedback, allowing educators to tailor their methods to individual needs and support diverse learning styles.

Improved Digital Citizenship

Using mobile devices in the classroom provides an opportunity to develop students' digital citizenship skills. It's important for students to learn how to use technology correctly, responsibly, and ethically, including understanding data privacy and cybersecurity.

Library & Information Technology

L&IT also distributes software for academic and work use on both personal and University-owned computers. Students can visit the Software Distribution page in MyBucknell to find software available based on their role at the University.

Additionally, L&IT offers the Technology for Students in Need program, which assists students with financial need who face challenges in accessing reliable technology. Qualifying applicants receive access to virtual Windows "computers," equivalent to the Windows PCs in campus labs, and can request a Chromebook or similar device if needed. The virtual resource can be accessed from any device at any time during the academic year.

For further assistance or to report an issue, students can contact the L&IT Tech Desk at techdesk@bucknell.edu or 570-577-7777.

Computing and access needs

Students with financial need who struggle to access reliable technology can apply for assistance through the Technology for Students in Need program. Qualifying applicants will be given access to virtual Windows "computers" that are the technological equivalent of the Windows PCs found in labs around the campus. This virtual resource can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, for the entire academic year. If needed, Bucknell will also provide qualifying applicants with a Chromebook or similar basic computing device.

Students can find software for their computers through the Software Distribution page in MyBucknell. This page provides software based on the student's role at the University. For Faculty and Staff University-owned computers, Windows users can search for Portal Manager in the search box next to the Start button, and Mac users can run the Self-Service app in Applications.

Software distribution

Bucknell University's Library & Information Technology department serves the computing and access needs of students. The university provides a range of resources and support services to ensure students have access to the technology they need.

Technology for Students in Need Program

Bucknell University offers a "Technology for Students in Need" program, which aims to assist students facing financial difficulties in accessing reliable technology. Qualifying applicants can receive access to virtual Windows "computers", equivalent to the Windows PCs found in labs on campus. This virtual resource can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, for the entire academic year. The university will also provide qualifying students with a Chromebook or similar basic device if needed.

Benefits of Software Distribution Tools:

• Save time and effort by automating software distribution and backup.
• Gain a comprehensive view of the software within your network.
• Reduce errors through automation.
• Maintain a central repository of software packages.
• Leverage various distribution methods depending on the IT environment.
• Automatically update software templates.
• Install software silently on users' desktops without disrupting productivity.
• Introducing new software that needs to be circulated to all endpoints in the network.
• Deploying software on new computers to replace outdated ones.
• Onboarding new employees and ensuring their computers have the necessary software.

Technical issues and support

Bucknell University's Library & Information Technology (L&IT) department serves the computing and access needs of students. The L&IT website provides a range of resources for students, including information on technical issues and support.

The L&IT department assists students with various technical issues. For example, students can contact the department for guidance on what technology to bring to campus, purchasing a computer, printing from personal and University-owned computers, mobile support, and using the Linux Computing Cluster.

If students encounter technical problems or require assistance, they can report the issue or request service from the L&IT department through the online portal (myBucknell login required). Alternatively, students can contact the Tech Desk by email at techdesk@bucknell.edu or by phone at 570-577-7777.

The L&IT department also offers a "Technology for Students in Need" program, which provides support to students with financial needs who face challenges in accessing reliable technology. Qualifying applicants are given access to virtual Windows "computers," equivalent to the Windows PCs available in campus labs. This virtual resource is accessible from any device with a web browser and can be used at any time during the academic year. If necessary, Bucknell will also provide qualifying students with a Chromebook or similar basic device to access the virtual lab.

Students can apply for assistance through the "Technology for Students in Need" program by submitting the relevant form. Any questions or issues regarding the program can be directed to the associate vice president of information technology, Steve O'Hara (so012@bucknell.edu), or the senior technology support specialist, Todd Fogle (tef007@bucknell.edu).

Additionally, Bucknell University offers software distribution through the MyBucknell Software Distribution page. Students can access software based on their specific role at the University. For University-owned computers, Windows users can search for Portal Manager, while Mac users can run the Self-Service app in Applications.

Frequently asked questions