The Student Technology Fee (STF) is a vital mechanism that enables UC Riverside to strategically invest in technologies that enhance our teaching and learning environment.

This student-centered initiative directly supports the acquisition and implementation of cutting-edge tools and resources across campus, providing students and faculty with the technological resources they need to succeed and ensuring that UCR remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

Read on to learn more about the wide array of services made possible by STF contributions.

24/7 Connection to Campus Wireless Network Services

Reliable and secure wireless network services keep Highlanders connected while on campus. Through STF, Information Technology Solutions (ITS) is able to expand, enhance, and maintain UCR’s wireless network to meet the needs of our growing campus population.

UCR offers three types of wireless internet access for all Highlanders and guests:

• UCR-SECURE - For faculty, staff, and students
• EDUROAM - For higher education partners
• UCR-GUEST - For campus guests

As a best practice, ITS encourages all Highlanders to utilize the campus virtual private network (VPN) service, GlobalProtect. If you use mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to access secure UCR resources, it is important to learn how to keep your information secure in mobile devices.

Free Daily Access to a Laptop via Laptop Anytime Kiosks

To ensure that all students have access to the technology they need, STF offers Laptop Anytime Kiosks. Students can borrow a laptop free of charge through kiosks located across campus and use it for up to 24 hours. This is particularly useful for those who do not own a personal device or need a temporary replacement. A laptop kiosk functions much like a vending machine, allowing students to check out laptops using a touch screen at the kiosk that authenticates the student’s identity and then dispenses the laptop.

To learn how to check out and return a laptop using the Laptop Anytime Kiosk, visit the ITS Knowledge Base.

There are currently five Laptop Anytime Kiosks on campus, each housing 30 laptop computers (PCs and Macs). They are located in the following areas:

• First floor lobby of the Tomás Rivera Library (two kiosks)
• First floor lobby of the Orbach Science Library
• First floor lobby of the Highlander Union Building (HUB)
• First floor lobby of the Student Success Center (SSC)

Access to Essential Software and Programs

One of the offerings under STF is Software as a Service, which enables students to access essential academic software and specialized programs for different fields of study by providing software titles free of charge. All available software titles are found in the ITS Software Catalog within the IT service portal. Students can access this anytime and download the software they need without submitting a request to ITS.

The catalog includes commonly-used software such as Microsoft Office 365, Esri ArcGIS, and MathWorks Matlab. In addition, STF provides BCOE students free access to Ansys, SolidWorks, COMSOL, and LabVIEW software.

UCR’s virtual computer lab (VLab) service is also made possible by the Student Technology Fee. Through VLab, students can access specialty software from anywhere. It enables Highlanders to complete their coursework without needing to obtain a software license or use a specific computer operating system.

Open-Access Computer Labs

Student Technology Support (STS), a service that is partially funded via STF, maintains four open-access computer labs (including the virtual computer lab). The Arts Computer Lab houses Macintosh computers, while the Watkins Labs offer Windows desktops. The Watkins Labs provide a mixture of instructional and open-access student use and are managed by student employees supervised by ITS Staff.

For more information on UCR’s open-access computer labs, including their location, lab equipment, and available software, visit the ITS Knowledge Base.

Document Printing via WEPA Print Stations

WEPA is a secure, cloud-based printing solution available to the UCR community. Highlanders can upload their documents to the WEPA print cloud and print them from any of the WEPA print stations located on campus (learn how). Each student receives a $9.00 quarterly allowance equivalent to 100 black-and-white single-sided page prints. Students can also print beyond their quota for a small fee per page.

UCR has more than 20 WEPA printing stations across campus (see their locations here). As the campus community grows, additional stations may be added.

Training Resource for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars

Graduate Quantitative Methods Center (GradQuant) is a valuable resource for UCR graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. It empowers researchers across all disciplines by offering comprehensive training in quantitative data analysis, computer programming, and digital research methods. Through free, personalized consultations and specialized workshops, GradQuant equips scholars with the essential skills to analyze data effectively, conduct research, and advance their academic careers. For more information visit gradquant.ucr.edu.

Self-Service Accessibility Tool

SensusAccess is a self-service tool that allows users to easily convert non-accessible documents into alternate formats so that the information is accessible for individuals who have print-related disabilities or need to use assistive technology to read information. SensusAccess is available to UCR students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Its accessibility features include:

• Conversion of image files and image‐only PDF documents into Word, RTF, and text files
• Conversion of image‐only PDF documents into tagged PDF documents
• Conversion of PowerPoint presentations into web projects, tagged PDF, or RTF outline files

Users can also convert the most popular document types into formats such as MP3, DAISY, EPUB, EPUB3, and Mobi.

Highlanders do not need to install software to access the service. It’s an automated service available across platforms irrespective of operating system, browser, and hardware.

SensusAccess also seamlessly integrates with Canvas to provide accessibility support in online courses and activities, allowing users to convert and download files directly within the platform.

Skill Development Resource for Students, Staff, and Faculty

LinkedIn Learning is a valuable resource for UCR students and staff seeking to build academic and professional skills. It offers a wide range of expert-led videos that teach business, technology-related, and creative skills through a flexible platform that accommodates mobile access. Through LinkedIn Learning, students can access on-demand learning, develop professional skills, and build resumés. Faculty can also integrate LinkedIn Learning courses into their classes and take training courses on how to construct courses or improve teaching.

Cloud-Based Interactive Audience Response Tool

Poll Everywhere is a cloud‐based, interactive audience response tool that allows students to engage in real-time polls and quizzes during classes using their personal devices and existing campus login systems. This tool, which replaced the campus clicker system, enhances student participation and provides immediate feedback to instructors.

Poll Everywhere ties directly into Canvas so instructors no longer need to manage separate rosters to register students and upload data into the course. Integrating Poll Everywhere in class discussions can significantly boost students’ learning experience through active course participation and engagement.

How to Access Poll Everywhere:

• Website: Poll Everywhere
• Login: Students can log in with their UCR NetID and password
• Mobile App: Available for download on iOS and Android devices

Advanced Audio/Visual Technology for General Assignment Classrooms

One of the campus enhancement projects funded by STF is the renewal and replacement of the audio/visual (A/V) technology within General Assignment (GA) classrooms. These rooms are equipped with advanced A/V instruction technology and are refreshed every five years.

All GA classrooms are Zoom-capable, with front and rear-facing cameras and instructor and audience microphones. This enables instructors to engage with a remote audience or bring in a remote presenter.

This endeavor supports effective instruction by ensuring that UCR’s classroom technology meets the needs of instructors and students.

Enhance Your Academic Experience with STF Services

STF offers various essential services that empower students and faculty to excel academically. By spreading the word and encouraging utilization of these services, you're not only supporting individual success but also contributing to the overall advancement of our academic community.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your academic experience. Take advantage of the STF services today and discover the difference they can make in your studies and research!