This section of tech.soa is an information base intended to serve as a reference for students regarding the available resources and guidelines that supplement the University's general guidelines on remote learning. While the challenges and limitations of remote learning are real, we are also fortunate to have many tools at our disposal that can deliver learning experiences that are rich in their own right. Fully utilizing the resources on this website will help students, faculty, and staff make the most of their remote learning experience at SoA.

Important Links and Contact Information:

• School of Architecture Website (soa.cmu.edu)
• CMU Computing Services (it-help@cmu.edu)
• SoA IT (soa-ithelp@andrew.cmu.edu)
• Guidelines on Remote Learning for SoA Students
• SoA Coronavirus FAQ's & Updates
• Counseling and Psychological Services: Call CaPs at 412-268-2922or visit their website

Slack

Slack is a community-oriented massive chat platform that works great with both desktop and mobile device notifications. Technical support is crowd sourced here, as well as questions and events. Channels can be requested / created for specific topics, organizations, and activities. It's a great way to stay connected with the school community for non-course / non-FERPA protected content (see Privacy Policy).
Join Slack Now!!

Internet Challenges

If you are in a location outside of the US, you may have to use the university’s VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access your Andrew email, Google Apps, SIO, Zoom, and other university resources critical to your remote learning experience with SoA. There may be other 3rd party VPN solutions that may address your issue, but please keep in mind that the school or the university will not be able to support them. For further support on internet connectivity as a CMU student, contact Computing Services it-help@cmu.edu. In addition, Comcast is temporarily offering free/affordable internet service.

Computer Challenges

If you are unable to access your own computer, consider borrowing an available computer in your household. You may need to install all necessary software on your own. Campus is also currently providing laptops to students in need. The University is working on making the process more streamlined, but for now please reach out to Patty Riether (priether@cmu.edu), and copy in Stan Waddell (swaddell@cmu.edu) on the message.

Hardware Recommendations

Below are recommendations on hardware upgrades faculty can make to improve their remote learning setup. Please consult Eddy and/or Bob if you need more assistance regarding your hardware needs.