Slow Internet connections and poor cell service are two technology issues that drive even the most patient people insane. For potential college students, there are even more technology pet peeves that may be encountered when interfacing with your school, making it important to research a school’s technology systems and ask direct questions about how the systems and tools are specifically designed to benefit students.
Some starter questions: a college should make it simple to access grades, contact professors, interact and send messages to peers and alumni, and purchase books and supplies online. Students also need to have straightforward access 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to financial records and the ability to engage with financial advisors via the Web, without having to go to an office or wait for a phone call.
In addition to learning what technology support systems a school promotes in its marketing materials and website, look for third-party recognition of a school’s innovation in this space. Industry awards like CIO Magazine’s “CIO 100” recognize organizations around the world that exemplify the highest level of operational and strategic excellence in information technology. Westwood College is the recent recipient of this prestigious honor for its Power of One project. This endeavor aims to create a seamless link between Westwood’s ground campuses and online college programs—including the creation of a new online portal that makes it easy for students to access all of the educational tools they need from a computer or mobile device.
Regardless of the type of college or university students choose, the technology and online resources that are available to support them can dramatically impact day-to-day interactions and future successes based on easy access to information and support. Going to school is hard enough, so make sure to tap into your inner “techie” to ensure your school is going to work offer the right tools to help you achieve your goals.