Navigating the Digital Landscape: A Comprehensive Guide to University of Delaware's Online Resources

Introduction

The University of Delaware (UD) offers a wide array of digital tools and platforms to support students, faculty, and staff in their academic and administrative endeavors. This guide serves as a one-stop resource for understanding and utilizing these technological resources effectively, ensuring academic success, fostering collaboration, and maintaining seamless connectivity with the campus community.

Essential UD Account Management

UDelNet ID and Password

Your UDelNet ID is your primary identifier for accessing various UD online services. While you have the option to change your UDelNet ID through My UD Settings, it is generally recommended to retain the original ID unless absolutely necessary.

Password Management: To change your password, follow the instructions provided on the password reset page. A notification will confirm the acceptance of the new password, which may take up to 60 seconds to become effective.
Forgotten UD ID: If you forget your UD ID, you can retrieve it by logging into My UD Settings using your UDelNet ID and password.
Assistance: For further assistance with your UD ID, contact the Registrar's Office at (302) 831-2132 or visit the UD Visitors Center at 210 S. College Avenue.

Web Presence and Content Management

Website Options for Departments and Organizations

UD provides several options for creating and managing websites for departments, organizations, and other university-affiliated entities:

CampusPress (WordPress Hosting): UD offers WordPress hosting through CampusPress, providing a user-friendly platform for building and managing websites.
Department/College Servers: Some colleges and departments may have their own servers where you can create a website (e.g., engr.udel.edu).
RSOs (Registered Student Organizations): RSOs no longer create independent sites.

Building an Effective Website

Content Planning: Before creating your website, take time to outline your goals and target audience. Review existing content on current sites or brochures to identify key information that visitors will be seeking.
WordPress Themes: If using WordPress through sites.udel.edu, you can customize the look of your site by choosing from a variety of themes. Consult the CampusPress Knowledgebase for more information on themes.
Web Accessibility: Ensure your website is accessible to all users by properly using headings, adding alt text to images, and following other accessibility guidelines.
Google Analytics: Integrate Google Analytics into your website to gain insights into site traffic and content performance. This free tool helps you make informed decisions about content updates and improvements. If you’re using WordPress through sites.udel.edu, you can link your Google Analytics account via Statistics + GTM in the WordPress dashboard. Sign up for a free Google Analytics account with Google. UDIT offers training on the basics of WordPress.

Technology Request Process

The Technology Request process is mandatory for ANY and ALL technology (hardware, software (including renewals), tech services, add-ons) you plan to use or are currently using at the University of Delaware as faculty, employee, or affiliate, including add-ons, trial periods, and free solutions.

Essential Digital Tools and Platforms

Zoom Pro

All UD students have access to a free Zoom Pro account throughout their enrollment at the University. The link to set up an account is located below along with instructions to sign in and use your account.

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Microsoft Office 365 (O365)

All students enrolled in UD classes receive free access to Microsoft Office 365 (O365) applications. These applications include: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, OneNote, and Teams.

Access: You can access these applications through the online portal or download them to your devices (e.g., your computer, tablet, or smartphone). Access O365 online.Log in with your UD credentials.
Post-Enrollment Access: When a student is no longer enrolled in classes, Office 365 applications will stop working on the student’s computer or device, but the files created by the student will remain on the computer or device.

Canvas Learning Management System (LMS)

UD uses Canvas as its Learning Management System (LMS). Instructors use Canvas to post assignments, quizzes, student grades, and other course materials.

Course Availability: You will see your courses appear in Canvas as your instructor publishes them.
Data Backup: Information Technologies at UD recommends that you download any assignments/materials you may need or want to keep from each of your Canvas courses as a personal backup.
Access: You can login to Canvas through the Canvas Gateway page.

Google Workspace

Google Workspace is a series of Google applications that you can access using your University of Delaware credentials.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

The University of Delaware allows students to use Virtual Private Network (VPN) client software. This software provides a secure, point-to-point connection over the Internet, letting you connect to UDelNet from off campus as if you were on campus.

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