Policy on the installation of instructional software in student labs

The GBIT Service Desk supports all faculty in their use of instructional technology by installing course-specific software in our student labs. Currently we support over 60 unique applications in the General Computer Access labs. We require at least two weeks to install and test new software. Since the beginning of each semester is a particularly busy time for GBIT staff, please allow as much lead-time as possible with new software.

Software used in the labs must conform to campus standards in that it must be compatible with the version of the Windows or macOS that is being run in our labs. No DOS-based software is supported. It is the responsibility of the faculty member to thoroughly test the software once it has been installed to ensure that it will work properly in the context in which it is being used within the course.

In addition to the software, we also need to request proof of purchase since we must guarantee that all software has been properly licensed. We also ask that installation documentation and technical support resources be provided if possible.

If any instructor wishes to exchange documents within their courses, GBIT will create a course network volume which students may access in our labs or on any campus machine. Students may be given read or read/write access to this volume; whichever is preferred. GBIT staff can help faculty manage permissions if they wish to restrict access to only students in their courses. Instructors may also use Canvas course management software to facilitate the exchange of documents with their students.