Technology is a key part of all learning and teaching for students at Northampton. Some of you may have more experience than others in this area. The University provides a range of support whatever your skill level. Some of the technology will become available when you are fully enrolled whilst others may be accessible at an earlier stage.
Before Enrolment
As part of our welcome and induction, we would like you to engage with us using our online tool, Blackboard Collaborate. It is broadly similar to using Skype or Zoom, which you may have come across before. You will be able to join your Welcome and Induction sessions as a guest, meaning that you do not need to create an account in order to participate.
Using Collaborate
Test Collaborate by visiting our test ‘classroom’ to address any technological challenges. This classroom will be available 24/7 from now until the end of September. You can join the classroom now and follow the instructions to test your audio and video functions.
If you are still experiencing difficulties, please call our on-site team for further help: +44 (0)1604 893333.
After enrolment
All key University systems will become available to you once you are fully enrolled
1) NILE (Northampton Integrated Learning Environment)
NILE is the University’s digital campus. It is a collection of online tools provided by the University to support your learning and assessment. NILE is an essential part of your studies, and you will find yourself using it frequently during your time with us at Northampton.
Each of your modules has its own NILE course, and you will also have a NILE course for your programme too. The NILE courses for your modules will contain all the key information about the modules you are taking, including information about your assignments. In your NILE courses you will find module guides, resources which have been uploaded by your lecturers, and online activities for you to take part in. You will also find other important information in your NILE courses, including reading lists, and, importantly, your assignment submission points. The NILE courses for your modules will contain information about each specific module, whereas the NILE course for your programme will contain wider information about the programme of studies you have enrolled on.
When you first login to NILE you will see Organisations on the left side of the page. There will be an introduction to NILE in there which gives you all the information you need to get started.
2) Rate your digital fitness / digital capability using the Discovery Tool
Whilst we are getting familiar with different technologies, we don’t always step back and have a look at the big picture of our digital capability profile. Doing this allows us to pick out areas where we may need to spend a bit more time for self improvement – working smarter and not harder. The University Discovery Tool will provide guidance on areas you may wish to focus on in addition to useful links to resources which will help you.
3) LinkedIn Learning and the University Skills Hub
Once you become a student at the University of Northampton, you will have access to a wealth of online expert videos through LinkedIn Learning so you can improve your key study skills, digital skills, business skills, and lots more – any time, any place. You also have full access to the University Skills Hub which provides a range of tailored academic support.
4) Useful free Apps and tools to download
There are a number of free apps which are available for Apple and Android devices : Blackboard, LinkedIn Learning, MyNorthampton, and Safezone
Also look at our student software page for all the software that is free to University students including Microsoft Office and software to help with some subject areas. (Username and password required)
If you do not have a laptop then you may wish to take the student offer of a device where possible (course depending).
5) Open sessions and support on site
These will be advertised on the screens around campus and will be available for any student. In addition, staff will be available at a range of service desks who can provide help and support depending on your needs.