Back-To-School Shopping: Essential Technology for a Digital Semester

By Ashley Paskill on August 24, 2020

With the ongoing pandemic, more and more students are being forced into online classes, even if it is only a couple of their classes or they meet in-person sometimes. While you may go out and buy your typical school supplies like pens and notebooks, you will also need to make sure your technology and tech accessories are updated. Having older technology may cause crashes to your system, especially since you will be using it more now. Getting a head start can help you prepare for a successful semester.

Physical Products

A laptop or a computer

As the name states, online classes require a device that allows you to be online and do assignments. Unfortunately, a smartphone is not likely to cut it. Some tablets may work, but your best bet is to invest in a computer or laptop. This will help you have an easier time accessing class materials and doing homework assignments, especially now that you do not have access to campus computer labs or the library. Some computers are super expensive and are designed for complex gaming, but you will likely only need a basic computer that can run programs like Microsoft Word, the internet, and any other software that may be required for your courses.

Image: Burst via https://unsplash.com/photos/kUqqaRjJuw0

Timer

Taking online classes means that you can work at your own time and pace from the comfort of your home. While this is a major perk, distractions are likely to abound. It is suggested that you do your work in 10, 15, or 20-minute increments and take a brief break. While you can set an alarm or timer on your phone, it is better if you leave your phone off while you are working so you can avoid the temptation to look at it. Instead, buy a separate timer so that you can do work in small pieces and take breaks to help you stay motivated.

Printer

While many students like the online option for their textbooks and reading materials, other students may prefer physical copies of articles so they can highlight and take notes easier. In these cases, it is beneficial to have a printer on hand so that you have this option. While it may not be feasible to print out hundreds of pages of your textbook, you may opt to print out shorter readings. This can help you have a copy of the article handy when you are discussing the readings with your classmates and professor. You will also need to make sure you have the proper ink cartridges for your printer and printer paper. Make sure you have extra supplies of ink and paper on hand so you do not run out when you need them most.

Chargers

Having the proper chargers handy, whether it is your phone or laptop charger, is crucial so that you do not lose power when trying to get work done or when you are in a virtual meeting for class. Technology inevitably decides to die at the worst possible moments, so it is important that you have your needed chargers handy so that you can plug your devices in when needed. If your laptop charger is not working anymore, invest in a new one. Most technology stores sell universal chargers that come with various plugs so you can find the one that fits your laptop.

Webcam

It is likely that you will have to use Zoom or another video conferencing program for parts of your online courses. While it is not necessarily mandatory, having a webcam can help your professor and classmates put a face to your voice and name, making the online class feel more like a normal class setting and more normal. Plus, being able to see other people’s faces is a nice shift from not being able to see anyone like has been the case over the pandemic. Many laptops and computers come with a built-in webcam, especially if they are newer models. However, if yours does not, they can be purchased separately and attached to your computer.

A comfortable and supportive chair

Since you will be sitting in front of a screen for long stretches of time due to doing online classes, it is more important than ever to have a comfortable chair that also supports your posture. While this is not exactly technological, this can help alleviate back pain now and other back issues later on in life. Find a chair that is made for office use since these are designed for those who usually work at a desk as a part of their job. Make sure to get one that you can adjust so you can make it the right height to see your computer without straining your neck.

Keyboard

If your computer does not come with a keyboard, you will need to get one. This is essential for typing assignments and online discussions. Computers typically do not have a touch-screen keyboard, especially if you opt for a less-expensive model. Even if your computer does have a keyboard, you may want to test out the sound of the clicking, especially if you have others living with you who may be distracted by the typing noises when they are trying to get work done.

Mouse

Your computer likely did not come with a mouse unless you have a laptop or keyboard with a trackpad or a track mouse. However, these can be difficult to use, especially if you are used to using a mouse. If you have a laptop, you may opt for a wireless mouse so that you do not have to worry about transporting wires around if you plan on working in different areas of your living space.

Noise-canceling headphones

Since you are likely going to have to be heard when you speak in face-to-face video discussions and hear your classmates and professors, it is recommended that you have noise-canceling headphones with a built-in microphone. These headphones are also useful if you are simply watching a video or listening to music when you are working on assignments for school so that you do not get distracted by anyone else you may be living with.

DVD/CD reader

If you purchased a newer computer model specifically for this semester, it is likely that it did not come with a CD/DVD player since most music and videos are going digital. However, your school or professor may require program installation or course materials that are not yet available in digital formats. However, as long as your computer has a USB port, you should be able to find a separate device that connects to your computer system through the USB port so that you can have access to these materials.

External storage

Even though most files are stored on your computer system or on a cloud program, it is always useful to have a backup in case your computer crashes or you lose the internet for whatever reason. In these instances, having a backup of your important files on a flash drive can save your hard work from inevitable computer issues. Most flash drives tend to be on the smaller size, so be sure you put it somewhere safe or attach some sort of string to it so that you can find it easier. Flash drives tend to be ideal for those who do not do a lot of work with photos or videos.

For students who do a lot of video or photo work with the classes or their work, an external hard drive is a more ideal option. They tend to have a higher amount of storage than most flash drives. This makes them more expensive, so be sure it is actually something that will benefit you before you invest the money in one. Some professors may require one depending on your major or the coursework, so keep this in mind when you are budgeting for your semester.

Proper lighting

Having good lighting, even if your computer has a backlight on the screen, is crucial. Natural light is best, but this is not always possible. Invest in quality lamps that provide light so that your space is bright and you are able to see what you are working on. Attempt to have lights coming from a variety of heights and angles, from the ceiling to the floor and even the desk where you work. Having a variety of lights can help add some positivity to your space. Be sure to use environmentally-friendly lightbulbs to help save the environment and help reduce your electricity costs.

Software and Tools on Your Computer

Stable internet

Again, this is obvious, but for online classes, you will need a stable internet connection at home or in your student living space. This is crucial, especially if you relied on your campus internet for access to online resources. Since many communal campus areas are likely to remain closed for the first few months of the semester at least, so you will need to be able to have internet wherever you are. If your home internet is not the best, check with your service provider to see if there is any way to boost it, even if it comes at a small cost. This will help save you headaches when you are trying to submit assignments or take online exams.

Microsoft Office

Even if you do not have a Microsoft operating system, the Microsoft Office suite should work on your computer. This program includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These are the courses you are most likely to use, especially when doing written assignments. In the past, you may have gotten away with a knockoff word processor, especially if you mostly printed your assignments. However, you will likely be uploading your assignments in an online system. These often require a more widely used word processing program such as Microsoft Word. Some professors, especially if you are doing an online public speaking class, may have you record yourself doing a presentation, and the presentation will likely need to be made using PowerPoint. Even if you do not use Excel in your classes, it is still a good program to learn and add to your resume.

Digital organization apps/programs

Now that you are spending more time in front of your computer and having to keep track of due dates without a teacher constantly remind you. One way to stay organized is to use your computer’s built-in calendar program. If yours does not have one, see if you can download a calendar program. Use the calendar to keep track of due dates and tests so that you can stay on top of all you have to get done. As soon as you have your syllabus, go through and make note of all of the important dates. Your calendar may have options for reminding you so that you get a notification when something is coming up.

Your phone or computer may also have a task list where you can put in things you need to get done and when you want to do them. Once you finish them, you can check them off and you get the satisfaction of seeing all that you have accomplished. This will help motivate you to keep going throughout the day, especially later on as you feel your energy and focus decreasing.

Image: Dollar Gill via https://unsplash.com/photos/fcnbIO5axMI

Browser extensions that limit distractions

When doing online classes, it can be super tempting to spend your study time playing games or scrolling through social media. This is especially true for assignments you are struggling with or ones that you are dreading for one reason or another. Fortunately, there are browser extensions that can help limit these distractions. Limit is one such extension for Chrome. It allows you to set time limits on how long you spend on distracting websites. This is perfect for when you are wanting to take a break but know that you tend to fall down the social media rabbit hole. These kinds of extensions can help you set break times while keeping your focus on what you need to complete.

Antivirus software

While you may be careful about where you browse online, at one point or another, it is likely that you will get slammed with a virus. The risk of this is higher if you do not have antivirus software. Viruses and other harmful objects can destroy your system, wiping out everything you worked hard on. Having antivirus software flags you when the program notices a corrupt file or something that is not right. When it detects something wrong, it alerts you and gives you the option to leave it be if you trust it or delete it from the computer.

Switching to online classes is a huge shift, especially for those who are used to typical in-person classes. Having the proper technology can help make the switch easier so that you are prepared for all life throws your way.

Follow Uloop

Apply to Write for Uloop News

Join the Uloop News Team

Discuss This Article

Back to Top

Log In

Contact Us

Upload An Image

Please select an image to upload
Note: must be in .png, .gif or .jpg format
OR
Provide URL where image can be downloaded
Note: must be in .png, .gif or .jpg format

By clicking this button,
you agree to the terms of use

By clicking "Create Alert" I agree to the Uloop Terms of Use.

Image not available.

Add a Photo

Please select a photo to upload
Note: must be in .png, .gif or .jpg format