Dean of Students
Resources for Students During COVID-19
Quite a bit has happened with the government and local area given COVID-19. All classes have transitioned to an online format for the remainder of the semester. Campus is continuing its semester utilizing an online format and I’m encouraging each of you to stay in contact with the Dean of Students office if you have any struggles or unique issues that arise from the online transition. SWOSU will continue its dedication to providing supports to students.
The university offers regular updates regarding the Coronavirus. Please review the SWOSU Coronavirus Update page. For more information specific to students regarding the Coronavirus, please visit the Information for Students page. Given the recent changes, the Dean of Students office has compiled the following list of resources to assist students.
Student with Medical or Mental Health Needs
- University Health Services is still available for students. Their process has changed given concerns with COVID-19. Please visit the Health Services website for more information. You can contact health services by calling 580.774.3776
- Counseling Services will continue with changed operating procedures. Students needing mental health services should contact Counseling Services by calling 580.774.3776
Students with Disabilities
- Freedom Scientific has temporarily provided a suite of resources available for those with vision impairments. From now until June 30, 2020 Freedom Scientific is offering JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion software to assist students with their online learning at no cost. To get a temporary Free Home License, please click here (https://www.freedomscientific.com/).
- Quillsoft has an Extended Access Request form for a trial to use for remote work or online learning. Once you fill out the form, they'll email you with your trial information within 24 hrs. “WordQ takes you beyond a basic spelling and grammar check, and can be used virtually anywhere you type on a computer, online or offline, helping users realize their full potential and gain confidence in their communication and self-expression.” You can request an extended free trial by visiting their website (https://www.quillsoft.ca/covid-19)
- Exam formats for in-class courses will be handled differently given that we’ve changed to an online format for this semester. However, students with Accommodations are still entitled to their accommodations.
- Please remember that students are expected to speak with their faculty at least 1-week ahead of an exam. Emails and phone calls to your instructor can be an excellent way to communicate with faculty during this time. If you have any physical or health conditions which restrict your ability to email or call faculty, please contact my office so we can assist.
- Stafford Building has a computer lab that is regularly sanitized and cleaned. Students with limited WiFi access can utilize this lab on campus. Please be mindful of social-distancing and best habits for health and safety.
Internet Access
During this crisis, some students may not have access to consistent internet service. This may be challenging to manage while continuing your academics during this semester. To respond to the needs of those without internet, the Federal Communications Commission has requested that telecommunications and internet service providers throughout the country sign the Keep Americans Connected Pledge. This pledge can help provide internet service to many Americans without service. Sonja Wall, the Director of OneNet and OCAN Services, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Broadband and internet Service Providers, have put together a list of potential resources for Oklahomans without internet. If you are without internet service, please use the contact information below to get assistance or contact the Dean of Students office.
Sonja Wall
Director of OneNet and OCAN Services
Oklahoma State Broadband Coordinator
Office: 405.225.9345
Email: swall@osrhe.edu | swall@onenet.net