Student Technology Guide

Welcome to VIU

Welcome to Vancouver Island University! We’re thrilled to have you join our community. As you embark on this exciting journey, your friendly IT department is here to ensure you have all the tech tools and support you need. Whether you're a new student or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you navigate the digital landscape at VIU.

Contents

Meet the IT Service Desk

The IT Service Desk is your go-to resource for all things technology. We're here to assist with everything from setting up your computer account to troubleshooting technical issues. If you ever get stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Before You Start Classes

Step 1: Read the Use of Technology Policy (Policy 45.01)

First things first, familiarize yourself with VIU’s Use of Technology Policy. This policy outlines the dos and don'ts of using technology at VIU. Trust us, it's better to know now than find out the hard way later.

Read the Use of Technology Policy (Policy 45.01)

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Student Record System

Access the Student Record System at my.viu.ca. This system is your portal to register for courses, view your schedule, check grades, and more. Your initial password is your birthdate in YYMMDD format. Log in, update your password, and you're good to go! Note: This password is different from your VIU Computer Account password.

Access Your Student Record

Step 3: Set Up Your Computer Account

You’ll receive an email with a temporary password for your VIU computer account. Log in, change your password, and voilà—you’re ready to access lab computers, your student email, VIULearn, VIU-Secure wifi, printing, and more.

Learn more about your computer account

Step 4: Access Your Student Email

Your student email is your communication hub at VIU. Log in at outlook.office.com/mail with your email address (preferredname.lastname@my.viu.ca) and computer account password. 

Everything you need to know about your student email

Step 5: Pick Up Your Student ID Card

Your student ID card is essential for accessing the Library Commons, printing, the gym, and getting discounts.

Find out where to pick up your Student ID Card

Step 6: Connect to VIU-Secure Wireless

Ensure your devices are connected to the VIU-Secure wireless network. Use your student email as the username and your computer account password.

Learn more about VIU-Secure Wireless

Step 7: Get Technology and Microsoft Office

After You Start Classes

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with VIULearn

VIULearn (aka D2L Brightspace) is your learning management system. Use your student email and computer account password to log in. Remember, you won’t be able to access VIULearn until 24 hours after you register for your first class.

More information and help with VIULearn

Step 2: Discover the Basics of Using Microsoft Teams

Many classes at VIU use Microsoft Teams for group work or video conferencing.

How to Use Teams

Step 3: Find Software and Locate Computer Labs

  • Software at VIU: Access free software downloads and more.
  • Computer Labs: Find computer lab locations and availability.
  • Book a workstation: The Library Commons has over 60 computer workstations, media stations, video editing suites, and accessibility stations. 

Step 4: Print Your Work

Printers are available all over campus. You can print from lab computers or your personal laptop.

Learn how to add funds, send print jobs, and more

Step 5: Know Where to Save Your Files

Step 6: Check Out the VIU Technology Portal

Our Technology Portal is packed with useful information and resources.

Step 7: Know Where to Go for Technology Support

The VIU IT Service Desk is here to help with all your tech needs. Contact us by phone, email, or live chat.

Step 8: Earn While You Learn

Join our IT team as a Student Technical Support Assistant and Tech Tutor. Gain valuable experience, help your peers, and enhance your skills.

Learn more and apply