New to online learning technology? Start here to get an overview of the tools and resources you’ll use as a student and get a head start on your online program.
Learning online is a flexible way to make progress on your personal and professional goals without pausing the other important commitments in your life. It also comes with new technology you’ll use to connect to your classes, professors and peers. Finding your rhythm as an online learner may take some time, and staying organized goes a long way.
One way to manage your time well is to tour the technologies you’ll use before you actually need them. If you’re new to online learning, you can lower your stress and mental load by familiarizing yourself with student accounts and learning applications before classes start. At ODU, we’ll help you sort out the hardware, applications and accounts you’ll need to reach your resources, your people and your coursework. You can start by reviewing some questions students frequently ask about technology.
What are the minimum hardware requirements?
Students in online programs offered through ODUGlobal will need a computer that meets ODU’s recommended specifications, which can be found in the technology guidelines. You can use a PC or Mac, but we recommend updating to the latest version of Windows or MacOS.
Does ODU provide laptops for students?
ODU offers a laptop loan program for eligible students. You must be a degree-seeking or academic certificate-seeking student enrolled in an upcoming or current semester. Priority is given to students who have filed a FAFSA and demonstrated financial need. Explore the eligibility requirements and instructions for applying for the laptop loan program.
Where will I find my courses when classes start?
Your instructors will use a learning management system called Canvas to post assignments, enable collaboration and feedback, and give you access to course documents, reading assignments and other supplementary materials. Canvas will be your virtual classroom as an online student through ODUGlobal.
What software can I access to complete my assignments?
You’ll have access to Microsoft 365, where you can download or access apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more. These apps can be installed on PCs, Macs, tablets and smartphones at no cost to you and can be used for coursework or personal use. We provide instructions for installation and tech support through our IT Help Desk.
ODU students can also access the Google suite of applications. You can create and share documents, spreadsheets, and calendar events, communicate using chat, and meet over video conferencing with Google Workspace.
How will I meet with my classmates and professors?
If you need to have live meetings for office hours or group projects, you’ll have access to Zoom. Zoom is a cloud-based web conferencing service available to ODU faculty, staff and students that allows users to host and participate in meetings over the internet. You can use Zoom to schedule or join a meeting from a PC, Mac, desktop, laptop or mobile device wherever you have an internet connection.
What ODU technology will I need to use?
Students also need to access ODU’s online systems, including MIDAS and Leo Online.
MIDAS is the identity and password management system for the University. Your MIDAS ID and password give you access to most of ODU's essential academic and professional services. You can access frequently asked questions and answers about MIDAS on our help page.
Leo Online is ODU's student information system. It contains your official record, including personal information, grades, transcripts, where you register for classes and more.
Where can I find tech support at ODU?
Our IT Help Desk team is here to answer your questions and help you troubleshoot problems. If you’re looking for information or answers about student technology, start at our one-stop shop on our Technology Resources for Students page.
Don’t let technology keep you from moving forward. You might encounter new tools when you start your online program, but you won’t have to tackle them alone. With a few simple preparation steps (and some support if you need it), you can spend less time navigating systems and more time diving in to the courses you’re excited about.
