Computing Resources At Drexel

Drexel quite reasonably calls itself a “Technological University”.  We have a good history of technology firsts.  In particular we were the first to:

• Require access to a microcomputer (the first Mac)
• Provide wireless access campus-wide

Today most departments and colleges have their own computing resources.  At the university level there is a rich computing environment with many resources, quite a few of which are not as well known to faculty as I would hope.  Our computing center (IRT) has fine staff, a help site and a facility devoted to assisting faculty.  There are many online services such as Vista Blackboard (the software underlying this online community) and an online portfolio that can help you keep track of your products and achievements.  IRT is also open to experimentation with new software and services, although that takes more initiative on your part.

Drexel Site Licensed Software

One resources that may be particularly useful to new faculty is the downloadable site-licensed software.  Drexel has licensed a much software that you can get for “free” on the understanding that you use it within the university’s licensing agreements.  There is software for both PC’s, Macs and Unix.  Some of the software available includes:

• Microsoft Office
• Adobe Acrobat
• Syantec AntiVirus (and other security programs)
• MatLab & Maple
• Microsoft Visual Studio
• Discipline-specific software

There’s even more software that isn’t on the  list such as many Autodesk products (ask at IRT), and IRT is very open to licensing new software if there’s sufficient appeal (and funds in their budget).  The university has a Computer Advisory Council as well that advises IRT on policies – your input would be welcome (though I couldn’t find a web presence).

For much of the software there’s support and training available through IRT.  It’s a great set of resources.

Jim Mitchell