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STUDENT GUIDE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Information Technology Services 
University of the Sunshine Coast 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revised Feb 2011 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
STUDENT GUIDE ................................................................................ 1 
TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................... i 
Foreword .......................................................................................... iv 
1.  IT Support ............................................................................... 1 
Student Help Desk ..................................................................................................... 1 
Fact Sheets ............................................................................................................... 1 
IT Services’ Service Levels .......................................................................................... 1 
Acceptable Use & Rules ............................................................................................... 2 
Training .................................................................................................................... 2 
Feedback .................................................................................................................. 2 
2.  Getting Started ........................................................................ 3 
Username and Password ............................................................................................. 3 
How to Login ............................................................................................................. 3 
Changing Your Network Password ................................................................................ 4 
The Computer Desktop ............................................................................................... 4 
Logging Out .............................................................................................................. 4 
Copying and Printing Services ...................................................................................... 5 
Network Disk Storage ................................................................................................. 7 
Backing up your files .................................................................................................. 7 
3.  Computer Labs ......................................................................... 8 
Location of Computer Labs .......................................................................................... 8 
USC Find-A-PC .......................................................................................................... 8 
Find-A-PC Maps ....................................................................................................................................9 
Signs and Notices ..................................................................................................... 10 
How to Access Labs ................................................................................................... 10 
Security Cameras ..................................................................................................... 10 
Healthy Computer Use ............................................................................................... 10 
4.  USC Wireless ......................................................................... 14 
Wireless access to USC network resources .................................................................... 14 
Current Access Point Locations .......................................................................................................14 
5.  Standard Desktop Applications .............................................. 16 
6.  Microsoft Office 2007 ............................................................. 17 
Training Materials ..................................................................................................... 17 
Command Reference ..........................................................................................................................17 
Office Up To Speed Videos ................................................................................................................18 
Element K Training Materials .............................................................................................................18 
7.  The USC Portal / BlackBoard ................................................. 20 
8.  Electronic Mail ....................................................................... 21 
Using USC Mail ......................................................................................................... 21 
Reading Email .......................................................................................................... 22 
Sending an Email ...................................................................................................... 22 
Sending an Attachment ............................................................................................. 22 
Receiving an Attachment ........................................................................................... 23 
Replying to a Message ............................................................................................... 23 
Spam ...................................................................................................................... 23 
Using the Address Book ............................................................................................. 23 
Creating Your Own Signature ...................................................................................... 24 
Mailbox size and email limits ...................................................................................... 24 
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9.  Office Web AppLications ........................................................ 25 
Office 2010 Web Applications ...................................................................................... 25 
Uploading a file or photo to your SkyDrive storage ........................................................ 26 
10.  Bulletin Boards (Forums)....................................................... 27 
Reading a message ................................................................................................... 27 
Posting to Discussion Boards ...................................................................................... 28 
11.  Internet Access ..................................................................... 29 
Internet Quota System .............................................................................................. 29 
12.  Remote Access ...................................................................... 30 
Lecture Notes ........................................................................................................... 30 
File Access to your F: Drive ........................................................................................ 30 
Email ...................................................................................................................... 30 
Using an Email Client (i.e.  Outlook Express) ..................................................................................30 
Suitable Computing Equipment ................................................................................... 30 
Finding an ISP .......................................................................................................... 31 
13.  Problems? .............................................................................. 32 
14.  Copyright and Privacy ............................................................ 33 
Copyright ................................................................................................................ 33 
Privacy .................................................................................................................... 33 
15.  Other Services ....................................................................... 34 
Orientation and Training ............................................................................................ 34 
Audio Visual Equipment ............................................................................................. 34 
16.  Glossary ................................................................................. 35 
1.  Appendix 1 – Computer Laboratory Rules .............................. 36 
2.  Appendix 2 – Netiquette Guide .............................................. 37 
General Rules ........................................................................................................... 37 
Using Email .............................................................................................................. 37 
Posting to Bulletin Boards .......................................................................................... 38 
3.  Appendix 3 – Useful Url’s ....................................................... 39 
Study Information ..................................................................................................... 39 
Search Engines ......................................................................................................... 39 
Ergonomic Computing Practices .................................................................................. 39 
4.  Appendix 4 – Computer Lab Locations ................................... 40 
5.  Appendix 5 – Campus Map ..................................................... 41 
6.  Appendix 6 – USC Portal / Blackboard ................................... 43 
What is USC Portal .................................................................................................... 43 
Accessing Courses .................................................................................................... 43 
Logging in ................................................................................................................ 43 
The Welcome screen ................................................................................................. 44 
Logging out .............................................................................................................. 44 
Learning to use the Portal .......................................................................................... 44 
Tools ....................................................................................................................... 44 
Customise the Welcome page ..................................................................................... 45 
Modify Content ......................................................................................................... 45 
Modify Layout ........................................................................................................... 45 
My Courses .............................................................................................................. 46 
My course isn’t listed under My Courses! ...................................................................... 46 
What’s in my online course? ....................................................................................... 46 
Navigating your USC Portal courses ............................................................................. 46 
Course Menu ............................................................................................................ 46 
Detail View menu ...................................................................................................... 47 
The Tools Pane ......................................................................................................... 47 
Course Window ........................................................................................................ 47 
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Content Links ........................................................................................................... 47 
Breadcrumb Trail ...................................................................................................... 47 
Discussion Board ...................................................................................................... 47 
Anywhere, Anytime ................................................................................................... 47 
How do I view the discussion board? ........................................................................... 48 
Forums .................................................................................................................... 48 
Threads and Messages ............................................................................................... 48 
Replying to the message in the thread ......................................................................... 49 
Adding a new thread ................................................................................................. 49 
Attachments ............................................................................................................ 50 
E-mail in the Discussion Board .................................................................................... 50 
Assessment ............................................................................................................. 50 
Safe Assign .............................................................................................................. 51 
Viewing grades ......................................................................................................... 51 
Java ........................................................................................................................ 52 
More help with USC Portal .......................................................................................... 52 
  iv
FOREWORD 
 
Welcome to the University of the Sunshine Coast and to this Student Guide. This Guide 
provides information about the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services 
that are available to you as a student at our University. 
 
Information Technology Services provides a comprehensive range of ICT services to you and 
to all students here at the University. These will generally be accessed by you from the 
Information Commons within the Library, through the many available computer laboratories, 
over the campus-wide wireless network or from your home over the Internet. However, you 
will also benefit from other services such as the audio-visual services available in the lecture 
theatres and tutorial rooms and from the recorded lectures made available through the 
University's learning management system, Blackboard. 
 
This Guide is designed primarily for undergraduate students, although it may also be of 
benefit to postgraduate coursework students. It is primarily written around services that are 
accessed through the PC laboratories and instructions may vary if using computers available 
from other locations or if using a Macintosh computer. 
 
I also invite you to take a look at our more comprehensive on-line documentation available 
electronically on the USC portal or alternatively contact the Student IT Help Desk for further 
information and assistance. 
 
I hope this Guide assists you in the task of completing your studies here at the University of 
the Sunshine Coast and I welcome any constructive suggestions you may have for improving 
the services that we provide. 
 
 
Maureen Klinkert 
Director, IT services 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  1
1. IT SUPPORT 
 
Student Help Desk 
The Student Help Desk is located in the Library Information Commons at the Information 
Desk.  Hours of operation during semester are normally from 9am to 7pm Monday to 
Thursday, and 9am to 5pm Friday. 
 
These hours are subject to change, so check at the desk for the current operating hours. The 
Help Desk can also be contacted via email at studentIThelp@usc.edu.au, and also by 
telephone on 5459 4455 (or just 4455 if you’re already on campus). 
 
Email and telephone requests are normally addressed during the university’s core operating 
hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday.  A reply is provided within one working day, 
though this may vary during peak demand times. 
 
You should have your UserID (username) handy when you phone, or bring your student card 
with you to the Help Desk.  Providing your UserID is also helpful if you need to leave a 
message. 
 
Before contacting the Help Desk you should consider: 
 Is the answer in this Guide? 
 Is the answer in the student knowledge base – accessed via the Portal homepage? 
 Is the answer in the updated on-line Guide? 
 Is it an academic question that I should ask my lecturer or tutor? 
 Could it be answered by a newsgroup? (See Section 10)  
 
Fact Sheets 
The Student IT Help Desk have a number of fact sheets available to assist students with 
common questions such as changing your password, connecting to USC Wireless, using 
Roxio Creator DE software, Computer Security.  
 
Visit the Student IT Help Desk to collect these fact sheets. 
 
IT Services’ Service Levels 
IT Services maintain all lab computers and the network that supports them.  Furthermore, 
we create and maintain student accounts (based on student enrolment details) and provide 
access to all standard applications and to specialist applications as required by the academic 
programs. 
 
Under normal conditions the network remains operational 24 hours a day, seven days a 
week.  However, IT Services does not guarantee after hours support.  In the event of a 
system failure, the system may remain out of operation until the next working day. 
 
IT Services provides a Help Desk to assist students (See above), however students should 
read this Guide and other available documentation first to resolve common problems. The 
Help Desk staff will assist with problems related to accessing University computer resources, 
e.g. “I can’t login” or perhaps “Word doesn’t start when I click on the icon”. 
 
IT Services does not provide instruction in the use of computer applications nor assist with 
assignments.  
 
Introduction to the USC Network tutorials are held each semester to assist students with 
accessing the network and to introduce the use of common applications. The Library also 
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runs tutorials in using the library catalogue, electronic databases and Internet searching. 
See class schedules posted on the library webpage, on noticeboards in the Library or ask at 
the Student Help Desk. 
 
IT Services staff are not responsible for configuring or otherwise servicing students’ personal 
computers. Students are responsible for installing software on their own computers and for 
configuring their own computer to use remote access services or any other services they 
may require. 
Acceptable Use & Rules 
Students should ensure that their behaviour is in accordance with the University's Student 
Conduct and Discipline Statute and that they are aware of the University policies on 
Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources and Electronic Mail. These documents 
may be viewed on the Portal (http://online.usc.edu.au) 
 
The Computer Laboratory Rules summarise the policies in relation to use of the laboratories 
and are included as an Appendix to this Guide (Appendix 1). They are also on display on 
noticeboards within each laboratory. Specifically, students are reminded to be considerate of 
the needs of all students sharing University resources and facilities. 
 
If you wish to listen to music, or are working on a document that requires sound, you must 
bring headphones and use them to avoid disturbing other students. 
 
Training 
Please see Section 15 “Other Services”, for Information on training provided by IT Services. 
 
Feedback 
Constructive feedback about IT Services is welcome.  Please use the Suggestion forms 
(example shown below) located near the self-checkout unit on the first floor of the Library.  
 
All suggestions are read by IT Services.  If you wish to receive a response, remember to 
complete your contact details.
  3
2. GETTING STARTED 
 
Username and Password 
Each student requires a valid username and password to access the computer laboratory 
resources at the University.  
 
If you have your “Letter of Offer” which includes your USC Central username, then you know 
your username to access all network services.  If not, then you will be able to determine 
your username by contacting the Student Help Desk on (07) 5459 4455. 
 
Your network services password is of the form XDDMMYY, where X represents your first 
initial and DDMMYY represents your date of birth.  For example, if your name is Tom and 
you were born on 3 July 1984, your password would be T030784.  This password is also 
used when accessing the University’s email system, USC Central and all other network 
services. 
 
How to Login 
 
 
 
 
When you first power on a computer in a computer laboratory, you will receive the Copyright 
and network conditions of notice above. By accessing the University’s computer systems, by 
pressing and holding [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [Delete] to login to the University network, you are 
acknowledging your agreement to the conditions.  You must press these three keys at the 
one time. A login window will appear. 
 
The login window will appear as shown:  
 
Enter your username and password, and click on OK.  
NOTE: Do not use the [Enter] key to move from the 
Username to Password.  Rather use the mouse or the 
[Tab] key. 
 
The computer will now go through the login process.  
A number of windows will appear during this process.  You may be required to close the 
“Results” window and may be advised that the anti-virus software has been updated. 
  4
Changing Your Network Password 
You should change your password from your default date of birth password. Passwords 
should be at least 6 characters in length and must contain at least one number and one 
upper case alphabetic character. You may use a mixture of upper and lower case alphabetic 
characters and numeric characters.  Your password should be kept confidential and not 
given to anyone else.  To do so is a breach of the University’s policies. 
 
To change your password: 
 Click the ‘USC portal’ link on the USC web page 
 Click on the “change your password” option under  “Manage Your Password” 
 Log in at the next page using your current password. 
 Click “Submit”. 
 Click on “Logout” to exit the Password Utility. 
 
This will change your password for all services including lab network logins, USC Portal, USC 
Mail and USC Central. 
 
Remember your new password and use it next time you login. If you experience difficulty 
changing your password, please contact the IT Student Help Desk. 
 
 
The Computer Desktop 
The desktop of your computer is what appears on the screen after you have logged in.  It 
will look similar to that shown below.  The desktop will include icons and may vary slightly 
from student to student based on the needs of each.  To activate a program, double click on 
the appropriate desktop icon or use the Start Menu.  Section 5 provides more detail on the 
Standard Desktop Applications available to students. 
 
 
 
Logging Out 
It is important that you logout of the computer before you leave.  If you leave yourself 
logged in, then someone else may be able to use your account.  Even if they use your 
account in violation of University policies, you may be held accountable. You should not just 
switch off the computer as the network will then take some time to log you out and you may 
not be able to log back in until this happens. 
 
To logout, exit all programs and, from the “Start” menu", select "Shutdown".  Select the 
“Logoff " option and click on "Yes".  The computer will log you out.  
  5
Alternatively you could press [Ctrl]+[Alt]+[Delete] and then click the “Logout” button 
followed by “OK”. 
 
Copying and Printing Services 
 
Student Copying and Printing Services is available to the students of USC, using a payment 
system. Copiers, printers, scanners and binders are located within the Library and various 
Computer Labs at USC Sippy Downs Campus and Noosa Centre. 
 
Getting Started! 
To access the Student Copying and Printing facilities, you must have your USC Student ID card and 
network login details. To begin copying or printing, you must load money onto your Student ID card, to 
acquire a positive balance on your account. 
 
How to load money onto your Card 
There are 2 ways to load money onto your ID card.  
Visit the Cashier at the Copying and Printing Services Desk for Cash or Eftpos facilities, or use the Coin 
and Note Autoloader, located on the 1st floor of the Library. Instructions are available at the Autoloader. 
NOTE: $50 is the maximum credit limit on your account. 
 
Location of Copiers, Printers, Scanners & Binders 
 
Location Equipment 
Library 
Lib.1 Information 
Commons Area 
3 x BW Printer 
2 x Ring Binders 
Lib.1 Self Checkout 
Area 
2 x BW Copier/ Printer 
Lib.1 Reserve Room 1 x BW Copier   
1 x BW Copier/ Scanner 
Lib.2 Main Area 1 x BW Copier/ Printer/ 
Scanner 
Lib.2 Main Area 1 x Colour Copier/ 
Printer/ Scanner 
Lib.2 Extension (J2.04) 1 x BW Copier/ Printer 
Computer Labs 
J.2 Corridor 1 x BW Printer 
DG.45 1 x BW Printer 
HG.28 1 x BW Printer 
HG.31 1 x BW Printer 
KG.06a 1 x BW Printer 
1 x Colour Printer 
Quick Access 
T.1 Corridor 1 x BW Copier/ Printer/ 
Scanner 
USC Noosa Centre 
Computer Lab 1 x BW Copier/ Printer
 
 
 
 
 
 
  6
How to photocopy with your Student ID Card 
1. Swipe your ID card in the Card Reader and enter your 4 digit PIN, to activate the machine. Your 
balance will be displayed on the Card Reader. 
2. Place your pages in the document feeder (face up) or on the glass (face down) and close the lid. 
3. Enter your desired number of copies and select the properties on the touch screen, i.e. paper size, 
simplex or duplex. 
4. Hit the green Start button to begin copying. 
5. Press any key on the Card Reader to end your session and close your account. 
 
How to print from your workstation 
1. When ready to print your document, select File then Print.  The print dialog box will appear. 
2. Select your preferred printer driver from the four available: 
a. To print BW in the Library, select; \\hera\Library_BW_Printing  
b. To print Colour in the Library, select;  \\hera\Library_Colour_Printing 
c. To print BW in the Computer Labs, select;   \\hera\LAB_BW_Printing  
d. To print Colour in the Computer Labs, select; \\hera\LAB_Colour_Printing  
3. To duplex, select the Properties button on the top right hand corner and change the properties as 
desired, then click OK. 
4. Click OK to send your print job to the Print Release Station. 
NOTE: You do not need your Student ID card for printing! Printing is authenticated by your USC network 
login. 
 
How to release your job at the Print Release Station 
1.  Login to a Print Release Station using your USC network login 
2.  Your print jobs will be displayed in a queue. Tick the jobs you wish to print and click Print.  
3.  A popup displays your account balance; your files to print, the number of pages and total cost. 
4.  Click Print to continue. 
5.   If you have more print jobs in the queue, select to Print or select to Logout to close your session. You 
will automatically be logged out if you have no more print jobs in the queue. 
 
How to scan  
The scanner will convert your pages to PDF and send via email to your selected email address. 
1. Swipe your ID card in the Card Reader and enter your 4 digit PIN, to activate the machine. 
2. Place your pages in the document feeder (face up) or on the glass (face down) and close the lid. 
3. On the touch screen, select SEND (2nd button on top toolbar). 
4. Select Email and type in your email address. 
5. Hit the green Start button to begin scanning. 
6. It will take a few minutes to process; you can see the progress of the scanning flashing at the bottom 
of the screen (scanning/sending/resending etc). 
7. If there is an error, a report page will print out. 
 
Tours 
Introductory tours are available to all students at the start of each Semester. Contact the Student Copying 
and Printing Service Desk for details. 
 
Helpful Information! 
The Copying and Printing Service Desk is located on the 1st floor of the Library, adjacent to the Library 
Loans Desk and is open for business during Library hours. 
 
Problems 
If you require assistance or would like to report a printer problem, please visit the Copying and Printing 
Services Desk or phone on 5430 2866.  
  7
 
Network Disk Storage 
Students are provided with 30MB of disk space each on which to store their work.  This is 
called your F: drive.  Your F: drive is accessible from the “My Computer” desktop icon.  Files 
that you store here will be available to you each time you login.  You will also be able to 
access this drive from home using Remote Access (see Section 12 for more details).   
 
It is your responsibility to maintain this space and delete files that are no longer 
needed.  Additional space will not be made available.  Files on the F: drive may be deleted 
at the end of each year so make your own copies if you wish to keep them.  Email saved in 
your archive (see Section 8 for more details) also forms part of your network disk quota.  
You should delete old messages from time to time to free up space. 
 
Backing up your files 
It is important that you take responsibility for regularly backing up your files.  It is not 
enough to just store files on the F: drive.  Files can become corrupted or can be accidentally 
deleted.  You should ensure that your files are stored in at least two places.  
Therefore you should use the DVD-RW drives (available on all new computers) or a USB 
Memory Key* as well as your F: drive to store your files. 
Instructions on using the DVD-RW drives are posted in the laboratories with these devices.  
To backup your files you will need appropriate DVD or CD -R/RW media. 
 
                                          
* You’ll need to have a USB port on your home computer if you wish to transport your documents to 
and from Uni this way 
  8 
3. COMPUTER LABS 
 
Location of Computer Labs 
Computer labs are located throughout the Sippy Downs campus (a campus map & access 
table are provided in appendices 4 and 5 at the end of this guide).  
 
Most labs are heavily used during the day for timetabled classes but are available to 
students at other times and after hours. Class schedules are posted on the door of the lab. 
 
The use of the laboratories is for academic purposes only and the playing of games and 
other recreational pursuits is strictly prohibited. 
 
USC Find-A-PC 
To assist students with locating an available computer in busy times, IT Services have 
introduced a web site that provides detailed information regarding which computers are in 
use and placed computers in common areas that enable quick access to this site. 
 
You will find computers placed in the Library Info Commons area, the Brasserie and the 
KG.06 Lab which display the USC Find-A-PC site. You will be able to view which computers 
are available within selected computer labs and the library. Please be aware that if there is a 
timetabled class in a computer lab the lab will be unavailable to students who are not 
enrolled in that class.  
 
The web site looks like the screen shot below. There are icons show the number of 
computers in the lab. Green indicates a free computer and red indicates a computer in use. 
Each lab has a link called “view map” which will provide a map of the computer lab and show 
specifically which computers are available within a lab or specific area. 
 
 
 
 
 
  9
 
 
 
Find-A-PC Maps 
Clicking “view map” next to each computer lab will display a map showing the status and 
location of each computer in the lab.  
 
The screen shot below shows you what you will see. The warning symbol indicates that there 
is an open trouble ticket and that a hardware or software issue has been reported regarding 
this computer. Computers that appear black are available for use provided there is not a 
timetabled class in this lab at the time. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  10
 
 
Signs and Notices 
All labs have a number of signs located on the pin boards and walls inside. These cover 
important information about getting assistance, using the services, rules, copyright and 
more. Please read and be familiar with their contents.  
 
How to Access Labs 
Most labs are accessible using your student card. A card reader can be found adjacent to the 
entrance door to each lab. Students should not open the door for other students, or leave 
the doors propped open for any reason. 
 
If you are a new student, and wanting to access the labs, you should contact Student 
Administration for a Student card. If you experience problems using your student card, 
Student Administration will also provide assistance.  
 
Security Cameras 
For your protection, and to guard against theft and vandalism, security cameras have been 
installed in computer laboratories. 
 
Healthy Computer Use 
It is important for your health and wellbeing to use good computing practices.  This includes 
taking regular breaks, doing stretching exercises, and adjusting your keyboard and 
workstation monitor to be comfortable.  Poor posture and workstation positioning can result 
in Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) and Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI).  Do not ignore 
signs that your body is trying to tell you to take a break! 
 
More information on ergonomic computing practices and related topics can be found on the 
Internet – check the Useful URL’s section (Appendix 3) of this guide for some handy places 
to start. We have included some tips that you should try to incorporate into your routine. 
 
Eyestrain and your computer screen: Tips for getting relief1  
Your eyes hurt. Your head aches. And there you sit, peering at your computer monitor. If 
you're one of a growing number of people who use computers every day, you may be 
experiencing eyestrain as a result. Symptoms include: 
 Sore, tired, burning, itching or dry eyes  
 Blurred or double vision  
 Distance vision blurred after prolonged staring at a monitor  
 Headache, sore neck  
 Difficulty shifting focus between monitor and source documents  
 Difficulty focusing on the screen image  
 Colour fringes or afterimages when you look away from the monitor  
 Increased sensitivity to light  
 
Eyestrain associated with computer use isn't thought to have serious or long-term 
consequences, but it's disruptive and unpleasant. Although you probably can't change every 
factor that may cause eyestrain, there are some things you can do. 
 
Change your work habits  
Eye-healthy work habits can do wonders. Follow these simple tips: 
 
                                          
1 Used with permission of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research from MayoClinic.com. 
No Rights Reserved. 
  11
Take eye breaks. Look away from the screen and into the distance or at an object several 
feet away for 10 seconds every 10 minutes. 
 
Change of pace. Try to move around at least once every 2 hours, giving both your eyes and 
your body a needed rest. Arrange non-computer work as breaks from the screen. Consider 
standing while doing such work. 
 
Wink 'em, blink 'em. Dry eyes can result from prolonged computer use, especially for 
contact lens wearers. Some people blink only once a minute when doing computer work, 
when once every 5 seconds is considered normal. Less blinking means less lubrication from 
tears and can result in dry, itchy or burning eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more 
often. If that doesn't help, consider using an eye-drops form of artificial tears available over-
the-counter. 
 
. . . And nod off. If possible, lean back and close your eyes for a few moments once in 
awhile. However, you may not want to do this at your desk and risk being accused of 
sleeping on the job. 
 
Everything in its place  
Make sure your desk space is set up appropriately. 
 
Monitor. Position your monitor 18 to 30 inches from your eyes. Many people find that putting 
the screen at arm's length is about right. If you have to get too close to read small type, 
consider using larger font sizes for characters on your screen.  
 
The top of your screen should be at eye level or below so that you look down slightly at your 
work. Place the monitor too high and you'll have to tilt your head back to look up at it, a 
recipe for a sore neck — and for dry eyes, because you may not close your eyes completely 
when you blink. If you have your monitor on top of your central processing unit (CPU), 
consider placing the CPU to the side or on the floor. 
 
Dust on the screen cuts down on contrast and may contribute to glare and reflection 
problems. Keep it clean. 
 
Keyboard. Place your keyboard directly in front of your monitor. If you place it at an angle or 
to the side, your eyes will have to focus at different distances from the screen, a tiring 
activity. 
 
Source documents. Place reading and reference material on a copy stand beside your 
monitor and at the same level, angle and distance away. This way your eyes aren't 
constantly readjusting.  
 
Ambient (surrounding) light and glare. To check glare, sit at your computer with the monitor 
off. You'll be able to see the reflected light and images you don't normally see — including 
yourself. Note any intense glare. The worst problems will likely be from sources above or 
behind you, including fluorescent lighting and sunlight.  
 
If possible, place your monitor so that the brightest light sources are off to the side, parallel 
with your line of sight to the monitor. Consider turning off some or all overhead lights. If you 
can't do that, tilting the monitor downward a little may reduce glare. Closing blinds or 
shades also may help. A hood or glare-reducing screen is an option, but be sure you aren't 
sacrificing the intensity of whites on your screen. Adjustable task lighting that doesn't shine 
into your eyes as you look at the screen can reduce eyestrain.  
   
 
  12
Appropriate eyewear  
If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure the correction is right for computer work. Most 
lenses are fitted for reading print and may not be optimal for computer work. For example, 
many bifocal wearers are constantly craning their necks to look through the bottom half of 
their lenses, bringing on backache or a sore neck. Glasses or contact lenses designed to 
focus correctly for computer work may be a worthwhile investment. 
See an eye care professional if you have: 
 Prolonged eye discomfort  
 A noticeable change in vision  
 Double vision 
 
Stretches You Can Do In the Office2  
Sitting at a desk all day can put pressure on your body, including your lower back, neck and 
shoulders. By the end of the day, you may feel exhausted. Taking 1-minute breaks from 
your desk every 20 minutes may help. Use the time to file a document, get a drink or just 
walk around the office. But there are other things you can do, too. Take this visual tour and 
learn some stretches that you can do in the office. 
 
 
 
  
Stretching your fingers: Straighten your wrist and stretch your 
fingers and thumb outward (left). Hold for 10 seconds. Keeping 
your wrist straight, bend the end and middle joints of your fingers 
(right). Hold for 10 seconds. Relax and repeat. 
 
 
 
Back scratch:  
Gently hold your elbow with your opposite hand. Pull your elbow 
behind your head and reach your hand toward the middle of your 
back until you feel a gentle stretch. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds. 
Relax. Repeat on other side. 
 
 
 
Shoulder and arm stretch: Lock your fingers and straighten your 
arms in front of you with your palms facing out. Hold for 10 to 20 
seconds. Relax. Repeat two to three times. 
 
 
 
 
Executive stretch:  
Lock your hands behind your head, bringing your elbows back as 
far as possible. Pull your shoulders toward each other until you feel 
your muscles stretching. Hold for 20 seconds. Relax. Repeat once. 
 
 
 
Side neck stretch:  
Keeping your nose pointed straight forward, tilt your head toward 
one side, gently pushing your ear toward your shoulder. Hold for 
10 to 15 seconds. Lift your head into a normal, upright position. 
Relax. Repeat three to five times on each side. 
                                          
2 Used with permission of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research from MayoClinic.com. 
No Rights Reserved. 
  13
 
 
 
Side neck stretch:  
Slowly turn your head until your chin is parallel with your 
shoulders. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Relax. Repeat twice on each 
side. 
 
 
 
Chin tuck:  
Keeping your back straight, move your chin toward your chest until 
you feel a stretch in the back of your neck. Hold for 5 to 10 
seconds. Relax. Repeat two to three times. 
 
 
 
Shoulder shrug:  
Slowly bring your shoulders up toward your ears. Hold for 3 to 5 
seconds. Relax. Repeat five to 10 times. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  14
4. USC WIRELESS 
 
Wireless access to USC network resources 
 
Our USC Wireless network gives students greater mobility, 
convenience and comfort by letting them use their own laptops at 
popular student gathering points and other locations across 
campus.   
 
It enables students with compatible wireless laptops to access the 
internet, their email and other web based services and lets them 
avoid the wait for a University computer during busy periods in the 
Library Information Commons or other computer labs. 
  
Current Access Point Locations 
 
For and up to date list of wireless access points on campus please visit this webpage 
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/Wireless.htm. 
 
USC Wireless enables you to access USC network 
resources, similar to accessing online resources from 
home.   
 
Access University services including:   
 Email (USC Mail),  
 F: drive 
 USC Portal  
 USC Central 
 Internet 
 Other services available via the USC web site.   
 
For any further information or instructions, please 
contact the Student Help Desk in the Library 
Information Commons on (07)5459 4455. 
 
System Requirements 
 
Your laptop needs wireless network functionality, specifically an 802.11g (commonly known 
as Wi-Fi) compliant network access card.  Often new laptops have Wi-Fi functionality built 
into the system and Wi-Fi functionality can be added to older machines by purchasing USB 
devices or PCMCIA extension cards.   
 
When purchasing a laptop, you should look for a Wi-Fi logo and seek a 
guarantee that the device is 802.11g compliant.  You should see some 
symbols evident around the keyboard or on the side displaying some 
form of a Wi-Fi logo. 
   
Operating systems supported include: 
 Windows 7 
 Windows Vista 
 Windows XP 
 Mac OSX 10.4 or later 
 
  15
Other devices that are also able to connect to the USC Wireless + network include the iPad, 
iPod Touch and iPhone. Operating systems can be either 32 or 64 bit. For security and 
performance, the operating systems should be running the latest service packs and be fully 
updated. 
 
How to connect 
The wireless section on the train station or the university website consists of detailed 
instruction guides for the following devices: 
 
PC with: 
Windows XP SP2: 
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/wireless-windows-
xp.htm 
Windows Vista: 
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/wireless-windows-
vista.htm 
Windows 7:  
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/wireless-
windows7.htm 
 
Apple device: 
Apple Max OS X:  
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/wireless-apple-
mac.htm 
Apple iPad, iPod or iPhone: 
http://www.usc.edu.au/University/AbouttheUniversity/Campus/ITSupport/wireless-
idevice.htm 
 
 
 
 
  16
5. STANDARD DESKTOP APPLICATIONS 
 
The Standard Computer desktop will generally appear as shown in Section 2.  From here 
students can access programs, either from an icon on the desktop, or from the Start Menu. 
 
A variety of programs are available for all students to use. These are outlined below. Some 
students may have additional course specific applications available.  
 
For detailed information about these applications consult the Help Menu in the application, or 
contact your lecturer or tutor.  
 
Some Manuals and Guides on specific applications are available in the Library. Check the 
Library Catalogue for details. 
 
Program Icons Purpose 
 
Access 2007 
 
 
 
Microsoft Access is a database program. It can be used to store 
complex tables of related information for easy retrieval and 
analysis.   
 
These tables can be analysed using tools called ‘filters’ or 
‘queries’ to find particular sets of information having common 
characteristics. 
 
Excel 2007 
 
 
 
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet program.  It can be used to lay 
out rows and columns containing complex mathematical 
calculations.  
 
Spreadsheets are ideal for performing repetitive calculations or 
scenarios.  You can also generate charts to display the results of 
your calculations. 
 
PowerPoint 
2007 
 
 
 
Microsoft PowerPoint is a graphics presentation program. On-
screen slide shows or printed presentations can be designed, 
organised, and presented.   
 
Some lectures are presented using PowerPoint and copies of 
these lectures may be available on the USC Portal for out of 
lecture perusal. 
 
Word 2007 
 
 
Microsoft Word is a word processing program. Documents such 
as notes, assignments, and reports containing text, graphics, 
and tables can be created. 
 
Internet 
Explorer 7 
 
 
Internet Explorer is Microsoft’s web browsing program. It is 
provided as a way to access the USC Portal and other Internet 
sites. 
 
 
  
  17
6. MICROSOFT OFFICE 2007 
Office 2007 (Access, Word, Excel and PowerPoint) is available on all student computers on 
campus. Training materials are provided to assist students who are not familiar with this 
version of Office as well as students who are not familiar with Office at all.  
 
Training Materials 
 
Command Reference  
Each student computer on campus has Command Reference interactive training materials 
installed for student use. These materials allow you to view the Office applications in a 2003 
version and mouse over the commands to learn how to use the same feature in Office 2007. 
 
To access these training materials go to Start, All Programs, Microsoft Office, Training 
Materials and select the command reference option for the particular application you want to 
view. 
 
1. Initially you will see the screen below. Click on Start to begin the training. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2. You will then see a new document in a 2003 format as shown in the screen shots 
below.  
3. Mouse over the commands or follow the steps required to use a feature to see a tip 
on how to do this in Office 2007. 
 
  18
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Office Up To Speed Videos 
Online videos are also provided on all student computers on campus to enable students to 
become familiar with Office 2007. These videos are appropriate for students regardless of 
the experience you may have had with Office 2007 or earlier versions. 
 
To access these training materials go to Start, All Programs, Microsoft Office and select the 
appropriate Up to Speed video. You will need to ensure that the sound is on and have a set 
of headphones to hear the videos without disturbing other students. The videos will play in 
Windows Media Player which is installed on all campus computers. 
 
 
Element K Training Materials 
Element K training materials for Office 2007 are also available on the USC Portal. These can 
be accessed on campus and also from home. There are various training materials provided 
here including quick guides, an introduction to Office, keyboard shortcuts, new features as 
well as Level 1, 2 and 3 training. Examples of the Quick Reference Guides and in depth 
training are provided below. 
 
These resources are appropriate for students regardless of the experience you may have had 
with Office 2007 or earlier versions. 
 
To access these training materials go to USC Portal (Welcome tab), Train Station, Training, 
Microsoft Office, Microsoft Office 2007 and work through the various training materials.  
 
 
  19
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  20
7. THE USC PORTAL / BLACKBOARD
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The USC Portal, sometimes referred to as Blackboard, provides a central location where you 
can access study materials or other information relevant to your studies. The Portal is an 
ever-evolving resource and community link and will continue to grow and progress over the 
coming years. 
 
The USC Portal environment is where students can access course materials, submit 
assignments/exams and view online lectures/presentations. 
 
Appendix 6 provides more specific information on USC Portal including how to access 
resources and navigate through the Learning Management System. 
 
 
 
 
  21
8. ELECTRONIC MAIL   
 
Email is available to students from all general-purpose computer laboratories via the USC 
Mail Live@Edu website – www.live.com.  Before using email, students should familiarise 
themselves with the University's Electronic Mail Policy and appropriate Netiquette, as 
detailed in Appendix 2. 
 
Your email address is username@student.usc.edu.au, where username is what you 
use to log into the computers – i.e. username j_s001 would have an email address of 
j_s001@student.usc.edu.au. 
 
Student Administration, IT Services and other areas of the university may send you official 
correspondence via your university email account.  Please check your university email 
regularly. 
 
Using USC Mail 
To access USC mail – open internet explorer and enter www.live.com in the address bar. 
You will see a screen similar to below – enter your email address and password to login.   
 
 
 
During your first login, you will be required to accept the windows live service agreement 
and set your time zone. Once these steps are complete you will be taken to your Mail box 
similar to below: 
  22
 
 
The USC Mail window is divided into two sections.  In the left window is a list of folders 
where messages are stored. It also lists messages in the selected folder.  In the right 
window is a window displaying the currently selected message.   
 
Reading Email 
The Inbox is where incoming email messages are stored.  The name of the sender and the 
subject line of the message are displayed on the left window.  Clicking a message will cause 
it to open on the right hand window.  This option should be used if you wish to open an 
attachment in its corresponding application.  See the “Receiving an Attachment” section for 
further information. 
 
Sending an Email 
From the Mail window, select New and then Message which then takes you to a new email 
view.    
  
Sending an Attachment 
You can attach a file to an outgoing email message by clicking the Attach (Paperclip) 
button.  In the dialog box that appears, select the file you want to attach and click OK.  The 
file's icon and name appear in the attachments window. 
 
You should always make sure that your attachments do not have viruses. The easiest way to 
do this on a USC computer USC is to right click the file and from the menu select “Scan 
with Sophos Anti-Virus”  
 If you are in any way unsure, contact the Student Help Desk. 
 
  23
Receiving an Attachment 
You can receive files as attachments to emails.  You can tell if an email has an attachment 
as a paperclip will appear next to the subject line in the main mail window.   
 
You can either look at the attachment in USC Mail by clicking it from in the message window, 
or some files such as pdfs can be viewed by clicking the “Open as Web Page” link next to 
them. To save the document you will need to Right-click on the attachment and choose Save 
Target as. 
 
Replying to a Message 
You can reply to the sender of a message you are reading by clicking on the Reply button.  
Note that you have options to include all recipients and can include the original message in 
your reply if desired. 
 
Spam 
IT Services is aware that spam can be annoying and offensive, and all possible measures are 
taken to block it at our incoming gateway. The University receives a very large amount of 
spam emails (for example, email traffic approximates 60,000 messages per day - 35,000 of 
these are spam) and the vast majority are captured by the filters that we have in place. 
Unfortunately, some do get through. Our anti-spam systems are continually being monitored 
and upgraded to be able to deal with these emails more effectively. 
  
After receiving spam, the best course of action is to simply delete them. If you do notice 
several messages coming from the same address, the junk mail handling tools in GroupWise 
will enable you to block future messages. 
  
In addition, there are a number of measures that you can take to minimise the impact of 
SPAM email: 
  
1. Do not open messages if you suspect they are SPAM, and avoid using the Quick Viewer in 
GroupWise as this will automatically open emails and may pose a security threat. 
  
2. Never reply to a SPAM email, as this is frequently used as a means to verify your address 
which the 'spammer' can then use to send more messages. 
  
3. Never open any attachments that come from unrecognised sources. They can contain 
viruses or 'spy-ware' which may affect the performance of your PC. 
  
4. A number of students have received email claiming to be from major banks such as 
WestPac, ANZ and Suncorp, asking that you provide confidential information such as account 
details. No bank would legitimately request personal details this way and you should never 
provide them. If in any doubt, contact your bank and they will be able to advise you.  
  
5. Don't subscribe to insecure websites/lists; don't give out your email address to suspect 
recipients etc. 
 
Using the Address Book 
An address book has been configured that includes all University students.  If you do not 
know a student's address it can be selected from the list.  
 
Students are not allowed to copy all student addresses to send out broadcast messages to 
all students.  This is considered to be equivalent to “junk mail”.  You may lose your access to 
email if you send out a broadcast message. 
 
  24
When in the New Message window, click on the Address Book button.  Ensure the Default 
Global Address List Address Book is selected and type the search details within the 
appropriate field.  Select the username of the student you require from the list. 
 
Creating Your Own Signature 
A signature in the context of email is a set of text used at the end of your message to 
identify you as the sender of the mail message.  The signature file should include your name 
and contact details.  
 
You can create the signature text by clicking the Option button in the mail window. In this 
new screen select Settings on the left menu and enter your email signature into the Email 
Signature box. Check the “Automatically include my signature on messages I send” option 
and click on OK.  The text will be automatically added to your messages when they are sent. 
 
Mailbox size and email limits 
The USC Mail Live system has a mailbox quota that provides up to 10GB of email that can be 
stored.  Email is never automatically deleted and you will keep this mailbox even after you 
finish your degree or enrolment with the university. Each message you can send is limited to 
25MB in size.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  25
 
 
 
 
9. OFFICE WEB APPLICATIONS 
 
Office 2010 Web Applications 
Microsoft Live (www.live.com) also gives student access to the Microsoft office web 
application suite.  
 
Note: These web applications lack the full functionality of the desktop versions of the suite. 
However, you will be able to run these applications via a browser on a variety of different 
devices including SmartPhones and Linux and Mac based operating systems. 
 
This suite of applications includes: 
 
 
Program Icons Purpose 
 
Word Web 
 
 
Microsoft Word is a word processing program. Documents such 
as notes, assignments, and reports containing text, graphics, 
and tables can be created. 
 
Excel Web 
 
 
 
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet program.  It can be used to lay 
out rows and columns containing complex mathematical 
calculations.  
 
Spreadsheets are ideal for performing repetitive calculations or 
scenarios.  You can also generate charts to display the results of 
your calculations. 
 
PowerPoint 
web 
 
 
 
Microsoft PowerPoint is a graphics presentation program. On-
screen slide shows or printed presentations can be designed, 
organised, and presented.   
 
Some lectures are presented using PowerPoint and copies of 
these lectures may be available on the USC Portal for out of 
lecture perusal. 
OneNote 
web 
 
 
 
Microsoft OneNote lets you take, organise and find notes and 
information. Like a binder, it lets you organise your information 
into sections.  
Photo 
Gallery 
 
Microsoft Photo Gallery lets you store photos online in albums 
and share these photos with friends and family. Supports people 
tagging and email publishing. 
Microsoft 
Messenger 
 
Allows instant messaging with friends, personal file sharing and 
social messaging interaction. 
SkyDrive 
 
 
Online web storage for documents and files. 25GB storage limit, 
Current individual file size is 50mb. Note: downloading and 
  26
uploading files to this service will count to your quota.  
 
Uploading a file or photo to your SkyDrive storage 
 
You can add photos and files to a folder when you create it, and also add more photos and 
files later. You can use the Windows Live SkyDrive standard upload page to add up to five 
photos or files to a folder at one time, or install the Windows Live Upload Tool if you want to 
upload more than five photos or files to a folder at the same time. 
 
To add photos or files to a folder by using the standard upload page  
 
1. Go to Windows Live SkyDrive.  
 
You might need to sign in with your Windows Live ID. 
 
2. Click the folder that you want to add files to. 
 
3. If the folder you want to add a photo or file to is in the Documents section, click 
Add files. 
 
–or– 
 
If the folder you want to add a photo or file to is in the Photos section, click Add 
photos. 
 
4. If the Drop files here box appears, under the box, click standard upload page. 
 
5. Click Browse, and then browse to and select the photo or file that you want to add. 
If you want to upload more than one photo or file at a time, repeat this step to select 
a different photo or file in each box. 
 
6. Click Upload. Don't close or navigate away from the upload page until your photos or 
files have finished uploading.
  27
10. BULLETIN BOARDS (FORUMS) 
 
The University has established discussion forums for students and staff that function as open 
bulletin boards on topics of interest to the University community.  The service is also 
designed to offer an alternative to the broadcasting of general notices using the campus 
email system. 
 
Notice and bulletin boards should be used when you want to send messages to all students.  
Broadcasts should not be sent via regular email (see Electronic Mail – Using the Address 
Book). 
 
The boards currently available include several general discussion forums;  however specific 
forums and special interest forums, where appropriate, can be readily established on 
request.  Additionally each course within USC Portal may have its own forums for facilitating 
discussion around course specific issues.  At present, anyone can post and read messages in 
any group. Students should familiarise themselves with appropriate Netiquette for using this 
service, as detailed in Appendix 2.   
 
The bulletin boards are available through the Portal – http://online.usc.edu.au.  Select the 
Community Tab, click on the title of the discussion forum you’re interested in under the 
Discussion Boards heading. 
 
 
 
 
Reading a message 
Navigate to the desired forum and select the hyperlinked subject heading for the thread of 
interest. 
 
 
 
  28
Posting to Discussion Boards 
With the forum open click the Thread button.  Complete the message and subject and click 
Submit to send the message to the forum.   
 
If you want to reply to an existing message, open the message you wish to reply to and click 
Reply.  Complete the message and click Submit to send the message to the forum. 
 
NOTE:  Check your message carefully to make sure there are no mistakes before clicking the 
Submit button.  IT Services do not remove or edit posted messages (unless they are 
considered to be in breach of the University’s policies), so please ensure all information is 
correct before posting. 
 
  29
11. INTERNET ACCESS 
 
The Internet is to be used only for legitimate University purposes including learning, study 
and research.  It is not to be used to access illicit material, including pornography, or to 
illegally download copyrighted works, including music files. 
 
Free Internet access is available to students on a quota basis.  Students can access the 
Internet by going to a computer laboratory, logging in to a networked computer and using 
the Internet browsing software to access the World Wide Web. 
 
Internet Quota System 
USC has an Internet quota system, providing reasonable and equitable access to the 
Internet from campus computer labs, for all USC students. 
 
Students have the flexibility of deciding how and when they will use their Internet access 
quota from any lab on campus.   
 
The Internet quota allows a student to undertake a set amount of Internet web browsing 
and downloading.  When accessing the Internet, students will be presented with the 
following login window: 
 
 
Students should use their regular network 
username and password to access the Internet.   
 
As you use the Internet your Internet quota is 
decreased according to the size of the 
downloaded content that you view.  
Downloads, in this context, include regular web 
pages, Non-USCMail web-based email 
messages (e.g. Yahoo!), Skydrive, documents, 
software, video and audio streaming, pictures 
and music files.  This list is not exhaustive, but 
provides a basic guide.  Remember, ANY web 
page you view will affect your quota*.  How 
much it affects your quota depends on the 
content of the page. 
 
The available quota will be incremented daily 
up to a maximum quota level.  If a student 
exceeds more than their allocated quota (meaning their quota shows a negative value), then 
they will not be able to access the Internet again until the daily quota increment moves the 
available quota back into the positive.  You can read more information on this topic and view 
your current quota level via the ‘My Internet Quota’ link (under My Systems) on the portal 
homepage. 
 
 
                                          
* There are some exceptions to this, including sites designated by Course Coordinators as essential to 
study needs 
  30
12. REMOTE ACCESS 
 
Students with Internet access from home are able to access a number of network resources 
remotely.  These include Electronic Mail, Course Study Materials your F: Drive, USC Central 
and the USC Portal.  You will require a computer and internet access (e.g. an Internet 
Service Provider), as well as appropriate software, if you wish to use this service.  See the 
section “Finding an ISP” on the next page for more information if needed.  
 
If you experience difficulties using Remote Access, note your userID, the day, time, service, 
and software you are using and report this information to the Student Help Desk.  This 
information helps IT Services to identify the problem. 
 
Lecture Notes 
To access the lecture notes, log into the USC Portal at http://online.usc.edu.au, enter one of 
your courses and access lecture notes and coursework via the left-hand side menu structure 
e.g. Links to Coursework and resources etc 
 
File Access to your F: Drive 
Your F: Drive can be accessed from the Portal.  In the Resources Tab under My Systems, 
click on F Drive Access. 
 
To download files (move from the network drive to your local PC) just click on them.  You 
should be prompted to either Open the file or Save To Disk.  If you wish to edit files we 
recommend you first save them locally and then upload them when you have finished 
editing. To upload a file, type the file name in the Upload File box (or use the Browse button 
to locate the file) and click on the Upload button. 
 
Email 
You can access your email remotely directly from the Microsoft Live website using your web 
browser. 
 
Using an Email Client (i.e.  Outlook Express) 
You can use an email client such as Outlook Express to access your email remotely.  Fact 
Sheets are available from the Student IT Help Desk to assist with setting this up. 
 
If you’re planning to use Outlook Express, or any other email client, to retrieve your USC 
email from off campus, we highly recommend that you have an Anti Virus program on your 
computer.   
 
Suitable Computing Equipment 
The following configuration of PC computing equipment is recommended as a minimum for 
using remote access.  
NOTE: You should discuss your requirements with your Faculty before you purchase any 
computer or if you wish to purchase a Macintosh. 
 
IBM Compatible 
Pentium IV 1GHz 
512MB RAM 
20 GB Hard Drive 
Recommended DVD Reader/CD burner 
USB ports 
56K Modem 
  31
Please note that higher specifications are required if you need to view richer content such as 
video streaming (e.g. Broadband connection recommended). 
 
The University computer labs currently use Office 2007 (as detailed in Section 6) so it is a 
good idea to ensure that the software you are purchasing with your computer is compatible. 
 
 
Finding an ISP 
If you wish to access University facilities from your home computer, you must first arrange 
for an ISP (Internet Service Provider) to provide you with Internet access.  
 
There are a wide variety of services available from ISP’s, and these range in cost and level 
of support.  It is important to shop around to find the best deal that suits your needs.  
 
Most ISP’s advertise in publications such as the Yellow Pages (look under Internet Services) 
or popular computer magazines.  A comprehensive guide to ISP’s can also be found at 
http://whirlpool.net.au/ including a facility to search for providers available from your 
telephone number.  The University does not endorse any particular ISP, so take the time to 
consider all possibilities before you make any commitment. 
 
  32
13. PROBLEMS? 
 
The Student Help Desk, discussed in Section 1, is available to help students with computing 
problems.  Below are some of the most frequently asked questions at the Student Help 
Desk.  Please review these options before asking for assistance. 
 
When I try to log in I am getting an error message saying “The system could not 
log you in to the network.  Please check that your username and password 
information are correct and try again”… 
Firstly, ensure that Caps Lock is not on, and then try entering your password again to make 
sure you did not make a typing error.  If this still does not work, click the ‘Advanced’ button 
on the login window and check that the context is set to STUDENTS.USC.  If this still does 
not work, restart the machine. 
 
If you are still unable to login at this point please contact the Student Help Desk. 
 
When I try to access my USB drive the computer gives me an error message 
“cannot read from the specified device”… 
This indicates that there may be a problem with your USB stick.  You could try another 
machine to make sure it is not the computer, however if it still doesn’t work you should 
bring the stick to the Student Help Desk.  We cannot guarantee that corrupted information 
will be recoverable. 
 
I can open the USB drive, but when I try to open my document it gives me an error 
message… 
This indicates either a problem with the USB drive, or with the file itself.  Try copying the file 
from the USB drive to your F drive without opening it.  If this does not work, you should 
bring your drive to the Student Help Desk.   
 
If you can copy the file to your F drive, see if you can open it.  If you still get the error 
message, it indicates that the file has been corrupted.  Contact the Student Help Desk if this 
happens, though we cannot guarantee that corrupted information will be recoverable. 
 
When I log in a number of my desktop icons are not appearing… 
Restart the workstation and try logging in again.  If the problem persists please contact the 
Student Help Desk. 
 
How do I print 6 slides to a page in PowerPoint? 
With the document you wish to print open, from the 
File menu select Print.  In the bottom left hand corner 
“Print what” field, select “Handouts”.  To the right you 
will be able to select how many slides you wish to 
appear on each page (as shown below). 
 
 
 
  33
14. COPYRIGHT AND PRIVACY
 
Copyright 
 
 
 
 
 
The University observes copyrighted obligations outlined in the Copyright Act 1968. 
Copyright owners are entitled to take legal action against persons who infringe their 
copyright. Students are encouraged to observe the copyright notices posted by 
photocopiers, printers, scanners and on noticeboards and login screens in all computer 
labs.  
 
Privacy 
The University may collect personal information to carry out its functions under the 
University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998. The University may disclose some, or all of this 
information, to appropriate agencies if required including to the Commonwealth 
Department of Education, Science and Training, the Australian Taxation Office, etc. For 
more information refer to the University’s Privacy Plan. 
Login Copyright Notice 
  34
15. OTHER SERVICES 
 
Orientation and Training 
Introduction to the USC Network tutorials are available to all students at the beginning of 
semester.  Bookings are essential.  Contact the Student Help Desk for details.  
 
The Library also provides ongoing training in using the library catalogue, electronic 
databases and Internet searching.  For more information contact the Information Desk on 
extension 2803, email infodesk@usc.edu.au, or visit the Library’s web page. 
 
Typing Tuition – Search Google or other search engines for free typing tuition (available 
from any lab, at any time of the day) www.goodtyping.com may be a good place to start. 
 
Audio Visual Equipment 
IT Services supports and makes available for loan a variety of audiovisual equipment.  
Overhead Projectors (OHP’s), television/video units and presentation equipment can be 
accessed to assist with your study or assessment.  However, ensure that your lecturer/tutor 
is able to book this equipment before creating assessment pieces that rely on it. 
 
Booking of equipment can only be done by your lecturer or tutor, and audiovisual 
equipment must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.  
 
 
  35
16. GLOSSARY 
 
Following are some of the terms commonly used in this guide. 
 
Audiovisual – Refers to equipment used to present sound (audio) and/or visual 
information, such as microphones, computers, projectors, and television/video units. 
 
Desktop – This term refers to what is displayed and available on the computer screen once 
you have logged in. 
 
Electronic mail, Email, or Mail – Electronic mail allows you to send and receive messages 
almost instantaneously, to individuals both on and off campus. 
 
Internet – Is the name given to the worldwide interconnection of computer networks that 
use the Internet protocol and deliver services over this network. 
 
ISP - Refers to an Internet Service Provider. An ISP provides access to the Internet or the 
World Wide Web on a fee basis. 
 
Login – When using a computer in a computer laboratory, you are required to “login”. 
Logging into the computer determines who you are and what you can access, thus allowing 
access to information on the network, such as your F: Drive, and your email. 
 
Network – The University operates on a Local Area Network, commonly referred to as a 
LAN. This means that it is possible for all computers, servers and printers to “communicate” 
with each other and transfer data, such as from your computer to the printer. 
 
Proxy Server – A proxy server “channels” internet access to speed up the loading of web 
pages.  When you use the Internet on campus, you access through our proxy server.  When 
you use a dialup connection at home, you may be using a proxy server managed by your 
ISP. 
 
Remote Access – This term refers to accessing University systems, files or email from a 
location off campus, such as from your home. To do this your computer must be connected 
to the Internet. 
 
Server – This term refers to a central computer that controls resources and access to those 
resources. These resources include email, file, print and applications. 
 
Newsgroups – This is the Internet based discussion groups that provide open forums for 
interaction between all Internet users on a variety of topics. The University is using this 
system to provide a means for on-campus open discussion. 
 
World Wide Web, Web or WWW – This is one of the services provided on the Internet 
that delivers information and services using the http protocol. The Web is often used 
synonymously with the Internet because it popularised its use. However the Internet 
delivers many services in addition to the Web such as email, ftp, terminal emulation, 
USENET News, Chat, and much more. 
 
 
  36
1. APPENDIX 1 – COMPUTER LABORATORY 
RULES 
 
The use of this laboratory is restricted to students and staff of the University.  University 
policies, statutes and regulations govern all use.  In particular, students should be aware of 
the University’s Student Conduct and Discipline Statute, the Policy on the Acceptable Use of 
Information Technology Resources and the Electronic Mail Policy, as they will specifically 
relate to your use of these facilities.  Without limiting the full extent of these policies, 
students should be aware of the following: 
 
Access to and use of laboratories is for University staff and students, or as otherwise 
authorised by the University. 
 
Students should limit their use of these laboratories to purposes that directly relate to their 
studies.  The playing of games is not permitted and unauthorised installation of software on 
machines is not allowed. 
 
Students are responsible for the use of their account and the electronic messages that are 
sent from their account.  Students should ensure that they exit any applications and the 
network on leaving and that they have a backup of their files. 
 
Computer Laboratories must not be used for the purpose of defaming an individual or in any 
other manner that a reasonable individual may consider to be harassing, abusive or 
obscene, e.g. sending offensive electronic mail. 
 
No student should take any action that might lead to circumventing or compromising system 
security, e.g. sharing passwords. 
 
No student should take any action that might lead to denial or impairment of access to these 
facilities, e.g. Reserving or locking the computer, using screen savers or infecting systems 
with viruses. 
 
No student should use these facilities to access, transfer, or store illicit material e.g. 
pornography. 
 
No eating, drinking, smoking, etc. is allowed in the computer laboratories. 
 
All students must observe copyright obligations as posted. 
 
All users of these facilities are responsible for reading the posted rules and abiding by them.  
Breaches of University policy will be treated as breaches of discipline and dealt with under 
relevant University statues, awards and procedures.  Report any problems to IT Services, 
ext. 4455, or after 5pm to Security, ext. 1168. 
 
The University reserves the right to examine files and directories where the University has 
information or evidence that system integrity or security is threatened or otherwise for the 
normal management of the system. 
 
  37
2. APPENDIX 2 – NETIQUETTE GUIDE 
 
General Rules 
If there are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) associated with the service you wish to use 
then use them prior to asking questions of other users.  FAQs exist on the Portal for 
University services.  Many web and Internet based services also have FAQs. 
 
Do not ignore copyright laws.  The University observes restrictions on dealing with 
copyrighted material, as laid down in the Copyright Act.  Do not assume that if something 
can be downloaded or copied from the Internet then it can be used however you wish.  
Undertaking cosmetic changes does not protect you from breach of copyright or plagiarism if 
you have substantially reproduced original work without authorisation.  Web pages, files, 
programs and all content are all subject to copyright laws, whether this is stated or not. 
 
Be mindful of your Internet download.  Limit your downloading of large files as this will 
quickly consume your quota. You should check on educational and Australian sites before 
international sites. 
 
Be polite to people that you communicate with.  Imagine you are dealing with them face to 
face and do not say or do anything that you would not wish to become common knowledge.   
 
Do not provide personal information to bulletin boards, newsgroups, chat rooms, web sites 
or elsewhere on the Internet.  You do not know who has access to this information or how it 
will be used. 
 
Using Email 
Check your email regularly and delete any unwanted messages, especially general 
messages. 
 
Do not assume that your messages are, or will always remain, private and confidential.  
Your mail may be able to be read by others, particularly if it is being sent externally outside 
the University. 
 
Do not say anything in an email that you would not say in person. Remember that the 
receiver or reader does not have the benefit of any physical cues such as voice tones, a 
smile, etc. and may misinterpret your meaning.  
 
Use emoticons (a means to express emotion in a text environment) as required.  For 
example you can add a smiley face :-) or sad face :-( to signify your emotions (Note: you 
must view them on their side). 
 
Do not use CAPITALS in your message as this is normally used to signify shouting. 
 
Respect the privacy of others and do not on-send mail sent to you without the sender’s 
permission. 
 
Never forward any chain letter.  Be aware that chain letters about "Nigerian government 
employees that need to move a large amount of money out of the country" or variations 
thereof, are hoaxes - please do not re-send them.  Furthermore, do not send on email 
messages that claim to be warning about a new computer virus and request that you send it 
on to as many people as you can - these are a hoax. 
 
If you receive any email messages that you think are obscene, threatening or harassing then 
contact the Student Help Desk.  A copy of the email can be forwarded to 
studentIThelp@usc.edu.au for follow-up by Information Technology Services. 
  38
 
Posting to Bulletin Boards 
The bulletin board services are made available for the benefit of all students. Use them 
responsibly and in a manner that is considerate of others. 
 
Ensure that you are aware of University policy before posting to the bulletin boards. In 
particular, be aware of the Electronic Mail Policy (it is relevant to bulletin board 
communication also), the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy, the 
Discrimination and Harassment policy and the Student Conduct and Discipline Policy. 
 
Look before you leap - see what messages are being posted before you post.  Make sure 
that your message is appropriate for the board and do not post to multiple boards unless it 
is relevant to each of them. 
 
Include one subject per message and make the subject line relevant. 
 
Identify yourself in the posting so that others know who is sending the message.  People are 
likely to disregard messages when they do not know whom they are from. 
 
Be as brief as possible.  When responding, only include as much of the original message as 
necessary. 
 
Do not be condescending or insulting to your readers. 
 
Answer questions that others ask.  This is what you would hope of any questions you may 
have so, if you can assist, then do so. 
 
If you have posted a question and received a number of responses via email, summarise the 
responses and post back to the bulletin board to assist others who also do not know. 
 
If your message is in response to a previous posting and directed to the sender of a 
message, email that person rather than post to the board. 
 
Remember that what is trivial to you may be important to someone else. If you cannot add 
constructively to the discussion then don’t add at all. 
 
Do not quote or send private email to a bulletin board without permission. 
 
Do not verbally abuse the sender of the message postings. 
 
Do not post flame bait - that is, sending a message designed to incite others to verbally 
abuse you. 
 
Do not respond to posts that incite abuse or outrage users. 
 
Check your spelling and grammar before you post a message. 
 
Do not verbally abuse users for poor spelling or grammar. 
 
Last but not least - Remember that you were a newbie (someone who doesn't have a clue 
what this is all about) once too! 
 
IT Services will not remove or edit messages because they contain errors or incorrect 
information, so double-check your messages before posting them to the group. 
 
  39
3. APPENDIX 3 – USEFUL URL’S 
 
Study Information 
University of the Sunshine Coast Web Site ............................................... www.usc.edu.au 
University of the Sunshine Coast Portal………………………………….………………………online.usc.edu.au 
University of the Sunshine Coast Library Home Page ....... www.usc.edu.au/University/Library 
Microsoft Windows Live ............................................................................www.live.com 
Virus Information websites .........................................................  www.symantec.com.au 
Australian Bureau of Statistics ................................................................ www.abs.gov.au 
Encyclopaedia Britannica ................................................................. www.britannica.com 
News Index .................................................................................. www.newsindex.com 
Your Dictionary ........................................................................ www.yourdictionary.com 
National Library of Australia ......................................................... http://www.nla.gov.au/ 
Australian Commonwealth Government ........................................... www.australia.gov.au 
 
Search Engines 
Metacrawler ................................................................................ www.metacrawler.com 
Yahoo ............................................................................................ www.yahoo.com.au 
Mamma ........................................................................................... www.mamma.com 
Ask Jeeves ............................................................................................. www.ask.com 
Google .......................................................................................... www.google.com.au 
 
Ergonomic Computing Practices 
Computer RSI .................................................................. http://eeshop.unl.edu/rsi.html 
Tips for Healthy Computer Use ............ http://www.me.berkeley.edu/ergo/services/tips.html 
 
 
  40
4. APPENDIX 4 – COMPUTER LAB 
LOCATIONS 
 
Location Configuration Seats Available Access T’table 
DG.35 PC 20 24 Hours All students, card access Yes 
DG.40 PC 19 24 Hours Selected students#, card 
access 
Yes 
DG.41 MAC 19 24 Hours Selected students#, card 
access 
Yes 
DG.43 MAC & Printer 18 24 Hours Selected students#, card 
access 
Yes 
DG.44 PC 19 24 Hours Selected students#, card 
access 
Yes 
DG.45 PC & Printer 20 24 Hours All students, card access Yes 
Information 
Commons  
PC & Printers up to 
100 
Library 
Hours 
All students, Library No 
HG.31 PC & Printer 20 8am – 
5pm 
24 hour access for students 
undertaking selected science 
courses.  Card access. 
Yes 
HG.28 PC & Printer 20 8am – 
5pm 
24 hour access for students 
undertaking selected science 
courses.  Card access. 
Yes 
HG.18 PC 8 8am – 
5pm 
Science Students, card 
access 
Yes 
HG.26 PC 8 8am – 
5pm 
Science Students, card 
access 
Yes 
J2.03 PC 19 24 Hours All students, card access * Yes 
J2.04 PC & Printer 19 24 Hours All students, card access * Yes 
J2.09 PC, Printer outside 19 24 Hours All students, card access * Yes 
KG.06 PC & Printers 12 24 Hours All students, card access No 
 
* Swipe card may be needed to use the elevator after hours. 
# Students enrolled in Advertising, Design, Communications, Arts, Public Relations or 
Journalism courses which involve computer workshops 
 
  41
5. APPENDIX 5 – CAMPUS MAP 
 
 
  42
 
  43
6. APPENDIX 6 – USC PORTAL / 
BLACKBOARD 
 
What is USC Portal 
The University of the Sunshine Coast uses the Blackboard Learning Management System as 
the means to deliver online courses and to support its on-campus course delivery.  This 
system is part of the Blackboard Academic Suite that also includes the Community System 
(Portal) and the Content Management System (where the files are stored).   
 
USC Portal provides a flexible means to easily access academic resources as well as online 
support and assessment tools. 
 
Accessing Courses 
Access can be gained to online course information via the USC website at 
http://www.usc.edu.au/Students/OnlineLearning/  
 
To access your courses directly, you can navigate from: http://online.usc.edu.au 
 
Logging in 
When you reach the Portal’s home page you are provided with general information about 
accessing the system. However, to gain access to the courses you are enrolled in and to use 
the many other services available to you, you must first login. This is done using your 
username and password in the module top left of screen. 
 
 
If you have any issues logging into the system, please contact the Student Help Desk on 5459 4455 or 
email studentIThelp@usc.edu.au 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  44
 
The Welcome screen 
After logging in, you will see a Welcome screen similar to the one you see here: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
You will notice that the Welcome tab is highlighted. You can move to different screen by 
selecting a tab and return to this screen at any time by clicking the Welcome tab. There are 
a series of Portlets (or modules) that display information relating to various aspects of your 
University study.  For example My Announcements may display important news relating to 
Courses you are enrolled in. 
 
Logging out 
When you have finished using the Portal – particularly if you are on a public-access 
computer - it’s very important that you log out of the 
system before you close the browser. This will 
minimise the risk of others accessing the Portal using 
your name. 
 
At the top of every page there is a Logout button. Click Logout before closing the browser 
window. 
 
Learning to use the Portal 
The best way to get used to the USC Portal environment is to log in and have a look around. 
In addition to your course material there are a range of useful links and access to 
information available from the Student Central tab.  You can also access discussion forums 
and organisations you are involved in via the Community tab.  See what you can find! 
 
This guide will describe how to use some of the more common 
tools that you might find in the system. 
 
Tools 
The Tools box on the left side of the Welcome screen is where you 
will find quick links to various tools.   You will also be able to 
access many of these tools through links available in Portlets 
across most tabs. 
 
  45
The USC Portal is designed to allow you to have control over information presented to you 
on your Welcome tab.   
 
Customise the Welcome page 
You can customise the look and feel of your Welcome page with the Modify Content and 
Modify Layout buttons on the upper right corner of the page: 
 
 
Modify Content 
The Modify Content button will allow you to select or deselect 
Portlets to appear on the Welcome screen. Select any items 
that you want to display in the Welcome screen; deselect 
those that you want to remove. Note that any items with a red 
tick can not be deselected. Portlets which you remove can later 
be reactivated by returning to the Modify Content page. 
 
Click the Submit button at the bottom of the screen to finish. A 
message will display confirming that the change has been 
accepted. Click OK to continue. 
 
Modify Layout 
The Modify Layout button will allow you to change the order 
and positioning of the Portlets. The Personalize Page Layout 
section allows you to move Portlets from one column to the 
other using the across arrows. Change the order of items in 
each column using the up or down arrows. 
 
 
The Personalize Theme section allows you to change the colour scheme of the Welcome 
screen by selecting from the list of colour schemes. 
 
When you have finished changing the layout, click the Submit button at the bottom of the 
screen. A message will display confirming that the change has been accepted. Click OK to 
continue. 
 
 
  46
My Courses 
The most important Portlet is My Courses, which lists 
all the courses in which you are currently enrolled. 
 
Click on the name of the course you want to access. 
 
There is also a Courses tab at the top of the screen 
which is always visible in the Portal. It will provide you 
with quick access to all of the courses in which you are 
enrolled. 
 
My course isn’t listed under My Courses! 
If your course isn’t listed here then there are several possible reasons. 
 You are not correctly enrolled in the course. Ensure that your enrolment has been 
completed in USC Central. There will be a slight delay between completing your 
enrolment and gaining access to your courses.   
 The course is not yet available. Courses become available to students currently 
enrolled in them at the beginning of each semester. If the semester has not yet 
commenced, check back in a day or two. 
 Your course isn’t active in the Portal. Not all USC courses use USC Portal. Contact your 
lecturer if you are unsure. 
 
What’s in my online course? 
The content of your course depends very much on your lecturer who decides what content 
and activities will be included in the online course. 
However you will most likely find links to: 
 the Course Outline (information including course description, contacts, assessment 
details and more) 
 learning materials and resources 
 assessment items 
 communications tools (such as discussion boards & virtual classrooms) 
 Grades and results. 
 
Navigating your USC Portal courses 
You can view the Course Menu in: 
 
Quick View Detail View 
 
 
 
Course Menu 
You’ll find links to all of your course resources in the Course Menu on the left-hand side of 
the screen. Click through the menu to discover what is in your course. 
  47
Quick View menu 
This shows a list of the main sections in your course. Click on an item in the menu to go to 
that section. You can then move around in that section by using the links within the section. 
 
Detail View menu 
Here you can expand each heading by clicking on the  to see a list of the items in the 
specific section. You can then go to either the main section page or to an individual item by 
clicking on the name. 
 
The Tools Pane 
The Tools Panel contains a link to the Course Map which provides 
another way to navigate in the course.  Your Course Instructor may also 
make other tools available through this pane, such as communication. 
 
Course Window 
 
Content Links 
To navigate within a content area, use the links provided in the large Course Window on 
the right of your screen. Click on the name of the link to access the contents or linked 
resource. 
 
Breadcrumb Trail 
As you navigate through the course, a Breadcrumb Trail will appear at the top of each 
page within your course. This will show you the path that you have followed to reach the 
current page and also allow you to go back to any previous page by clicking on its name in 
the trail. 
 
It is strongly recommended you avoid using the “Back” and “Forward” buttons on your 
browser − rather use the course links and the breadcrumb trail to move around in the 
Portal. 
 
Discussion Board 
Anywhere, Anytime 
The discussion board is a place where you can type and then post discussion items as well 
as reply to other posts anytime that suits you. You don’t have to be online at the same time 
to communicate with others in the course. Messages are organised in threads (responses to 
a particular topic), a main posting and all related replies. Depending on your course, your 
participation in the discussion board may form part of your assessment, so it is certainly 
worth taking the time to understand how the discussion board system works. 
 
 
 
  48
How do I view the discussion board? 
If there is not a direct link in the course Menu to the discussion boards, click on the 
Communication link in the Tools Box on the navigation bar on the left of the screen. Click 
on the Discussion Board link. 
  
Forums 
The Discussion board contains sections, also known as Forums, which have been created by 
your lecturer. Each will have a name and brief description of the types of messages it 
contains. It will also show how many messages are in the forum. Click on the name of a 
Forum to see the messages it contains. 
 
Threads and Messages 
In the Forum there will be a list of messages, showing the subject line of each message, who 
sent it and when it was sent. Any messages posted since the last time you visited will be 
displayed in bold. 
 
Messages are grouped together in threads. Click on the title under Thread to expand the 
message and reveal its list of replies. 
 
 
The upper part of the window displays the selected thread and its replies like this. 
 
 
 
The lower part displays the content of the selected thread or reply. 
  49
 
Replying to the message in the thread 
1. Click on any of the Reply buttons. 
2. Type your response in the text box, and click on Submit. 
3. Click on OK. This will take you back to the list of all the threads. 
 
TIP// Web-based forms can timeout after a period of time.  When you are creating a new 
thread or replying to a previous post and are adding a lot of text, copying your text to the 
clipboard before clicking Submit will provide you with a backup ready to paste if you 
experience a timeout error. 
 
 
Adding a new thread 
To post a new thread (idea), click the Thread button at the top of the screen. 
 
 
This will display the Create New Thread screen: 
  50
 
1. Type the new title of your thread in the Subject line. 
2. Type your message in the message box. 
3. Click on Submit. 
 
Attachments 
You may attach a file to your message before submitting it. 
1. Click on the Attachment file link button below the message. 
 
2. Click on Browse, and from the dialogue box, select the file you want to attach. 
 
E-mail in the Discussion Board 
It is possible to send an email from within the discussion list. 
3. Click on the author’s name. 
 
4. This dialogue box will appear, and you can type your message here. 
 
5. Click on Submit. 
 
Assessment 
Your course may include some online assessment items. 
 
Online assessment may include Assignments and Quizzes. Examine your navigation bar to 
see what is relevant to you in your course. Be sure to read the instructions at the beginning 
of the Quiz or Assignment carefully. 
  51
 
When you are doing a quiz, do not click on the Back button in the browser! Do not run too 
many other applications as your computer or browser may freeze. 
 
Safe Assign 
Safe Assign is an add-on feature to the Portal that allows your lecturer to check that the 
work you have submitted as your own is not the intellectual property of someone else.  It is 
anti-plagiarism software that is used by many Institutions globally and checks the text of 
your submission against a database to return a % rating that tells your lecturer how much 
text in the body of your assignment matches other assessment items submitted. 
 
How to submit an assessment item to Safe Assign: 
 1. Log on to the Portal 
 2. Click on the course you are submitting the assessment for. 
 3. Click on the assessment tab  
 4. Review the Assessment Task Declaration  
 5. Mark as Reviewed  
 6. Follow the instructions below.  
Make sure your assessment task file to be submitted through USC Portal, is a 
single Microsoft Word (.doc) document.   
 
1. Click on the “>>View/Complete” link at the bottom of the Submit Task 1 area to 
open the Upload Assignment: Submit Task 1 area. 
2. Add a comment to your Course Coordinator while you are in the Upload 
Assignment: Submit Task 1 area. 
3. Browse your computer to find and attach your single document – the assessment 
task only. 
4. Only when you have attached the document you wish to upload, click Submit. 
5. You should receive the message: “The assignment has been successfully updated”. 
6. Click OK. 
 
Checking your submission: 
You can check that you have submitted the assessment task by doing one of two things: 
 
 Click “>> View/Complete” and see if the message “You’ve already completed this 
assignment, click on review your results” comes up; or 
 Click on the Tools page in the Course menu and open View Grades to see if the 
assessment task has been logged in (and marked yet).  
 
NOTE// If you are having difficulties submitting your assessment item to Safe Assign, please 
contact both your lecturer and the IT Service Desk and inform them of the difficulties you 
are having.  
 
We have recently upgraded our anti-plagiarism tool, which included a name change from 
“SafeAssignment” to “SafeAssign”.  You may come across documentation that, or have your 
lecturer refer to the SafeAssign tool as “SafeAssignment”.  Please be aware that they are 
indeed referring to the “SafeAssign” tool. 
 
 
Viewing grades 
You will find grades and results awarded for assessment items in the Course Tools section. 
Click Course Tools, then My Grades.  Not all lecturers will use this function to return your 
grades to you – so if you cannot see any grades in here, please ask your lecturer to confirm 
the method of receiving results for that particular course.  
 
  52
It should be noted that final grades, after exams, will be released through USC Central. 
  
Java 
Some components of your USC Portal course (such as the collaboration, also known as chat, 
Lightweight Chat and the Virtual Classroom) require software, known as Sun Java, to be 
installed on your computer.  If your computer does not have Java installed, USC Portal will 
automatically download and install it when you access the Collaboration tools.  Sun Java can 
also be downloaded from the Sun Java site at http://java.sun.com 
 
More help with USC Portal 
Requests for assistance with USC Portal should be directed to the Student Help Desk.  
Tel (students): +61 7 5459 4455 
Email: studentIThelp@usc.edu.au