UNIaccess pilot project

UNIaccess now provides another option for students to access facilities and support, one that is available in their community.

The UNIaccess pilot project began in mid September 2003. The pilot sites were Online Access Centres and State Library branches at Smithton, Sheffield, Scottsdale and Geeveston.

The goal of the project was to provide support for UTAS students to access online resources off-campus. While many students have access to a computer at home or work, not all students have up-to-date equipment or a fast internet connection. Making best use of online resources can also be a challenge to those not familiar with the technology.

Investigations early in the project found that some UTAS students were using the facilities and resources of Online Access Centres and the State Library to assist their off-campus study. Staff assisted students when needed, however they had little knowledge of the online UTAS resources available.

The UNIaccess pilot set out to address this lack of knowledge and to develop an avenue for communication between the University and these organisations.

University staff visited the pilot sites to provide information and a demonstration of the online resources available to UTAS students and how they are accessed. Each UNIaccess point was also provided with kit of help sheets and University information for students.

In early 2004 it was decided to extend UNIaccess statewide to include all Online Access Centres and State Library branches.

UNIaccess now provides another option for students to access facilities and support, one that is available in their community.