Getting Started With Online Learning

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Coming to university can be a daunting prospect but here at Marjon we’re on hand to make the journey with you and support you in every step.

At Marjon you will be using various systems and apps including Microsoft Teams, Office 365, Canvas: your virtual learning environment, and MyMarjon: your student information portal.

Recommended Specifications for Devices

The following device specifications, as a minimum, should be sufficient for you to complete your studies. Whilst it may be possible for you to access the online resources and lectures on a tablet or iPad we suggest, for all round work, a laptop. Please see below for the advised spec:

Windows Laptop:                              Macbook Air or Pro:              

CPU: Intel Core i5 6th gen                   CPU: Intel Core i3 

Storage: 256GB SSD.                            Storage: 256GB SSD 

RAM: 8GB                                            RAM: 8GB

OS: Windows 10                                  OS: Mac OS

10.15                                       

Catalina  

You do not need to worry about purchasing any additional software, access to the software or downloads will be available as part of our University licensing. 

What laptop or device should I get before I come?

Please ensure that you use a device that will allow you to install the Microsoft Office desktop applications. Some devices, such as Chromebooks, do not allow you to install desktop applications as Google’s operating system doesn’t run Windows software. You can access Microsoft Office online on a Chromebook; however, you may be unable to carry out some advanced functions that are required as part of your coursework.

Where to Buy

  • Some good deals can be found if you have signed up for a Totem (NUS) card, latest deals can be found on https://www.totum.com/ but discounts of 15%-20% discount on laptops and technology show frequently.
  • Alternatively by signing up to the UniDays website (https://www.myunidays.com) you can get free access to more Student discounts.
  • Discounts on Apple products are also available direct from the online Apple store: https://www.apple.com/uk/shop/back-to-school

Otherwise, good deals can be found on Amazon or eBay (and other auction sites) but if you buy a second hand device, buy from an online store and where possible try and get a warranty to cover any issues with it.

At certain times of the year the University may be able to sell some devices to students – as projects to improve the technology across campus are carried out some older devices can be cleaned up and sold on at a lower price than buying elsewhere.  ​​​​​​​

Microsoft Teams

You will be using Microsoft Teams to join your online Induction sessions and will also be using it regularly to join online seminars and tutorials during your studies.

Please follow the guidance in this link regarding downloading & installing the app

Note: You will need to sign in with your Marjon account details which will be issued once you have enrolled. 

Microsoft Word

You will also need to be familiar with using Microsoft Word for your assignments and other coursework. 

In order to help you prepare for using MS Word we have put together some introductory tutorial videos to take you through the basics.  

If you have any questions please contact the Digital Innovation Team – email: digitalinnovation@marjon.ac.uk

Word – Intro

2  Word – Interface

3  Word – Marjon House Style

4  Word – Editing Text

5  Word – Editing Paragraphs

If you wish to develop your Microsoft Word skills further and learn how to use the more advanced features for assignments, coursework and dissertations, we also offer regular training sessions that you book onto. Information can be found on our Digital Skills Training site.

For help and support with systems and apps that you’ll be using, please visit our Digital Skills help site